It all began when I accidentally spilled liquid in my trunk.
During a trip back from Costco, carrying what I believed to be the best option for a bustling, grimy, and sweaty family of five, I opened my trunk only to discover that the bottle had leaked all over the rear of my vehicle.
What caught my attention was the transformation of the liquid from transparent to opaque simply by being contained.
At that moment, it struck me that the drastic color alteration was a consequence of a chemical process.
Upon researching the components on the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database, I learned that the “Free Clear,” touted as the top choice by dermatologists, contained substances linked to potential risks of cancer, reproductive issues, developmental impacts, allergies, and immunotoxicity.
A highly hazardous everyday item had infiltrated my household, prompting me to take action.
With a background in healthcare and extensive experience studying the toxins present in our daily surroundings and products for over a decade, I believed I was well-informed about healthy living practices, opting for organic items and seeking out “clean” labels.
However, following the eye-opening incident with my laundry detergent, I transitioned into a clean living advocate, dedicating my professional life to assisting individuals in selecting safer products. Witnessing numerous otherwise healthy individuals requiring medical attention, I was determined to safeguard my family and myself.
Given the scant regulations on harmful substances in personal and household goods, coupled with misleading labeling and inadequate scrutiny by purportedly “natural and healthy” marketplaces, I felt compelled to find a superior approach. This led me to establish my own clean living venture, [ppp1].
Beyond the detrimental impact on human health, toxic elements in consumer goods also pose a significant threat to the environment. Their manufacturing, distribution, usage, and disposal all contribute to the deterioration of our ozone layer, air and soil quality, and potable water supply.
In urban areas, the waste generated by industrial and consumer products poses a comparable risk to our ozone layer as fossil fuels.
However, there is hope! By implementing simple changes today, you can reduce the toxins in your immediate environment and join the chorus demanding that major chemical and consumer corporations prioritize sustainability.
Here are some key “Free Living” recommendations to kickstart your journey towards a cleaner and more eco-friendly lifestyle:
☑️ Make a Statement with Your Purchases
Companies primarily prioritize profits, and when consumer behavior shifts, they are compelled to adapt. Numerous eco-friendly, non-toxic alternatives offer similar or superior effectiveness and user experiences compared to their toxic counterparts. Let’s motivate prominent consumer brands to innovate responsibly!
🫧 Finish What You Have
Instead of discarding all your toxic products at once, consider the “last pump, last squirt” rule. As you use up the final drops of lotion or the last spritz of all-purpose cleaner, evaluate if you could replace them with cleaner alternatives. Refer back to tip No. 1!
❌ Steer Clear of “FPP” — Fragrance, Pesticides, and Plastics
These chemicals are associated with major contemporary health issues such as cancer, infertility due to endocrine disruption, autoimmune disorders from immunotoxicity, and more.
Opt for naturally scented or unscented products.
Choose local, in-season, and organic produce, especially when purchasing items commonly treated with pesticides.
Transition to reusable alternatives like stainless steel, glass, medical-grade silicone, or natural fibers such as bamboo, hemp, linen, or organic cotton.
In no time, avoiding the “FPP” trio will become second nature.
💚 Lastly, Be Kind to Yourself
Embarking on the path to clean living is a journey, and the consumer products industry doesn’t make it easy. Embracing one small change is a significant initial stride, and with time, these incremental adjustments will accumulate.
Dana Grinnell is the visionary behind Free Living Co., empowering individuals to lead healthier lives devoid of harmful substances.