Embark on a journey towards improved health with our comprehensive product guide
We have a character flaw in which we’re only able to promote products we believe in. We think they call this affliction “integrity” ?? That aside, we really wanted to share a list of products with you that we have procurred over thousands of hours of research and meticulous personal testing. We listed all of our top items, some we are able to get an affiliate comission with the company, others not. However, comission or not, you are seeing our absolute top picks and items we use in every day life. First and foremost we want to help you achieve your best health. If you do choose an item we’re not affiliated with, and you like it, perhaps you’ll be back to try other suggestions or share the website with friends and family. Good is always reciprocated.
Our focus is to spotlight reliable products in multiple budget ranges that meet our very high standards of being non toxic. You might be surprised by the hidden risks found in common items – from your clothes, your frying pan, to even your drinking water. By minimizing exposure to many harmful chemicals, you can noticeably improve your overall well-being.
Without further ado please check out all the ideas to refresh your house / lifestyle below.
Much of our health starts in the kitchen, let's make that our first stop
Water purification
Understanding the importance of clean water is the first step towards achieving good health. The water we consume should be free from contaminants, which include harmful substances such as endocrine disruptors, lead, and a variety of other pollutants. It is therefore essential to filter water for the well-being of individuals and families, particularly given the amount of harmful chemicals present in tap water.
A reverse osmosis water filter, like AquaTru, uses a three-stage filtering process. Water is pressurized and driven through a series of semi-permeable membranes, each engineered to trap and eliminate different impurities such as salts, lead, and bacteria. The result? Clean, safe, and healthier drinking water, free from an array of harmful contaminants.
Drinking clean water is integral for maintaining health, including the functioning of your digestive and immune systems. Therefore, securing a clean water source is a necessity. Concerns about reverse osmosis removing all minerals from water are valid. However, we believe it’s far safer to remove everything, contaminants and minerals alike, for the sake of purity. If you find yourself lacking in specific minerals, consider finding a whole food source or a high quality supplement to fulfill your needs. This way, you can ensure that your body gets the necessary nutrients without the worry of ingesting unwanted disruptors and pollutants.
We recommend the aquatru countertop reverse osmosis filters. Preferably the base model without wifi or alkalinity – for cost savings and reducing wifi devices. The glass carafe version is most appealing to us. The base model uses Tritan plastic which should be safe. Still, you may remedy any concerns of plastic by transferring freshly filtered water into a new glass vessel if you choose the plastic model.
Lead/Cadmium free dinnerware
Who doesn’t adore colorful dishes and engaging patterns? Yet, have you ever wondered where the color went when it faded from the plate? These captivating colors and patterns are often derived from lead and cadmium, elements best avoided for our well being. Lead may cause neurological effects, kidney damage, cardiovascular issues, and reproductive problems. Cadium is known for kidney damage, bone damage, cancer, lung damage, and cardiovascular disease. You’ll find a creative / decorative use for your soon to be retired decorative dishes.
Opt for pure white or clear glass from trusted brands such as Corelle, Libbey, and Anchor Hocking. These manufacturers often market their wares as free from cadmium and lead. Despite the simpler palette, you can still host sophisticated and delightful dinners with their elegant products.
Clean Caffeine
If you enjoy savoring a warm cup of tea or coffee, consider enhancing your experience with the use of stainless steel or glass for brewing and drinking. Stainless steel, admired for its robustness and high heat retention, helps maintain your beverage’s optimal temperature while preserving its flavor integrity. Simultaneously, using glass – a non-reactive material – ensures that no unwanted flavors or potentially harmful substances leach into your drinks, thus keeping the taste pure and the health quotient high. Enjoying your hot beverages from stainless steel or glass isn’t just about the taste and temperature; it’s also a smart move for your health and well-being, making these choices ideal for every conscious consumer.
We are no fan of plastic coffee makers. In addition to the plastic interiors they filter your beverage through a paper filter (which was likely bleached and may contain trace amounts of chlorine) or sometime a combination of plastic and metal mesh. A french press might have to be the next present to yourself. Glass interior, washable stainless mesh filter, and it makes great coffee!! in 3 minutes.
Conscious Cookware
If you’re looking to upgrade your cookware and want something that’s really good for your health, we highly recommend All-Clad Stainless steel and Xtrema ceramic cookware.
Stainless steel is great because it’s super durable and heats up fast and evenly. You won’t have to worry about any chemical coatings that you find on non-stick pans. Stainless will not leach anything into your food, so your meals stay clean and safe. The price of stainless is very reasonable for a set that may last you a lifetime.
