Are Dryer Sheets Toxic?
Scented ones have been tested. A University of Washington study published in 2011 in the journal Air Quality, Atmosphere and Health found that air vented from machines using the top-selling scented liquid laundry detergent and scented dryer sheet contained hazardous chemicals, including two that are classified as carcinogens.
The researchers found more than 25 volatile organic compounds coming out of the vents, including seven hazardous air pollutants. Two of them, acetaldehyde and benzene, are classified by the EPA as carcinogens for which the agency has established no safe exposure level.
The label may not tell you what is in the scent. The university’s 2011 release said manufacturers are not required to disclose the ingredients used in fragrances, or in laundry products. The EPA’s Safer Choice criteria for fragrances do not allow listed carcinogens, mutagens or reproductive and developmental toxicants, listed persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic compounds, or listed respiratory sensitizers, and the EPA also has a label that shows a product is fragrance-free.
Sources checked September 15, 2026. Every point below links the page it came from.
The sources behind this answer
- StudyA University of Washington study in Air Quality, Atmosphere and Health found air vented from machines using the top-selling scented liquid laundry detergent and scented dryer sheet contains hazardous chemicals, including two classified as carcinogens. University of Washington ↗
- StudyThe researchers found more than 25 volatile organic compounds, including seven hazardous air pollutants, and two of them, acetaldehyde and benzene, are classified by the EPA as carcinogens with no established safe exposure level. University of Washington ↗
- StudyThe University of Washington release said manufacturers are not required to disclose the ingredients used in fragrances, or in laundry products. University of Washington ↗
- Government sourceUnder the EPA’s Safer Choice Criteria for Fragrances, listed carcinogens, mutagens and reproductive or developmental toxicants, listed persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic compounds, and listed respiratory sensitizers are not allowed, and manufacturers must disclose dermal sensitizers. US EPA Safer Choice ↗
- Government sourceThe EPA says it also has a label that indicates a product is fragrance-free, for consumers who prefer products without fragrance. US EPA Safer Choice ↗
Sources checked September 15, 2026. A brand statement is the company’s own claim, which we report but have not verified. Our grades are model-based estimates, not lab tests.