We know that prioritizing your health can feel extremely overwhelming, especially with the countless number of products available on the market (some healthier than others). That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process of switching to natural, non-toxic alternatives. Many everyday items—like cleaning supplies and personal care products—contain ingredients that can be harmful to your health and the planet. So, what are the best non-toxic products to consider? Which harmful ingredients should you watch out for? How can you switch to natural non-toxic products with ease?
Get ready to discover a simple system for identifying and replacing potentially harmful products in your home. We’ll help you navigate this journey, ensuring you can make informed choices without overwhelm.
Keep reading to learn more!
Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning In On Around will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us maintain the site. As always, we value full transparency & only work with brands we love and trust.
This article is co-authored by Kathlyn Carney and Catherine Power.
- Published On:
- Updated On: November 12, 2024
Summary:
- What goes IN, ON, and AROUND your body matters.
- Baby steps make all the difference. Take your time with these changes.
- Focus on the items that will make the most impact (like water purifiers and air purifiers), or products you use daily.
Table of Contents
Why People Are Ditching and Switching to Non-Toxic Products
In today’s world, we’re exposed to more chemicals than ever before. From the skincare products we slather on to the cleaning supplies we use around the house, a whole lot of synthetic substances are hiding in plain sight. Many of these chemicals can mess with our hormones, contribute to chronic health issues, and even affect children’s development. As more folks become aware of these risks, they’re taking a closer look at what’s in their products and switching to non-toxic alternatives.
Recent studies have highlighted the toxicity of everyday ingredients. For instance, high levels of lead have been found in some cosmetics and baby food, which can seriously impact brain development. [1] Then there’s 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct found in many household cleaners, which the EPA classifies as a probable carcinogen. [2] And let’s not forget about aluminum in antiperspirants, which has been linked to concerns about breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Plus, phthalates in fragrances can disrupt hormones and potentially affect reproductive health. [3]
The good news? Switching to natural, non-toxic products is now easier, more affordable, and effective than ever. A growing number of brands are stepping up to offer products that are transparent about their ingredients and made from plant-based materials. You can find everything from cleaning supplies to personal care items that focus on health and sustainability right on the shelves. This makes it much simpler for everyone to make smart choices without breaking the bank.
As we learn more about the harmful effects of traditional products, the move toward non-toxic alternatives is really picking up steam. With the info and resources available today, making healthier choices is more than just a trend—it’s a smart way to live safer for you and your family. By making these choices today, you’re not just helping yourself; you’re also paving the way for a healthier future for the generations to come.
Where to Start? It’s Simple. Just Think: In On Around
Starting the journey to a healthier lifestyle can feel super overwhelming. With so many potentially harmful ingredients in everyday products, who has time to memorize them all? The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve simplified it into three categories: In, On, and Around.
-
In: This refers to what you consume—food, water, and beverages. What you eat and drink directly impacts your health, so focusing on organic, whole foods and clean water can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals, pesticides, and preservatives.
-
On: This is about what you put on your body—skin care, hair care, and personal care products. Many of these items contain toxic chemicals that can be absorbed through your skin.
-
Around: This includes the products you surround yourself with at home—cleaners, laundry detergents, air fresheners, and even radiation from devices. Switching to eco-friendly cleaners and being mindful of your environment can help reduce chemical exposure in your daily life.
Remember, these changes don’t need to happen all at once. Start small, replacing harmful products with safer alternatives over time. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. We’ll guide you with the tools and knowledge to identify toxic ingredients and find better options, one step at a time.
By thinking “In, On, Around,” you can take manageable steps toward a healthier life—without the overwhelm. Every small change adds up, and you’re in control of the process.
Step 1: Focus: What You Put IN Your Body
Kathlyn here! As a nutritionist, I find it really difficult to discuss our current food system in a way that doesn’t create fear around food or feel extremely restrictive. Unfortunately, in the era of processed, convenience, and mass-produced foods, there are a lot of ingredients that are added to our food that do not offer any benefits and could be harmful. That is why I really appreciate the 80/20 rule that Catherine and I both promote. Put the very best into your body that you can at least 80% of the time and give yourself grace with the other 20%. This gives you the freedom to enjoy meals out, not feel so restricted when traveling or going to a friend’s house, and to feel empowered by your decisions.
