Why Go Natural for Your Car Air Freshener?

When looking for the best car air freshener options, I realized most traditional car air fresheners use synthetic fragrances and chemicals. These can irritate allergies and sensitivities for a lot of people, sometimes causing headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems.

And I've found that they're just too strong for me, giving me a headache in the small space of my car! 

I love that fresh and clean smell, but want something that smells more natural opposed to fake smelling chemicals.

So I went in search of the best natural car air fresheners options.

I wanted options that use essential oils and other plant-based ingredients so I could have that naturally good smelling car- and the bonus if I could get the benefits of essential oils at the same time!

Essential oils are concentrated liquids from plants that capture their scent and beneficial properties. They offer more than just a nice smell, including:

Air Purification

Some essential oils, like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, have natural antiseptic properties that can help purify the air and eliminate lingering bacteria.

Stress Relief

Essential oils like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety during your commute.

Mood Boost

Invigorating essential oils like peppermint and grapefruit can uplift your mood and increase alertness while driving.

My Top Natural Car Air Freshener Picks

Here are some of the best natural car air fresheners that you don't have to DIY:

1. Spray and Go

Natural spray air fresheners made with essential oils and water are a great option for quick odor control. Choose a brand that uses organic essential oils and avoids harsh chemicals like phthalates and parabens.

My favorite option is Grow Fragrance's air + fabric sprays. They come in a set of 4 so you can figure out which scent you like best and they're the perfect size to bring on the go! 

2. Natural Fragrance Diffusers/Hang Tags

Several brands offer diffusers specifically designed for cars, using essential oils and plant-based ingredients.

Look for options with adjustable fragrance intensity and consider clip-on diffusers that attach to your car's air vent for wider scent distribution.

Here's a great option for a hanging essential oil car diffuser from Etsy.

I love these hang tags from Grow Fragrance, their scents are made with 100% plant based ingredients and they have a great range of scent options! 

3. Activated Bamboo Charcoal Bags

These little fabric pouches filled with activated bamboo charcoal absorb odors and pollutants without any chemicals or fragrances. They are particularly effective at eliminating lingering smoke smells and musty odors.

Reactivate the charcoal by placing the bag in direct sunlight for a couple of hours every month.

It's an excellent choice for if you're looking to keep your car fresh without introducing additional scents.

We love MOSO Natural Air Purifying Bags! 

Whip Up Your Own Natural Car Air Freshener

Feeling crafty? Here are some fun and easy DIY natural car air freshener options:

DIY Bead Car Freshener

Create a simple, homemade car air freshener using 100% plant-based Grow Air + Fabric Spray and wooden beads. This DIY project is inexpensive, easy to make, and toxin-free, requiring no sewing or glue—just string, wooden beads, and a jar.

Cut a 12-inch string, tie a loop, add the beads, and soak in Grow Air + Fabric Spray for 24 hours. Hang it in your car for a fresh scent, and when it loses its fragrance, simply re-scent with your favorite Grow spray. It's an easy and eco-friendly way to keep your car smelling great!

Full Instructions: How To Make A Natural Car Air Freshener

Essential Oil Diffuser on the Go

Repurpose a small, USB-powered essential oil diffuser designed for travel. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (like lemon, lavender, or peppermint) with a splash of water.

Plug it into your car's USB port and enjoy a refreshing aroma. Choose a diffuser with an adjustable mist setting to control the fragrance intensity.

DIY Spray Power

In a spray bottle, combine distilled water with a few drops of your favorite essential oil and a tablespoon of white vinegar (a natural disinfectant).

Shake well and spritz lightly onto fabric surfaces like carpets and upholstery (avoid direct contact with leather or suede, as essential oils can stain).

Test the spray on an inconspicuous area first to ensure no discoloration.

Pro-Tip:

Natural car air fresheners may not be as potent as traditional options, especially when dealing with strong odors. Consider using a combination of methods, like hanging a natural diffuser and keeping a spray bottle on hand for occasional use.

If you want to try these natural car fresheners the I would definitely suggest this bundle! You save by bundling and get to try 4 different scents!

Natural Car Freshener Bundle

Fresh Car, Happy Travels!

We hoped this helped you find some great natural car air freshener options that work for you! Not only will your car smell fantastic, but you'll be avoiding harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, and potentially reaping the additional benefits of essential oils. So, ditch the chemical cocktails and breathe easy on the road ahead.