Let’s be real—most of us don’t think twice about the products we use every day. From body wash to kitchen sprays, our homes are full of items that seem harmless. But when you dive into the world of non-toxic living, it’s eye-opening. What we put on our skin, breathe in, and touch daily matters—a lot.

What goes on your skin doesn’t just sit there. It’s absorbed—often in seconds—straight into your bloodstream.

Now think about your kids touching everything and then putting their hands in their mouths. Or your pets licking their paws after walking across freshly cleaned floors. All those hidden chemicals? They’re not just cleaning your home—they’re making their way into your body (and theirs), disrupting hormones, irritating skin, and even messing with sleep and mood.

That’s why now, more than ever, making the switch to non-toxic products isn’t just a trend—it’s a wellness essential.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Start Small and Build From There

You don’t need to toss everything under your sink and in your shower all at once. That’s a fast track to burnout (and probably some regret). Instead, start simple. Pick one or two products you use daily—like body wash or laundry detergent—and swap them for safer, non-toxic alternatives.

Tiny changes add up. And before you know it, you’ll have a healthier, low-tox routine that feels totally doable.

How Toxic Products Affect Your Body’s Balance

It’s not just about avoiding harsh chemicals. It’s about protecting your body’s natural microbiome—those good bacteria that help keep your skin, gut, and immune system balanced.

Many mainstream products marketed as “antibacterial” or “deep cleaning” actually destroy beneficial bacteria. Over time, that can weaken your natural defenses and even increase sensitivity to allergens and irritants. Cleaner ingredients = better balance inside and out.

Clean Up Your Beauty Routine

Let’s talk beauty basics. Here are some everyday swaps that can make a major difference:

• Soaps & Body Washes:
  Your skin is your biggest organ. Non-toxic soaps keep chemicals off your skin and out of your bloodstream.
• Shampoos & Conditioners:
  They sit on your scalp, right next to your brain—so switching to clean formulas matters big-time, especially for long-term use.
• Hair Dyes:
  Traditional dyes are loaded with toxins. Try HairPrint—a safer option that restores natural color without the harsh side effects.
• Makeup & Shaving Gel:
  Toxins love to hide in lipstick, mascara, and shaving cream. Opt for clean brands or let your natural beauty shine!

How Laundry Detergent and Indoor Air Impact Your Health

Here’s something most people don’t realize: your laundry soap can seriously affect your health. Think about it—your clothes, sheets, and towels are in constant contact with your skin. And when they’re washed in chemical-heavy detergents, you’re basically wearing toxins all day and night.

Worse, many of those “fresh” fragrances are actually synthetic chemicals that can trigger allergies, skin issues, migraines, and more.

And it’s not just laundry. Flooring, furniture, paint—they can all release fumes (aka “off-gassing”) that linger and impact indoor air quality. The solution? Swap what you can, air out your space, and choose non-toxic options when remodeling.

How to Make Your Home a Wellness Haven

Your home should be your safe place—not a source of hidden stressors. A few simple swaps can make a huge difference:

• Go for fragrance-free, plant-based cleaners
• Choose low-VOC or formaldehyde-free furniture and flooring
• Open windows daily to boost airflow
• Invest in air-purifying plants or a good-quality air filter

Better air = better sleep, better focus, and fewer allergy flare-ups.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Non-Toxic Living

Think non-toxic living has to be expensive? Think again. Some of the best alternatives are DIY and dirt cheap. A few favorites:

• DIY All-Purpose Cleaner: Water + vinegar + lemon essential oil
• Homemade Laundry Soap: Baking soda, washing soda, and castile soap
• Moisturizer: Coconut oil or jojoba oil—simple, effective, affordable

Swapping out your products doesn’t have to bust your budget. In fact, you might even save money.

Podcast Picks: A Few of My Fave Non-Toxic Products

In this week’s podcast episode, we highlighted some go-to clean swaps:

• HairPrint (natural hair color)
• Jojoba oil (post-sauna or post-shower moisturizer)
• Essential Oil Cleaners (like DoTerra On Guard or Young Living Thieves)
• Clean laundry detergent (like Branch Basics or Zum)
• Natural shampoos and cleansers (look for EWG-verified options like Aveda or Giovanni)

These products don’t just ditch the toxins—they work. Like, really well.

Quick Tips for Reading Labels Like a Pro

You don’t need to be a scientist to shop smarter. Just look for:

• Short ingredient lists
• No “fragrance” or “parfum”
• Ingredients you can actually pronounce
• EWG Verified or USDA Organic labels

When in doubt, keep it simple. Fewer ingredients = fewer surprises.

Why It Matters: Kids, Pets & Toxin Exposure

Little bodies absorb more—and they do it faster. Whether it’s a baby crawling on a freshly mopped floor or a dog licking its paws, toxins in the home add up quickly. And when you start removing those harmful chemicals? That’s when the magic happens. People often report better sleep, fewer headaches, improved breathing, clearer focus, healthier skin, and reduced allergies. Your body knows when it’s not being overloaded—and it responds in amazing ways.

A Look at the Research

Science is catching up to what holistic wellness pros have been saying for years: toxins in everyday products are linked to a long list of health issues—from hormone disruption to immune stress. Reducing your toxic load even a little makes a real difference over time.

Final Thoughts: It’s a Journey, Not a Sprint

Here’s the truth: non-toxic living isn’t about doing it all at once or being perfect. It’s about progress. One small swap at a time, you’re creating a cleaner, safer, more supportive environment—for yourself and everyone you love.

So start where you are. Use what you have. And keep going. You’re on the path to a healthier, happier home—and that’s something to celebrate. 

Resources

• Grab my FREE Home Wellness Checklist here for more tips.
• Take a peek at my Jen Recommends list to see some more of my favorite products.
• Checkout my Podcast Episode With Mine Ekenler to hear more information on how a clean home can elevate your mood and quality of life.

Stay Connected

• Let us know what you think, leave a review on Apple.
• Be the first to know about my new favorite wellness tools, special deals, and more, subscribe to our newsletter! 

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Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services. The statements and views expressed are not medical advice and are not meant to replace the advice of your medical doctor. This podcast, including Jen Heller and her guests, disclaims any responsibility and any adverse effects you may experience from the specific use of the information contained herein. The opinions of guests are their own and this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for the statements made by guests. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you have a medical condition, consult your licensed physician.