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Oct 15, 2024

The Best Air Fresheners We’ve Ever Tested

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Find your new favorite fragrance. In This Article Real Simple / Marcus Millán If

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Find your new favorite fragrance.

In This Article

Real Simple / Marcus Millán

If you’re trying to make your house smell amazing for guests or even just trying to get rid of unwanted smells that can linger throughout the day, that’s where an air freshener can really come in handy.

“Our sense of smell is powerful and directly connected to the brain, so it's crucial to choose scents and air freshener types consciously,” says Melike Aktas Atilgan, an aromatherapist and aromatic scent designer.

In addition to reaching out to Atilgan for expert insights on what to look for when shopping for the best air freshener, we also tested a variety of options—diffusers, plug-ins, sprays, you name it—in our lab and at home. We evaluated each on their type, fragrance, coverage area, safety, and more to narrow down our picks to the eight you’ll find on this list.

It performs well in small spaces such as bathrooms.

It has a shorter lifespan than advertised.

For those looking for a reasonably priced yet effective plug-in diffuser, we recommend the Febreze Plug Linen & Sky Starter Kit. In our testing, we found that it performed well and maintained a stable scent, particularly in smaller spaces such as bathrooms.

We also liked the slider that allows you to adjust the intensity of the fragrance. While we are partial to the linen and sky scent, there are dozens of scents to choose from so you can keep rotating them as the seasons or your fragrance preference changes.

Despite the label claiming this air freshener can last up to 1,200 hours—or 50 days—on the lowest setting, we found that it had about half the lifespan than advertised. However, we did enjoy how well the scent was distributed throughout the room without being overwhelming, and the refills are available at several retailers.

Type: Plug-in diffuser | Amount: 0.87 fluid ounces | Lifespan: 1,200 hours

It comes in several different designs.

They’re not available at multiple retailers.

If you’re looking to spend a little less on an air freshener but don’t want to compromise quality or effectiveness, we suggest the Bath & Body Works Wallflowers Plug. We especially like that these Wallflowers come in various designs, whether you want something simple and more inconspicuous or more seasonal and intricate, like a sugar skull night light.

During our testing, we appreciated the consistent and long-lasting scent, especially for the warm vanilla sugar scent. We also like how affordable both the plug and refills are—the plugs range between $6 and $40, the refill bottles are $8, and you can mix and match five for $27.

Product Details: Type: Plug-in diffuser | Amount: 0.8 fluid ounces | Lifespan: 30 days

You can adjust the time and strength of the scent with an app.

The cover can’t be switched out.

Most air fresheners aren’t super fancy, but some, particularly diffusers, can feel more like luxury items. The Pura 4 is our choice for the best luxe air freshener for its attractive yet discreet design that blends in well with just about any style and home decor.

During testing, we were impressed with how much we could customize this device using the Pura app, including setting a timer, adjusting the strength of the scent, and changing the light color. We also like that there is an array of fragrances to choose from called smart vials (although non-smart fragrance vials will work just as well) lasting up to 120 hours.

If you’d rather not have to use an app to dispense scent from your air freshener, this may not be the one for you (although we do appreciate the extra features and how easy it is to use).

It’s also important to note that unlike other plug-in air fresheners, the cover on the Pura 4 is not removable or changeable. However, if you’re looking for a sleek and modern option that you can control and customize through an app, this is the best air freshener for your home.

Product Details: Type: Plug-in diffuser | Amount: Two 0.33 fluid ounce vials | Lifespan: 120 hours

It’s made with high-quality, environmentally friendly ingredients.

The scent doesn’t last as long as other options.

Prioritizing sustainability and eco-friendliness can certainly take some diligence and research. When it comes to the best sustainable air freshener, though, look no further than the Enviroscent Plug Hub Starter Kit.