Then there’s Xtrema. A premier choice for ceramic options, 100% ceramic construction. Not only does it provide superior heat distribution and versatility, but it’s also completely free from lead, cadmium, and other toxic metals. So you’re getting a healthier cooking experience all round. Definitely worth checking out if you’re considering some kitchen upgrades!
“Knowing that it would likely last me forever, I did buy a higher end All-Clad copper core pan. I cook 99% of my meals at home, every one of them delicious and free of nonstick chemicals. I have even taken this pan on excursions halfway across the world! (Do put it in a checked bag, some carriers do not allow pans in the cabin). Any stainless cookware should do, but I am glad I treated myself to a top quality pan. I used to spend $70 per 6 months on frying pans but the All-Clad has lasted me 4 years thus far, has easily paid for itself and continues to work as if it was new. The Xtrema is exceptional for baking but can be a little slow to heat up on the stove for that reason I prefer their pots and bakeware.” -Chris
On the go
Choosing to store your food and water in glass, stainless steel, and platinum silicone containers is a health-conscious decision you won’t regret. Here’s why:
Glass Containers: Glass is non-porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb smells or flavors from your food. It doesn’t react with the food stored in it, ensuring your food remains free of any chemicals. Plus, its heat resistance makes it safe for use in ovens and microwaves.
Stainless Steel Containers: Renowned for its durability, stainless steel is an excellent choice for food storage. It’s resistant to rust, staining, and corrosion. Like glass, it doesn’t leach chemicals into your food, making it a safer option.
Platinum Silicone Containers: Silicone, especially high-quality platinum silicone, is flexible, unbreakable, and lightweight, making it great for on-the-go meals. It’s heat-resistant and doesn’t harbor bacteria or mold, ensuring your food stays clean. Importantly, it’s free from BPA, phthalates, and other harmful substances, making it a healthier choice for food storage.
By using these options, you’re not only avoiding BPA but also other potentially harmful substances that can leach into your food from plastic containers. Your meals stay safe, and you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re making a healthier choice for you and your family.
Pure prep, chemical free kitchen gadgets
Just when you thought we were done, we have more tips for turning your kitchen into a sanctuary of health. From bamboo cooking utensils to Stasher bags for food storage, we’ve considered the larger aspects of kitchen health. Yet, it’s important not to overlook the smaller details. Believe it or not, ice cubes from a stainless steel tray do taste better, making you wonder about all the years you used the plastic ones. It’s these small changes that can truly elevate your health-focused kitchen.
Here are some final considerations for curating a health-optimized kitchen:
Cutting Boards: Replace plastic boards with bamboo or solid wood variants.
Utensils: Opt for wooden, bamboo, or stainless steel utensils instead of plastic ones.
Ice Cube Trays: Swap out plastic trays for stainless steel ones to improve the taste of your cold drinks..
Storage Containers: Choose glass or Stasher silicone storage containers rather than plastic ones.
Aluminum Foil: Consider using reusable silicone baking mats or parchment paper.
Straws: Switch from plastic to stainless steel, bamboo, or glass straws.
Mixing Bowls: Swap plastic mixing bowls with stainless steel or glass ones.
Cleaning Products: Ditch chemical-laden cleaners for natural products or homemade solutions using vinegar or baking soda.
Dish Sponges: Choose natural fiber sponges or scrub brushes instead of synthetic ones.
Plastic Wrap: Consider beeswax wraps or silicone food covers as alternatives.
Baking Sheets: Use stainless steel baking sheets or ones lined with a silicone baking mat instead of non-stick ones.
Toaster Ovens: Look for toaster ovens with stainless steel interiors instead of those with Teflon coating.
Muffin Tins: Consider using silicone or uncoated stainless steel muffin tins rather than non-stick ones.
It’s not necessary to replace these items all at once. Even small changes can make a big difference in reducing your exposure to potential toxins in your kitchen
Clothing and Fabrics
Organic cotton offers several potential health benefits compared to synthetic fabrics. As it’s grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, it reduces your skin’s exposure to these toxins, which can lead to irritation and allergies in some people. Its natural, breathable qualities make it gentle on the skin, reducing instances of rashes, itching, and other discomfort often associated with synthetic materials. Organic cotton is also hypoallergenic, making it a safer choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies. In addition, wearing organic cotton contributes to healthier air, water, and soil, and supports ethical, sustainable farming practices, thereby promoting not just individual health, but also the well-being of our planet.
