3 Red Flags to Look For Before You Use Fragrance at Home with Kids & Pets

When I first became a parent, I thought I was covering every base. Food? Organic. Cleaners? Non-toxic. Baby-proofing? Done.

But fragrance? Honestly, I didn’t realize how much it mattered.

The reality is that what you spray in your home doesn’t just “smell nice” — it becomes the air your kids and pets breathe. And because their bodies are smaller, the impact can actually be bigger.

Here are the 3 biggest red flags I learned to look for before bringing any fragrance into my home.

Red Flag #1: “Fragrance” on the Label

Why It Matters

The word fragrance (or parfum) is a legal loophole that can hide hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, many linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and allergies.

Where You’ll See It

On candles, sprays, plug-ins, and even cleaners — usually just listed as fragrance with no breakdown.

Quick Tip

If a brand doesn’t disclose every ingredient, phthalates may be hiding inside.

Red Flag #2: Phthalates

Why It Matters

Phthalates are used to make scents last longer, but they’ve been linked to endocrine disruption (aka hormone imbalance). Not something I want in the air my baby breathes.

Where You’ll See It

Rarely spelled out. Usually tucked under that vague “fragrance” umbrella.

Quick Tip

Look for brands that clearly state “phthalate-free” and list full ingredients.

Red Flag #3: Parabens

Why It Matters

Parabens are preservatives that can mimic estrogen and mess with the body’s hormone system.

Where You’ll See It

Scan labels for methylparaben, propylparaben, or butylparaben. Even “unscented” products sometimes sneak them in.

Quick Tip

Seek out “paraben-free” products and double-check the fine print.

Bonus: Essential Oils Aren’t Always Safe

This one surprised me: even natural ingredients can be risky. In concentrated form, some essential oils can be toxic for kids and pets.

👉 That’s why every Grow formula is reviewed for safe dosing — so you get the benefits of nature without the risks.

What Safe Fragrance Looks Like 

A safe fragrance should be:

• 🌿 Plant-based (no petroleum-derived synthetics)

• 🧪 3rd-party tested 

• 📖 Fully transparent about ingredients

• 🚫 Free from phthalates, parabens, and hidden VOCs

That’s the standard we live by at Grow.

Your Home Should Be a Safe Haven

At the end of the day, if it’s something my baby is breathing — or my dog is curled up next to — I want zero doubts about safety.

That’s why Grow is 100% plant-based, fully transparent, and tested for peace of mind. Because your home should be a safe haven, not a question mark.

✨ Save this list before your next shopping trip — and remember, fragrance can be beautiful and safe.

Shop Scents Without the Toxins →