Here’s where to focus:
1 - Nutrient-Dense Eating
Low added sugar
- When you are looking at a food label, it is really important to look at the amount of added sugar. On the label, you will see total sugars and added sugars. Total sugars include sugar that’s naturally present in foods, most commonly in fruit or dairy, as well as sugar added during the processing or as a sweetener. The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than 6 teaspoons (or 25 grams) of added sugar per day and men consume no more than 9 teaspoons (or 36 grams) of added sugar per day. Ideally, a product will have less than 5 grams of added sugar per serving. [4]
- Added sugar can go by many different aliases, from cane sugar to honey to sucrose. The type of added sugar is also a factor to consider when looking at a product. The best sources of added sugar are carob, coconut sugar/nectar, dates, lucuma, maple syrup, monk fruit, and raw honey (even better if they are organic)! If you are curious about stevia, check out this article to learn more: Is Stevia Safe During Pregnancy… Or At All?
Focus on healthy fats
- Fats are essential for our health, but the type of fat that we consume matters. You might have been told that omega-3s are beneficial types of fat, and that is true! Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat, along with omega-6 fatty acids. There are also monounsaturated fats, saturated fats, and trans fat.
- Let’s break them all down!
- ✅ Monounsaturated fats: Avocado/avocado oil, Nuts (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, peanuts, pecans, pistachios), Oils (olive, peanut, sesame), Olives, Nut Butter, Sesame Seeds
- ✅ Omega-3 Polyunsaturated fats: Chia seeds, Fatty fish (herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, tuna), Flaxseeds, Marine Algae, Oils (flaxseed), Walnuts, Yeast
- ✅ Omega-6 Polyunsaturated fats: Eggs, Non-Hydrogenated Margarine, Meat, Pine Nuts, Poultry, Oils (corn, cottonseed, safflower, soybean, canola), Salad Dressing, Seeds (pumpkin, sunflower), Walnuts
- ⚠️ Saturated Fats: Bacon, Butter, Cheese, Chocolate, Coconut, Cream Cheese, Cream, Fatty Cuts of Pork & Beef, Ice Cream, Lard, Oils (coconut, palm), Products with Coconut oil or Palm oil, Shortening, Sour Cream, Whole Milk
- ❌ Trans Fats: Commercial Baked Goods; Fried Foods with Hydrogenated Shortening; Many Fast Foods, Frozen Foods, Non-Dairy Creamers, Snack Foods, Refrigerated Dough; Margarine (Hydrogenated or Partially Hydrogenated); Frosting; Shortening
- The average person should consume between 20-35% of their daily calories from fats, most of which from unsaturated fats. It is recommended that less than 10% of daily calories come from saturated fats and to consume as little trans fats as possible.
- The best sources of fat are from organic, grass-fed meat and dairy; wild-caught fish; organic, pasture-raised eggs; and organic nuts, seeds, and oils. To learn more about the best oils to use and their smoke points, check out this article: Seed Oils & Inflammatory Oils To Avoid While Cooking – In On Around
Consume enough high-quality protein
- You might have heard conflicting information regarding animal protein – especially with the rise of vegan and vegetarian diets over the last 10 years. Animal protein is an important part of many people’s diets due to the essential amino acids found in meat, poultry, seafood, and dairy products. However, the quality of the animal protein matters.
- The best sources of animal protein include:
- Organic, grass-fed meat and dairy
- Organic, pasture-raised poultry
- Wild-caught, low-mercury fish (salmons, sardines, mackerel, cod, haddock) and seafood
- If you are a vegan or vegetarian, you can combine rice and beans in a meal to get the essential amino acids. An adult should consume about 25-30 grams of protein at each meal and 10 grams of protein at each snack. By hitting these protein goals at each meal and snack, you should consume between 10 and 35% of your calories per day from protein, which is the recommended amount!
