NON-TOXIC SWAPS
17-01-2026Toxins are part of modern life. They are inside, outside, in the air, in materials, in products we use every day. Trying to avoid everything is neither realistic nor necessary. The body is built to deal with exposure.
For me, non-toxic living is not about elimination, but reduction. Choosing a few simple swaps that lower the load, without adding stress or rules. Below are some changes that feel easy and realistic to maintain.
LEAF RAZOR
Most disposable razors are made largely from plastic. The cartridges need frequent replacing, and many come with lubricating strips that contain synthetic ingredients.
The leaf razor is fully stainless steel. Only the blades need to be replaced. There is no plastic, no coating, no added shaving soap. Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and made to last. It is a small swap, but one that removes both waste and unnecessary additives.
DIATOMACEOUS EARTH BATH MAT
Regular bath mats stay damp for hours, sometimes days. Over time, they start to smell or grow mould.
Diatomaceous earth is a mineral formed from fossilised algae. It absorbs moisture almost instantly and dries just as quickly. Because it does not stay wet, it is naturally resistant to bacteria and mould.
WOODEN KITCHEN UTENSILS
Plastic kitchen tools are often exposed to heat. Over time, they wear down and can release microplastics into food.
Wood is stable, does not melt, and has natural antibacterial properties. Wooden spoons, spatulas, and cutting boards feel simple and functional. They last well when cared for and remove one more source of daily plastic contact.
STAINLESS STEEL PANS
Non-stick coatings often contain PFAS compounds. These are difficult to break down and tend to accumulate over time.
Stainless steel takes a bit of practice. Once you understand preheating, it becomes very easy to cook with. It handles high heat well and does not rely on coatings.
CLEANING SUPPLIES
Many cleaning products aim for sterility. Strong scents, harsh chemicals, and aggressive formulas.
Most of the time, that level of cleaning is unnecessary. Simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, citric acid, and a few drops of essential oil clean effectively without overwhelming the indoor environment. The goal is not to eliminate all microbes, but to keep things balanced.
NATURAL FIBRES
Synthetic fabrics are everywhere. They shed microplastics and sit directly on the skin for hours.
Natural fibres tend to breathe better and age more gracefully. Organic cotton, linen, hemp, wool, and silk are materials I naturally gravitate towards. For sportswear, merino wool or organic cotton works surprisingly well, without the need for synthetic finishes.
DRINKING BOTTLES
Plastic bottles are used repeatedly and often exposed to heat, friction, and sunlight.
A stainless steel bottle is durable, inert, and easy to carry. Because water is consumed throughout the day, this swap reduces constant, low-level plastic exposure.
GLASS STORAGE CONTAINERS
Plastic containers scratch over time and can leach compounds, especially when heated.
Glass does not absorb smells, colours, or residues. Using glass for leftovers, storage, and reheating keeps food simple and unchanged by its container.
BEESWAX WRAPS
Beeswax wraps replace plastic wrap and aluminium foil. They are made from cotton coated in beeswax.
With warmth, they soften and mould around food or bowls. They can be washed, reused, and eventually composted.
BOTTOM LINE
Non-toxic living does not have to be extreme. It is about noticing patterns and making small adjustments where they make sense.
A few consistent choices, repeated daily, matter more than perfect avoidance.