What is in YOUR laundry detergent?

But seriously, do you KNOW what is in YOUR laundry detergent?

Think about it, that smell that lingers on your favorite sweater…is still there days later. HOW. WHY. Well, the chemicals in your laundry detergent, dryer sheets and the like are created to linger and do not get washed off in the laundry. Which means ultimately you are putting the chemicals on your body as well.

I literally cringe thinking about it. So let’s first chat about some of the hidden harms in your laundry detergent, then I will provide y’all with some healthy recommendations that can be find on Thrive Market, Amazon, Target, etc.

Chemicals lingering in YOUR laundry

WHY WHY WHY. WHY can we not trust the brands we are using? Who has time to research EACH AND EVERY product in their house. That’s why I’m here to shed a little light and help guide you.

First things first, why look at the ingredients on the label? Why not keep using the status quo of household products?

Because we are getting SICK. This generation is getting sicker and sicker. Nearly half of ALL AMERICANS will develop cancer in their life. The same statistic is true for chronic conditions in Americans. (source via The Organic Pepper).  This is a recent increase and the World Health Organization expects that statistic to DOUBLE by 2030.

And I don’t even want to hear the typical response – OH EVERYTHING CAUSES DISEASE OR CANCER. Not true. There are alternatives available to each and everyone of us. Furthermore, why wouldn’t you strive to eliminate the toxins in your life or at least minimize them for you and YOUR CHILDREN. I could literally go on and on regarding this topic but let’s just start with the chemicals in your laundry.

Some chemicals to watch out for include: Artificial fragrances, Ethyl acetate, Chlorine, 2-Butoxyethanol, Diethanolamine, Petroleum distillates and Quaternium-15. (source via The Organic Pepper). It’s a shame but brands aren’t required to disclose their full ingredient list as they are protected under the law via trade secrets. Sure makes it seem like their business is more important then our health, doesn’t it?

Separate and apart (I don’t even want to think of the consequence of these collectively), these chemicals cause respiratory issues, cancer, liver and kidney damage, BIRTH DEFECTS, hormone disruption, reproductive problems and the list goes on AND ON. Which brings me back to my original point, we Americans are getting sick. SICKER AND SICKER. And using a toxic laundry detergent alone can cause these effects, just imagine what other household products are cumulatively causing issues.

I believe it is our own personal responsibility to seek out healthier, nontoxic options to protect not only you, but your family, your friends, and spread the word to everyone you love. With that rant being out of my system now, here are some recommendations…

Laundry Detergent Recommendations

I am a fan of the laundry detergents by PLANET and ECOVER. I simply LOVE their products and the results. I literally don’t notice a difference in cleanliness when I use those brands. You can find them on Thrive Market, Amazon, or in your local Whole Foods.

The EWG (Environmental Working Group) has a list of safe laundry detergents along with a rating system HERE. Apps such as THINK DIRTY are also super helpful when you are out grocery shopping because all you have to do is scan the item and the app will tell you how toxic or nontoxic the product is.

DITCH THE DRYER SHEETS

Who needs dryer sheets when you can use WOOL DRYER BALLS. Yep, I am borderline obsessed with these bad boys. THEY ARE CHEMICAL FREE AND SYNTHETIC FABRIC SOFTENER FREE. I use the brand Molly’s Suds but there are tons of options out there. These balls naturally soften fabrics for up to THREE YEARS and only cost $16 for 3.  These dryer balls are compostable, antimicrobial, and are humanely sourced. You just through them in the dryer and let them do their thing as they safe for all products including comforters, clothing, towels, dedicates, etc.

Another cool tip for these dryer balls is if you are into essential oils, just use 2-3 drops of essential oil of your choice (I LOVE LAVENDER) onto each dryer ball and let it dry. Once the balls are dry, add them to your dryer load.

LINEN SPRAY

Pax Potions is one of my FAVORITE nontoxic companies. I love their serums and I am patiently awaiting their baby line! But they also have a linen spray that is so practical. It fights bacteria and brings about an amazing aroma.

It is made of lavender which has incredible antibacterial and antifungal properties, making this spray perfect for couches and blankets, bed linens, rugs, and even a spritz on your dog will leave him or her smelling better in an instant.

Okay, so have I convinced you to switch over to a nontoxic laundry detergent yet?

xo

Erica

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Picture via Pinterest.

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