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Keep Your Cab Smelling Fresh – Without Chemicals

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Even if you work hard to keep your cab clean, the smell of diesel exhaust and lingering odors from your last truck stop meal can be hard to get rid of. Many truck drivers choose to fight odors with chemical-based air fresheners, but studies have shown that these products contain chemicals called phthalates, which are associated with hormonal abnormalities and reproductive problems. That’s why some truck drivers are turning to more natural solutions to keep their cabs smelling fresh.

Natural Solutions For a Fresh Smelling Truck

Eucalyptus

CDLLife reader, Lisa Renner, agrees  when talking about the currently available commercial air freshener options as opposed to natural solution: “Read the packages, they are all poisonous to breathe. We use eucalyptus. I buy a package of dried. Cut down to about 12″ stalks and wire them together. Hang where there is good airflow. Is a natural air purifier that lasts for 12-18 months and costs only $10.”

While eucalyptus is an excellent option for chemical-free air freshening, those who drive with pets should be careful, as the plant is toxic to dogs and cats.

Natural Odor Absorbers

Rather than masking odors with other smells, some truck drivers choose to use products that help to absorb unwanted odors. Baking soda is a great option for drivers looking for a natural solution. An open container of baking soda can pull unpleasant odors out of the air. Baking soda is also useful if you’ve spilled something in your cab. Simply sprinkle it over the spill and then vacuum it up a few hours later.

Charcoal is another option for absorbing smells. A couple of lumps of charcoal from your grill placed in your cab can help to keep odors at bay without the use of harmful chemicals.

Essential Oil Diffusers

Oil diffusers that plug into your cigarette lighter are a great option for truck drivers looking to improve the smell of their cabs without commercial air fresheners. Oil diffusers are a great option because they let you change the scent based on your mood or needs. As you’re winding down on your last few miles, you might choose a soothing lavender oil. To help keep you alert, a citrus-based oil can help. If you’re looking to lose weight while you’re on the road, studies have shown that inhaling peppermint essential oils helped participants consume 1800 fewer calories a week, giving this odor-busting solution an added benefit.

Sources:
NRDC
The New York Times

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