Creation Care Challenge #3
Rid your home of toxins
This next challenge is a process, it may take you months to detox your home. Toxins are everywhere and in things that we use daily without ever realizing what ingredients are in them.
Tips & Tricks
Consider this great option for soaps and detergents: The Farm Store in Agritopia (3000 East Ray Rd. Bldg. 8 in Gilbert) now offers a refill station for soap, lotion, and some cleaning products. You can buy a container or bring your own and pay only for the product. These products use clean ingredients from a local company and help reduce plastic waste. It's a win-win! Plus, with Mother's Day around the corner, it could make a thoughtful and eco-friendly gift!
AVOID “GREEN LIGHTING”
When shopping for cleaning products, it's important to be wary of misleading marketing tactics, often referred to as "green-lighting." This happens when companies design their packaging to appear non-toxic or Earth-friendly. Take a closer look at the ingredients listed on the cleaning products in your cabinet. If you find any of the following ingredients, consider switching to a different product. For detailed explanations of why these ingredients are toxic, Natural Living Family is a great resource.
Toxic ingredients to watch out for include:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate & Sodium Laureth Sulfate/ Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLS/ SLES)
Phosphates
Formaldehyde
Chlorine Bleach
Ammonium Sulfate
Dioxane (1,4 Dioxane/ Diethylene Dioxide/ Diethylene Ether/ Dioxan)
Optical Brighteners/ UV Brighteners
Ammonium Quaternary Sanitizers (Quats/ Synthesized Cationic Surfactants)
Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (Nonoxynol, NPEs)
Fragrance (Unspecified/ Parfum)
Dyes
Benzyl Acetate
Dichlorobenzene (P-Dichlorobenzene/ Benzene)
Detoxifying your home is indeed a process that involves identifying and eliminating toxins from your living environment. Toxins can be found in various household products such as cleaning agents, personal care items, furniture, and even in the air we breathe. Here are some steps you might consider taking as part of the detoxification process:
Identify Toxins: Start by researching common toxins found in household products. These can include chemicals like phthalates, formaldehyde, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and others. Understanding what to look for is the first step in reducing exposure.
Read Labels: Get into the habit of reading product labels carefully. Look for products that are free from harmful chemicals and are labeled as non-toxic or environmentally friendly.
Switch to Natural Alternatives: Replace toxic household cleaners, personal care products, and cosmetics with natural alternatives. Many natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can be used effectively for cleaning.
Improve Indoor Air Quality: Air pollutants can be a significant source of toxins in the home. Use air purifiers, open windows for ventilation, and consider adding houseplants that can help filter the air.
Choose Safer Building Materials: When renovating or furnishing your home, opt for materials that are low in toxins. This includes paints, flooring, furniture, and insulation.
Reduce Plastic Use: Plastic products can contain harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Minimize your use of plastic containers, bottles, and food packaging whenever possible.
Filter Your Water: Install a water filtration system to remove contaminants from your tap water. This can help reduce exposure to toxins like chlorine, heavy metals, and pesticides.
Declutter: Simplify your living space by decluttering and minimizing the number of possessions you have. This can reduce the amount of dust and potential toxins in your home.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about environmental toxins and their potential health effects. Knowledge is key to making informed decisions about the products you use and the lifestyle choices you make.
Take it Slow: Detoxifying your home is a gradual process that may take time. Start by making small changes and gradually work towards creating a healthier living environment for you and your family.
