As a busy mom, it's easy to feel like there’s no time to make big changes in our everyday routines, but I’ve found that small, intentional swaps can make a huge difference for both my home and my self-care. Over the past year, I’ve made a handful of changes that have helped me reduce toxins, live more sustainably, and feel good about the products I use around my family. Here are 10 swaps that I’ve incorporated into my home and routine that have been total game changers:
1. Switch from Foil to Parchment Paper When Cooking
Aluminum foil is convenient, but it’s not the healthiest option when used for cooking. I’ve swapped it out for parchment paper, which is safer, non-toxic, and just as easy to use. It’s my go-to for lining baking sheets and wrapping up veggies for roasting.
2. Ditch the Candles and Plug-Ins for Nontoxic Alternatives.
Traditional candles and wall plug-ins often contain harmful chemicals that you’re breathing in, so I made the switch to safer options. Buff City Soap sells amazing nontoxic candles, and if you’re feeling crafty, Unplug Soy Candles in Fishers lets you make your own. I also love using essential oil diffusers for a natural way to keep the house smelling fresh.
3. Use Paraben and Sulfate-Free Shampoos and Conditioners.
Our scalp absorbs everything we put on it, so I’ve moved to paraben- and sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. These ingredients can be harsh and drying, especially for hair that’s already exposed to environmental stress. My hair feels healthier, and I feel better about what’s going into my body.
4. My Go-To Non-Toxic Sunscreens
Sun Bum and Coola! Sunscreen is a must for any mom on the go, but not all sunscreens are created equal. My two favorite non-toxic brands are Sun Bum and Coola. They offer great protection without all the harmful chemicals that can be found in conventional sunscreens.
5. Non-Toxic Laundry Routine
One of the easiest swaps I’ve made is switching to nontoxic laundry soap from Buff City Soap. It smells great and works just as well as conventional detergents. I’ve also replaced dryer sheets with dryer balls, which reduce static and are reusable. No more chemicals being released into the air or absorbed into my family’s clothing!
6. Ditch the Plastic Plates and Utensils for the Kids
I decided to stop using plastic plates and utensils for my kids and, more importantly, stop microwaving plastic containers. Plastic can leach harmful chemicals into food, especially when heated. Now, we use stainless steel or bamboo plates and utensils, and I feel better knowing my kids’ meals are safer.
7. Bye-Bye Plastic Food Storage – Hello Mason Jars
Along with ditching plastic plates, I’ve also swapped out plastic food storage containers for airtight mason jars. They’re glass, so no chemicals, and they keep food fresh much longer. Plus, they’re so versatile—you can store anything from snacks to smoothies in them!
8. Add Air Purifiers to Your Home
Clean air is a priority, especially with little ones running around. I’ve added air purifiers to the main rooms of our home to help reduce pollutants, allergens, and toxins. It’s an easy way to make sure the air we’re breathing is as clean as possible.
9. Ditch the Traditional Bathmats – Try Dorai Stone Mats
Traditional bathmats can trap moisture and bacteria, so I made the swap to *Dorai Stone Mats*, which dry quickly and don’t absorb water. They’re more hygienic, look great, and add a modern touch to the bathroom.
10. Ogee Organic Contour Makeup
Self-care includes what we put on our skin, so I’ve been loving *Ogee Organic* contour makeup. It’s free of harmful chemicals and gives me that quick, fresh-faced glow I need, even when I’m short on time.
Making these swaps has been such a rewarding process, not only for my health but for the health of my home and family. Each change is small, but together, they’ve created a cleaner, more intentional lifestyle. Some of the more expensive items, like air purifiers and stone mats, can add up. I recommend keeping an eye on Prime Day or Black Friday deals to snag these items at a discount!