If you’ve ever looked at your cleaning spray, your shampoo, or that “fresh linen” candle and thought, Wait… what is even in this?—welcome. You’re in the exact right place.

A low tox lifestyle doesn’t mean living in a bubble, throwing away everything you own, or making your home smell like straight-up vinegar forever (although… sometimes it does smell a little vinegary for five minutes, and then it’s fine).

A non toxic lifestyle (or “low tox living”) is basically this:

  • You try to reduce everyday chemical exposure where you can.

  • You focus on the swaps that matter most—like things you breathe, touch, and use daily.

  • You don’t aim for perfection. You aim for better.

In this post, I’m sharing my favorite low-tox lifestyle swaps that feel realistic, affordable, and actually doable in a normal life. We’ll cover home, laundry, kitchen, personal care, and food storage. Plus, I’ll give you an easy DIY recipe you can make in five minutes.

Why Reducing Everyday Toxins Matters

Here’s the thing: a lot of “toxins” talk online can get intense fast. So let’s keep this simple.

Some products in our homes can release or contain chemicals that may irritate the eyes, nose, throat, or lungs—especially when they’re sprayed, scented, or used in small spaces with windows closed.

One big category people talk about in low tox living is VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs are chemicals that can evaporate into the air from certain products like paints, cleaners, and some cosmetics. And indoor levels can be a bigger deal than people realize because… we’re indoors a lot. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency explains that VOCs come from many household products and can cause short-term effects like irritation and headaches for some people. (EPA: VOCs and indoor air)

Another reason people make natural lifestyle swaps is because of “mystery” ingredients—like fragrance. “Fragrance” can be a mix of many chemicals, and it’s not always clear what’s inside. That’s why a lot of low tox home routines start with one simple move: go fragrance-free.

Also, quick reality check: you do not need to feel guilty if you can’t replace everything at once. You’re not a bad person because you still have dryer sheets. You’re just a person.

What low tox living can help with (in real life)

People often notice these things first:

  • Less “chemical smell” in the house

  • Fewer headaches triggered by strong scents

  • Less skin irritation from detergents or body products

  • A calmer feeling because you’re not constantly second-guessing your products

And honestly? Even if you don’t “feel” a difference, it can still be worth it to cut down on harsh exposures when it’s easy to do.

Easy Low Tox Lifestyle Swaps for the Home

If you only do one category from this whole post, do home air + cleaning first. Because what you spray becomes what you breathe.

If you use disinfectants, use them for the right moments (like illness or raw chicken cleanup) and follow the label directions. For everyday mess, simple cleaning is usually enough.

Low tox swap #1: go fragrance-free (like… everywhere)

This is the highest-impact, simplest swap I made.

Try switching these to fragrance-free first:

  • All-purpose cleaner

  • Dish soap

  • Laundry detergent

  • Hand soap

  • Body wash

If you still want your home to smell nice, we’ll talk about safer “good smell” ideas later.

Low tox swap #2: choose safer cleaning products (or simplify your whole routine)

I used to think I needed a different cleaner for every surface. Now I keep it super basic.

A simple, low tox home cleaning kit can be:

  • A gentle fragrance-free dish soap

  • A basic all-purpose spray

  • Baking soda (for scrubby jobs)

  • Microfiber cloths (they pick up a lot with just water)

If you want help spotting better options, the EPA has guidance for identifying greener cleaning products and mentions that fragrance-free choices can reduce VOCs. (EPA: Identifying greener cleaning products)

Low tox swap #3: stop “scenting the air” with plug-ins

I know. Plug-ins feel cozy. But a lot of low tox living guides say: if it’s made to pump scent into the air all day, it’s probably not your best friend.

A strong “clean” smell doesn’t mean the air is clean. It just means the air smells like something.

