In today's world, there's a growing buzz about moving away from harmful toxins and embracing a lifestyle centered around cleaner, healthier products. It's no surprise—everyone wants to protect their loved ones, whether it's family members, cherished friends, or even our beloved pets, from health risks lurking in everyday items.
There's no time like the present to start fresh, so let's explore some of the most toxic items often found in our homes and discover healthier alternatives. You might be surprised by some of them! Remember, when we learn more, we make better choices for ourselves and those we care about.
Laundry Soap
Did you know the #1 best selling laundry detergent brand for newborns:
- ranked the #1 most TOXIC detergent according to www.ewg.org (fun fact: you can also check other laundry detergent brands through this website)
- scores an ‘F’ on the EWG’s guide to clean living. F is the WORST grade you can receive in school!! (A to F)
- specifically targets newborns and young infants
- causes concerns for asthma/respiratory issues and moderate concerns for developmental and reproductive toxicity.
WHAT? This is NOT okay!
Food and Drug Administration
This is a perfect example of why it’s CRITICAL to know what’s in the products you use! Personal care products, such as laundry detergent fall under the Food, Drug & Cosmetic act.
- has not been largely updated since 1938
- 85,000 chemicals introduced to the marketplace since WWII
- FDA does not regulate or inspect these products at all.
- a $65 billion dollar industry with little to no regulation.
Ingredients to Avoid
- sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
- dioxane
- nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs)
- synthetic fragrances
Potential Risks
- skin irritation
- toxicity
- carcinogens
- damage to organs
- allergies
- headaches
- endocrine disruption
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Please be your own advocate ... and more importantly, for our younger generations ... do your research into what’s in these products! The good news? I found a laundry soap that is not only super clean but it is also super concentrated. This also makes it super economical. Watch this video and discover how 1/2 cup becomes a full two gallons of laundry soap!
TIP: Be sure to do your due diligence in researching alternative "green" companies. A popular "green" company, for example, has a handy "ingredient glossary". I was amazed at the list of "synthetic fragrances" and other ingredients.
Dryer Sheets/Fabric Softeners
Let's consider fabric softener/dryer sheets. They do not actually soften anything. They lubricate the fabric with a slimy coating that prevents static and creates the sensation of softness. The chemicals in dryer sheets become infused into the fabric of our laundry, and then transfer to the skin as we wear clothing, dry off with towels, snuggle up in blankets etc. All of this contact greatly increases our exposure to toxic chemicals; many of which are then absorbed into the bloodstream. That slimy coating is made up of a chemical called quaternary ammonium compounds (QACS) that has been shown to cause or worsen asthma, irritate sensitive skin and has been linked to long-term health problems like cancer or reproductive issues.
NOTE: According to an inspector, if you have a septic system, fabric softeners and dryer sheets are particularly harmful. They create a slimy coating that can cover the soil, rendering it non-absorbent and causing water to simply run off.
Even "green" or "fragrance-free" dryer sheets can still be using chemicals that are damaging to your health because of what is called "greenwashing". Consider using "wool dryer balls" instead. Besides being a non-toxic option, wool dryer balls help clothes dry faster and evenly, reduce friction and static, and will last for years. This also makes them a very economical and environmentally-friendly option compared to the one-time dryer sheets that ends up in the landfill.
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Going chemical-free does not mean your laundry cannot smell nice. Simply add a few drops of your favorite oil ... lemongrass, lavender, ylang ylang, purification ... to a few of your dryer balls and your clothes, towels and sheets will smell great.
TIP: allow essential oils to dry fully before adding the wool balls to your clothes.
TIP: try sticking a safety pin on one of the balls if you are noticing static cling
Incorporating these simple, effective lifestyle changes into your laundry routine not only brings peace of mind but also elevates the freshness and fragrance of your wardrobe in a natural, chemical-free way. Ready to make the switch? Click this link to explore the products that will turn your laundry day into a delightful, toxin-free experience. Plus, reach out to me for the easy-to-follow recipes for creating your own laundry soap, DIY bleach, fabric softener, and stain remover. Your journey to a healthier home starts here!
