Transitioning Towards Conscious Living: Safer Swaps for Household and Beauty Products
Overview
Join me as I unravel my personal journey towards a more conscious lifestyle. We will review the safer alternatives I have implemented for commonly used products, from cleaning agents to candle options. Coming from a person who previously believed the terms "clean" and "toxic" were fear-mongering, trust me, I understand the subject can be complicated and overwhelming. I simply hope this encourages you to do your own research on a more conscious lifestyle.
What you'll learn in this episode:
00:00 | Intro
01:23 | Emotional connection to scents and fragrances
02:40 | The term "clean" and greenwashing
06:04 | Challenges of switching to a more conscious lifestyle
07:49 | Harmful effects of fragrance
10:36 | Safe swaps for household products
16:37 | Alternatives to candles
18:43 | Safer perfume option
20:00 | Resources for change
22:49 | Safer food choices
Resources:
Branch Basics article on fragrance
Safer Perfume
EWG Website
Test My Home Instagram
Food Babe Instagram
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not to be taken as medical advice. This episode is not sponsored. Product links may contain affiliate links that are eligible for a small commission.
Why I've Embraced a More Conscious Lifestyle: A Practical Guide
Welcome back to the Mom Guilt Podcast! I'm your host, Vanna. Today, I want to delve into the reasons behind my decision to adopt a more conscious lifestyle. From household products to personal care items, I have been making changes to create a safer and healthier environment for my family. In this article, I will share the practical steps I have taken and explore the implications and potential impact of these choices. So, let's dive in!
The Emotional Connection to Scents and Fragrances
"We are emotionally connected to scents, fragrances, and things like that. And I'm not gonna lie, I love a good smelling perfume."
I have always been drawn to scents and fragrances. They have the power to evoke memories and create a sense of comfort and happiness. However, as I delved deeper into the research, I discovered that many of the scents and fragrances we encounter in our daily lives can be harmful to our health. They contain ingredients that disrupt our hormones, act as carcinogens, and even harm the environment.
The Misleading Nature of "Clean" Products
"I don't like to say clean because it is not regulated. The term is overused to greenwash people and sell products that aren't even what they advertise them as."
The term "clean" has become a buzzword in the industry, but it is important to recognize that it is not a regulated term. Many products labeled as "clean" still contain harmful ingredients such as fragrance and perfume. This is known as greenwashing, where companies use misleading marketing tactics to make their products appear safer and more environmentally friendly than they actually are. It is crucial to educate ourselves and read the ingredient labels to ensure that the products we use are truly safe.
Practical Steps Towards a Safer and More Conscious Home
"The easiest thing to switch first are your household products."
One of the first areas I focused on was my household products. I started by making my own cleaning products using formulas from Clean Mama's website. These homemade cleaners are effective and free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, I incorporated Branch Basics' cleaning products into my routine. Their concentrate is versatile and long-lasting, making it a convenient and safe option.
Another important change I made was switching from nonstick pots and pans to safer alternatives like cast iron. Nonstick coatings often contain plastics that can leach into our food during cooking. By using cast iron and stainless steel cookware, I can avoid these potential health risks.
I also replaced plastic Tupperware and drinkware with glass or stainless steel options. This eliminates the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into our food and beverages. While these changes may seem overwhelming, I encourage you to take it one step at a time and gradually transition to safer alternatives.
The Importance of Water and Shower Filters
"A lot of brands have water filters, and I don't personally have one that I recommend over the other. But it is crucial to filter our water to remove harmful chemicals and contaminants."
Water filters are often overlooked, but they play a significant role in our overall health. Many cities treat their water with chemicals that can be harmful to our bodies. Investing in a quality water filter can help remove these contaminants and provide cleaner, safer water for drinking and cooking.
Shower filters are another essential consideration. Our skin absorbs chemicals from the water we shower in, which can have adverse effects on our health. Installing a shower filter can help reduce our exposure to these chemicals and improve the condition of our skin and hair.
Safer Alternatives to Candles and Perfumes
"Candles and scents are bad. They are disrupting our hormones, they're endocrine disruptors. They are carcinogens. They're ecotoxic, meaning harmful to the environment, or they can just be irritants."
Candles and perfumes are often beloved for their pleasant scents, but they can contain harmful ingredients that pose risks to our health. Fragrances in particular have been linked to hormone disruption, carcinogenic effects, and environmental harm. It is crucial to be mindful of the products we use and seek safer alternatives.
One practical swap for candles is to use a simmer pot. By simmering natural ingredients like fruits, herbs, and spices, we can create a pleasant aroma in our homes without the harmful effects of candles. Simmer pots are easy to make and can be customized to suit our preferences.
When it comes to perfumes, I have discovered Henry Rose, a brand that offers EWG verified fragrances. These perfumes are safer alternatives that do not contain harmful ingredients. It is important to note that essential oils can also be used as a substitute for synthetic fragrances, but caution should be exercised if anyone in the household has sensitive skin or allergies.
The Power of Knowledge and Resources
"EWG is an amazing resource that provides information and ratings on the safety of various products. They have an app and a website where you can find valuable research and recommendations."
Educating ourselves and staying informed is crucial in making conscious choices for our families. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is an excellent resource that provides information on the safety of products. Their app and website offer ratings and detailed research on various items, helping us make informed decisions.
Another valuable resource is Branch Basics, a company that offers safe and effective cleaning products. Their website is a treasure trove of information, with blog posts and articles covering a wide range of topics related to conscious living. They also have their own database of safer alternatives for everyday products.
Conclusion: A Journey Towards a Safer and Healthier Lifestyle
In conclusion, my journey towards a more conscious lifestyle has been eye-opening and transformative. By making practical swaps and educating myself on the potential risks associated with everyday products, I have been able to create a safer and healthier environment for my family. While the process may seem overwhelming at times, taking it one step at a time and seeking out reliable resources can make the transition easier.
It is important to remember that we are all on different paths, and what works for one person may not work for another. The key is to be open-minded, willing to evolve, and make choices that align with our values and priorities. By embracing a more conscious lifestyle, we can contribute to a healthier future for ourselves, our families, and the planet.
Thank you for joining me on this journey towards a more conscious lifestyle. If you have any questions or would like to share your own safe swaps, please comment on the Mom Guilt Podcast Instagram post. Let's continue to learn and grow together!