The Essential Guide to Low Tox Home Cleaning: Simple Swaps for a Cleaner Home
Ready to ditch the toxic cleaning products and donยดt know where to start?
I hear you. When I was on my journey to holistic healing (starting with my diagnosis of leaky gut), I realized a true 360-degree cleanup meant transforming more than just my plate. It meant cleaning up my beauty routine [Beauty Starter Guide] and, crucially, cleaning up my home.
The Toxin Myth: "You Don't Eat It."
The immediate reaction I got from loved ones was, "But you don't eat the cleaning product." True, but we absorb chemicals through our skin and lungs every single day. That's why clean cleaning products are key to holistic wellness.
As a curious person who loves to research alternatives, I did the heavy lifting for you. Here is the lowdown on starting your switch.
Did you know that dyes and fragrances are often considered "trade secrets" meaning companies aren't required to list the ingredients? This lack of transparency is why we stick to simple, natural powerhouses.
Grandma's Secret Arsenal: Affordable DIY Basics
It turns out our grandmothers knew the secret: Vinegar, Lemon, and Baking Soda. This is your starting pointโno fancy brands needed!
Multi-Purpose Vinegar Spray
Vinegar is the main cleaning product I use at home for practically everything, including wooden floors and glass. Vinegar does practically the same job as store-bought cleaners, and is much more affordable.
Recipe: Mix 1 part white vinegar for cleaning with 1 part water in a spray bottle.
Optional: Add a few drops of an essential oil (I use rosemary, lemongrass or mint) to add some scent.
Vetted & Approved: My Go-To Branded Products
For those items that need a little extra power or specialized care, here is my trusted list. Yes, toxin free cleaning products can be pricier than conventional brands, but they are highly concentratedโyou often need only a small quantity.
Where to Buy: Amazon, Herbolario Navarro, or Naturitas. Check my category Stocking Your Pantry for more health stores and supermarkets.
At The Lemon Way, we only share essential recommendations. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases meaning if you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Kind disclaimer: Ecover uses kinder and less harmful ingredients although some of their products contain SLES and SLS. Learn more.
For Dishes & Kitchen
Ecover Dishwasher Soap: Highly effective and plant-based.
Ecover Multi Surfaces/Grease Cutter: This is great to remove tough kitchen grease.
For Laundry
Ecover Zero Laundry Detergent: A great, fragrance-free option. I used this especially when I had newborns at home to avoid all fragrances.
Fabric Softener: I do not use any fabric softener.
For Handwash & Stains
Ecover Delicate Handwash: For all your sensitive clothing items.
Biobel Coconut Soap: Excellent all-around for handwashing and pre-treating strong baby stains on clothing.
Sodium Percarbonate: for persistent stains. Follow instructions on the packaging to remove stains.
Ready for Your Clean Sweep?
You've done the hardest part by starting your research. Now, take the next step toward a truly toxin-free home.
If you want to dive deeper and venture into making home cleaning products for several uses, I recommend the book: Natural Home Cleaning: Over 100 ways to clean your home naturally by Fern Green.
Disclaimer: These are my personal product recommendations; always consult your healthcare provider before use. Download full disclaimer here.