Low cost, low effort, low tox living; A beginner’s guide to reducing toxic load

Australians are exposed to a plethora of toxic chemicals found in our food, clothing, homes and environments on a daily basis. More than 87,000 chemicals have been approved for commercial use since 1970 and only a small fraction of those have been tested and graded for their carcinogenic potential. Among those chemicals are endocrine disrupting chemicals which can interfere with hormone production and metabolism, and may contribute to disease manifestation. (Cohen)

With awareness around toxin exposure increasing, numerous solutions ranging from air purifiers to water filters are available to consumers wishing to decrease their toxic load. Unfortunately, the cost of such expensive items, organic produce and chemical-free cleaning products adds up quickly, making a toxin-free life feel out of reach for many, particularly with the cost of living rising.

The good news is, low-tox doesn’t have to break the bank. Many small and cost-effective changes can accumulate to big health improvements whilst still being effective.

Here are some suggestions for a cost-effective, low-tox life. Try implementing one change weekly for big positive health benefits over the long run.

When replenishing, choose fragrance free options of products which touch your skin.

For example:

Scented tissues –> unscented tissues

Scented body wash -> unscented body wash

Vinegar and baking soda cleanser

Vinegar and baking soda are cost effective yet powerful cleaning tools. Fill up a spray bottle with some water and vinegar, or use baking soda instead of toxic detergents and chemicals.

Take your shoes off indoors

Shoe soles are embedded with pesticides, pollutants, heavy metals and dirt which can contribute to indoor pollution. Adopt a barefoot policy inside the home.

Hang clothes, bedding, and cushions in the sun

Ditch the dry cleaners and hang soft furnishings out on a dry sunny day for about 4 hours. Sunlight can kill dust mites, mildew and bacteria, and gets rid of bad smells without the need for toxic chemicals.

House plants

Indoor plants naturally filter out pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. Plants are more economical (and better looking) when an air purifier is out of the budget.

Soak veggies in water and vinegar

Fruit and veg rinse can be a costly addition to the weekly spend. Instead, soak fruit and veg in a bath of water and white vinegar and give them a gentle scrub.

Ditch the candles and room sprays

Scented candles emit an array of toxic chemicals such as VOCs and artificial fragrances.

For a healthy smelling home, add some rosemary, lemon rind, or herbs from the garden to a boiling pot and let scent waft through your home. 

Reference:

Cohen, L., & Jefferies, A. (2019). Environmental exposures and cancer: using the precautionary principle. Ecancermedicalscience, 13, ed91. https://doi.org/10.3332/ecancer.2019.ed91