Eat sources of carbohydrates that contain fiber (lots of veggies and whole fruits)
- When it comes to carbohydrates, there is definitely a hierarchy. The best sources of carbohydrates contain fiber, which includes fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Whole grains are better than refined grains because they contain the entire grain (bran, germ, and endosperm), while refined grains only contain the endosperm. When grains are refined, they are stripped of many of their nutrients.
- Examples of whole grains include barley, buckwheat, bulgur, brown rice, corn, farro, millet, oats, quinoa, and spelt.
- Due to the amount of pesticides, like glyphosate, that are sprayed on grains, it is recommended to purchase organic whole grains. Learn more about glyphosate here.
- Fruits, vegetables, and legumes are also commonly sprayed with pesticides, so it is also best to buy organic when you can! We understand that it is not always possible, so that is why we are grateful for the EWG’s dirty dozen and clean fifteen! We definitely recommend choosing to buy organic fruits and vegetables on the Dirty Dozen list to minimize your exposure to harmful pesticides and herbicides. Another great tip is to wash your fresh produce in a water bowl with vinegar or baking soda!
- It is recommended that people consume 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories and that adult women consume at least 25 grams of fiber per day and adult men consume at least 38 grams of fiber per day. To consume this much fiber, people should aim for 2-6 servings of vegetables per day, 2-4 servings of fruit per day, and some whole grains and legumes. This will help you consume between 45 and 65% of your daily calories from carbohydrates!
Minimize the consumption of excipients, dyes, artificial sweeteners, colors & flavors
When we asked our followers the biggest questions they had about eating nutrient-dense foods and minimizing harmful ingredients, one of the most common responses that we received was “what are the big things that we should look out for on food labels?”
The biggest things to try to avoid when shopping are:
Excipients
- This includes ingredients liike binders, fillers, stabilizers, and preservatives
Dyes and food coloring:
- The most common food dyes that are used in food are blue 1, blue 2, green 3, red 3, red 40, yellow 5, and yellow 6.
- According to the OEHHA, these dyes can “exacerbate neurobehavioral problems in children” including behaviors like “hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and restlessness.” And in Europe, if the food dyes yellow 5, yellow 6, and red 40 are used in a product, there must be a warning label on the product stating that they could “have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.” [5]
- It has been shown that red 3 can cause cancer in animals, and yellow 5, yellow 6, and red 40 have “been found to be contaminated with benzidine and other carcinogens.” [6]
- Due to the negative impact it can have on kids and the carcinogens in these food dyes and colorings, it is best to avoid them.
Artificial sweeteners:
- Common names for artificial sweeteners include acesulfame potassium, aspartame, neotame (NutraSweet), stevia, saccharin (Sweet N’ Low), Sucralose (Splenda), and sugar alcohols (sorbitol, xylitol, mannitol, erythritol).
- Artificial sweeteners made our list of ingredients to reduce or avoid completely because they might alter the gut microbiome and harm your metabolic health. [6]
- In addition to this, studies on aspartame have shown there may be a link between consumption of aspartame and overall cancer risk, liver cancer risk, and breast cancer risk. Aspartame is classified as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning that it is possibly carcinogenic to humans. [7]
- Similarly, a study found that consumption of acesulfame potassium slightly increased cancer risk. [8]
- There is still a lot more research that needs to be done on artificial sweeteners to determine their actual impact on our health, but in our opinion, they are not worth the risk.
Artificial or natural flavors:
- Artificial flavors are made in labs and are typically derived from petroleum or other substances that people are not meant to consume. [9]
- Natural flavors can mean so many different things, considering there are over 2,500 flavor substances out there. [10]
- The FDA’s definition of natural flavors shows just how many different things the natural flavors in your product could be: “the essential oil, oleoresin, essence or extractive, protein hydrolysate, distillate, or any product of roasting, heating, or enzymolysis, which contains the flavoring constituents derived from a spice, fruit, or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof, whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional.” [11]
- The common natural flavors of diacetyl, monosodium glutamate (MSG), citral, and methyl n-acetyl anthranilate have been associated with different toxicities. [12]
- Since both artificial and natural flavors are primarily used for taste rather than nutritional value, it can be difficult to determine their exact source. Additionally, some natural flavors have been associated with negative health effects, which is why we recommend avoiding them when possible.
