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Image: MomJunction Design Team
If your bathroom is engulfed by a foul odor, air fresheners can play an important role in making it smell better. The best air fresheners for bathrooms create a positive atmosphere and make you feel comfortable. I consulted Paula Tarling, a professional domestic cleaner, to create this list of tried-and-tested bathroom fresheners and help you make your bathroom smell better.
Top Picks
Types Of Bathroom Air Fresheners
Bathroom air fresheners come in different types. Here are the most prominent ones:
- Spray dispenser: These are the most common air fresheners on the market. They come in a bottle with a nozzle. Gently press the nozzle for the refreshing fragrance.
- Gel-based: A combination of solid and liquid air fresheners, these are placed in containers with a small opening. The air infuses with the gel when it comes in contact and spreads it evenly throughout the bathroom space.
- Plug-in: Plug-in air fresheners for bathrooms are compact and work with electricity. Once the switch is turned on, the liquid odor will quickly spread in waves throughout the space.
- Scented candle: Scented candles are made using floral and soothing scents. The scents spread after you light the candle. Scented sprays for bathrooms are also a good option.
- Potpourri: Potpourris are environmentally friendly products made with 100% natural ingredients.
13 Best Air Fresheners For Bathrooms
1. Best Compact:Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 3,195 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
The plug-in air purifier can significantly reduce the bacteria in the air and reduce the odor caused by pets, bacteria, smoke, etc. The compact model takes up less space and can be used in rooms other than the bathroom. The purifier has UV-C light, which can kill airborne viruses and works with titanium dioxide, providing odor control and reduction of volatile organic compounds. The bulb has a long service life and requires fewer replacements. This product has over 11,000 reviews on Amazon and offers a one-year warranty. Watch this review video to learn more about this product.
Pros
- Diminishes airborne germs
- Compact
- Pleasant fragrance
- Long-lasting bulb
Cons
- A bit noisy
"I’ve been using this air purifier for months, and its dependable performance impressed me. Its effectiveness in removing odor and allergies is commendable, especially from the pet and musty areas. It showed less effectiveness in the bedroom but turned out to be great for the bathrooms in the house."
2. Best All-Natural:Thai Lemongrass Linen and Room Spray
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Join the 3,199 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.
Rich in pure lemongrass essential oil, Thai is among the best bathroom odor eliminators as it exudes a pleasant aroma. The quality-tested plant-based product does not contain aerosols and artificial fragrances. The hand-blended spray is made of high-quality Thai materials and can be used in your room, car, basement, etc.
Pros
- Completely natural
- Eliminates smoke
- Versatile use
- Free of artificial fragrance
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- The scent fades a bit quickly
"This subtle, natural scent is exactly what I was looking for. I like how a little product instantly fills the room, but I wish it stayed a little longer. Overall, it is a great product, and I would recommend it."
3. Best Eco-Friendly: Fresh Products Eco-Air Air Freshener
The Fresh Products innovative air freshener kit comes with six eco-friendly refills. The unique open-air design ensures that the refill comes into contact with air from all directions, keeping your space smelling pleasant and fresh without the need for any batteries or fans. Furthermore, the solid refills are compatible with different dispensers.
Pros
- Available in a range of fragrances
- Infused with natural oils
- Leak-proof
- Free of acetone or propellants
Cons
- May not be very long-lasting
"This is one of the most unique odor eliminators I have come across on the Internet. The mango-scented product infuses my home with its sweet aroma. While its fragrance and effectiveness fade overtime, its ability to quickly cover large spaces has impressed me."
Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer Best Compact | Thai Lemongrass Linen and Room Spray Best All-Natural | Fresh Products Eco-Air Air Freshener Best Eco-Friendly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | White | Lemongrass | Refill - Mango/orange |
| Dimensions | 4 x 3 x 7.48 inches | 1.48 x 1.48 x 6.3 inches | 7.25 x 5.25 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 11.2 Ounces | 5.29 Ounces | 1.19 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 3,195 | 3,199 | 18 |
| Price | $26.63 | $12.99 | $35.38 |
4. Best Adjustable Scent:Renuzit Snuggle Solid Gel Air Freshener
The 98% biodegradable product, Renuzit has an intense white floral fragrance. You can adjust the fragrance level as needed. The scent can be distributed evenly in small spaces and helps eliminate bad smells. You can use the gel-based air freshener without batteries. This tried-and-tested freshener has over 8,000 Amazon reviews.
Pros
- Adjustable fragrance level
- 98% biodegradable gel
- Clean scent
- Does not require any batteries
Cons
- Not suitable for large bathrooms
"I’ve been using this product for a while now. The fresh gel formula has helped keep my home smelling pleasant at all times. While it offers limited effectiveness in larger spaces, its subtle, pleasant scent is perfect for smaller spaces."
5. Best Long Lasting:Citrus Magic Solid Air Freshener
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 230 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
The lavender and citrus-scented freshener is formulated with a vegetable-based odor eliminator for bathrooms and comes in three packs. You can use the air freshener in rooms other than the toilet as it absorbs unpleasant smells and makes the air smell fresh. The long-lasting bathroom air freshener provides a clean and refreshing scent for bathrooms. It has been formulated to control odors for up to eight weeks. This high-rated air freshener has garnered more than 5,000 reviews on Amazon.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Refreshing scent
- Comes in a pack of three
Cons
- Fragrance may not spread evenly
"This air freshener lacks the natural essence of lavender but still offers subtle lavender-like freshness to my space. It effectively neutralizes everyday odors and pet-related smells. I am pretty satisfied with it."
Quick fact6. Best Odor Eliminator:Febreze Small Spaces Air Freshener
Image: Febreze Continuous odor control for bathrooms is important, whether you are living alone or with family. The all-in-one Febreze air freshener with long-lasting scent duration eliminates bad odor without the need for regular replenishment. It is suitable for the bathroom, bedroom, closet, etc. The linen and sky-scented product can prevent odor from lingering and keep the air fresh for 45 days. With over 8000 reviews, you can be assured of its fresh fragrance. This true-and-tested product is one of the best air fresheners for bathrooms and claims to ensure four times the odor intensity as other regular products.
Pros
- Odor eliminator
- Clean linen scent
- No need for refills
- Durable
Cons
- Not suitable for a place with children
"I have been using this air freshener for my bathroom since last summer. It is excellent at removing odor, and the scent is long-lasting. Just make sure you use it in a well-ventilated room or the smell can be overpowering."
7. Best Non-Toxic:Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator Spray & Air Freshener
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 3,519 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
The Fresh Wave deodorant spray is made of natural ingredients and does not contain synthetic chemicals or artificial fragrances. The plant-based product is made using pine needles, cloves, anise, cedar wood, and lime. Being non-toxic and safe to use around pets and babies makes this one of the best bathroom air freshener sprays. You can use it to eliminate foul and unpleasant smells from garages, closets, bathrooms, bedrooms, etc., as it gives a fresh feel.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Not animal testing
- Free of artificial fragrances
- Easy to use
Cons
- Scent might be a bit strong in the beginning
"I found this spray quite effective in removing foul smells around the house. It diffuses subtle, fresh fragrance without being overwhelming. My only concern is its pump spray nozzle, which can sometimes be challenging to use. Overall, it is a useful product."
8. Best Long-Lasting:Febreze Unstopables Air Freshener
The Febreze Unstopables air fresheners are strong enough to eliminate unpleasant odors and keep your home fresh with an irresistible fragrance. It is rich in high-quality natural propellants like passion fruit, atemoya, and pineapple, and comes in a pack of three bottles, each with a capacity of 28 oz. You can also use this quality-tested air freshener for your office, bathroom, kitchen, basement, and other compact areas to beat the smelly air.
Pros
- Naturally made from corn
- 2X scent power
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
Cons
- May not spray well
"I tested this air freshener in various areas and was impressed by its effectiveness. I wish the staying power could be improved for a long-lasting effect. Overall, it is a reliable choice for routine freshening up."
