Simple Swaps for a Non-Toxic Home
Air Quality
Many household products release chemicals into the air that can linger indoors for hours.
Swap: Synthetic Fragrance Products
Common sources include:
Air fresheners
Plug-ins
Dryer sheets
Scented candles
Room sprays
Better options:
Fragrance-free products
Beeswax or soy candles with organic cotton wicks and essential oils for fragrance
Simmer pots with citrus or herbs
Fresh air and ventilation - Open windows when you can
Food Contact Surfaces
Anything that touches hot and liquid food has the potential to transfer chemicals.
Swap: Nonstick Cookware and Bakeware
Many traditional nonstick coatings contain PFAS (“forever chemicals”).
Better options:
Cast iron
Stainless steel
Enameled cast iron
Glass
Swap: Plastic Food Storage
Plastic containers can release chemicals when exposed to heat or acidic foods.
Better options:
Glass storage containers and jars
Stainless steel, ceramic or silicone containers
Swap: Plastic Cutting Boards
As plastic cutting boards wear down, they can shed microplastics into food.
Better options:
Solid wood cutting boards
Bamboo cutting boards
Swap: Plastic Cooking Utensils
Plastic utensils can degrade when used with hot food.
Better options:
Wood utensils
Stainless steel utensils
High-quality silicone utensils