How to Detox Your Home from Plastic: Simple Swaps for a Healthier Life
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog!
If you're just starting your journey toward a non-toxic home, I highly recommend reading Part 1 of this series—“The Hidden Dangers of Plastic”—where I explain how plastics like BPA, VOCs, and PFAS can disrupt hormones, damage organs, and even affect your immune system. That post lays the foundation for understanding why these swaps matter so much. Once you're informed, these small, intentional changes will feel more meaningful—and more urgent.
Reducing plastic exposure doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few intentional changes, you can dramatically reduce your toxic load—and protect your health.
This post walks you through realistic, sustainable swaps I’ve made in my own home—with some affiliate favorites that we love and actually use.
1. Ditch Plastic Food Storage
Swap: Plastic containers → Glasslock containers or stainless steel lunch boxes
Why: Plastic leaches chemicals—especially when heated.
My kids now use PlanetBox lunchboxes. They’re easy to clean and last forever. They are a bit pricey but in the long term I’m saving money vs replacing plastic bento boxes each year.
2. Upgrade Your Cookware
Swap: Non-stick pans → GreenPan ceramic, cast iron, or stainless steel
Why: Most non-stick coatings contain PFAS, even the "PFOA-free" ones.
Pro tip: Never use metal utensils on ceramic. I use wooden spoons or silicone to keep the coatings intact.
Check out my articles on Heavy Metals and how they affect your health.
3. Switch to Natural Textiles
Swap: Polyester/nylon → Organic cotton, linen, or wool
I started with bedding and pajamas. These organic cotton sheets are buttery soft and chemical-free.
Check out my article on health benefits of natural fibers to learn more.
4. Filter Your Water
Swap: Tap or plastic-filter pitchers → Clearly Filtered system
Why: Microplastics, chlorine, and even heavy metals can contaminate water. These filters eliminate them without removing vital minerals.
Check out my article on What’s Really in Your Water for more helpful details.
5. Purify Your Air
Swap: VOC-heavy sprays and candles → Austin Air or AirDoctor purifiers + natural cleaning
We use Levoit Air Purifier, it meets our price point and doesn’t release ozone.
I replaced candles with essential oil diffusers and use Branch Basics for cleaning—it’s refillable and safe for kids.
6. Safer Personal Care
Swap: Plastic-heavy products → Glass-packaged or biodegradable personal care
Favorites: Earth Mama Organics lotion, Attitude Living shampoos, and even natural toothpaste without microbeads.
7. Rethink Your Household Items
Swap: Plastic rugs, shower curtains → Cotton, wool, hemp
If you’re on a budget, start small—like replacing plastic cutting boards with bamboo or wood options.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Reducing plastic isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Each swap makes your home safer, your air cleaner, and your body healthier.
Pin this article, share with a friend, and revisit it as you make your way toward a more plastic-free lifestyle.