How Healthy Is Your House?

When we think about “health,” we usually focus on what we eat or how often we exercise. But what about the place where we spend most of our time?

Your home can either support your health, or quietly work against it. The good news? You don’t need to throw everything out or live toxin free overnight. Small, intentional swaps can make a big difference over time.

1. Plastic Food Containers: Convenience vs Health

Plastic food containers are common in most kitchens, but not all plastics are created equal. When heated, scratched, or aged, some plastics can leach chemicals into food, especially when used for leftovers or reheating.

Healthier habits to try:

• Swap plastic containers for glass or stainless steel, especially for hot foods.

• Avoid microwaving food in plastic.

• If you do use plastic, choose BPA free and replace containers once they’re scratched or cloudy

This isn’t about fear, it’s about reducing daily exposure where you can.

2. Plastic Chopping Boards: The Hidden Microplastic Issue

Plastic chopping boards are easy to clean and widely used, but each time you cut on them, tiny plastic particles can be released into your food, especially as the board ages and develops grooves.

Healthier alternatives:

• Wood or bamboo chopping boards (naturally antibacterial when properly cared for).

• Keep separate boards for meat and vegetables.

• Replace boards once deep grooves appear.

Simple swap, long term benefit.

3. Cleaning Products: Clean Home, Hidden Chemicals

A fresh smelling home often feels healthy, but many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that can irritate the skin, disrupt hormones, and affect indoor air quality.

Healthier cleaning habits:

• Choose plant based or low tox cleaners.

• Avoid heavy fragrances and antibacterial sprays where possible.

• Simple options like vinegar, bicarb soda, and lemon can handle most everyday cleaning.

  
  

Clean doesn’t need to mean chemically harsh.

4. Candles: Creating Calm Without the Toxins

Candles are often used for relaxation, but many mainstream candles are made from paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, which can release toxins when burned.

Healthier candle choices:

• Look for soy, beeswax, or coconut wax candles.

• Choose candles scented with essential oils, not synthetic fragrances.

• Keep rooms well ventilated when burning candles.

  
  

You still get the calming vibe, without compromising air quality.

5. Washing Detergents: What’s Touching Your Skin Matters

Laundry detergents don’t just clean your clothes, they sit against your skin all day. Many contain fragrances, dyes, and chemicals that can irritate skin and contribute to chemical load in the body.

Healthier laundry swaps:

• Use fragrance free or low tox detergents.

• Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets.

• Opt for powdered or concentrated formulas to reduce waste

  
  

Your skin (and nervous system) will thank you.

6. The Benefits of Choosing Organic Foods

Organic food isn’t about being “perfect” or elite, it’s about reducing exposure to pesticides and supporting nutrient dense food where possible.

Benefits of organic choices:

• Lower pesticide exposure

• Often higher antioxidant content

• Better for soil health and the environment

  
  

If buying all organic isn’t realistic, focus on swapping key items first (think fruits and vegetables you eat most often).

Progress Over Perfection

A healthy home isn’t about eliminating every toxin, it’s about awareness and intention. You don’t need to do everything at once.

Start with:

• One kitchen swap

• One cleaning product change

• One food upgrade

  
  

Just like fitness, small habits done consistently create powerful results.

So ask yourself: Is my home supporting my health or is it time for a few upgrades?

Your house should be a place that helps you feel stronger, calmer, and healthier every day.