2 - Clean water
- Is filtering water really necessary? The answer is yes.
- First, aging pipes in cities and older homes can begin to leach copper or other harmful substances into the water supply.
- Second, tap water can be contaminated with pollutants, chemicals, and even per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAs). Learn more about PFAs here.
- A study done in 2023 found that “at least one PFAS detected in 45% of US drinking water samples.” This could indicate that almost half of our public water supply is contaminated… [13]
- In a recent podcast interview with Dr. Alissa Salviti, she stated that she sees high levels of heavy metals in patients’ hair tissue mineral analyses. One of the reasons she suspects their levels are high is because of drinking tap water and not using filtered water when we take showers or baths.
- If you are looking to minimize your exposure to metals, chemicals, and pollutants, consider investing in a water filter for your drinking water and for your shower heads. We have lots of options for you here!
3 - Limit alcohol
- You might know that alcohol is not good for you, but you may not realize the adverse health outcomes associated with drinking.
- First, drinking alcohol is associated with the following cancers: mouth, voice box, throat, esophagus, breast (in women), liver, and colon & rectum. Alcohol may increase the risk for these cancers because alcohol generates reactive oxygen species in the body, impairs your ability to break down and absorb many key nutrients, increases blood levels of estrogen, and contains potential carcinogens. [14]
- Alcohol also impacts your dopamine and cortisol levels, which can disrupt your hormones and impair your sleep. If you are interested in learning more about the impacts of alcohol and delicious non-alcoholic options, check out this episode of Connecting the Dots podcast.
- Additionally, if you are looking to keep alcohol a part of your life in moderation, one drink or less per day for women and two drinks per day or less for men is considered moderation. [15]
- Learn more about alcohol here: What Is The Healthiest Alcoholic Drink? Alcohol On Gut Health
4 - Learn how to read food labels
- What you should look for on food labels:
- Low sugar <5 grams of added sugar per serving
- High fiber >5 grams of fiber per serving
- Be mindful of saturated fat, you want less than 10% of your daily calories to come from this type of fat
- Avoid trans fat
5 - Choose organic, naturally-grown, grass-fed + pasture-raised
- You might have noticed that we shared that we recommend purchasing organic, grass-fed meat and dairy; organic, pasture-raised poultry; wild-caught, low-mercury fish (salmons, sardines, mackerel, cod, haddock) and seafood; organic legumes; and organic, glyphosate-free whole grains.
- You might be wondering what these labels mean and why they are important. Let’s break them down:
Organic
- According to the USDA, the organic label “indicates that a food or agricultural product has been produced according to the USDA organic standards, which require operations to use practices that cycle resources, conserve biodiversity, and preserve ecological balance.”
- They note that organic food is protected by law, inspected by experts, and traced from farm to store. It is best to choose organic to minimize exposure to pesticides, herbicides, GMOs, growth hormones, antibiotics, and other potentially harmful ingredients.
Grass-fed (and Grass-finished)
- Grass-fed means that cows began by eating grass but could also have been fed grains at some point. Grass-finished means that cows ate grass, plants, and shrubs from birth to processing. You want grass-fed (and ideally grass-finished) because it means the cows received better nutrition and had a decreased risk for disease. [16]
Pasture-raised
- “Pasture-raised animals have to spend a significant amount of their lives on pasture, but the regulations on providing food are more relaxed. Whether or not the animal is on pasture or leaves the barn is not regulated.” [17]
- The benefits of consuming pasture-raised poultry include:
- Higher nutritional value in eggs and chicken
- Improved soil quality
- Better quality of life for the animals
Wild-caught
- “Wild-caught refers to fish and other seafood that are harvested directly from their natural environments, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. Unlike farmed fish, which are raised in controlled environments like aquaculture pens or tanks, wild-caught fish live and grow in their natural habitats. This means they have access to a natural diet and are not exposed to the artificial conditions often found in fish farms, such as overcrowding, antibiotics, or growth hormones.” [18]
- Benefits of wild-caught:
- Increased nutrients
- Improved flavor
- Supporting sustainable fishing practices
Glyphosate-free
- If a food is glyphosate-free, it means that it was not sprayed with the herbicide RoundUp. It is important to choose foods that are glyphosate-free because glyphosate has been classified by the WHO as a “probable carcinogen.” [19]
How to Switch to Natural Non-Toxic Products: A Beginner’s Guide
The Cleanest & Best Organic Baby Foods: Investigation
Alternatives To Unbleached Parchment Paper
The Best Supplements to Reduce Cortisol
7 Best Non-Toxic Dish Detergents That Actually Work
The Best Non-GMO, Glyphosate-Free, Healthy Cereals for Kids
Step 2: Focus: What You Put ON Your Body
According to the Environmental Working Group, “the average woman uses 12 products with 168 different ingredients every day.” Many people forget that the skin is your body’s largest organ, and it may absorb many of these ingredients. Dr. Mark Hyman shared that what you put on your skin is as important as what you eat. [20] This is because certain chemicals can be absorbed from your skin and pass into your bloodstream.
