5 Swaps to Make Your Fall Cleaning Routine Non-Toxic

Cozy Season Shouldn’t Come with a Side of Chemicals

Fall is all about fresh starts. We’re deep-cleaning closets, washing windows, and prepping our homes for the coziest season of the year. But if you’re still using conventional cleaning products, you’re bringing a whole lot of toxins into your home—right when you’re spending more time indoors.

Let’s change that.

Here are 5 simple swaps to make your fall cleaning routine completely non-toxic.

1. Swap: All-Purpose Cleaner → DIY Vinegar Spray

Why? Most all-purpose cleaners contain synthetic fragrances, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals that can irritate your lungs and disrupt your hormones.

Make your own:

1 cup water
1 cup white vinegar
10 drops lemon essential oil
5 drops tea tree essential oil

Mix in a spray bottle and use on counters, sinks, and surfaces. It cuts through grease, disinfects, and leaves zero toxic residue.

2. Swap: Glass Cleaner → Vinegar + Newspaper

Why? Commercial glass cleaners often contain ammonia and synthetic dyes—both unnecessary and harmful.

Better option:
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray on windows and mirrors, then wipe with crumpled newspaper for a streak-free shine. (Yes, newspaper works better than paper towels. Trust me.)

3. Swap: Fabric Freshener → DIY Linen Spray

Why? Febreze and similar sprays are loaded with phthalates and artificial fragrance—endocrine disruptors you’re literally spraying onto your furniture and fabrics.

Make your own:

1 cup water
2 tbsp witch hazel
10 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Shake well and spritz on curtains, couches, and bedding for a fresh, clean scent.

4. Swap: Toilet Bowl Cleaner → Baking Soda + Castile Soap

Why? Conventional toilet cleaners contain bleach, hydrochloric acid, and other corrosive chemicals that are harsh on your lungs and skin.

Better option:
Sprinkle 1/2 cup baking soda into the toilet bowl. Add a few drops of liquid castile soap. Scrub with a toilet brush, let sit for 10 minutes, then flush. For tough stains, add a splash of white vinegar and let it fizz.

5. Swap: Air Freshener → Essential Oil Diffuser

Why? Plug-in air fresheners and aerosol sprays release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that pollute your indoor air and can trigger headaches, asthma, and hormone disruption.

Better option:
Use an essential oil diffuser with fall blends like:

Harvest Spice: cinnamon, clove, orange
Crisp Apple: green apple (if you have it), cinnamon, vanilla
Autumn Woods: cedarwood, pine, frankincense

Your home will smell amazing—without the toxic chemicals.

The Bottom Line

Cleaning your home shouldn’t compromise your health. These swaps are simple, affordable, and just as effective as their toxic counterparts.

Ready to make the switch? Your lungs, your skin, and your hormones will thank you. 🍂

Heidi

Clean Life Heids