Many everyday products used in our homes contain harmful chemicals that can affect our health, disrupt hormones, and increase inflammation. This is especially important for individuals recovering from health conditions such as cancer or thyroid dysfunction, as reducing exposure to toxins is crucial. In this guide, we’ll look at the products to avoid, the harmful substances to watch out for, and safer alternatives to create a healthier, toxin-free home.

1. Air Fresheners and Scented Candles

Why They’re Harmful:
Many air fresheners and scented candles contain synthetic fragrances and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that release harmful toxins like formaldehyde and phthalates into the air. These chemicals can irritate the respiratory system, disrupt hormones, and contribute to indoor air pollution.

Better Alternatives:

• Use essential oil diffusers with pure, organic essential oils.
• Opt for soy or beeswax candles scented with natural essential oils.
• Open windows regularly to improve ventilation and reduce odours naturally.

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Air Fresheners and Scented Candles

ASAKUKI Essential Oil Diffuser

5-IN-1 AROMATHERAPY DEVICE: This ultrasonic essential oil diffuser is an amazing multifunction aromatherapy device unlike any other you\'ve ever used. It features a large and easy to clean 300ml water tank, 7 different LED light colors, multiple mist nebuliser modes, as well as a safety auto-switch that prevents it from overheating in case it runs out of water. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 21

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Pure Essential Oils

100% Pure Therapeutic Essential Oils. No fillers, NO Additives or Carriers Added. A Handpicked selection from different parts of the world, including countries like (France, Australia , Brazil). (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 10

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Organic Luxury Scented Candle

INGREDIENTS - 90% soy wax, 10% fragrance oil. Organic & Vegan WICK - German made ECO wick. This is a flat, core-less cotton wick braided with thin paper filaments. Always trim to 4mm-6mm before every burn. DIMENSIONS - 90mm x 80mm. Weight - 450g. Volume - 295ml. BURN TIME - Approx. 45 Hours (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 25

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2. Cleaning Products

Why They’re Harmful:
Many conventional cleaning products contain bleach, ammonia, and harsh detergents that emit toxic fumes. These substances can irritate the skin, lungs, and eyes and may contribute to long-term health issues.

Better Alternatives:

• Switch to natural, eco-friendly cleaning brands that are free from chlorine, ammonia, and synthetic fragrances.
• Make your own cleaners using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

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Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

ATTITUDE All Purpose Cleaner

WG VERIFIED: Clean ingredients and full transparency NATURAL ORIGIN: Made with ≥ 94 % naturally sourced ingredients INGREDIENTS: Contains powerful naturally sourced ingredients with cleaning properties EASY RECYCLABLE PACKAGING: Bottle made from easily recyclable HDPE #2 plastic PETA CERTIFIED: 100% vegan and cruelty-free (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 5

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ALKIMI Starter Set

NATURE ENGINEERED: Modified for optimum performance, ALKIMI harnesses our most powerful force – nature – and engineers it to create advanced, highly-effective home cleaning products that work with nature, not against it (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 21

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Spruce Duo Starter Kit

HIGHLY EFFECTIVE REFILLABLE CLEANING STARTER KIT DUO - Our signature naturally-fragranced cleaners will leave your home sparkling clean without any nasties in the air. Developed by scientists with toxic-free ingredients, our cleaners are made to be highly effective without damaging the planet or your health. Our Vegan Society certified cleaners are safe to use around kids, pets and all your loved ones.

£ 28

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3. Non-Stick Cookware

Why It’s Harmful:
Non-stick cookware often contains perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) that can release toxic fumes when overheated. PFC exposure has been linked to hormone disruption, immune dysfunction, and even cancer.

Better Alternatives:

• Use stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware.
• Season cast iron pans to make them naturally non-stick.

