My Journey to a Low Toxic Home & Products That Make it Easier
- cayleegray
- Dec 7, 2023
- 7 min read
Updated: May 5, 2024
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the impact of toxins and chemicals present in our everyday environments. From the air we breathe to the products we use, our homes can potentially harbor a myriad of harmful substances that affect our health and well-being. Creating a low-toxicity home has become an essential aspect of fostering a healthy living space for ourselves and our families.
The pivotal moment in my journey towards a low-toxic home began when I started to understand my imbalanced hormones and the impact it had on my well-being. This realization served as a catalyst, compelling me to reevaluate my environment and take proactive steps toward creating a space that nurtured my health and hormonal balance.
However, I quickly learned that non-toxic living isn't merely about purging harsh chemicals from our homes; it's a shift towards mindful living. It starts with a realization—a recognition that many everyday products harbor harmful toxins that can impact our health over time. This awareness becomes the true catalyst for change, propelling us to seek safer alternatives and embrace a more natural way of living.
Once you adopt that new mindset, you are able to focus on making small changes one day, or even one year, at a time!
The Most Toxic Things in Your Home & Small Yet Impactful Changes
Several items commonly found in homes can harbor toxins or chemicals that may contribute to indoor pollution and potential health risks. It can be overwhelming to understand and begin making changes to a cleaner home. However, embarking on the journey to a non-toxic home doesn't require an overnight overhaul. Small, intentional changes gradually pave the way to a healthier lifestyle. Here are the most toxic things likely in your home and some simple switches to get started:
Cleaning Products
Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and phthalates. These chemicals release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to indoor air pollution and health problems such as respiratory irritation, headaches, hormone disrupters, and skin sensitivities.
You may choose to transition to natural cleaning alternatives such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils. These substances effectively disinfect and clean surfaces without emitting harmful fumes or impacting indoor air quality. Here are some of my favorite products to help create your own cleaning solutions!
Amber Glass Spray Bottles - These are great for homemade cleaners!
Amber Glass Soap Dispensers - I love these not only for homemade soap, but also for a more uniformed look! It also allows you to buy in bulk of a non-toxic option and fill it up!
Stainless Steel Funnels - Funnels are a must have for making your own cleaning products. It makes the process much easier and less messy.
Aura Cacia Essential Oils Kit - There are a lot of essential oils out there and you want to make sure the oils you are getting are quality oils that aren't filled with unnecessary ingredients.
Dr. Bronner’s - Pure-Castile Liquid Soap - Dr. Bronner's is AMAZING! You can do so many things with it and buying it in bulk allows for a more cost effective solution.
While making your own cleaning soluations is amazing, I do typically opt for a more convenient option as having a full time job and being a homemaker can leave me with little time. My go-to brand is Molly's Suds which is on Amazon and I know can be at my door in a day if and when I need! Here are some of my favorites:
Molly's Suds Laundry Detergent Sheets - I love the reusable Dryer Balls the best though!
Another one of my go-tos is Branch Basics! Discovering Branch Basics was a revelation and it's probably my favorite out of all the pre-made cleaning products. Their non-toxic cleaning solutions revolutionized my approach to home cleaning. They offer many products, but also have one main concentrate that allows you to create a variety of products just by diluting it with water!
Update: I have found a new favorite brand called Koala Eco!
Bedding and Mattresses
Conventional bedding and mattresses frequently incorporate flame retardants, polyurethane foam, and synthetic materials treated with chemicals. These components emit VOCs and other toxins linked to respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term health problems.
Opt for organic bedding made from natural materials like organic cotton, wool, or bamboo. Look for mattresses certified as low-VOC or free from harmful chemicals to reduce exposure to toxins during sleep. Recognizing the intimate relationship between bedding materials and health, I made a transition to organic cotton sheets and bedding. This deliberate switch aimed to minimize contact with chemicals for up to 10 hours a day while I sleep!
Lane Linen 100% Organic Cotton Sheets - My favorite sheets! I find these more comfortable than hotel sheets now!
