Ditch the Toxins: Natural Cleaning for a Healthier Home

Let’s face it—most of us have grown up using traditional cleaning products without thinking twice. But have you ever really looked at the labels on these products? They’re often loaded with toxic chemicals that can irritate your skin, trigger headaches, and affect your breathing. Even more concerning, these chemicals can mess with your hormones and contribute to serious health issues over time. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside your home can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside. Cleaning products are a big part of that.

But here’s the good news: making small swaps can have a big impact. And guess what? You probably already have a lot of the natural ingredients you need right at home—things like vinegar and baking soda.

Start Simple with What You Have

You don’t need to go out and buy all-new products. Start by using everyday household items you already have:

• White vinegar: A natural disinfectant that cuts through grease and grime.
• Baking soda: A powerhouse for deodorizing and scrubbing tough surfaces.

One of my go-to recipes is this simple All-Purpose Cleaning Spray:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 25 drops of doTerra essential oil (optional)

Mix it all up in a spray bottle and you’re good to go! The vinegar disinfects, and the essential oils make it smell fresh. I personally love using Lemon or Wild Orange for that bright, clean scent. Bonus tip: I even clean my walls with a bit of Lemongrass oil added in. It smells amazing and makes the room feel lighter!

Why Make the Switch?

The truth is, many traditional cleaners are filled with chemicals that release toxic fumes into the air, making your home more polluted than you realize. These toxins don’t just affect your space—they can affect you. From brain fog and fatigue to mood swings, the impact of these harsh chemicals is real. Switching to natural cleaners means protecting both your health and your home. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and sandalwood not only leave your home smelling fresh, but they also help boost your mood and clear that mental fog, making cleaning a more uplifting experience.

Now, I’ll be honest—my journey to going non-toxic hasn’t been perfect, and it’s still a work in progress. But every small change I’ve made has been worth it. With each swap, I’ve noticed the benefits firsthand—my home feels fresher, and I feel better. The shift doesn’t have to happen all at once, but once you start making these changes, the difference is undeniable.

Ditch the Toxic Candles, Too

It’s not just the cleaning products—candles are another sneaky source of indoor air pollution. Many store-bought candles release harmful chemicals when burned, and those synthetic fragrances can trigger headaches or even irritate your lungs. Instead of reaching for a candle, I suggest using a diffuser with doTerra essential oils. Diffusers give you that relaxing scent without releasing harmful chemicals into the air. Some of my favorites are lavender for winding down in the evening and peppermint for an energizing boost during the day.

A Natural Laundry Routine

It’s not just about surface cleaning—laundry is another area where toxic products lurk. The chemicals in conventional detergents and fabric softeners stick to your clothes and can irritate your skin. Here’s a quick swap you can make today:

• DIY Laundry Detergent:
  • 1 cup washing soda
  • 1/2 cup citric acid
  • 1/2 cup baking soda
  • A splash of white vinegar (for tough odors)

Mix these dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. When doing laundry, add 2–3 tablespoons to your load. And for fabric softening, skip the commercial stuff—just add a splash of vinegar during the rinse cycle. It naturally softens clothes and helps remove any lingering odors.

And instead of using toxic dryer sheets, try wool dryer balls. They reduce drying time, soften clothes, and you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a natural, fresh scent.

Natural Personal Care: Hand Soap, Body Wash, and Shampoo

You can easily take these swaps into your personal care routine as well. Using liquid castile soap as a base, you can make your own hand soap, body wash, and even shampoo by adding a few drops of essential oils. Castile soap is gentle, safe for the whole family, and super versatile. I love adding lavender for its calming effects or peppermint for an energizing wash.

Make Progress, Not Perfection

The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to make progress. Start small, swap out a few products, and take control of what you’re bringing into your home. Slowly but surely, you’ll find that you’re creating a healthier, more natural environment for yourself and your family. And remember, it’s okay to take it one step at a time.

If you’re ready to make a few swaps, try some of my favorite essential oils from doTerra to kickstart your journey to a cleaner, toxin-free home.