Did you know?9. Best Easy-To-Use:Bright Air Solid Air Freshener
Bright Air is a plant-based gel in a pack of six, each with a capacity of 14oz. The air freshener gel can help you eliminate unpleasant odors as it emits a refreshing outdoor scent. The toilet air freshener is effective for 60 days and is easy to use. Besides bathrooms, you can use the air freshener in the kitchen, laundry room, office, conference room, etc to give the spaces a fresh feel. It is rich in natural and essential oils and is free of phthalates and harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Free of chemicals
- Enriched with natural oils
- Pleasant scent
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- The fragrance is a bit mild
"This odor eliminator with a fresh clean scent has helped eliminate lingering smells in my home, especially from my bathroom. While the scent isn't as long-lasting as I expected it to be, it's a good alternative to most options."
10. Best Pet-Safe:Natural Flower Power Air Freshener
Replace your regular strong-scented air freshener with the plant-based odor eliminator from Natural Flower Power, made of pure essential oils. If you enjoy different fragrance options for bathrooms, the aromatherapeutic natural mist is available in citrus and spices, lavender, and lemongrass to suit your preferences and for an odor-free experience. Moreover, it is a versatile air freshener suitable to knock off the stinks from your room, car, and linen fabric as well.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Soy- and gluten-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-synthetic fragrance
- Pet-safe
Cons
- Bottle may leak occasionally
11. Best Versatile:Sprayzee Store Natural Bathroom Air Freshener
The all-natural Sprayzee toilet spray eliminates foul and unpleasant smell with its enzymes and essential oils. This is one of the best washroom fresheners as it does not contain harsh chemicals, aerosols, artificial fragrances, parabens, and other toxins. The citrus-scented freshener, rich in lemongrass and bergamot, has an excellent aromatherapeutic scent.
Pros
- Versatile use
- Free of chemicals and parabens
- Potent scent but not overwhelming
- Easy to use
Cons
- The spray could leak a bit sometimes
"The natural fragrance does a great job of neutralizing odors, especially in small spaces. I found the formula gentle on my allergies. Its spray mechanism could sometimes be irritating, but the refreshing citrus scent makes the hassle worth it."
12. Best Vegan:The Crown Choice Natural Bathroom Spray
The all-natural Crown Choice contains plant-based essential oils, lemongrass, and geranium. The environmentally friendly product does not contain artificial fragrances and chemicals. The vegan toilet freshener is biodegradable and safe to use around children and pets. The citrusy air freshener absorbs the lingering smells and emits bursts of fragrance, making it among the best aromatics solutions for bathrooms.
Pros
- Vegan and tested to be safe for children and pets
- Super effective
- Clean, citrusy scent
- Allergy-tested
Cons
- May not be long lasting
"This is my preferred choice for keeping my home smelling fresh. I particularly like the lavender and citrus ones. They can seem overwhelming at first, but I like how they mask musty odors, and the scent lasts long too. It's a perfect pick for those sensitive to synthetic fragrances."
13. Best Aesthetic:Air Jungles Lavender Scent Reed Diffuser Set
The aesthetically designed reed diffuser set by Air Jungles is equipped with 100ml lavender fragrance oil in a glass bottle and six 10-inch rattan reeds. Apart from the bathroom, you can use the true-and-tested reed diffuser set in bedrooms, offices, kitchens, etc. These sticks do not require any flames, so they are safe to use. The soothing fragrance can help eliminate foul and unpleasant smells.
Pros
- Soothing fragrance
- Safe usage
- Aesthetic look
- Easy to use
Cons
- The reed sticks are short-lived
"This lavender scent has become a staple in my bathroom. I like how this scent lingers well without overpowering my senses and uplifts the mood. However, I noticed its longevity varies, as sometimes it doesn’t last to its promised 30-day mark. But I like it for its effectiveness."
What To Consider When Buying An Air Freshener?
