What Does “Low Tox” Mean and Why It Matters for Your Home

The greatest wealth is health.

-Virgil

Every day, we use a variety of products in our homes—cleaners, furniture, clothing, and more. But have you ever thought about what’s actually in them? Many of these items contain hidden chemicals that can impact our health over time. That’s where the low tox lifestyle comes in.

“What Does “Low Tox” Mean

“Low tox” refers to reducing your exposure to harmful toxins in everyday products. It doesn’t mean eliminating every single chemical (which would be nearly impossible), but rather making intentional choices to minimize exposure to ingredients that may negatively impact your health. This can apply to household cleaning supplies, personal care products, furniture, clothing, and even food packaging.

Why Should You Care About Low Tox Living?

Many conventional products contain endocrine disruptors, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to allergies, headaches, respiratory issues, and long-term health concerns. Some benefits of transitioning to a low-tox home include:

Improved indoor air quality – Reducing synthetic fragrances and VOCs helps keep the air cleaner.
Better health for your family – Fewer toxic chemicals mean less exposure for you and your loved ones, including pets.
Eco-friendly benefits – Many low-tox products are also more sustainable, reducing pollution and waste.

Common Toxins to Watch Out For

If you’re new to low-tox living, start by looking out for these common toxins in household products:

Phthalates & Synthetic Fragrances – Found in air fresheners, candles, and personal care products.
Parabens – Used as preservatives in cosmetics and skincare.
Formaldehyde – Present in some furniture, carpets, and pressed wood.
Pesticides & Herbicides – Found in non-organic food and lawn treatments.
Flame Retardants – Common in mattresses, couches, and baby products.

Typially these can be found in everyday items we use, such as:

Cleaning Products – Many contain ammonia, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances, which can irritate the skin and lungs.
Furniture & Mattresses – Some contain flame retardants and VOCs that off-gas into your home.
Plastics – Items made with BPA and phthalates can leach chemicals into food and drinks.
Personal Care Products – Ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances are common in lotions, shampoos, and skincare.

How to Start Creating a Low-Tox Home

Making the switch doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with small, manageable swaps:

Choose non-toxic cleaning products or make your own using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
Swap synthetic air fresheners for essential oils or open windows to improve air quality naturally.
Opt for organic and natural fabrics for bedding and clothing to avoid pesticides and synthetic dyes.
Use glass or stainless steel instead of plastic for food storage.

Final Thoughts

Switching to a low-tox lifestyle isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Small, mindful changes can lead to a healthier home and a better environment. Over time, these swaps will become second nature. ❤