When buying supplements you really have to work hard to find a product without CRAP ingredients. This applies to everything if you want to keep you and your pets safe. What you do can also affect your pets so always use caution and think safety before ever buying anything. I already have a list of many ingredients you want to avoid in supplements and medications. But this is one for household products including toiletries and alike. I am only recommending ones I have ran across and/or have used. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to email me at [email protected].
You want to eliminate chemicals buy buying natural products. Yes you will pay more but, it's all about safe clean living.
Here are some suggestions:
Here are some suggestions:
Laundry Detergent
I use this one.
Another good one
and another (the one pictured above)
Soap Nuts
Option 1
Option 2
Liquid soap nuts
I use this one.
Another good one
and another (the one pictured above)
Soap Nuts
Option 1
Option 2
Liquid soap nuts
Also adding baking soda is a laundry booster and helps clean and eliminate odors.
Alternative Bleach
Vinegar is a safe alternative. Also this one. And another.
Recipe:
Homemade Bleach Alternative
Ingredients/Equipment
4 cups hot water
2/3 cup washing soda (this is what I use)
1-2 cups 3% hydrogen peroxide
10 drops lemon essential oil (find it here)
3-5 gallon bucket (optional)
How To Make
Add essential oil to washing soda and stir thoroughly until the drops are well distributed. Add washing soda/lemon oil to hot water and stir until the washing soda is completely dissolved. In a separate container, measure out 1-2 cups hydrogen peroxide.
How To Use
I prefer to use this bleach alternative in concentrated form, so I pour the hot washing soda mixture into a large bucket (3-5 gallons), then add 28 cups room temperature water and 1-2 cups of hydrogen peroxide. I place my laundry in the bucket and soak overnight, then wash as normal. If needed, I repeat the process – old, set-in stains sometimes need more time to loosen up.
For a less concentrated form, you could add the washing soda mixture to your washing machine and select the “small” setting for your load size. Cool/room temperature water is best, because heat degrades the hydrogen peroxide. When the cool water has mixed with the hot water, add in the hydrogen peroxide. Place clothes in the washing machine and allow to soak before washing as usual – I find that overnight is best.
Storage
Because minerals found in water can accelerate the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide, I recommend making up batches as needed so that the hydrogen peroxide is as strong as possible.
If you MUST use bleach, rewash what you used bleach on to wash out residue of bleaches and chemicals.
Avoid bleach and click here to see why.
If you MUST use bleach, rewash what you used bleach on to wash out residue of bleaches and chemicals.
Avoid bleach and click here to see why.
Removing laundry stains
Mix 1 part Hydrogen Peroxide, 1 part dishwashing liquid and 1 part water. Spray on stain, let set for 10 minutes then throw in washer.
Mix 1 part Hydrogen Peroxide, 1 part dishwashing liquid and 1 part water. Spray on stain, let set for 10 minutes then throw in washer.
Window Cleaner/Multipurpose cleaner
My homemade recipe
1 part rubbing alcohol, 1 part white vinegar and 1 part purified water. Put into spray bottle and use on any surface including windows. I use this on just about everything. This kills bacteria, fungus, viruses and any other things that become contaminated.
*Note: Why purified water you ask? When spraying mist into the air..such as in your shower; chemicals in the water will float through the air causing illness and cancer. So using filtered fluoride/chlorine free water is much safer.
Lemon is also a good cleaner but the cost goes up when adding it in.
My homemade recipe
1 part rubbing alcohol, 1 part white vinegar and 1 part purified water. Put into spray bottle and use on any surface including windows. I use this on just about everything. This kills bacteria, fungus, viruses and any other things that become contaminated.
*Note: Why purified water you ask? When spraying mist into the air..such as in your shower; chemicals in the water will float through the air causing illness and cancer. So using filtered fluoride/chlorine free water is much safer.
Lemon is also a good cleaner but the cost goes up when adding it in.
Body Lotions and Hand Sanitizers
Many sanitizers contain phthalates and parabens. Sanitizers are associated with allergy development in young children
Avoid using Vaseline/Petroleum Jelly. Products containing petroleum jelly can contaminate the body, interfere with estrogen levels, and may contain carcinogenic substances. Some cosmetics contain petroleum jelly as well. Inhaling petroleum products over prolonged period can cause respiratory complications.