And even though what we put on our bodies is very important, the FDA barely regulates the skin, hair, and beauty industries. The FDA explicitly states that cosmetics and ingredients do not need FDA approval before it hits the market unless it has color additives. It is up to the companies and individuals who manufacture and market cosmetics to regulate their products to ensure their safety. Unfortunately, neither the FDA nor the law require companies or individuals to conduct specific tests to determine the safety of their products. It becomes our job as consumers to know what to look for when buying cosmetics.
Here are some of the main ingredients to look for and avoid in products: [21, 22]
Parabens
- Parabens are common preservatives in cosmetics. They are designed to keep products fresh. Parabens can mimic estrogen, which could lead to hormone disruption and possible reproductive or neurological issues. Studies show that parabens may penetrate the skin and interfere with cellular functions, which could increase the risk of breast cancer. Parabens are also linked to early skin aging and DNA damage due to UVB exposure. Though they occur naturally in small amounts in some foods, synthetic versions in cosmetics enter the body unaltered, bypassing the body’s natural metabolism. The CDC has detected parabens in human urine, indicating people are frequently exposed.
- Other names: propylparaben, butylparaben, isobutylparaben, isopropylparaben, methylparaben, polyparaben
Petroleum Jelly/Coal Tar
- Petroleum jelly is often used in lotions and lip balms. In the U.S., inadequate refining of petroleum jelly can leave behind potentially harmful chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
- PAHs form during organic material combustion and are known carcinogens and skin irritants. Petroleum-based products may cause dryness over time. Similarly, coal tar, used for its color in some cosmetics, is also a human carcinogen and may contain heavy metals like aluminum. Some coal tar-based colors are not FDA-approved for food but are used in cosmetics, like lipstick.
- Other names: white petroleum soft paraffin, mineral oil, paraffin oil, white mineral oil, and liquid paraffin
Fragrance
- Fragrance, an umbrella term for chemical mixtures, often contains hidden ingredients that can impact health (and the environment). Fragrance formulas remain undisclosed and unregulated. They are found in perfumes, skincare items, and hair products.
- Many fragrance chemicals have not been tested for toxicity, and some could disrupt hormones, trigger allergies, and act as carcinogens or neurotoxins. Fragrances are commonly linked to asthma and other respiratory issues, with studies showing they can contribute to the onset of asthma or worsen asthma symptoms. Individuals with chemical sensitivities are especially vulnerable to the negative impacts of fragrances. Additionally, fragrance fixatives like diethyl phthalate (DEP) can interfere with hormone function.
- Other Names: perfume, parfum
Phthalates
- Phthalates are chemicals used in nail polish, hair sprays, and fragrances. They are used to make products flexible and long-lasting. However, exposure to phthalates is linked to significant health risks, including hormone disruption, developmental and reproductive issues, and even cancer.
- Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), a phthalate that was used more frequently in the past, has been found to be able to be absorbed through the skin. The European Union and other health agencies classify DBP as a suspected endocrine disruptor, harmful to reproductive health, and dangerous for young children. Despite these concerns, another phthalate, diethyl phthalate (DEP), remains widely used in fragrances.
