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Some common household items that we use every day contain a slew of dangerous chemicals.
These chemicals are legally allowed to be used in these products because they pose little risk in small quantities.
However, when we use these products regularly those small amounts of toxins that we are exposed to can add up considerably over time.
Most of us underestimate the damage that these harmful toxins do only because we do not see the effects immediately. But why take a chance at all, right?
While you may not be able to prevent exposure to dangerous toxins completely, there are ways you can minimize this harmful exposure.
All of these ways are pretty easy too. All you need to do is switch over to products that contain all-natural ingredients.
Here are 10 easy ways you can minimize exposure to harmful toxins.
1. Avoid All-Purpose Cleaners
According to the Cleveland Clinic, many all-purpose cleaners contain dangerous chemicals, including ammonia. This naturally-occurring chemical makes a very effective cleaner and has been used in cleaning products for hundreds of years. That doesn’t make it safe though.
Recent research has proved that exposure to ammonia can be dangerous.
While all-purpose cleaners are certainly convenient and cheaper, it’s not worth the risk to your health.
One way to minimize exposure to ammonia is by using cleaners that contain safer products such as vinegar or baking soda. These work just as well and are completely non-toxic.
You’ll find it’s surprisingly easy to Make Your Own Natural Cleaning Products Using Essential Oils.
2. Use Glass Food Containers Instead Of Plastic
While it wouldn’t be practical to avoid all plastics, you should probably keep it away from your food. According to the National Institute of Health, many plastics – including those commonly used in food containers – contain harmful chemicals that can break down over time.
Plastic is particularly dangerous when it has scratches as harmful bacteria thrive in these cracks.
Glass storage containers are a much safer alternative to plastic containers and they aren’t all that expensive either.
They also offer better value for money as they last so much longer than plastic.
Glass containers are also more convenient to use as you can take the container straight from the refrigerator to the microwave to the dining table.
You can find glass storage containers in a wide array of sizes so you can buy a set according to the size of your family.
3. Use Essential Oils Instead Of Air Fresheners
Everybody loves to fill their home with lovely refreshing scents and using aerosol sprays is the easiest way to do this.
The American Lung Association reports that some commercial air fresheners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the respiratory system.
A better and safer way to fill your home with your favorite aromas is by using an essential oil diffuser and organic essential oils. You can find aromatherapy diffusers in a variety of styles to complement any type of décor and a wide price range to suit any budget.
These essential oil diffusers work very well and are available on Amazon for under $30.
4. Ditch Artificially Scented Candles for Aromatherapy Candles
Many artificially scented candles also contain VOCs and chemicals that can form toxic formaldehyde in the air. Candles also contain petrochemicals that are toxic.
If you love having dinner by candlelight or soaking in a warm sudsy bath while surrounded by candles, make sure you use aromatherapy candles by reputed companies. These candles are usually made of soy or beeswax and scented using pure essential oils.
You can also make your own beeswax candles with essential oils.
5. Cut Down On Cosmetics And Use All-Natural Soaps And Shampoos
Cosmetics, hair products, and soaps are notorious for containing toxic chemicals.
While cutting down on cosmetics use is one great option, it can be challenging to stop using all soap and hair care products.
Fortunately, as consumers become more aware of the hazards of the chemicals found in these products, plant-based substitutes are becoming easier to find and afford.
6. Stop Using Non-stick Cookware
Non-stick cookware has become hugely popular in recent years mainly because it helps you cut down on the amount of oil used while cooking.
However, some chemicals used in the production of non-stick cookware may enter our bodies, especially if the coating cracks.
Cookware made of glass, cast-iron, or enamel are safer alternatives to non-stick.
7. Place Indoor Plants Around Your Home
We know that plants do an incredible job of purifying the surrounding air. So why not take this idea indoors and place houseplants in multiple places in your home? These plants absorb excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen back into the atmosphere, creating a cleaner, healthier indoor environment.
8. Make Your Own Natural Pesticides
Many of the commercial pesticides in common use today were developed as weapons in the early half of the twentieth century.
Scientists began to draw attention to their dangers some fifty years ago and some of the worst of them were banned. Unfortunately, most commercial pesticides that are used today still contain potent harmful toxins.
That doesn’t mean that you should let bugs and pests have a field day destroying your carefully manicured lawns and gardens. There are plenty of natural options for keeping bugs at bay, from planting flowers that keep bugs away, to making all-natural sprays out of pantry staples like pepper.
9. Look For Flame-Retardant-Free Furniture
Many furniture manufacturers include flame retardants in their materials. Supposed by some to have been encouraged by tobacco companies so that people would feel more comfortable smoking indoors, these chemicals may pose a risk to our health as they are gradually released into the air and our skin.
As this knowledge has become more common, many furniture manufacturers have since stopped using toxic flame retardants in their materials, so buying new furniture and looking for labeling can help you find safer furniture.
10. If You Smoke, Quit
Quitting smoking is one great way to reduce your exposure to several toxins.
Quitting can be hard, but resources are easy to find and talking to your healthcare provider can be a great place to start.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your doctor before using any natural medication or if you experience any unusual symptoms. See Full Disclaimer here.