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Non-Toxic Cookware

Prestige Eco Non Toxic Pots and Pans Sets

PLANT BASED NON STICK - This green eco cookware set is equipped with the world\'s friendliest multi layer PFOA free non stick. It’s scratch proof easy to clean and requires less oil for healthier meals RECYCLED AND RECYCLABLE - Pots and pans set made from recycled materials and fully recyclable. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 121

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dchef 16pcs Ceramic Pots and Pans Set

Natural Ceramic Coating: Made of natural ceramic, our Redchef kitchen ceramic cookware set is Teflon-free and no PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, or cadmium. Ideal choice for safety-conscious families, especially those with babies. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 130

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Our Place Perfect Pot

8-in-1 Versatility: The Perfect Pot combines every pot you\'d ever need into one. Boil, bake, fry, roast, braise, strain, serve, and store all with a single pot. Toxin-Free Ceramic Coating: Features an exclusive ceramic nonstick coating free from PFAS, PTFEs, PFOAs, lead, and cadmium, ensuring safe cooking. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 214

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4. Plastic Food Containers

Why They’re Harmful:
Plastic containers often contain bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, which can leach into food, especially when heated. These chemicals mimic hormones and can disrupt the endocrine system.

Better Alternatives:

• Use glass, stainless steel, or silicone food storage containers.
• Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers.

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Non Toxic Storage Containers

HOUSZY Glass Food Storage Containers

The Houszy glass food container set includes 12 durable glass containers and 12 BPA-Free airtight, smart-lock lids. Perfect for any kitchen, these meal prep containers keep food fresh and prevent contamination. The airtight lids have silicone gaskets and a snap-lock system to seal in freshness and provide leak-proof capabilities. Durable Glass and BPA-Free Lids.  Made of borosilicate glass, the Houszy food prep containers are sturdy and long-lasting. The smart-lock lids are BPA-free. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 35

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5. Laundry Products

Why They’re Harmful:
Laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets are often loaded with synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin and release toxins into the environment.

Better Alternatives:

• Choose fragrance-free, eco-friendly laundry detergents.
• Use wool dryer balls instead of fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

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Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents.

Attitude Liquid Laundry Detergent

Phosphate Free, Dye Free, Phthalate Free, Formaldehyde Free, Enzyme Free (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 11

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Miniml Eco Laundry Liquid

Chlorine Free, Sulphate Free, Paraben Free, Phosphate Free, Lanolin Free (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 13

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6. Pesticides and Insecticides

Why They’re Harmful:
These products contain harmful chemicals that can linger on surfaces and in the air, posing risks to both humans and pets. Prolonged exposure has been linked to hormone disruption and neurological issues.

Better Alternatives:

• Use natural pest control methods, such as diatomaceous earth or essential oil-based sprays.
• Keep your home clean and sealed to prevent infestations naturally.

Product Name

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Non-Toxic Pesticides

EcoVenger Garden Insect Control

This product does not contain pesticide or toxins. Its active ingredients are botanical insecticidal compounds that are organically extracted from certain aromatic plants. They are formulated with other GRAS ingredients (Generally Recognized as Safe) through patented technology. This product is made natural, safe but highly effective. It is child, pet, bird and fish friendly. None staining. With pleasant scent. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 20

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7. Personal Care Products

Why They’re Harmful:
Many personal care items, such as shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics, contain parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, which can act as endocrine disruptors.

Better Alternatives:

• Choose products labelled as organic, natural, and free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
• Look for brands certified by UK organisations like Soil Association or COSMOS.

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Non-Toxic Skincare

Attitude Skincare & Make-up

EWG Verified, ensuring it contains no concerning ingredients as listed by the Environmental Working Group. This certification provides full transparency of the ingredient list, confirming the formula is free of SLS, SLES, and mineral oils. 99% NATURAL ORIGIN *: This body care product is formulated with 99% natural origin ingredients*, such as shea butter. This natural ingredient, rich in vitamins A and E, is known for softening and nourishing the skin. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

£ 20

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8. Paints and Varnishes

Why They’re Harmful:
Conventional paints and varnishes can release VOCs into the air, which contribute to indoor air pollution and can cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues.

Better Alternatives:

• Use low-VOC or zero-VOC paints and finishes.
• Ensure proper ventilation during and after painting.

How to Get Started

Identify Priorities:
Start by swapping out the products you use most frequently, such as cleaning supplies and personal care items.

Read Labels:
Look for transparent labelling and avoid products containing phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, or synthetic fragrances.

Focus on Ventilation:
Keep your home well-ventilated by opening windows regularly and using air purifiers with HEPA filters.

Detoxifying your home is a simple yet powerful way to support your health and well-being. By making small changes and choosing natural alternatives, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and create a safer, healthier living environment for yourself and your family.

I hope this helps!