Natural emollients like coconut oil, Shea butter, jojoba oil, olive oil, and argan oil to name a few are completely natural products.
I haven't found a good lotion so far. They have been too thick, too thin, stink or feel greasy. Would love to hear some recommendations. These lotions you apply to your body will also come in contact with your pets. So this is important if you use lotions.
Here are several that are recommended safe although I have yet to find a perfect one:
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
Many sanitizers contain phthalates and parabens. Sanitizers are associated with allergy development in young children
Avoid using Vaseline/Petroleum Jelly. Products containing petroleum jelly can contaminate the body, interfere with estrogen levels, and may contain carcinogenic substances. Some cosmetics contain petroleum jelly as well. Inhaling petroleum products over prolonged period can cause respiratory complications.
Natural emollients like coconut oil, Shea butter, jojoba oil, olive oil, and argan oil to name a few are completely natural products.
I haven't found a good lotion so far. They have been too thick, too thin, stink or feel greasy. Would love to hear some recommendations. These lotions you apply to your body will also come in contact with your pets. So this is important if you use lotions.
Here are several that are recommended safe although I have yet to find a perfect one:
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
Making your own hand sanitizer:
1 TBSP rubbing alcohol.
1/4 cup aloe vera gel.
Couple of drops of Vit E oil.
Purified water or colloidal silver
Add a few drops of essential oil sweet orange (safe with dogs and cats).
There are many recipes found on the internet. Be careful and don't use tea tree oils as this is can be toxic to pets if not accurately added in.
1 TBSP rubbing alcohol.
1/4 cup aloe vera gel.
Couple of drops of Vit E oil.
Purified water or colloidal silver
Add a few drops of essential oil sweet orange (safe with dogs and cats).
There are many recipes found on the internet. Be careful and don't use tea tree oils as this is can be toxic to pets if not accurately added in.
Toothpaste
A chemical called triclosan (pesticide) is in the toothpaste Colgate Total. Avoid toothpastes that contain fluoride. These will most likely contain xylitol. DO NOT use these on pets.
I make my own toothpaste for my dogs.
I mix baking soda, coconut oil, and a small amount of filtered water for my dogs. Mix into a liquidy paste and put onto brush. I follow up once done with Colloidal silver spray and spray the gums to kill any bacteria.
You can also use Diatomaceous Earth in place of baking soda for both people and pets.
I make my own toothpaste for my dogs.
I mix baking soda, coconut oil, and a small amount of filtered water for my dogs. Mix into a liquidy paste and put onto brush. I follow up once done with Colloidal silver spray and spray the gums to kill any bacteria.
You can also use Diatomaceous Earth in place of baking soda for both people and pets.
Floor Cleaner
Do not use carpet cleaners or floor cleaners. Carpet shampoos and fabric cleaners that are designed to offer superior stain removal power use a product called perchloroethylene. Perchloroethylene, also called Tetrachlorethylene, has been linked to increased risks of developing lung cancer.
Instead use white vinegar and water. Stores do sell stronger vinegar's specific for cleaning and also for use in the yard for weed killer and insect killing.
Vinegar can actually kill salmonella, E. coli and other nasty stuff that you don’t want on counter tops, toilets, dishes, etc. Vinegar (especially malt vinegar with 10% acid) can effectively kill the flu virus, according to this study. Vinegar is also great at killing tuberculosis bacteria.
Vinegar is safer for the Earth and our waterways than chemical-laden cleaners.
Vinegar with a high acidity is called industrial vinegar or agricultural vinegar. It can come in strengths such as 20% acidity, 30% acidity and higher.
The higher acidity makes industrial vinegar a potentially harmful product to be working with, even though it is natural. You MUST make sure that you take proper precautions to not splash the product on your skin or in your eyes. The smell is extremely strong, as well, so proper ventilation and even wearing a mask is a must.
Industrial vinegar is great for killing plants quickly. Even the toughest plants and weeds. Industrial strength has a very strong smell.
If using a steam cleaner, just poor in the vinegar along with your hot water and steam the carpets.