We loved the discreet and compact design that almost doesn’t look like an air freshener at all, as well as its strong yet pleasant scent that’s available in 10 fragrances, including seasonal ones like vanilla bean and pumpkin chai. We also appreciate that it’s liquid-free, is safe around children and pets, and is Leaping Bunny certified.

While we did notice in our testing that the scent does not last as long compared to other plug-in options (this one only lasts up to 45 days), we think the biodegradable paper scent refills made with natural ingredients will make this air freshener more than worth it for some.

Product Details: Type: Liquid-free plug-in | Amount: 0.51 ounces | Lifespan: 45 days

It has a cordless, portable design.

The scent may not be strong enough for large areas.

Portable oil diffusers are excellent for those who have a little extra space on their desk, nightstand, or dresser, which is why we love the Air Wick Essential Mist Lavender & Almond Blossom Air Freshener.

This cordless air freshener has a sleek and minimal design, and we loved how easy it was to pop in a new scent bottle. While we do prefer the soft and floral lavender and almond blossom scent, there are 13 fragrances to choose from, including seasonal scents. Lastly, we liked the mist that can be set on a timer for your convenience.

Although this air freshener is more subtle in dispersing its scent mainly due to its size, we do think it’s a great choice for a bedroom, home office, or bathroom. It can also make for a thoughtful housewarming gift that looks more expensive than it is.

Product Details: Type: Cordless oil diffuser | Amount: 0.67 fluid ounces | Lifespan: 45 days

It’s low maintenance and has an attractive look.

It may not last as long as other air fresheners.

The Capri Blue Reed Oil Diffuser has long been one of the best reed diffusers in our book. In our testing, we were impressed with the strong scent that could be adjusted by adding or removing the reed sticks. It’s also easy to maintain by simply flipping the sticks over every now and then.

We loved the attractive cobalt blue bottle that makes for a beautiful piece of decor, and while we do prefer the wildly popular citrusy Volcano scent, we appreciate that there are a handful of invigorating fragrances to choose from, like Coconut Santal and Pineapple Flower.

This air freshener, similar to other reed diffusers, may not last as long as other types of air fresheners such as automatic or plug-in oil diffusers. However, we think it’s a great price for the quality, scent, and overall look.

Product Details: Type: Reed oil diffuser | Amount: 8 fluid ounces | Lifespan: Not listed

It can easily fill an entire car with the scent.

It has limited availability in stores.

Your car can notoriously trap unpleasant smells, so if rolling down the windows isn’t enough to get rid of them, we recommend the Bridgewater Candle Company Auto Vent Clip as the best car air freshener.

During testing, we liked how evenly the scent was dispersed throughout the entire car, and we also appreciated the compact size that doesn’t feel like a distraction.

We also loved the high-quality and luxurious scent—we’re particularly fond of the woodsy Afternoon Retreat scent, but there are several equally delicious options to choose from to make your car feel more luxurious. Once you experience it for yourself, you may never want another air freshener for your car again.

Product Details: Type: Car vent clip | Amount: 0.1 ounce | Lifespan: 30 days

It can be used in other areas, like a trash can.

There are limited scent options.

Preventing or neutralizing unpleasant bathroom odors is a must for anyone, and we trust the Muse Apothecary Flush Ritual Toilet Spray to get the job done. We liked how fresh and clean this air freshener smelled when we sprayed it, and we especially like the natural ingredients. To get the best results, simply spray it into the toilet bowl before you go.

If you don’t like to compromise quality for style, then you’ll definitely love this spray for its aesthetically pleasing design that looks great in any bathroom. Despite a limited amount of scent options compared to other air fresheners, the ones available are pleasantly aromatic—there’s even a seasonal snow scent.

Product Details: Type: Spray | Amount: 2, 4, or 8 fluid ounces | Lifespan: Between 100 and 400 uses

Our pick for the overall best air freshener is the Febreze Plug Linen & Sky Starter Kit for its long-lasting and consistent scent, simple look, and ability to adjust the scent’s intensity. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly or something with a more unique design, we recommend the Bath & Body Works Wallflowers Plug.

