In order to live happy and healthy lives, we need to take a close look at our environment, especially our homes and what we are exposing ourselves to on a daily basis.
The more toxins we accumulate at the deep, cellular level, the more disease we will trigger.
Chronic digestive issues, autoimmune conditions, cancer, pain and fatigue are all too common but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Let’s take a look at some of the most toxic issues in our homes and start replacing them with natural and safe alternative solutions.
How could household items be so toxic?
I know how important it is to keep a clean house! Your home should be your sanctuary — a place you can rest and relax.
However, even though it’s tempting to grab the strongest stuff off the shelf to wipe out all dirt in sight, we need to take into account what chemicals might be in our cleaning supplies. Most household cleaners contain highly toxic and neurotoxic chemicals.
U.S. laws have little regulations when it comes to formulation of household supplies, meaning manufacturers can put almost anything in their products. We’re talking chemicals that trigger asthma attacks, allergic reactions, eye and skin irritation or that are known or likely carcinogens. Labeling also isn’t regulated — so companies can use vague terms like “surfactant,” “fragrance” or “preservative” that don’t tell you what the ingredient really is.
Chemicals to Watch For
These everyday chemicals are used in dishwashing detergents, laundry detergents, floor cleaners and furniture polishes, oven cleaners, air fresheners, toilet bowl cleaners, dry cleaning, hard surface cleaners, carpet and upholstery cleaners etc.
Over time, these toxic chemicals build up inside our cells and cause cellular damage and inflammation which leads to accelerated aging, cancer and other serious diseases. Take a look at the ingredients in your products and AVOID these toxic culprits:
- Benzene
- Butyl Cellosolve
- Chlorine
- Ethylbenzene
- Formaldehyde
- Phenol
- Petrochemicals
Natural Substitutions for Common Products
Air Fresheners
There’s really no way to know what might be in air fresheners since their fragrance mixtures are proprietary! They commonly trigger allergies and asthma. Instead, open windows, use fans, put out a bowl of white vinegar or baking soda, or burn a beeswax candle in place of using air fresheners.
Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets
These products often contain lung irritants and can spark asthma or allergy problems. Add ¼ cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle to reduce wrinkles and static cling, or use a natural wool dryer ball.
Drain and Oven Cleaners
Harsh ingredients can burn eyes and skin. Instead, use a drain snake or plunger to remove clogs, and opt for a paste of baking soda and water to clean your oven.
Surface Disinfectants
Clean with vinegar and water. Also, clean and brighten your sink with baking soda and half a lemon. Then grind up the lemon in your garbage disposal for a fresh scent
Laundry Detergent
You can alternatively make your own laundry detergent—so you know exactly what chemicals are in it!
Thoroughly stir together the following ingredients and store in a sealed container:
- 1 bar (or 4.5 ounces) shaved bar soap
- (Dr Bronner’s, Fels-Naptha, Kirk’s Castile Soap,or Zote)
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup washing soda
Use 1 Tbsp per small load.
My Favorite Non-Toxic Products
- Young Living Thieves Household Cleaner which you can find here: www.youngliving.org/trinahammack
- Green Shield Organic Biodegradable Surface Wipes
- Whole Foods Market Glass Cleaner, Unscented
- Green Shield Organic Laundry Detergent, HE Elite Care, Free & Clear
- Seventh Generation Natural Laundry Detergent Powder, Free & Clear
- Ecover Non-Chlorine Bleach Powder
- Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap 18-in-1 Hemp Pure-Castile Soap Baby Mild
- Martha Stewart Clean Laundry Detergent
I hope these resources help you begin to slowly remove potential toxins from your surroundings. Don’t feel overwhelmed! If you need to make the transition slowly, you can. When you run out of each item, simply replace it with a non-toxic version!