Toxin-Free Living: 3 Steps to a Healthier Home

Toxins are everywhere, especially in our homes. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency said that the top threat to human health is indoor air quality. It can get overwhelming to try to figure out how to toxin-proof your home but rest assured that little changes can have an impact. So, if you take any step towards a cleaner, less toxic home, start by reducing or eliminating these 3 things.

Pesticides.

• Whenever possible buy organic, especially produce. At a minimum know the dirty dozen & either don't buy those items or only buy the organic varietal.
• If you have pests, try an Integrated Pest Management approach.
• Get rid of pesticides you aren't using and dispose of them properly.
• When hiring pest control or cleaning services, know exactly what they are using and check the active ingredient on npic.orst.edu.

Fragrance.

• Fragrance is literally code for chemicals, many of which are harmful. Eliminate products that list "fragrance" as an ingredient.
• If a product has a scent, just be sure the actual ingredient is listed, for example: "lavender". If it says fragrance, it may not be safe.

Plastics.

• It is nearly impossible to eliminate plastics from your life, so start with areas that have an easy replacement.
• BPA or bisphenol A is all the rage and many packages will declare "BPA free". Be aware that there are many additional bisphenols like S and F that are just as dangerous, so try to avoid plastic packaging in general.

Taking steps to eliminate those 3 toxins in your home is HUGE. Remember, it doesn't have to be a one-and-done event. Maintain mindfulness about these toxins & take steps where you can. Small steps matter.

Be well, live free!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important toxins to eliminate from your home first?

Start with pesticides, synthetic fragrance, and plastics — these three represent some of the highest and most frequent sources of harmful chemical exposure in the average home.

What does 'fragrance' on an ingredient label mean?

'Fragrance' is a catch-all term that can legally hide thousands of individual chemicals, many of which are known allergens, hormone disruptors, or carcinogens. If a product lists 'fragrance,' it may not be safe.

Should I buy all organic produce?

At a minimum, follow EWG's Dirty Dozen list — the 12 fruits and vegetables most heavily contaminated with pesticide residue. Always buy these items organic when possible.

Is indoor air quality really a health concern?

Yes — the EPA has cited indoor air quality as one of the top threats to human health. Pesticides, synthetic fragrances, VOCs from plastics and cleaning products, and poor ventilation all contribute to indoor air pollution.

What are the easiest plastic swaps to make at home?

Start with food storage — swap plastic containers for glass or stainless steel, especially for hot foods. Replace plastic water bottles with stainless or glass, and avoid heating food in plastic containers.