By Alex Thorne | Odor Control and Wellness Specialist
Why ingredient transparency matters
"Clean" and "green" get tossed around a lot. True transparency means explaining what each component does and why it is there. Modest & Co. products avoid endocrine-disrupting additives and focus on ingredients with clear safety and performance roles.
1) Enzymes: the odor neutralizers
Enzymes are proteins that speed up reactions. In an odor spray, blends of proteases and lipases help break down organic residues (protein- or oil-based soils) into simpler, low-odor byproducts. This removes the source rather than masking it. For a plain-English primer on how enzymes work, see the NIH overview on enzyme catalysis (NIH/NCBI).
2) Surfactants: the access boosters
Plant-derived surfactants lower surface tension so the formula can spread and contact fibers evenly. That lets enzymes reach odor-causing soils in carpets, upholstery, and pet areas. Ours are biodegradable and designed to dry cleanly without sticky residue.
3) Preservatives and stabilizers: consistency over time
Food-grade preservatives (for example, sodium benzoate) and simple stabilizers keep the formula fresh and the enzymes active between uses. We do not use parabens or formaldehyde donors. Reliability matters: first spray to last spray should perform the same.
4) Water and carriers: the clean base
Purified water is the primary carrier, ensuring even dispersion. Light, clean scent carriers provide a subtle finish after neutralization — never a heavy perfume cloud. The goal is air that smells like less, not more.
5) What you will not find in Modest & Co. sprays
- No phthalates or parabens
- No ammonia, bleach, or harsh solvents
- No synthetic dyes or overpowering fragrance
Clean chemistry, verified
Our formulas are built to align with EPA Safer Choice criteria and low-VOC indoor air guidance from the American Lung Association. That means minimizing emissions that can irritate eyes, skin, or airways, and focusing on ingredients with strong safety profiles.
From industrial science to everyday homes
Enzyme systems have long been used to reduce odor-causing compounds in commercial and municipal settings. Modest & Co. adapts the same core principles into non-toxic, family-friendly formulas that work for spots and whole rooms alike.
How to use for best results
- Spot-test fabrics in an inconspicuous area.
- Spray directly on the source, allow contact time, then let dry.
- Pair with a coconut–apricot wax candle for ambient freshness.
FAQs
Are enzymatic sprays safe around pets and kids?
Yes. Our formulas are non-toxic when used as directed and designed to dry cleanly without sticky residue.
Do enzymes just mask odors?
No. Enzymes break down odor-causing molecules; masking simply adds scent. Enzymatic control targets the source.
Why avoid phthalates and parabens?
We choose ingredients with cleaner safety profiles and avoid common endocrine-disrupting additives.
The bottom line
Every ingredient in a Modest & Co. enzymatic spray has a job, and none of them are there to pad a label. The result is transparent, pet-safe, non-toxic odor control that actually solves the problem. Explore the full lineup: sprays and candles.