Merino Wool is a natural fiber grown by Merino sheep, often used in high performance outdoor clothing. This natural wonder offers exceptional thermal regulation, keeping you warm or cool as needed. Merino wool offers superior moisture-wicking ability, you’ll stay dry and fresh, thanks to the inherent odor-resistant qualities. Merino wool fibers are finer than traditional wool, and feel softer against the skin. This durable fabric retains its shape, making it a long-lasting investment. Best of all, it’s an environmentally friendly choice as it’s biodegradable, and when disposed of will return vital nutrients back to the earth.
Certainly, there are other natural fibers such as organic hemp, linen, silk, and bamboo that meet our health-conscious criteria. However, these too can be chemically processed, so it’s important to seek out specific brands that promote organic or chemical-free products.t!
The clothing industry has been inundated with synthetic fabrics like Polyester, Nylon, Acrylic, and Spandex, all of which are derived from petroleum-based products. This increases the demand for fossil fuels and these fabrics shed microplastics when washed, contributing to the pollution of the world’s oceans. They can also trigger allergic reactions, skin irritation, rashes, dryness, and even disrupt your hormones.
Moreover, it’s not just synthetic clothing that can pose health risks. Overly tight clothing, regardless of its material, can also be detrimental to your health. This can lead to reduced circulation, digestive problems, and nerve compression. Pair tight clothing with a non-breathable synthetic fabric, and you’re risking damp, sweaty environments that can result in yeast infections, skin irritation, rashes, and acne. Therefore, it’s crucial to make conscious choices about not just the material, but also the fit of your clothes.
Organic Outfits
Pact is a revolutionary clothing brand that has made a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical production. Their entire clothing line is made from 100% organic cotton, ensuring that every item is free of harmful chemicals and pesticides often associated with conventional cotton production. This results in products that are kinder on your skin and healthier for the planet. Moreover, Pact is Fair Trade Certified™, which means they uphold high standards to protect the rights and well-being of their workers. By purchasing from Pact, not only do you get to enjoy supremely soft and comfortable clothing, but you also contribute to a fair and ethical supply chain, making a positive impact on the world. This makes Pact an excellent choice for those seeking quality, non-toxic, and socially responsible clothing. You might be surprised how affordable organic cotton can be.
Black Diamond is a company that is synonymous with outdoor adventure and quality gear. Their clothing line is designed with a unique blend of function, style, and durability to withstand extreme outdoor conditions. From rock climbing to skiing, their apparel is created to provide superior performance while maintaining comfort and aesthetic appeal. You’ll have to dig a little for their organic cotton offerings but they’re worth finding. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking gear that offers reliability and stands up to rigorous use, Black Diamond’s apparel is one of the best.
“My wardrobe consists almost entirely of Pact, Black Diamond and some Icebreaker Merino. I have been asked if I was a sponsored athlete for black diamond! These brands all have excellent options for the adventurer/athlete. I love my organic cotton clothes; they’re comfortable, soft, warm, and well-fitting. Pact doesn’t have visible brand logos so their clothing is appropriate for any situation, it looks very classy. If nothing else, I would strongly urge you to consider wearing Pact’s organic cotton underwear – wearing synthetic fabrics on your reproductive organs is especially worrisome. As you upgrade your wardrobe I would recommend replacing the layers most in contact with your skin first and worrying about outerwear like sweaters last.” -Chris
Bedroom
Dreams Delivered
Sleep is the golden time when our body performs its best work – healing and preparing for the challenges of the new day. A dark, quiet, cool room sets the stage for this rejuvenating sleep. It would be a travesty to disturb this restorative process by inhaling Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) throughout the night. Regrettably, many mattresses and pillows are often made of materials that emit these harmful chemicals. But worry not! We offer options that have eliminated these concerns, ensuring you experience the best sleep of your life, free from harmful pollutants.
Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, are a group of chemicals that can be released as gases from certain types of mattresses, pillows, and bedding materials. These substances off-gas over time from materials like synthetic foams and certain types of fire retardants, posing potential health risks, such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even more serious concerns like damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system.
We chose birch as our mattress because Birch holds many impressive certifications such as:
Global Oragnic Textile Standard: This certification indicates that Birch products have been independently verified to be organic and ethically produced from beginning to end. All cotton in their bedding and sleep products is Fair Trade Certified and they only partner with Fair Trade factories, which encourage sustainable cotton production and provide economic benefits to their workers. Fair Trade works with small-scale cotton farmers, helps build stronger farmer-owned organizations, and makes positive impacts to creating job opportunities for women and bettering gender equity around the world.
