🥦 Ditch Toxic Kitchen Products for a Healthier Home

One of my main focuses as of late has been eliminating my life of toxic home, health, and beauty products. It's a huge undertaking but with every change I have felt healthier. Our kitchens are an incredibly important place to start when it comes to eliminating toxic products because these harmful chemicals get into our food and our air. If you are feeling low energy and are always in need of more sick days, the first thing you should be looking into is what your body is ingesting. So let’s talk about how to swap your toxic kitchen products out for safer, cleaner options without breaking the bank. If theres a product you’re interested in purchasing click the photo to be taken to it's Amazon link. I do receive a small commission for any items purchased. Now let’s dive in!

🍳 1. Rethink Your Cookware

Teflon and non-stick pans might make cleanup easier, but many contain PFAS (“forever chemicals”) that can release toxins when overheated and when your pans are scratched which you will then ingest.

Better options:

• Cast iron skillets (they last forever and even add a little iron to your food!)

• Stainless steel pans for a non-toxic, durable option

Pro tip: If you’re new to stainless steel, preheat your pan and use a bit of oil or butter to keep food from sticking.

🧽 2. Ditch Chemical Cleaners

Many “fresh-smelling” sprays contain fragrances and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can irritate lungs and hormones.

Healthier swaps:

• DIY cleaner: Mix white vinegar, water, and a few drops of lemon or tea tree essential oil.

• Choose plant-based, fragrance-free brands like Branch Basics or Blueland.

🥤 3. Say Goodbye to Plastic Containers

Plastic containers can leach BPA and phthalates — especially when heated in the microwave or dishwasher. Many of us are guilty of heating up food in plastic containers in the microwave but it's time to look forward and do better for ourselves! Toss leftovers in the oven or in a pan to warm up for a few minutes so you can keep that great flavor.

Better storage options:

• Glass containers with bamboo or silicone lids

• Stainless steel water bottles and lunch boxes

• Glass jars or ceramic bowls with lids

🥣 4. Check Your Utensils

Old plastic or cheap cooking utensils can melt or break down over time. Swap them for bamboo, wood, or stainless steel versions. They’re eco-friendly, durable, and just look better on your counter.

☕ 5. Filter Your Water

Even if your tap water tastes fine, it can still carry chlorine, lead, and other contaminants. I recommend reverse osmosis water filters, there are plenty of affordable options out there these days! The one below is what I personally use!

🧡 6. Rethink Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil is a kitchen staple — it’s convenient for baking, grilling, and wrapping leftovers. But when heated, aluminum can leach into your food, especially when cooking with acidic ingredients like tomato sauce or lemon. Over time, excess aluminum exposure has been linked to potential health concerns, including effects on the nervous system.

Better options:

• Use unbleached parchment paper instead of foil for baking or lining pans.

• Try glass baking dishes or stainless steel pans for roasting.

• If you love using foil for storage, place a sheet of parchment paper between your food and the foil to reduce direct contact.

🪵 7. Swap Plastic Cutting Boards for Safer Alternatives

It’s easy to grab those colorful plastic cutting boards, but over time, knife marks can cause tiny plastic particles (microplastics) to flake off into your food. Not to mention, plastic surfaces can hold onto bacteria if not cleaned properly.

Better options:

• Choose bamboo or wood cutting boards — they’re naturally antimicrobial and much easier on your knives.

• For raw meat, designate one board specifically for that use and wash it immediately after with hot water and natural soap.

• To keep wooden boards in top shape, rub them with a little food-grade mineral oil every few weeks.

🧈 8. Be Mindful of Cooking Sprays and Seed Oils

Cooking sprays are convenient, but many contain propellants and additives that can release toxins when heated. Additionally, common seed oils like canola, soybean, and corn oil are highly processed and can oxidize easily under heat, which may lead to inflammation in the body over time.

Healthier swaps:

• Opt for a refillable oil spray bottle and fill it with avocado oil, olive oil, or coconut oil — all better choices for your health and the planet.

• Skip the aerosol cans entirely and use a small silicone brush or pour spout for portion control and even coating.

Choosing cleaner oils and natural application methods makes your meals not only taste better but also support your body’s wellness long-term

🧴 9. Choose a Healthier Dish Soap

It’s easy to overlook what’s in your dish soap, but since you use it daily — and on the very dishes your family eats from — it’s worth choosing carefully. Many conventional dish soaps contain synthetic fragrances, sulfates (like SLS), and harsh preservatives that can leave residue behind or irritate skin.

What to look for in a healthy dish soap:

• 🌿 Plant-based ingredients – derived from coconut, corn, or other natural sources

• 🚫 No synthetic fragrances – choose soaps scented with pure essential oils or labeled “fragrance-free”

• 🧼 Biodegradable formulas – safer for your home and the environment

• 💧 Free of SLS, SLES, and dyes – these can dry out hands and cause irritation

A few trusted clean brands: Better Life, Attitude, Puracy, and Ecover Zero — all gentle, effective, and widely available.

Pro tip: If you love DIY, you can even make your own dish soap with Castile soap, water, and a few drops of lemon or eucalyptus essential oil for a fresh, natural clean.

💡 Final Thoughts

A healthy home starts with small, mindful swaps. Ditching toxic kitchen products doesn’t have to be overwhelming — just replace things little by little as they wear out. You’ll notice not only a fresher-smelling kitchen but also peace of mind knowing your food and family are safer and healthier.