Consider these factors when looking for an air freshener for your bathroom.
- Type of air freshener: Gel air fresheners for bathrooms quickly absorb foul smells and are safe to use. If you want a lasting bathroom deodorizer, you must look for spray air fresheners.
- Coverage: This factor depends on the bathroom space. If your bathroom is small, you can choose a product with smaller coverage. Bigger bathroom spaces require air freshener that ensures wider coverage.
- Fragrance: The aroma or fragrance you are looking for depends on your personal preference. If the smell in your bathroom is mild, then you can buy a pleasant scent freshener. Choose an intense and powerful fragrance if the unpleasant smell lingers.
- Toxin-free: If you have children or pets at home, be cautious about the ingredients used in air fresheners. Choose a toilet freshener that does not contain harsh chemicals, parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances.
- Portable: If you want the air freshener to occupy minimal space in the bathroom, then go for a compact product.
Paula Tarling, an experienced domestic cleaner and influencer, says, “I instantly feel more comfortable walking into a bathroom that has a fresh scent. Besides using air fresheners, you can also add essential oils to your toilet roll for an added fresh boost.”
How Often Do You Need To Change An Air Freshener?
Most air fresheners last for several weeks, and some durable air fresheners can last up to two years. These details are listed on the product’s packaging to help you understand when to refill the freshener.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of air freshener lasts the longest?
Gel-based and plug-in air fresheners last longer than spray dispensers. The effect of the spray dispenser may quickly fade after a few hours and may not last all day, whereas the gel-based air fresheners, once opened, will last for up to four weeks.
2. What scents are suitable to use in the bathroom?
The scent you prefer to use in the bathroom totally depends on the individual’s preference. Tea tree or mint scents are ideal if you are looking for a refreshing fragrance, while rosemary, lavender, and eucalyptus scents are ideal for bringing a relaxing and calming feel. Other fragrances like fruity scents are suitable for someone who likes to bring a tropical feel to the bathroom.
3. What essential oils are good for bathroom smells?
Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, lavender, and sweet orange are some of the best options to neutralize the bathroom smells while keeping the bathroom fresh and hygienic.
4. How can I make bathroom spray with essential oils?
Making a bathroom spray with essential oils is a simple process and needs only a few ingredients. Mix one teaspoon of alcohol or witch hazel with a two-ounce distilled water and add 30 to 40 drops of your favorite essential oil. Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle and shake it well for use.
5. Can I put essential oils in the toilet tank?
Yes, you can add essential oils to the toilet tank. This not only diffuses the refreshing smell every time you flush the water but also essential oils like tea tree or eucalyptus keeps the toilet bowl clean.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We understand the important role air fresheners play in making your room smell better and preventing the foul odor. The same applies to your bathroom as well. So we have compiled this list of the best air fresheners for bathrooms after carefully considering the customer reviews and the fragrances that would be the best for you. We have also included types of bathroom fresheners to give you a brief idea, making your selection easier.
The Bottom Line
If your room has a peculiar odor, an air freshener has your back by getting rid of it while making your room smell pleasant. The best air fresheners come with features to control and customize the frequency of fragrance to make your room smell nice in no time. It helps when you pick your favorite scent, preferably one that lasts longer and does not require frequent replacement. This article has listed a diverse range of air fresheners, including the Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer offering germ and odor control, the natural Thai Lemongrass Linen and Room Spray that is free of artificial fragrances, and the Fresh Products Eco-Air Air Freshener with a battery-free mechanism to help you pick the best per your preferences and needs.
Infographic: Different Types Of Bathroom Air Fresheners
Even after proper cleaning, a smelly bathroom is a common problem in many households due to regular usage and constant wetness. Bathroom air freshers are handy products to eliminate or mask these unpleasant bathroom odors. Refer to the infographic below to learn about the air freshener types available so you can pick the best one for your bathroom.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Cymbopogon citratus stapf (Lemon grass)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3217679/ - Aromatherapy
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aromatherapy
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