@Kylee27 You have an important question here for sure. Since so many folks are sensitive and have allergies and more any synthetic smells/fragrances are as many hosts have already said highly discouraged.
As a retired massage therapist and aromatherapist for over 20 yrs I worked and studied continually to find the best solution to your question while offering therapy to patients over 15 yrs. There's a big difference in 100% Essential Oils and fragrances and that is the problem. Also, Essential Oils are plant based and have been used for centuries for their health and healing properties. They have an impact on us, our moods sometimes and certainly the air we breathe.
I used Essential Oils/Aromatherapy for my patients and a diffuser in my place all those years. I decided long ago the one Essential Oil that seemed most loved, tolerated and lifted moods and was used also in businesses across the world- a fact many folks don't know - Peppermint Oil in a very small amount (drops) diffused into a space is fresh, clean, and loved by pretty much all. Its so lovely to have guests walk in and say "Oh, that smell is lovely, Wow" ....or get a private message, what is that you clean with - I want to have that in my home too, Is it some kind of peppermint?. Many many requests from guests.
Many folks hate Lavender, Orange and Eucalyptus and many other oils. Also, many are very sensitive to Eucalyptus and Pets are very sensitive to smells (they have 200X the smelling capacity and sensitivity) It can prove dangerous for pets and infants. Pregnant women also, Lavender seems the only essential oil that is really OK for them during pregnancy.
So when folks see those $2 bottles of fragrances or someone says boil water and put some of those things in the water - beware. for many of us headaches come quickly.
On the other hand, a tissue with 2 drops of pure 100% essential oil of peppermint tucked in the blinds can release a lovely subtle scent that can be enjoyed. Also, a couple drops in a bowl of water put into a microwave just 20 seconds and put on the shelf is nice. The key is a little goes a long way. Or Less is More!
I hope this is helpful. Also, any pure essential oils must be blended with lotion/cream/water or something when used...not direct on the skin always mixed with lotion/cream to be safe!
What I have used to eliminate foul smells in our airbnb / body odor or warmed up fish smells....a bowl of white vinegar heated up 30 seconds and put in the space will absorb the smell quickly. I do several bowls half vinegar/half water....it works.
So many hosts talk about ozone and that is the magic trick, I suppose. But presents a danger as it can't be used with people or pets while running and takes some hours and should be aired out after use. I fear some are in a hurry and don't follow those guidelines and that is scary to think about. We don't know what the health issue it would present to a host/cleaner/guests if improperly used or safety is disregarded. Unfortunately, many forget #1 should always be Safety, my opinion! Happy Hosting to you! Best, Clara