Certified For Child-Safe Low Emissions: All Birch sleep products are GREENGUARD Gold Certified by UL Environment, one of the leading environmental health agencies in the world. This means Birch products have been tested for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pollutants, phthalates, and formaldehyde. The Gold level certification offers even stricter regulations and means our products are considered safe for sensitive individuals, including children and the elderly
Laboratory Tested For Emissions: Birch Talalay latex has been tested by an international organization to certify no emissions or VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are present. This includes testing for organic pollutants, heavy metals, pesticides, and phthalates among other substances. This certification is not about merely meeting minimum requirements, but rather exceeding high level material as well as manufacturing standards
It’s one of those beds that you can’t wait to hop into at night and drift off into a deep sleep. Always waking rested and ready for another exciting day. Good sleep is a must for optimal health -Chris
Just as we carefully choose our clothing to ensure comfort and well-being during our waking hours, it is equally essential to prioritize the fabrics that accompany us during those precious 8 hours of rest. Pact’s commitment to chemical-free and irritant-free materials ensures that your time spent in bed is a truly rejuvenating experience. They offer options for both the hot or cold sleeper and have everything from sheet sets, to pillow cases, and even duvet covers.
Bath
Organic Cleanliness
Organic cotton towels are an excellent choice for those seeking health-conscious and environmentally friendly alternatives. When we take a hot bath or shower, our pores open up, making our skin more permeable. Using an organic cotton towel minimizes the risk of absorption of any potential harmful substances, such as microplastics or chemicals, which may be present in synthetic fabric towels. Organic cotton is grown without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers, so these towels are less likely to trigger skin irritation or allergies, making them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin. In addition to their health benefits, organic cotton towels are kinder to the environment. The farming of organic cotton uses less water, avoids harmful pesticides, and promotes more balanced ecosystems. Moreover, organic cotton fibers are typically softer and more durable, providing a comfortable and long-lasting option for your bathroom. Choosing organic cotton towels not only supports your personal health and wellbeing but also contributes to a more sustainable and ethical textile industry.
“This would mostly be a treat to yourself. I would prioritize any fabrics that you are in contact with for hours at a time such as clothes and bedding before considering towels. Pact makes some really nice towels though!” -Chris
Barefoot Bliss
Experiencing the world through bare feet is a sensation that resonates with our primal instincts, reminding us of our deep connection with the natural world. However, after decades of confining our feet to thick-soled shoes, transitioning back to our natural state isn’t an overnight process. Barefoot shoes, also known as minimalist shoes, can help bridge this gap, offering a practical way to reconnect with our roots while navigating the modern world.
Barefoot shoes excel at facilitating this return to nature in multiple ways. They promote natural foot motion by allowing your feet to move as they were designed to, strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet and lower legs. They improve your balance and body awareness, enhancing your interaction with the ground and the world around you. By promoting a forefoot or midfoot strike, barefoot shoes can reduce the risk of impact-related injuries commonly associated with a heel-first technique encouraged by traditional shoes. Without the structural support found in conventional footwear, these minimalist shoes push your foot muscles to work harder, strengthening them over time.
Additionally, your feet are the foundation for your entire body. They can lead to improved posture and alignment, benefiting not just your feet, but your back, neck, and shoulders as well. In many conventional shoes, especially those with narrow toe boxes, the toes are often cramped together, which can inhibit their natural spread and movement. In contrast, barefoot shoes usually have wider toe boxes that allow the toes to spread out naturally as you step, which can provide a more comfortable and balanced base for standing and moving. So, in essence, both the foot as a whole and the toes specifically are able to spread and move more naturally in barefoot shoes, contributing to the increased comfort.
Wearing shoes with elevated heels over a prolonged period can lead to tightness and shortening in several muscles and tendons. Here are a few notable ones:
Gastrocnemius and Soleus: These are the two major muscles that make up the calves. When your heel is elevated, these muscles don’t have to stretch as much as they would in flat shoes, which can lead to them shortening and tightening over time.
Achilles Tendon: This is the large tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel. It’s closely related to the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles and can become shortened and tight from wearing high heels.
Hip Flexors: These muscles are located on the front of the hip. When you wear high heels, your body can lean forward slightly, causing the hips to tilt and potentially leading to a tightening of the hip flexors.
Lower Back Muscles: The change in posture from wearing high heels can also affect the muscles in your lower back. It can cause the lower back to arch more than usual, which might lead to tension and tightness in these muscles.
Transitioning to barefoot shoes might take time, but the benefits to health and wellbeing are truly worth the effort.
