When you first decide to live a cleaner, more non-toxic lifestyle, it can feel completely overwhelming. Between food labels, product ingredients, and greenwashing marketing, where do you even begin?
The truth is—you don’t have to overhaul everything at once. The key is to start simple and start where it counts.
At Clean Life Heids, I believe small, intentional swaps can lead to big changes in your health and home. So today, I’m sharing the 5 easiest clean living swaps that deliver the biggest impact—whether you’re a busy mom, a wellness beginner, or just tired of toxic overload.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Swap Scented Candles for a Diffuser with Essential Oils
Conventional candles often contain paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct), synthetic fragrances, and phthalates—all of which release indoor air pollutants when burned.
What to do instead:
Invest in a good-quality diffuser and use pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils. You’ll still get that cozy, clean scent—without the toxic load.
Bonus: Essential oils like lavender, lemon, and peppermint offer mood and immune system support.
2. Switch Plastic Food Storage to Glass or Silicone
Plastic containers can leach harmful chemicals like BPA, BPS, and phthalates—especially when microwaved or washed in hot water. These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors that may affect hormones, fertility, and even child development.
Easy upgrades:
- Use glass containers with snap lids for leftovers
- Try silicone bags for snacks and freezer storage (Stasher is a great brand!)
- Avoid microwaving anything in plastic
3. Trade Your Conventional Laundry Detergent for a Non-Toxic Option
Laundry detergent is one of the most toxic products in most homes. Conventional brands often contain synthetic fragrance, optical brighteners, and sulfates that sit on your clothes and touch your skin all day.
Clean swap ideas:
- Try detergent strips (like Earth Breeze or Tru Earth)
- Use clean brands like Molly’s Suds or Branch Basics
- Add white vinegar or baking soda for a budget-friendly boost
4. Swap Out Your Fragrance-Filled Hand Soap
We use hand soap multiple times a day, yet most conventional options are loaded with synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and skin-drying preservatives. These ingredients are tough on your skin and can contribute to long-term toxin buildup.
Cleaner options:
- Choose fragrance-free or essential oil-scented hand soaps
- Look for brands with simple, plant-based ingredient lists (like Pure Haven, Branch Basics, or Attitude)
- Bonus: Refillable glass soap dispensers reduce waste and look beautiful in your home
5. Upgrade Your Cookware—Start with Non-Stick Pans
Non-stick pans (especially older ones) often contain PFOA or PFAS—forever chemicals linked to hormone disruption, immune issues, and more. These chemicals can leach into your food when the pan is heated, scratched, or worn.
Better choices:
- Cast iron
- Stainless steel
- Ceramic-coated cookware like Caraway or GreenPan
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. If you’re just starting out on your clean living journey, focus on these high-impact swaps first. As you gain confidence (and clear out those old products), you’ll naturally want to keep going!
Clean Life Heids 
Leave a comment