How have artificial fragrances managed to slowly take over in so many places in our homes? As you learn about what they can mean for your health and wellness, you will want to start kicking them to the curb. Let's figure out just how to do this without getting overwhelmed and on a budget!
STINK!
I can't think of a simpler way to help show the depth and breadth of the simple word fragrance than to encourage you to watch the documentary STINK! It's free online and I've shown it as a community event where we drew almost 50 people to come and view it together. Pause this blog and go watch it:
Once you know the enemy by name, it's time to go to work and free your home and family from it's toxic hold.
To The Curb They Go
Artificial fragrances can be found in a wide range of household products, from cleaning supplies and candles to personal care items and air fresheners. While these products may make your home smell pleasant, they can also contain potentially harmful chemicals that can trigger allergies and other health issues.
One by one, it's time for them to go. Don't worry this will be journey and you can take as long as you need. If you're looking to slowly remove artificial fragrances from your home, here are a few tips to get started:
1. Start by identifying the products in your home that contain the word fragrance. #JustThatEasy These may include things like laundry detergent, fabric softener, dish soap, and air fresheners. Make a list of these items and prioritize which ones you want to replace first.
I HIGHLY encourage you to ditch dryer sheets ASAP if you are using them. Here under Ditch & Switch is a safe and excellent replacement that is inexpensive and so much safer for everyone involved!
2. Look for natural alternatives to your current products. There are many natural cleaning and personal care products on the market that use essential oils or other plant-based ingredients. These products are generally safer and healthier for both you and the environment.
My advice is one word to replace many of the things, and that is Thieves. I taught a whole class on it here. For cleaner especially, there is one ring to rule them all, and one cleaner that is just as amazing, that is the Thieves Household Cleaner. In one simple ditch and switch, you can replace all of the separate products you might already be using for your kitchen, bathroom, glass, oven, counters, workplace, etc. Talk about saving money!
3. Replace one product at a time. It can be overwhelming to try and overhaul all of your products at once, so try replacing just one product at a time. This way, you can focus on finding the best natural alternative for that product and gradually transition your entire home to more natural options. #YouGotThis #IKnowYouCanDoIt
4. Don't be afraid to experiment. There are many natural products available, so don't be afraid to try a few different things to find the ones that you like best.
In my ditch and switch journey, I found it most important to find BRANDS that I could trust, and then try out what they offered for the product that I needed. This can be a process for sure, and years of research took me to a company I now trust for hundreds of their products all throughout my home.
5. Keep an eye on the costs. You may be amazed to find how many natural products can be more inexpensive than their artificial counterparts. For instance, when you buy store bought cleaner bottles, they are most often just small amounts of concentrate pre-mixed with lots of water. Why not buy a natural cleaner concentrate and refill your bottles at home for a fraction of the cost per bottle? Less waste, easier, and better for the environment as well.
6. Consider other sources of fragrance in your home. In addition to household products, artificial fragrances can also be found in things like candles and scented home décor. Consider switching to an essential oil diffuser and opting for unscented home décor and products (think trash bags, laundry soaps, etc.).
I post all the time about the switch from candles to diffusers. Again, it's a one time purchase of a diffuser that matches your style, and then unlimited options for what to diffuse by season, mood, emotional needs, or to support your body in other ways.
By following these tips, you can slowly but surely remove artificial fragrances from your home and create a healthier, more natural environment for you and your family. I believe in you and am here to help in any way that I can.
Post below what you are going to switch our first or next! Need ideas or suggestions, comment those and we will help you out to find something amazing to use that is fragrance free.
Information courtesy of Echo Schneider