- Other names: dibutyl phthalate, dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate
Formaldehyde
- Formaldehyde, a colorless gas, is widely used in cosmetics as a preservative to extend shelf life and prevent bacterial growth. It’s found in shampoos, lotions, nail polishes, and deodorants. It can be found in these products directly or through formaldehyde-releasing compounds. Formaldehyde exposure is linked to cancer, skin irritation, allergic reactions, asthma, and neurotoxicity.
- While the European Union requires labeling if formaldehyde-releasing ingredients exceed certain concentrations, the U.S. does not have these regulations in place. Formaldehyde could also off-gas from cosmetics, which could impact indoor air quality and pose inhalation risks, particularly in poorly ventilated areas.
- Other names: paraformaldehyde, methylene glycol, quaternium-15
Ethanolamines (TEA, MEA, DEA)
- Ethanolamines, like monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine (DEA), and triethanolamine (TEA), are used in many personal care products. This includes moisturizers, cleansers, and sunscreens. They can be used as foaming agents, emulsifiers, and pH adjusters.
- California’s Environmental Protection Agency has classified DEA as carcinogen. Ethanolamines can also cause respiratory irritation, particularly in products with heavy foaming action like shampoos and body washes.
- Names to look for: monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine (DEA), and triethanolamine (TEA)
PEG compounds
- PEG compounds are commonly used in skin care products like shampoos, lotions, and sunscreens. They act as thickening and emulsifying agents. However, during their manufacturing, they may form 1,4-dioxane—a chemical byproduct classified as a likely carcinogen by the EPA and linked to problems with the respiratory system.
- While 1,4-dioxane can be removed through specific processes, it’s often unclear if this is done, leaving potential risks in products. PEGs can also contain ethylene oxide, another carcinogen that could damage the nervous system. PEGs can irritate skin, increase the skin’s absorption of other harmful ingredients, and strip away natural oils.
- Other names: 1,4-Dioxane, sodium laureth sulfate, PEG compounds, chemicals that end in “eth”
BHT and BHA
- BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene) and BHA (Beta-hydroxy acid) are preservatives used in cosmetics to prevent oxidation. Both are known endocrine disruptors, potential carcinogens, and skin irritants. BHA, specifically, is classified as a possible carcinogen and has been linked to hormone disruption. Studies show that high doses of BHT can cause liver, kidney, and lung issues, and may mimic estrogen. Environmentally, BHA is toxic to aquatic life and can build up in organisms over time, raising concerns for both human and ecological health.
Triclosan
- Triclosan, a common antibacterial chemical in products like toothpaste and soaps, poses several health risks. It can pass through the skin and disrupt hormones and cause skin irritation.
- Some studies suggest triclosan may lead to gut inflammation and potentially promote tumor growth in animals. Triclosan has been found in the urine of most people tested, causing it to be linked to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Triclosan is environmentally persistent, breaking down slowly and accumulating in waterways.
If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by these ingredients to avoid, check out some of our favorite cosmetic products that do not contain any of the above ingredients!
Skincare:
- Many skincare products contain chemicals like parabens (preservatives), sulfates (cleansing agents), and phthalates (fragrance stabilizers), which can be irritating or harmful with long-term use.
- Better alternatives:
Makeup:
- Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium can be found in makeup products like lipsticks and eyeshadows, often as a result of contaminated pigments, which may pose health risks over time.
- Better alternatives:
Personal care products:
- Many conventional personal care products, including deodorants, soaps, body lotions, and hair color, contain chemicals like aluminum compounds (in antiperspirants), synthetic fragrances, parabens, and harsh detergents that can irritate skin or disrupt hormones.
- Better alternatives:
Fragrance:
- This is one of the most common allergens in personal care and household products, often hiding under the term “fragrance” or “parfum,” which can represent a mix of dozens of undisclosed synthetic chemicals, some of which are linked to skin irritation, hormone disruption, and respiratory issues.
- Many of these chemicals are not required to be listed individually, leaving consumers unaware of their potential effects – it’s an “umbrella term.”
