7 Simple Ways to Detox Your Home Right Now

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Make these small changes today to start living a healthier life!

I've been surrounded by chemicals all of my life. I grew up on a farm in rural Indiana and my husband and I owned and operated a crop dusting business. While I wouldn't trade any of it for the world, after being diagnosed with breast cancer I began thinking about all the toxins in my life. I started researching products and foods that we consume and realized how many chemicals are found in our every day consumer goods. It was too late to ward off cancer for me, but I wanted to protect myself and my family going forward. I wanted to create a healthy living environment and monitor what goes into our bodies. 

According to an article found on the National Library of Medicine's website, since the 1970s more than 87,000 chemicals have been approved for commercial use. (Read the full article here.)

What is even more alarming, we don't really know much about most of the effects of these chemicals on us. They do know that certain compounds act as hormone disruptors, or Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs.) These chemicals, found in beauty products, food, and the environment, interfere with hormone production and metabolism. I don't know about you, but I don't need any further disruption in those departments!

So what can we do to avoid these harmful chemicals and how can we keep our family safe?

Start by switching your laundry detergent first. It's an easy swap with a big impact.

1. Swap Synthetic Cleaners for Natural Alternatives
​Many conventional cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, lungs, and even disrupt hormones. I recently started using TrulyFree products and I really like them and the company! They have a great subscription program and they are very reasonably priced! One of the easiest and best things you should do first is change your laundry detergent. Your clothes are against your skin all day long. Don't fill them with chemicals and harmful fragrances!

• DIY Cleaners: Mix equal parts vinegar and water with a few drops of essential oils for a multi-purpose cleaner.
• Eco-Friendly Brands: Look for certified non-toxic brands like Truly Free, Attitude, or Blueland.
• Check the EWG website for products that are safe!

2. Replace Plastic Food Storage with Glass or Silicone
​Plastics, especially when heated, can leach harmful chemicals like BPA or phthalates into your food. Goodbye Tupperware and Rubbermaid - sorry!

• Switch to Glass Containers: They’re microwave, dishwasher, and freezer-safe.
• Reusable Silicone Bags: Perfect for snacks and leftovers, these are a durable, toxin-free alternative to single-use plastic bags.

3. Purify the Air Naturally
​Indoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air, but you don’t need an expensive purifier to make a difference. Using all natural candles (no fragrances) and houseplants will help purify the air while also serving as nice home decor. Be sure to keep your furnace's air filter clean and find one that traps a lot of particles and allergens. We also use a BLUEAIR air purifier from Amazon in our son's room to keep him as healthy as possible!

• Houseplants: Varieties like peace lilies, spider plants, and pothos are natural air purifiers.
• Beeswax Candles: Swap synthetic candles for beeswax; they clean the air and create a cozy atmosphere without synthetic fragrances.

4. Filter Your Water
​Tap water can contain contaminants like chlorine, lead, and pesticides like RoundUP. 

• Invest in a Filter: A simple pitcher filter or a faucet-mounted system can significantly improve your water quality.
• Invest in a Drinking Water Dispenser: ​I've had water delivered from Culligan for years. It's relatively inexpensive. You can also get the jugs filled from the store. Just be sure to drink out of a glass or metal cup - not plastic!

5. Choose Non-Toxic Personal Care Products
Your skin absorbs much of what you put on it. Simplify your routine with safer choices. Choose aluminum-free deodorant and products free from harmful ingredients like parabens, SLES, PEG, BHT, BHA and phthalates. 

• Natural Deodorants and Soaps: Brands like Native or Dr. Bronner’s offer effective options without harmful additives.
• DIY Beauty Products: Coconut oil can double as a moisturizer, and a mix of baking soda and water makes a gentle exfoliant.
• Clean Beauty Products:  Choose brands known for their commitment to clean products like BeautyCounter, Ilia, and Honest to name a few. Again, check the EWG website for certifications or try the Yuka app.

6. Ditch Synthetic Fragrances
​Sorry ladies. This was one of the hardest for me. It's time to ditch the Scentsy! Air fresheners, wax melts, candles, and scented sprays often contain harmful chemicals masked by the label “fragrance.” Even if it says "natural" often times it still has chemicals in it. The only scents that are 100% natural are pure essential oils. I've tried a lot of them and DoTerra is by far my favorite. They have so many scents and a lot of wonderful blends like On Guard, AirX, Abode, and Breathe which are wonderful for you and smell great too! The marble diffuser is also my favorite!

• Essential Oil Diffusers: Create your own signature scents while supporting better air quality.
• Baking Soda and Citrus: These make excellent natural deodorizers for your home instead of chemically scented carpet deodorizers.

7. Opt for Healthier Cookware
​Non-stick pans can release harmful chemicals at high temperatures and are considered "forever chemicals" because they don't break down. When choosing cookware look for:

• Cast Iron or Stainless Steel: These are safe, durable, and can last for generations.
• Upgrade to Ceramic Coated Pans: They’re a safer non-stick alternative without the risks of traditional Teflon coatings.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Detoxing your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with one swap at a time, and let these changes become a natural part of your lifestyle. Not only will your home feel fresher and safer, but you’ll also take pride in creating a healthier space for your loved ones.
Have you tried any of these swaps or have tips to share? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear how you're making your home a toxin-free haven!