Bath & Body products are not the only culprits for chemical exposure and sensitivities. The products we use to clean with, to fertilize or weed our gardens, for pest control. Even air fresheners can cause problems. By making your own household products, you can eliminate or at least minimize your chemical exposure. You may also have sensitivities to environmental contaminants as well such as mold and chemical toxicities.
Pets
Pets are very sensitive to chemicals and fragrances. NEVER use a product designed for humans on pets. They have a very different biochemical process and what may be safe for humans can be highly toxic to our furry friends. Even essential oils should not be used on pets, and their exposure to aromatherapy use should be limited. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
See the Prevention pages for more information on pest prevention and control with pets.
Household Cleaners
There are so many household cleaners, fresheners, sprays, and otherwise these days it could make your head spin. I think back to my childhood and remember how my Grandmother didn’t need an entire cabinet or pantry dedicated to these supplies. There was little she couldn’t do with vinegar or baking soda and a little elbow grease.
Nonetheless, we have grown to love our Windex, Clorox Wipes, and whatever magical concoction we can find that eats soap scum off of the shower and tub. We rarely think of what inhaling those products is doing to us, never mind if you don’t use gloves and it absorbs into your skin through your hands. Many people have severe reactions and chemical sensitivities to household cleaning products.
Marketing has led us to believe that we need these products. The fact is that natural products tend to work better. Orange Oil and Lemon Oil are two of the best cleaners (and best smelling!) nature has to provide. Plus, most natural products don’t pollute our water and are bio-degradable.
You can always make your own cleaning products. It saves money, reduces garbage waste and pollution, and is a healthy alternative for the whole family. It can also be fun to teach your kids or grandkids how to make these. You can put them in creative bottles that can be re-used and decorate them. They might look so nice, you may want to display them in the window rather than hide them under the sink!
Outside/Yard
When I think of items outside of the home, I think of fertilizers, pesticides, bug repellent, and sunscreen. Sometimes there are swimming pools and hot tubs which are a whole set of other issues.
See The House & Yard Page for specifics on Fertilizers, Pesticides, Repellents, and Prevention Tips. Just like with cosmetics, “natural” isn’t always better, so read the ingredients and become educated on the products you use.
In regards to swimming pools and hot tubs, there really is no way to eliminate the use of water cleaners such as chlorine. Short of draining it after each use, you really do need this because it contains standing water. Hot tubs in particular are not the healthiest due to the growth of contagious bacteria, parasites, and fungus that can be passed from person to person and thrive in a warm, moist environment. Let’s put it this way, I wouldn’t spend the money to put in a pool or a hot tub if I didn’t already have one. Invest in a Jacuzzi tub in the bathroom instead. Go to a river or ocean to swim instead.
See an Allergist
If you have eliminated as much as possible on your own, are eating a healthy diet, and are still having sensitivities and allergies, go see an Allergist and get tested. This can at least help narrow down the causes of your sensitivities making it easier to recognize them and avoid exposure to them.
Your home is your castle, your fortress…your foundation.