Looking for an odor neutralizer? Just use baking soda and sprinkle it around on the carpets to absorb moisture and any odors lingering. Let sit for 10 minutes then vacuum. Sprinkle low to the floor because the dust from it will fly through the air and dusty up your furniture, so do it before you dust.
For stubborn stains or stinky messes on carpets, use full strength vinegar. You might want to do a patch test first to make sure it doesn't change the color of your carpet. Use regular strength vinegar. NOT industrial strength. For stubborn stains, you may try adding salt and vinegar together to help make it more abrasive on harder to remove stains.
Use undiluted solutions for soap scum on shower walls and hard water deposits. For toilets, pour straight vinegar right into the bowl. Disinfect cutting boards with undiluted vinegar also.
For cleaning your jewelry; put jewelry into a bowl or cup and pour in vinegar. let stand for 10 minutes, then remove and rinse.
Clogged sink or stinky garbage disposal? Try pouring baking soda down the sink or disposal and then pour vinegar in. You will see it foam. Once it stops foaming, run hot water to rinse.
Can you tell I love Vinegar?
Air Fresheners/Sprays/Candles
According to a report published by the Natural Resources Defense Council, many of the air-fresheners we use in our homes on a regular basis contain compounds with carcinogenic potential. The vast majority of air-fresheners, even some marked “all-natural” or “unscented,” contain compounds called phthalates.
Do not use plug-ins either.
Filtered water and a few drops of orange essential oils in a spray bottle is all you need to keep your home smelling good. Shake well before each use and mist the spray around your home whenever you want to freshen the air. Or you can use it in an aromatherapy diffuser. I recommend the orange because it is safe for both dogs and cats. Watch out for birds and other pets. Verify that it is safe to use.
Also here is a spray I really like.
You can also purchase a diffuser and add essential oils to it for freshen the home.
I have found that these don't continue to put of fragrance. You have to add more after a while.
Use caution when using essential oils as some can be toxic to birds, cats and dogs.
Do not use plug-ins either.
Filtered water and a few drops of orange essential oils in a spray bottle is all you need to keep your home smelling good. Shake well before each use and mist the spray around your home whenever you want to freshen the air. Or you can use it in an aromatherapy diffuser. I recommend the orange because it is safe for both dogs and cats. Watch out for birds and other pets. Verify that it is safe to use.
Also here is a spray I really like.
You can also purchase a diffuser and add essential oils to it for freshen the home.
I have found that these don't continue to put of fragrance. You have to add more after a while.
Use caution when using essential oils as some can be toxic to birds, cats and dogs.
Candles
According to the EPA, burning candles can emit acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acrolein, and naphthalene. And scented are even more toxic.
Look for candles made from beeswax or make your own. You can find many recipes online and the wax on Amazon along with safe non toxic wicks.
Beeswax votive candles
Beeswax 2
Hemp wick
According to the EPA, burning candles can emit acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acrolein, and naphthalene. And scented are even more toxic.
Look for candles made from beeswax or make your own. You can find many recipes online and the wax on Amazon along with safe non toxic wicks.
Beeswax votive candles
Beeswax 2
Hemp wick
Lawn Care
Loaded with toxic cancer causing chemicals (fertilizers, weed killers, flea and tick)
To see many safe options, click here
Loaded with toxic cancer causing chemicals (fertilizers, weed killers, flea and tick)
To see many safe options, click here
Weed killer
AVOID ROUND UP AT ALL COSTS!!!!!!!!! Contains the toxic cancer ridden chemical called Glyphosate. This is used heavily in our farming industry crops and why it is best to always buy organic.
You can use 10%-20% white vinegar for natural weed killing.
Here is a recipe for killing weeds from the Dirt Doctor himself:
Herbicide Formula:
1 gallon of 10% (100 grain) vinegar
Add 1 ounce orange oil or d-limonene
Add 1 tablespoon molasses (optional - some say it doesn't help)
1 teaspoon liquid soap
Do not add water
AVOID ROUND UP AT ALL COSTS!!!!!!!!! Contains the toxic cancer ridden chemical called Glyphosate. This is used heavily in our farming industry crops and why it is best to always buy organic.
You can use 10%-20% white vinegar for natural weed killing.
