Air freshener exposure can cause adverse health effects, as Rajiv Kumar Sharma discovered in 2022. Hospitalised for two days with severe vomiting, nausea, and headaches, he traced the cause to the recently introduced air fresheners in his home.
The innovator then decided to create his own air freshener using natural ingredients and tools. Using flower waste from a nearby temple, he developed a natural fragrance for his homemade air freshener.
“There are many poisonous chemicals in air fresheners. All you need to do is read the ingredient list behind any air freshener. It’s not safe for children (mentioned in the packaging) and animals to inhale. I wanted to make a freshener which was safe for the environment as well as humans and animals,” he says.
Creating the final product took over eight months and 20 prototypes. His college professors at the National Institute of Design, Andhra Pradesh, helped him perfect the product and prepare it for a larger audience.
ALVE air fresheners are made of natural ingredients, have a sustainable design (can be composted post-use), and include smart technology, Rajiv informs.
He currently runs his startup from his kitchen with his mother, Sonidevi. Together, they have sold over 2,100 air fresheners, earning over Rs 10 lakh.
The air freshener is available in three variants for homes, offices, and cars, offering a choice of 15 fragrances. Each unit is equipped with smart sensors that automatically activate and deactivate based on the detection of an individual’s presence. Additionally, it is compatible with Google Assistant.
The air freshener features a biodegradable body that can be composted after use, and its refills are organic — crafted from temple flower waste.
“We use nature’s intelligence in retaining the fragrances. Chemical fresheners use LPG to retain the fragrance. We do not use any heat, water vapour, or chemicals to diffuse our fragrances. We use our own Air Diffusion Technology with sensors to diffuse aroma evenly in the surroundings,” Rajiv says.