- To minimize exposure to these hidden allergens, opt for products that are fragrance-free or made with 100% pure essential oils.
- Better alternatives:
Clothing:
-
- Along with cosmetics, clothing can also contain unwanted chemicals, like Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). You might have heard about the issue that flight attendants had when they switched their uniforms from wool to polyester. Flight attendants started to report side effects of “rashes and breathing problems, swollen eyes, brain fog, and then it would start progressing to more serious side effects, like losing their hair.”
- Some flight attendants also reported that their periods were changing, and not for the better. The synthetic blends that they used for the flight attendants’ uniforms included disperse dyes (which can contain lead), skin sensitizers, fire-retardant chemistry, stain repellency, anti-wrinkle finishes (including formaldehyde), antifungal finishes, and PFAs. According to NPR, these PFAS have been linked to “reproductive toxicity, thyroid issues, birth defects,” and more. [23]
- In addition to this, workout clothes that are made of polyester spandex. The polyester spandex combination can have high levels of Bisphenol A (BPA), which is an endocrine disruptor. It has “estrogen-like and anti-androgen effects” and can also damage the reproductive system and immune system. BPA can enter the body via the dermal tract, or the skin. [24] And unfortunately, it doesn’t take a lot of BPA to make an impact on health.
- You can learn more about athleisure brands here: Non-Toxic Activewear: BPA & PFAS In Workout Clothes?
- Fortunately, there are fabrics that do not contain these disruptors, finishes, and forever chemicals. They include:
- Cotton
- Wool
- Silk
- Linen
- Cashmere
- Leather
- Hemp
- Bamboo
- Better brands:
- Pact
- Mate The Label
- Groceries Apparel
- Sustain By Kat
- WVN
- Eleven 44
- Paka
- Organic Basics
- HARA the Label
- Colorful Standard
- KOTN
- Eileen Fisher
- Christy Dawn
Step 3: Focus: What’s Around Your Body
Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being, since poor air quality can lead to a variety of health issues, ranging from respiratory problems to fatigue and irritation. According to the EPA, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air – yikes. [25] Here’s what you can do.
Natural non-toxic cleaning products:
- The amount of volatile organic compounds, VOCs, found in cleaning products is concerning. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), common cleaning products can release hundreds of VOCs. This could be dangerous because people who work in the cleaning industry have a higher risk of developing asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and women have an increased risk of lung cancer. [26] Fragrance is also a common ingredient found in cleaning products that can be harmful to health.
- Other common ingredients that would be best to avoid in cleaning products include: 2-Butoxyethanol (2-BE), Coal Tar Dyes, MEA, DEA, TEA, nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), phosphates, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), sodium hydroxide, sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate, triclosan, ammonia, quaternary ammonium compounds, sodium silicate, and trisodium nitrilotriacetate. [27]
- Better alternatives:
Non-toxic laundry products:
- Many of the harmful ingredients in cleaning products are also found in laundry products.
- The main ingredients to look out for include: SLS, SLES, phosphates, formaldehyde, chlorine bleach, ammonium sulfate, ammonium quaternary sanitizers, 1-4 dioxane, brighteners / brightening agents, NPEs, fragrance, dyes, benzyl acetate, dichlorobenzene (P-dichlorobenzene / benzene), petroleum distillate, phenol, and EDTA.
- Better alternatives:
Mold exposure:
- Many people are concerned about mold exposure because of how easily it can grow in the right environment. The most common places that mold can be found in places that accumulate moisture or have the potential for leaks and areas with poor ventilation. These include bathrooms, kitchens, basements, attics, laundry rooms, crawl spaces, and places with air conditioning units.
- If you have been exposed to mold in your home, some of the first symptoms that you may experience could be allergy-related due to your immune system’s reaction to the mold. You could have nasal congestion, skin irritation, itchy eyes, or asthma-like symptoms. Parsley Health says additional symptoms could include brain fog, anxiety or other changes in mood, abdominal pain or digestive issues, numbness or tingling in extremities, ringing in the ears, excessive thirst, bed-wetting in children, or hair loss.
