Yeah, that's the depressing part. I'm not sure how I can ask someone to not use fabric softener sheets, but it's the only scent I can think of that doesn't just annoy me, but gives me this strong physical reaction.

They have non-perfumed fabric softener sheets, don't they?

I don't use fabric softener....

They have non-perfumed fabric softener sheets, don't they?

Yep, that's what we use.

My reaction to the Jedi church is, predictably, "Why haven't I started my own damn cult religion?

The Cult of the Cupcake Goth: Be nice, be original and don't dress like the Crow.

The fabric softener is probably the evil Bounce. Everyone I know with fragrance allergies is sent into spasms by it. I have to come inside if the neighbors are using it. In a lifetime of working, I've never figured out how to address my reaction to fairly ordinary fragrances. I usually just take more antihistamines, but I'm very conflict avoidy.

We have a microwave AND a toaster oven.

heh.

They have non-perfumed fabric softener sheets, don't they?

totally. Bounce Free (or something like that) and non-perfumed laundry detergent (which also causes issues).

We have TWO microwaves and a toaster oven! Fear us.

My office has a stove, refrigerator, microwave, toaster and many coffeemakers, since it conveniently moonlights as my house.

We have three microwaves, no toaster ovens, no (legitimate) refrigerators (but many departments have dorm ones hidden in their cubicles), and NO DAMN FREE COFFEE!!!

Um, sorry about that. You'd think after fifteen years of working here, I'd get used to it.

Well, if the fabric softener is perfumed, wouldn't that be included?

That's some slippery slope talk right there. I don't know what the answer is, but I'm pretty sure it's not banning all use of scented products in people's homes.

(I have perfume issues myself, so I'm definitely sympathetic. The smell of Irish Spring gives me a headache, too. But while I think you can delicately ask that people refrain from or be careful with their use of perfumes, I think getting into the vast realm of fabric softeners, detergents, deodorants, hairsprays, soaps, etc. with scents that cling to the wearer is kind of a non-starter.)

ETA: banning is a harsher sounding word than I meant. But honestly, unless you've got Anthony Edwards on Northern Exposure level sensitivities, I just don't think you can go there.

Which does suck, to be sure.

I think today I'll just have to suck it up, partly because I'm a wuss about one-on-one confrontation--I mean, what would I say, "Go away--you're making my eyes burn"?--but I think I'll talk to the staff about making a general policy against scented products here in the office/break room, and mentioning that I have a particular sensitivity to the smell of fabric softener sheets, so if people could use unscented or else minimize their time in the office (because there are other places chaplains can hang out if they don't need a computer for charting or email), that would make my life easier.

I am going insane looking for a new Dr. The info on my insurance website has been wrong for the two people I have called. GRRR.