Our home should be a refuge—a place to rest, recharge, and feel safe. Yet many everyday products we bring into our houses introduce chemicals that can undermine that sense of wellbeing. Research shows the average household contains dozens of known toxic chemicals from cleaning products, personal care items, and other common sources.
Products used for cleaning kitchens and bathrooms, or applied to our skin and hair, often contain ingredients linked to asthma, hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and other health concerns. Some chemicals are associated with long-term risks such as cancer, and others can affect developing brains.
A study from George Washington University found dozens of toxic chemicals present in ordinary house dust. If those substances are in our dust, they can accumulate over time in our living spaces and potentially our bodies. That’s a good reminder to clean regularly, but more importantly it highlights the value of reducing sources of toxic chemicals in the first place.
While the scope of the problem can feel overwhelming, there are practical steps you can take right away to make your home healthier. Replacing chemical-heavy everyday products with safer, plant-based or homemade alternatives is an effective and affordable strategy. Start small—replace one product at a time—and build from there.
Over the coming weeks I’ll share more DIY cleaning recipes and the changes we’ve made in our home. For now, here’s a very simple, natural daily shower spray that helps prevent soap scum and keeps the shower fresher without harsh chemicals.
All you need for a daily shower spray that will keep soap scum away
- 1/2 cup vodka or distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup distilled water
- 10 drops peppermint or another preferred essential oil
Combine the ingredients in a glass spray bottle, shake to blend, and lightly mist your shower after each use. The solution helps reduce soap scum buildup and leaves a fresh scent. There is no need to rinse or wipe it off—just spray and let it air dry.
Notes and sourcing
Essential oils vary in quality; if you choose to use them, select pure, therapeutic-grade oils from a reputable source. Use a glass or high-quality plastic spray bottle to avoid reactions with oils or vinegar. If you prefer not to use essential oils, the vinegar-and-water mixture alone is effective for daily maintenance.
This recipe is adapted from a popular cleaning resource and is an easy first step toward reducing chemical exposure in your home. Small changes like this, repeated consistently, can make a meaningful difference in creating a healthier, less toxic living environment.
Want more simple swaps? Try replacing one household product each week with a gentler alternative, and look for DIY recipes for cleaners, laundry, and personal care to further reduce chemicals at home.