Many conventional cleaning products are petroleum-based and chemically-laden with known carcinogens.   Begin by reducing or eliminating these items from your cupboards. But don’t throw out all the toxic cleansers and other household products you currently own. This is wasteful and bad for the environment! It’s best to dispose of them by using them up first. Then gradually begin to replace them one by one. Here are a few natural and economical substitutes:

• Replace traditional glass cleaners with white vinegar. It works just as well, and leaves behind a fresh (not vinegary) smell. It’s also a natural deterrent to fungi and bacteria.
• Replace conventional abrasive cleaners with baking soda and lemon juice. And instead of drinking that acidic cola soft drink, let it go flat and pour it into the toilet as a great bowl cleanser.
• Create your own insect repellent that doesn’t contain harmful insecticides.   Spraying your lawn with chemical pesticides exposes your children and your pets to high levels of toxins – because they are smaller, they have less of a defense against them. There are better ways to eliminate household pests. For ants and cockroaches, try a potent blend of crushed garlic, onion, red pepper, soap, and hot water. Let the mixture sit for a couple of days, then strain before using. Many other insects, such as spiders and beetles, are completely harmless. Instead of killing them, gently move them outside. 1
• Replace furniture and shoe polishes with olive oil or a blend of almond and baby oil. It smells great and brings out a brilliant shine in both leather and natural wood.
• Disinfect multiple surfaces with a blend of citricidal or tea tree oil and water. Add 20 drops of citricidal or up to 50 drops of tea tree oil (found at most health food stores) to a bucket of water. Stir well. Use this for wiping floors, counters, sinks, bathroom tiles, shower stalls, and toilet seats. A few drops of citricidal mixed with water will also discourage mold growth in shower stalls. Spray directly on tile.

These are just a few of the alternatives you can try. As you may have noticed, many of these are inexpensive items most people keep in their homes. You’ll save money and improve your health at the same time. For bio-friendly household products, see our Super Health Recommends section below.

Stay Well-Ventilated

A recent EPA study indicated that the air in homes has chemical contamination levels 70 times greater than outdoor air. This is because houses retain contaminants longer than outside air. So open your windows and doors as often as weather permits, and keep a regular flow of air circulating with ceiling and exhaust fans. Remember–a lot of clutter in your house will inhibit the flow of air and make it more difficult to clean the house thoroughly. The more accumulated junk you have, the more toxic your home, as these items often collect dust, mold, and bacteria.

Other air purification tips:

• Remove wall-to-wall carpeting (few things are more toxic than carpets, as they collect dust, lint, mold, and outdoor toxins and bacteria brought in by shoes). Hardwood floors with a non-toxic varnish are very attractive and a lot healthier. To reduce noise, use organic hemp or cotton area rugs that can be frequently laundered.
• Dehumidify the basement.
• Repair roof and foundation cracks that cause moisture build-up in the home.
• Purchase a high-quality air filter (see www.allerair.com , www.iqair.com , and www.healthyhome.com)
• Perform regular maintenance checks on your furnace and fireplaces.
• Buy house plants that remove chemicals from the air naturally, such as English Ivy, Peace Lily, or Spider plants.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change Your Diet

Our ability to defend ourselves against toxins is directly related to our diet and our lifestyle. A lowered immunological defense system due to smoking, heavy alcohol and caffeine use, consumption of sugary or fried foods, poor hydration, lack of exercise, insufficient antioxidants and healthy fats, etc. will mean you are more susceptible to disease and illness. Learn more about what makes a Super Health diet. 3

Once you’ve given your home a detox makeover, you might then begin to look at some of the beauty and personal grooming products you’ve been using. Ever consider what manufacturers put in your shampoo, cologne, cosmetics, toothpaste, and deodorant?   Your work has just begun!