Make your home toxic free

 

Disposable dust cloths seem to make cleaning a breeze. Simply open the package, pull out a damp cleaning rag, do your chores, and then throw it away. Not so fast. Wipes soaked in cleaning solution are dripping with chemicals. Microfibre dusting cloths or mops is a better idea.  Microfibre picks up the dust bunnies, but you can also wash and reuse it.

We recommend avoiding microwave oven wipes as well. These release VOCs (Volatile Organic Chemicals) into our lungs while we use them, and are also easily absorbed into our skin. Instead, bring a cup of water to boil in the microwave – the steam will loosen the dried-on food particles.

The dish on dish soap

Most conventional dishwashing liquid and detergent is full of harmful chemicals with names like: Acetone, Benzaldehyde, Benzyl Acetate, Benzyl Alcohol, Camphor, Ethyl Acetate, Limonene, Linalool, and a-Pinene. Potential risks from exposure to these products are not pretty: central nervous system disorders, damage to the immune system, respiratory disturbances, and headaches.  Check your local shelves – many stores now carry safer alternatives. While you may spend a little more on a safe product, the planet and you and your family will be better off in the long run.

Static-free and loving it

 

That “fresh clean smell” you get right after you wash your clothes might irritate your skin and nasal passages. Fabric softeners often contain strong artificial scents that are potentially flammable. Chloroform, benzyl acetate and pentane are even more dangerous when heated in a tumble dryer. The good news is that there are new products that help reduce static and keep clothing soft.

 

“Static Eliminator” is a reusable dryer sheet system that is chemical-free and safe for infants and people with allergies and eczema.

Another alternative to fabric softener is a dryer ball. These tiny, spiked plastic balls tumble around with your clothes to increase air circulation. Your clothes will turn out static free in 25 per cent less time and you’ll reduce energy consumption. Or hang drying your clothes: you’ll save yourself some money and lower your carbon footprint. Your dryer is one of the most energy intensive appliances in your house.

Mothballs: they smell bad for a reason

For safer clothing storage, ditch the mothballs. Mothballs contain questionable chemicals like naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene. These substances are particularly unsafe for young children if swallowed, inhaled, or exposed to the skin. Instead, try cedar wood as a natural moth repellent. It’s available in blocks, balls or sheets. It’s natural, smells nice and it’s biodegradable.