The hidden chemicals we stopped noticing...

And why they matter more for kids.

Most of us grew up with strong smelling cleaners and scented laundry. It felt clean. It felt normal. That is why we stopped questioning it.

But many of those smells come from synthetic fragrance. Fragrance is not one ingredient. It can be dozens. And brands do not have to disclose them.

Children are more vulnerable. Their bodies are still developing. They breathe faster. They absorb more relative to their size. Exposure that seems small to us can be bigger for them.

This does not mean panic. It means awareness.

Air fresheners. Scented candles. Fabric sprays. These add chemicals to the air your kids breathe every day. Removing them is one of the simplest changes you can make.

We stopped using synthetic fragrance some time ago and the difference was obvious pretty quickly. When you walk into a shop or another home that still uses them the smell feels overwhelming. Especially when you are no longer surrounded by it in your own space. Then comes the headache. It is surprising what our bodies get used to when we are exposed to these chemicals every day. Once you remove them you start to notice just how much better you feel.

Open windows. Use natural ventilation. Choose products that are fragrance free or scented only with essential oils.

Clean does not need to smell like anything. That idea was sold to us. And we are allowed to let it go.