We tested a variety of air fresheners in our lab and at home, evaluating each product based on its design or aesthetic, ease of use, strength of the scent, value, and overall performance. We tested these air fresheners in different areas such as a bathroom and a car, followed any label instructions, and measured their effectiveness over each of their lifespans.

We evaluated the aesthetic of each air freshener by judging their overall look and how each one looked wherever we’d place it. Some stood out for their stylish label or sleek design, while others were plain or not particularly interesting to look at.

For the ease of use, we evaluated each air freshener’s level of complexity. Some only needed to be plugged into a wall outlet, while others required an app. We also noted the strength of the scent for each by smelling it in different sized rooms.

Lastly, we evaluated the value of each, particularly if the price was fair based on how long it lasted, as well as the overall performance and how much we would consider using it again based on all factors.

While all air fresheners share the same purpose, there are several types with different features, functions, and looks.

Some air fresheners are great at making large areas, such as living rooms, smell great, while others are better suited for smaller spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms. For consistency and area coverage, Atilgan says it’s best to consider tank or bottle sizes, mist mode options, and general preference. Additionally, time settings and adjustability can also help with coverage and the durability of the scent.

Although most air fresheners are considered to be generally safer than a conventional candle as a way to disperse fragrance, Atilgan still says it’s important to exercise caution and consider a few factors, including proper ventilation and physical health.

“Allergies, sensitivities, and other health conditions should be considered when choosing an air freshener,” she says. “Anyone with asthma or a similar condition should consult their health care practitioners. It is also important to be mindful of the impact on infants, toddlers, and pets with sensitive olfactory systems.”

Febreze Small Spaces Air Freshener Linen & Sky: If you don’t care too much about the design of an air freshener and need one for a small space such as a guest bathroom, this air freshener can be a great option. We like that it doesn’t require batteries or outlets, and it disperses a strong scent that can last for up to 45 days. Note that this air freshener doesn’t have refills, so you’ll just have to replace it when it runs out.

Glade PlugIns Scented Oil Warmer: While we didn’t love this air freshener for its look, we loved the extremely budget-friendly price and its ability to adjust the intensity of the fragrance. It also lasts up to 50 days and has options for refills, although the scent may be too strong for those with sensitivities.

Despite their many types, all air fresheners either fill a space with fragrance or neutralize strong odors. “Air fresheners work by evaporating the substances they contain that help neutralize, absorb, mask, or suppress unpleasant odors,” says Atilgan. “This can be something natural like essential oils or synthetic fragrance."

Some air fresheners, like a plug-in diffuser, can last for several months without needing a refill, while others, like a hanging car air freshener, can last for a few days. If you prioritize duration, it’s important to consider which types of air fresheners last the longest.

“Reed diffusers and gel air fresheners are slow, consistent, and concentrated resulting in a long-lasting scent,” Atilgan says. “Additionally, auto air fresheners that are sensor-activated or time-programmable are great and durable as well.”

It’s common for an air freshener to be regarded as a deodorizer and vice versa, but Atilgan explains that the main difference is in their chemistry and how they resolve odor molecules.

“While fresheners are formulated to suppress or cover up the odors, deodorizers such as baking soda are formulated to neutralize or remove the ‘bad air,’” she says. “Fresheners might be preferred for creating a pleasant atmosphere, whereas deodorizers are a great choice for eliminating odors mostly caused by pets, smoke, or food waste.”

This article was written by L. Daniela Alvarez, contributing writer for Real Simple with three years of experience writing about lifestyle content and product reviews. To compile this list, we tested a variety of air fresheners in our lab and at home, evaluating each on things like type, fragrance, coverage area, and value. Daniela also consulted Melike Aktas Atilgan, a NAHA Certified Level 2 Aromatherapist, aromatic scent designer, and co-founder of Yoursy, The Banyo Co, and Scent Mentor, for expert insights.