“I was never able to squat to depth, I thought my leg length was the issue. What I came to discover over time is that wearing a shoe with an elevated heel had shortened my achilles and calves, making my ankles very tight. Thanks to the flat sole of the barefoot shoes my ankles now seem bulletproof from any types of injury and have regained full range of motion.” – Chris
Health Gadgets
Sauna
Infrared saunas, unlike traditional saunas, use infrared light to heat your body directly. This unique approach brings about a multitude of health benefits. For starters, the deep penetration of infrared heat can induce a more vigorous sweat, facilitating the elimination of toxins from your body. This detoxification process can lead to clearer, more radiant skin and boost overall well-being. Infrared saunas are also known to enhance circulation, promoting better cardiovascular health. The increased blood flow can aid in muscle recovery, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. In addition, the warmth from the infrared sauna can induce relaxation and stress relief by promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Some research even suggests potential weight loss benefits due to the increased heart rate and metabolic activity caused by the heat. Furthermore, infrared saunas operate at a lower temperature than traditional saunas, which can make the experience more comfortable for some people, potentially enabling them to stay in the sauna longer and derive more benefits. As with any wellness practice, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning a new health regimen, but for many, infrared saunas can offer a pleasurable and beneficial addition to their wellness routine.
“I had mold toxicity and I found consistent sauna use to be beneficial in lowering my mycotoxin levels. Sweating is great for overall detox and even aiding weightloss. This also helped prepare me for living in Central America for a few months, however if you live in that kind of heat/humidity already, purchasing a sauna may be redundant.” -Chris
Air purifier
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) purifiers play a critical role in creating a healthier indoor environment. Their primary benefit lies in their ability to filter out small particles from the air, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander, which can trigger allergies or exacerbate respiratory conditions. HEPA filters can trap 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in size, providing significant relief for allergy sufferers and enhancing overall indoor air quality. In addition, these air purifiers can also help to remove harmful chemicals and pollutants from indoor air, contributing to a healthier living or working space. By reducing airborne pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, they can help protect against illness and disease. Furthermore, for people living in areas with poor outdoor air quality or during seasons with high pollen counts, HEPA air purifiers can make a noticeable difference by providing cleaner, fresher air indoors. This leads to a healthier and more comfortable living environment, promoting overall wellbeing. However, it’s important to note that while HEPA air purifiers can greatly improve air quality, they should be used as a complement to, not a replacement for, other health-promoting practices such as maintaining good ventilation and reducing sources of indoor pollution.
this was a lifesaver for me when I had serious chemical sensitivities …. to be continued
Blue light blocking
Blue light blocking glasses have been growing in popularity as a practical solution to mitigate the effects of excessive screen time, particularly in today’s digitally dominated lifestyle. These glasses, which come in a variety of stylish designs, are specifically engineered to filter out harmful blue light emitted from devices such as computers, smartphones, and TVs. This blue light has been identified as a leading cause of sleep disturbances, as it can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. By blocking this light, the glasses can help to maintain your natural circadian rhythm, promoting deeper sleep and reducing daytime fatigue. In addition, these glasses can also alleviate digital eye strain, a common issue in our screen-centric world, resulting in fewer headaches and better focus. The benefits extend beyond just better sleep and less eye strain – they also include improved mood, higher productivity, and overall enhanced wellbeing. By managing our exposure to this “junk light,” we can work smarter and feel our best, despite living in a world surrounded by screens. It’s a simple but effective step in promoting eye health and overall wellness in the digital age.
EMF reduction
While I personally may not notice any symptoms caused by EMFs, I continue to make deliberate decisions to reduce my exposure. There are numerous devices on the market aimed at EMF reduction, but the most effective strategy is always going to be avoidance. Understanding what generates EMFs, their intensity, and how far they reach is key for effective avoidance; therefore, an EMF meter, like the TRIFIELD pictured below, becomes an invaluable tool.
It’s possible to take several proactive steps to minimize exposure, such as turning off the breaker in your bedroom when you sleep and keeping your phone outside the room. Another strategy is positioning your bed away from the wall, as there are often outlets or wires running close by. Moving the bed as little as two feet away can dramatically reduce the EMF reading almost to zero.
Regarding personal gadgets, the disparity in EMF exposure between cordless Bluetooth headphones and a wired set is considerable. Here, it might be worth going back to basics and ditching the ear pods for a traditional wired set. For those seeking advanced protection, air tube headphones are a solid option.
Lastly, Vortex Bioshield stickers offer an added layer of peace of mind. These can be applied to your phone, laptop, and other devices to help harmonize the electromagnetic frequencies with our body’s natural rhythms. I utilize these stickers on multiple devices for that extra assurance.