- The other way that people can be exposed to mold is through dietary sources. Foods that can be higher in mold include coffee, grains, and peanut butter. If you drink coffee daily, it is important to buy coffee that is third-party tested for mold.
- Other tips to reduce your chances of mold exposure include: fix any leaks immediately, run ventilation fans when showering or taking a bath, and use a dehumidifier.
-
Jaspr Air Purifier (10% Off: inonaround)
A high-quality air purifier to combat indoor allergens. -
AirDoctor 5000 Air Purifier (Original – Discount Link)
A must-have in every home. Learn more in air purifier article. -
AirDoctor 1000 Air Purifier (Original – Discount Link)
For every room! Learn more in air purifier article.
Focus on Clean Indoor Air:
- Just as it’s important to be mindful of the chemicals in your cleaning products, maintaining clean indoor air is crucial for your health. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to headaches and fatigue. To help reduce indoor air pollutants, consider using an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter. These devices can capture dust, allergens, and particles that regular ventilation might miss, ensuring cleaner air in your home.
- However, air purifiers are just one part of the equation. Regular ventilation is also essential. Opening windows whenever possible allows fresh outdoor air to circulate, reducing the buildup of indoor pollutants and helping to lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from products like furniture, paint, or cleaning supplies. Even in colder weather, a few minutes of fresh air can make a significant difference in air quality.
- Regular dusting and HEPA vacuuming are also key to maintaining clean air. Dust can carry harmful particles like allergens, pet dander, and mold spores, so it’s important to remove it regularly. A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is especially effective in trapping small particles and preventing them from recirculating into the air.
Swap to Non-Toxic Cookware
- Don’t fall for misleading marketing (there’s a LOT of it in the cookware space, especially around ceramic cookware)
- Ditch your non-stick cookware, which can contain PFOAs and PTFE (like in Teflon). These chemicals can release toxic fumes when heated at high temperatures. They’re been linked to liver damage, cancer, hormone disruption, and more.
- When non-stick coatings on cookware begin to degrade, they can flake off and be ingested (which worsens the potential health risks).
- Better alternatives:
Final Thoughts: Need Some Help Switching To Natural Non-Toxic Products?
Switching to natural, non-toxic products doesn’t have to be overwhelming—start small and make gradual changes that fit your lifestyle. With the right resources and a little patience, you can easily replace harmful products with healthier alternatives. Remember, every positive change you make brings you one step closer to a safer, more sustainable way of living.
We’re Here For You!
Need some extra support on your family home detox journey? Book a consult, download the Beginner’s Guide, take the course and download the Clean Beauty Checklist EBook.
Have you swapped to non-toxic products?
Let me know your thoughts and key takeaways in the comments below!
xoxo,
Want to read more? Check out our other articles here!
Other references on How to Switch to Natural and Non-Toxic Products from: Young Living, Thrifty Frugal Mom, Ethical Bliss, Center for Science in the Public Interest, NY Times, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PubMed, NIH, EWG, National Cancer Institute, Food Revolution, Science Direct, NPR, The Eco Hub, CDC, US Wellness Meats, Seven Sons, Dr Hyman, Net To Table Seafoods, Conscious Life And Style, One Degree Organics, David Suzuki Foundation, SkinKraft, Natural Living Family, ECOS, Caring Consumer
Copyright In On Around LLC 2024 ©. The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided by this website should not be used as individual medical advice and you should always consult your doctor for individual recommendations and treatment. The information contained in this site is provided on an “as is” basis. Related to this site, there are no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. In On Around LLC assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site.
Frequently Asked Questions – Switching to Natural and Non-Toxic Products
Click on the below FAQs to learn more about switching to the best non-toxic household cleaning products, best non-toxic cleaners, and non-toxic beauty products.
Switching to natural, non-toxic products reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, supporting a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable environment.
Natural products are gentle, eco-friendly, and free from harsh chemicals, often providing skin-nourishing benefits and reducing allergy risks.
Begin by replacing frequently used items with organic or non-toxic alternatives and check ingredient lists for plant-based components.
Avoid ingredients like parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and sulfates, opting instead for products with clear, natural ingredients and trusted certifications.