If you love a nice-smelling space (same), try these swaps:

  • Open windows for 5–10 minutes a day (even in winter)

  • Use a fan while cooking

  • Simmer cinnamon sticks and orange peels in water (old-school, cheap, cute)

  • Use a HEPA air purifier if your budget allows (especially if you have pets or allergies)

Some indoor environmental quality recommendations specifically discourage fragrance-emitting devices like plug-ins and sprays in buildings because they can affect indoor air quality. (U.S. Access Board IEQ recommendations)

Low tox swap #4: upgrade your laundry routine (without turning it into a hobby)

Laundry is sneaky because it touches your skin all day.

Try these low tox lifestyle swaps:

  • Switch to fragrance-free detergent or make your own DIY at home (biggest win)

  • Skip fabric softener and dryer sheets

  • Use wool dryer balls instead

  • Add white vinegar to the rinse cycle (optional—don’t use on certain delicate fabrics)

If you’re not ready to change detergent, at least reduce how much you use. Most people use way too much.

Low tox swap #5: clean the air you actually breathe (kitchen + bedroom first)

If you want to be strategic, focus on:

  • Kitchen: cooking fumes, cleaning sprays, trash smell temptations

  • Bedroom: you spend hours there every night

Simple habits:

  • Use the stove fan while cooking

  • Avoid aerosol sprays when you can

  • Dust and vacuum regularly (dust can hold on to chemicals)

Low tox lifestyle swaps for personal care and beauty

This is the category that can feel the most overwhelming because there are… a million products. And many of them have long ingredient lists.

Here’s my simple rule: start with what stays on your skin the longest.

Low tox swap #6: deodorant (start gentle, then adjust)

If you’re switching to a more natural deodorant, you might need a little trial-and-error. That’s normal.

Tips that actually help:

  • Give your body 1–2 weeks to adjust

  • Apply to clean, dry skin

  • Reapply on super sweaty days (like workouts)

And if a “natural” deodorant irritates your skin, stop. Low tox living should not involve burning armpits.

Low tox swap #7: lotion and body wash (fragrance-free = your best shortcut)

If you only change one thing in your shower, make it this:

  • Pick fragrance-free lotion

  • Pick fragrance-free body wash

Why? Because these cover a lot of skin area every single day.

Low tox swap #8: period products

Low tox living can include menstrual products too (because… sensitive area).

Options people like:

  • Organic cotton tampons/pads

  • Menstrual cup

  • Period underwear

Choose what works for your body and comfort. The “best” option is the one you’ll actually use.

Low tox swap #9: simplify your makeup routine

This is not me telling you to ditch makeup. I love a good mascara moment.

A simple approach:

  • Replace products as you run out

  • Start with lip products (easy to ingest a tiny bit)

  • Choose fragrance-free where possible

Low tox swaps for food storage and kitchen habits

This category is where low tox living becomes super practical, because it can also save money over time.

Low tox swap #10: swap plastic food containers for glass

This is one of the easiest natural lifestyle swaps to do slowly.

Ideas:

  • Use glass containers for leftovers

  • Reuse glass jars (pasta sauce jars = free storage)

  • Use stainless steel for lunch boxes if you like

Low tox swap #11: don’t heat food in plastic

If you only remember one kitchen rule, make it this:

  • Don’t microwave food in plastic.

Heat can increase chemical transfer from packaging into food. Even if you can’t change everything, this is a simple habit shift.

Low tox swap #12: rethink nonstick cookware (when it’s time)

This is where I’m going to be very “low tox realistic.”

If your nonstick pan is old and scratched, that’s a great time to replace it.

More low tox options:

  • Stainless steel - This is was my best choice I ever made!! I really enjoy cooking in the stainless steel pan and it takes the taste of food to a new level

  • Cast iron

  • Enamel-coated cast iron

You don’t need to throw out your whole kitchen today. Just make it a “next time” upgrade.

Low tox swap #13: filter your drinking water (if you can)

Water is one of those foundational things in a non toxic lifestyle.

If you can’t afford a fancy filter, even a basic pitcher filter can be a starting step. The “best” filter depends on what’s in your local water, so don’t let the internet bully you into buying the most expensive one.

