By Alex Thorne | Odor Control and Wellness Specialist
What “Clean” Really Means
“Clean” has become a trendy label, but true clean chemistry means measurable compliance—not marketing fluff. It involves formulations free from endocrine-disrupting additives such as phthalates and parabens and designed to meet low-VOC (volatile organic compound) standards. Modest & Co. embodies this principle in every odor-control product, ensuring that the air you refresh is as safe as it smells.
Why Phthalates and Parabens Are Problematic
Phthalates are often used to fix or extend fragrance life, while parabens act as synthetic preservatives. Research links both to hormone disruption and developmental concerns. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (PubMed), phthalate exposure has been associated with reproductive issues and asthma in children. Modest & Co. excludes these chemicals entirely, using non-toxic, pet-safe alternatives that eliminate odors without adding risk.
VOC-Safe Formulation: Cleaner Air at Home
VOCs can evaporate into indoor air and trigger headaches or irritation. The American Lung Association notes that long-term VOC exposure may affect the liver and central nervous system. That’s why Modest & Co.’s formulas are engineered for low emission rates, neutralizing odor molecules without releasing new pollutants. Every spray and candle meets VOC-safe benchmarks for better indoor air quality.
Vegan Formulations and Coconut–Apricot Wax
Clean chemistry also means ethical chemistry. Modest & Co.’s candles use coconut–apricot wax—a vegan, renewable blend that burns cleanly with minimal soot and superior scent distribution. Unlike soy or paraffin, coconut–apricot wax requires lower temperatures to melt, reducing particulate output and preserving indoor air quality. The result: a slow, steady burn that delivers science-driven freshness without compromise.
Transparent Sourcing Builds Trust
Clean formulation is nothing without traceable supply chains. Modest & Co. partners with reputable suppliers and publishes educational resources on ingredient selection, so customers understand exactly why our sprays and candles exclude phthalates and parabens. Transparency is our proof of performance—and the foundation of customer trust.
How Clean Chemistry Benefits Your Home
- Fewer pollutants in the air: Low-VOC design means healthier breathing spaces for pets and families.
- Longer-lasting freshness: Odor-neutralizing enzymes break smells down at the source instead of masking them.
- Peace of mind: No hidden additives or synthetics—only verifiable ingredients that meet clean standards.
Evidence That Clean Swaps Work
In the HERMOSA intervention conducted by UC Berkeley and published in Environmental Health Perspectives, participants who switched to phthalate- and paraben-free personal care products showed chemical reductions of 30–45 % in just three days. It demonstrates how fast exposure drops once cleaner choices replace traditional ones—a principle Modest & Co. applies to odor control for immediate health benefits.
Expert Perspective
“They act as estrogen-disrupting chemicals through receptor-mediated mechanisms. There is now substantial evidence that long-term, low-level exposure to mixtures of these chemicals can promote breast-tissue changes.” — Dr. Philippa Darbre, University of Reading (quoted in Allure Magazine, 2024)
This insight underscores why formulating without phthalates or parabens isn’t trend—it’s toxicological common sense. Modest & Co.’s clean chemistry prioritizes health and transparency without sacrificing performance.
FAQs
What does “No Phthalates, No Parabens” mean for me?
It means your sprays and candles avoid hormone-disrupting preservatives and synthetic fragrance fixatives—safer air for people and pets.
Why is VOC-safe important?
Low-VOC products minimize emissions that can cause headaches or respiratory issues; our clean formulas keep indoor air healthier.
Are coconut–apricot candles really cleaner burning?
Yes—they emit virtually no soot and burn cooler and longer than paraffin or soy alternatives for sustainable, pet-safe freshness.
Can I verify Modest & Co.’s clean claims?
Absolutely. Our formulas comply with recognized VOC and ingredient standards and avoid phthalates, parabens, and animal-derived materials.
The Bottom Line
Clean chemistry is about substance over slogans. By eliminating phthalates, parabens, and excess VOCs, Modest & Co. creates pet-safe, non-toxic odor control that you can trust. Our specialist sprays and coconut–apricot candles prove that fresh air doesn’t need additives—just better science. Shop the collection and experience real clean for your home.