10 Things you will not find in my home
1. Bluetooth Headphones
This one is a hard no, especially for my kids, we've chosen to limit our exposure to wireless devices that sit directly against the body, especially around the brain, for long periods of time. Bluetooth gives off EMFs (electro-magnetic field) which is radiation. There is not enough long term research on bluetooth, so we limit where we can. Instead we use wired headphones, which is also just so much easier. No charging headphones, no trying to connect them, just plug in and go!
2. Plastic Cutting Boards
Every cut and slice can create tiny plastic particles that may end up in our food. We've switched to wood cutting boards, which are durable, beautiful, and don't contribute to microplastic exposure in the same way.
3. Air Fresheners
Many conventional air fresheners contain synthetic fragrances and undisclosed chemicals. That may contain endocrine disruptors, which effect your hormones. Instead of masking odors, we focus on fresh air, natural cleaning, and keeping our home smelling clean naturally.
4. Polyester Sheets
Since we spend roughly a third of our lives sleeping, we've become more mindful of the fabrics touching our skin. We prefer natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, and bamboo over synthetic materials whenever possible. We choose 100% cotton, if possible, organic. Otherwise we always look for Oeko-Tex, this is a label on fabrics to test for harmful susbtances.
5. Cooking Sprays
Many cooking sprays contain additives, propellants, and highly processed oils. We keep things simple with butter, avocado oil, olive oil, or tallow depending on what we're cooking.
6. Non-Stick Pans
When non-stick coatings become scratched or overheated, they can release toxic compounds called PFAS, aka “Forever Chemicals”. Which means forever in our ecosystems as they never biodegrade. Our kitchen now consists mostly of stainless steel and cast iron cookware.
7. Conventional Tea Bags
Many people are surprised to learn that tea bags contain plastic materials that can release microplastics into hot water. Or contain bleached material. We choose loose-leaf tea in a glass kettle with a glass strainer, or in a glass french press.
8. Chemical Cleaning Products
Many household cleaners contain harsh ingredients and strong fragrances. Again, causes endocrine disruption. We've gradually switched to simpler, lower-tox alternatives that get the job done without filling our home with unnecessary chemicals. We also use vinegar and water a lot of the time.
Favourite Multi-Purpose Cleaner
9. Dryer Sheets
Conventional dryer sheets often leave behind fragrance and chemical residues on clothing and bedding. They also contain microplastics, which can cause skin irritations, breathing problems, contribute to asthma. We use wool dryer balls instead—they're reusable, affordable, and effective.
10. Weed Killer
We choose not to use chemical weed killers around our home and yard. Instead, we use manual removal, mulching, and other natural approaches to managing weeds.
Every family has different priorities, budgets, and comfort levels. These are simply the choices we've made after learning more and deciding what aligns with our values.
The goal isn't perfection.
The goal is awareness.
Because when we know better, we have the opportunity to choose differently.
And every small change we make today can have a lasting impact on our health, our homes, and the next generation.