If you’re curious about PFAS (sometimes called “forever chemicals”), the CDC notes that PFAS are a group of chemicals used in some consumer products and have been linked to health effects in certain exposure settings. (CDC/NIOSH: PFAS overview)

Simple DIY Low Tox Recipe: 5-Minute Fresh Room Spray (no plug-ins needed)

I love a home that smells good. I just don’t love a home that smells good because a plug-in is blasting perfume into the air 24/7.

This DIY is simple, cheap, and customizable.

DIY low tox room spray

What you need

  • 1 small spray bottle (2–4 oz is perfect)

  • 2 tablespoons vodka or rubbing alcohol (helps it mix + helps scent disperse)

  • Distilled water (or boiled + cooled water)

  • 10–20 drops essential oil (optional)

Easy scent ideas

  • Lavender + vanilla (cozy)

  • Lemon + rosemary (clean and bright)

  • Peppermint + eucalyptus (spa-ish)

  • Sweet orange + cinnamon + clove — my favourite fall scent (go heavy on the orange, easy on the clove; it's a strong one)

Step-by-step

  1. Add the vodka (or rubbing alcohol) to your spray bottle.

  2. Add essential oils (start with 10 drops; you can add more later).

  3. Fill the rest with water.

  4. Put the top on and shake.

  5. Spray into the air away from your face.

Important safety notes

  • Don’t use essential oils around pets without checking safety first (cats are especially sensitive).

  • Don’t spray directly onto wood furniture or delicate fabrics until you test a small spot.

  • Don’t confuse “natural” with “harmless.” Even essential oils can irritate some people.

If you’d rather skip essential oils completely, you can make this a plain “air refresher” by using just alcohol + water and relying on fresh air + clean surfaces for the real magic.

Tips for Starting a Low Tox Lifestyle Without Feeling Overwhelmed

I’m going to say this like a big sister:

You do not need to start by replacing everything.

A low tox lifestyle works best when it’s based on habits you can keep.

My “low tox living” starter plan (super simple)

Pick one of these to start this week:

  • Switch to fragrance-free laundry detergent

  • Stop using plug-ins and open windows daily

  • Switch to glass for leftovers

  • Replace one personal care product you use daily (like lotion)

Then, when something runs out, replace it with a lower-tox version. That’s it.

Focus on the high-impact swaps first

If you want the biggest payoff, start with:

  • Things that go in the air (sprays, plug-ins, candles)

  • Things that stay on your skin (lotion, deodorant, body wash)

  • Things that involve heat + food (plastic + microwaves)

Common Mistakes People Make When Switching to Low Tox Products

Let’s save you time, money, and frustration.

Mistake #1: trying to do everything in one weekend

This is the fastest route to burnout.

Instead: keep a running list on your phone called “low tox swaps,” and replace things as they run out.

Mistake #2: trusting the label that says “green” or “clean”

Aesthetic packaging is not a safety standard.

Instead: look for simple clues like “fragrance-free,” shorter ingredient lists, and reputable programs (like EPA Safer Choice for certain products). (EPA: Greener cleaning products)

Mistake #3: using too many DIY recipes at once

DIY is fun, but it can become a whole second job.

Instead: pick one DIY you love (like the room spray above), and buy the rest.

Mistake #4: mixing ingredients that should never be mixed

Please don’t mix random cleaners like a science experiment.

Big “nope” combos:

  • Bleach + ammonia

  • Bleach + vinegar

If you’re ever unsure, don’t mix.

Mistake #5: swapping to “natural” but still super scented

A product can be “plant-based” and still have a heavy fragrance.

Instead: if you’re doing low tox lifestyle swaps for sensitivity, headaches, or indoor air, fragrance-free is usually your easiest win.

Low Tox Lifestyle Swaps Should Feel Like Self-care, not Stress

Low tox living is not about being the “cleanest” person on the internet.

It’s about making your home feel safer, calmer, and more supportive of your health—one easy swap at a time.

If you take anything from this post, let it be this:

  • Start with fragrance-free.

  • Focus on what you breathe, touch, and eat from.

  • Replace things as you run out.

  • Don’t let perfect be the enemy of better.

You’re allowed to do this in a way that fits your real life.