Avocado Organic Mattress - I personally have not tried this mattress as I am waiting to upgrade to a King bed to invest in it. But, I have heard so many amazing things about these!
Fragrances
This one may be the hardest pill for many to swallow - fragrances. Fake fragrances, commonly found in perfumes, air fresheners, scented candles, and various household products, often contain a class of chemicals known as "forever chemicals" or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These PFAS chemicals have gained attention due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects, especially that of hormone imbalances.
After learning the negative impacts fake fragrances and removing them from my home and products, I immediately notice headaches when presented with fragrances in someone else's home or even when someone near me is wearing a lot of perfume.
For your health, choose fragrance-free products or those scented with natural essential oils. Utilize essential oil diffusers or homemade room sprays using natural ingredients to create pleasant scents without harmful chemicals.
My Favorite Oil Diffuser - I literally have three of these - one in my living room, bedroom and office. It's so simple and does the job perfectly.
Plastic CookwareÂ
Plastic containers, especially when heated, can leach harmful chemicals like bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates into food. These chemicals may disrupt hormonal balance and pose health risks.
Replace plastic cookware with safer alternatives like glass, stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic options. These materials are inert and do not leach toxins into food, offering a safer cooking experience.
Cookware: There are a lot of 'non-toxic' cookware coming out these days such as Caraway. While these are great, I still believe that stainless steel and cast iron is the best to go.
Food Storage: AILTEC Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids, 18 Piece
Cooking Utensils:
12 inch Teak Wood Spatula for Cast Iron - My favorite thing to cook with!
THE BEST WATER BOTTLE: I used to be on the Stanley cup train but was so sad when I learned they have led in them... I found the LARQ water bottle and fell in love. It's a self cleaning water bottle that uses a UV light to clean itself and the water!
Cosmetics/Personal Care Items
Many personal care products contain parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and artificial fragrances that can be absorbed through the skin, potentially leading to hormone disruption, skin sensitivities, and long-term health concerns.
Opt for natural or organic skincare and personal care products free from harmful chemicals. Explore DIY recipes using natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, essential oils, and plant extracts for a safer beauty routine.
Make-up: My two favorite brands are Araza Beauty and Ilia! I'm not a huge makeup person and literally only own about 5 make up products.
Shower Products:
Phillip Adam Fragrance Free Shampoo and Conditioner Set - I have been using this for at least a year now and LOVE IT! It makes my scalp feel so clean and has helped with hair growth because it's infused with rosemary oil.
Skin Care:
Sun and Moo Organic Tallow - Have you heard of beef tallow for you skin? If not, you have to look into it and maybe even give it a try. It is groundbreaking!
OSEA Ocean Cleanser - The only cleanser I ever use and it never fails me!
OSEA Bestsellers Discovery Skincare Set - This is a great choice if you want to give OSEA a try!
Air Purification
Indoor air pollutants stem from various sources such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products, off-gassing from furniture and building materials, combustion byproducts, allergens like dust mites and pet dander, and mold spores. Poor indoor air quality can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, headaches, fatigue, exacerbation of existing conditions (like asthma), and long-term health issues.
Invest in air-purifying plants or air purifiers to improve indoor air quality and reduce the presence of toxins floating in your safe space. The easiest and cheapest option for air purification is simply opening your windows daily! This allows for air flow and allows fresh air to come in.
The Journey Towards Non-Toxic Living
My journey towards a low-toxic home has been transformative, marked by numerous intentional choices aimed at fostering a healthier environment. Each adjustment, from embracing natural alternatives to DIY creations, has significantly contributed to curating a space that supports my health and hormonal balance.
Remember, transitioning to a non-toxic lifestyle is a process, not an overnight transformation. Every small change contributes to a healthier home environment. It's about making informed choices, being mindful of what we bring into our homes, and nurturing a space that promotes well-being. Each day presents an opportunity to take a step closer to a non-toxic home.
Finally, remember that it is almost impossible to live a completely non-toxic life. Give yourself gratitude for the small steps you are taking and for being mindful about the environment around you. Embrace this journey with patience and determination, knowing that each switch brings you closer to a healthier, low-tox lifestyle!Â