Here is a recipe for killing weeds from the Dirt Doctor himself:
Herbicide Formula:
1 gallon of 10% (100 grain) vinegar
Add 1 ounce orange oil or d-limonene
Add 1 tablespoon molasses (optional - some say it doesn't help)
1 teaspoon liquid soap
Do not add water
Flea and Tick Killer
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a natural flea killer. Diatomaceous earth is safe to use around the yard (use food grade DE only), but you will probably need a large amount to get the positive effect on flea control. Diatomaceous earth must be dry to work, so don’t wet it or mix with water.
Wondercide Flea and tick
More listed here.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a natural flea killer. Diatomaceous earth is safe to use around the yard (use food grade DE only), but you will probably need a large amount to get the positive effect on flea control. Diatomaceous earth must be dry to work, so don’t wet it or mix with water.
Wondercide Flea and tick
More listed here.
Water Filters
This is a critical part of your home. We must all have water to survive yet what's in our waters are toxic. Even the cleanest city waters are just not that clean. They cannot remove pesticides and medications from the water and they also add Fluoride and Chlorine to the water. Both of these are neurotoxins. And boiling the water creates a mist in the air of toxic chemicals. It is critical that we filter out what's in our water. Even well water has its toxins. Test your water and add a filter that does multi-filtering and also a filter added onto your filter group that's specific for your area..such as Arsenic or chloramine.
When using Reverse Osmosis or Distilled water, make very sure you add minerals back in as long term use of either can cause more health problems.
To find out what's in your water, click here or contact your local water facility for their latest report.
Click here on how to install a low budget filter.
This is a critical part of your home. We must all have water to survive yet what's in our waters are toxic. Even the cleanest city waters are just not that clean. They cannot remove pesticides and medications from the water and they also add Fluoride and Chlorine to the water. Both of these are neurotoxins. And boiling the water creates a mist in the air of toxic chemicals. It is critical that we filter out what's in our water. Even well water has its toxins. Test your water and add a filter that does multi-filtering and also a filter added onto your filter group that's specific for your area..such as Arsenic or chloramine.
When using Reverse Osmosis or Distilled water, make very sure you add minerals back in as long term use of either can cause more health problems.
To find out what's in your water, click here or contact your local water facility for their latest report.
Click here on how to install a low budget filter.
Cooking and Drinking
Cooking utensils that contain Teflon. Teflon is known as polytetrafluorethylene. A waste byproduct of Freon. Teflon is made from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been associated with tumors and developmental problems in animals.
Buy stainless steel or glass.
Don't cook anything in aluminum including aluminum foil. Aluminum is toxic and is also in deodorants, medications, antacids, and some cosmetics. Don't buy aluminum water or food bowls for your pets. Make sure they are 100% stainless steel. Avoid all plastics for any pet bowls. Heavy metals have been linked to brain dysfunction.
Do not cook with fluorinated and chlorinated water. They become a neurotoxin.
Cooking utensils that contain Teflon. Teflon is known as polytetrafluorethylene. A waste byproduct of Freon. Teflon is made from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been associated with tumors and developmental problems in animals.
Buy stainless steel or glass.
Don't cook anything in aluminum including aluminum foil. Aluminum is toxic and is also in deodorants, medications, antacids, and some cosmetics. Don't buy aluminum water or food bowls for your pets. Make sure they are 100% stainless steel. Avoid all plastics for any pet bowls. Heavy metals have been linked to brain dysfunction.
Do not cook with fluorinated and chlorinated water. They become a neurotoxin.
Wifi
Learn to use airplane mode whenever you can with your devices. It disables Wi-Fi and cellular data, which also will save on battery life. If you aren’t expecting to give or receive any calls during the night, turn your phone off before bed.
Learn to use airplane mode whenever you can with your devices. It disables Wi-Fi and cellular data, which also will save on battery life. If you aren’t expecting to give or receive any calls during the night, turn your phone off before bed.
Consider your vinyl shower curtains and exchange them for cotton curtains like this one or EVA types such as this one.
Buying new clothes, pet bedding , new towels, clothing (both human and pet), furniture, carpet, toys contain Scotchgard which is toxic. Wash everything before using with chemical free laundry soap.