Top 10 Tips for Cleaner Living

I grew up in the 80s - the age of processed everything, disposable everything, and artificial everything. I honestly didn't think too much about it until I became a mom. My eyes were opened. I became acutely aware of the food I was putting in my body and the cleaning products I used around the house.  If I wouldn't feed XYZ to my kid, why should I be eating it? If these hardcore household cleaners aren't good for baby, should I be using them at all? Anyone have the same experience??? So I changed.

​Over the years I've adopted new habits to fuel my choice to live "cleaner" and here are my top 10 tips.

1. Ditch bottled water, drink filtered tap water instead. Filtered tap water is actually better than bottled water.
2. Go BPA-Free, avoid plastics marked with #3 or #7. I hope by now everyone is aware of the perils of BPA. Silicone is a great option or, even better, switch to glass. 
3. Eat organic for the fruits & veggies you eat most often. Check out the 2019 Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 List before you go shopping.
4. Switch to non-toxic household cleaners or make your own. You can clean almost anything with baking soda, vinegar, or lemon. And hello? So much more affordable.
5. Reduce dust: Vacuum regularly (2x a week is optimal). Switch to natural fiber carpeting or lose it all together. 
6. Take of your shoes at the front door (think about where you've been & what you may be tracking into your home). It's okay to ask your guests to do the same!
7. Open your windows. Let the fresh air in! And get a house plant while you’re at it. Plants are Mother Nature's air purifiers. 
8. Forget the pesticides. Focus on prevention instead. The honey bees will thank you! 
9. Avoid anti-bacterial soap. Nothing works better than good ole soap & water. Remember to scrub for at least 20 seconds.
10. Switch to safer skin-care & cosmetics. Start with products that absorb into the skin. The Environmental Working Group's is a great resource.

Comment below with your "clean" living tips. Share the wealth!