I’ve become increasingly concerned about the chemicals found in many conventional cleaning and personal care products. Exposure to these chemicals day after day can’t be good for my family’s health. I decided it was time to clear out the toxins and switch to safe, natural alternatives.
Dangers of Conventional Cleaning Products
Many conventional cleaning products contain a host of harmful ingredients like ammonia, chlorine, formaldehyde, phthalates, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and more. These chemicals have been linked to asthma, cancer, reproductive issues, endocrine disruption, and other health problems.
The Environmental Working Group says the average home contains 62 toxic chemicals in cleaning supplies alone. When these chemicals get on our skin or we breathe them in, they can enter our bloodstream. I don’t want my family exposed to these dangers day after day.
Choosing Safer, Greener Cleaning Supplies
I researched natural cleaning brands and DIY recipes to replace my conventional cleaners. Here are some of the safe, non-toxic alternatives I switched to:
- All-purpose cleaner: vinegar, water, essential oils
- Glass cleaner: vinegar, water, essential oil
- Toilet cleaner: baking soda, vinegar
- Hand soap: Castile soap (coconut/olive oil-based)
- Laundry detergent: plant-based, fragrance-free brands
I also use microfiber cloths and soap nuts for laundry instead of dryer sheets. Basic ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and Castile soap work great for most household cleaning needs without any scary chemicals.
Safer Personal Care Products
My family’s health is also affected by the ingredients in our shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and other personal care items. Many conventional products contain chemicals I want to avoid like:
- Parabens: hormone disruptors linked to breast cancer
- Phthalates: developmental toxins banned by the EU
- Triclosan: possible endocrine disruptor, skin irritant
- Synthetic dyes & fragrances: skin allergens and irritants
We’ve switched to safe, natural brands like Dr. Bronner’s, Schmidt’s, ACURE, and Schmidt’s. I also make my own products like coconut oil toothpaste, baking soda deodorant, and apple cider vinegar hair rinse. Using fewer ingredients I can’t pronounce makes me feel better.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Since removing all these harsh chemicals from my home, the indoor air quality feels fresher and cleaner. We all breathe easier without the fumes from conventional cleaners. Opening windows to let fresh air in makes a big difference too.
I also got rid of chemical-laden candles, room sprays, and air fresheners. Now I keep the air fresh with essential oil diffusers, houseplants, baking soda, and opening windows.
Peace of Mind from Toxin-Free Living
Switching to natural cleaning and personal care products has given me tremendous peace of mind. I don’t have to worry about my family being constantly exposed to scary chemicals linked to health issues.
Making our own cleaners and body products is empowering. Plus, we save money by using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and Castile soap for so many purposes.
Though it takes some adjustment, toxin-free living is absolutely worth it. Our health is too precious to expose to risky chemicals day after day. I’m so glad I decided to clear out the toxins and go natural. My family and I all feel better.
