November/December 2008 Issue

Dollars and Scents

A breezy history of the air freshener.

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1930s

Lysol is America’s most popular contraceptive. Really.

1952

Little Trees first hung on rearview mirrors.

1956

Glade introduces the air freshener spray can.

1974

Glade solid scent sticks hit shelves.

1989

Plug-in air fresheners exude ambience 24-7.

1994

Man sprays Prince Charles with a can of air freshener.

1997

US air freshener sales reach $239 million.

2002

Renuzit unveils the Super Odor Neutralizer.

2004

Air Wick releases Relaxation and Revitalization scents. Febreeze launches Scentstories “scent-themed” discs. Sample: Exploring a Mountain Trail.

2006

Glade presents the Scented Oil Light Show—designed for girls 8 to 12.

2007

Enviro group finds hormone-disrupting chemicals in “all-natural” air fresheners, asks epa for further testing. SC Johnson sues Dial for stealing its three-scents-in-one idea.

2008

US air freshener market hits $2.3 billion—not including scented candles.

Related article: Germ Warfare

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BEFORE YOU CLICK AWAY!

“Lying.” “Disgusting.” “Scum.” “Slime.” “Corrupt.” “Enemy of the people.” Donald Trump has always made clear what he thinks of journalists. And it’s plain now that his administration intends to do everything it can to stop journalists from reporting things they don’t like—which is most things that are true.

No one gets to tell Mother Jones what to publish or not publish, because no one owns our fiercely independent newsroom. But that also means we need to directly raise the resources it takes to keep our journalism alive. There’s only one way for that to happen, and it’s readers like you stepping up. Please help with a donation today if you can—even a few bucks will make a real difference. A monthly gift would be incredible.

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