Gesundes Wohnen leicht gemacht: 10 einfache Schritte für ein Zuhause ohne Schadstoffe

Are you concerned about the invisible toxins lurking in your home? I certainly was when I became a parent. That "fresh" smell after cleaning or unpacking new furniture? It's actually a cocktail of chemicals that could be harming your family's health.

We spend nearly 90% of our time indoors, where pollutant levels can be 2-5 times higher than outside. This is due to the use of harsh chemicals in synthetic cleaners, materials, and poor ventilation. Many of these substances – from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassed by furniture to hormone-disrupting chemicals in plastics – have been linked to health issues like asthma, allergies, and even cancer .

The good news is you can significantly improve your home’s health and can drastically reduce exposure to these harmful chemicals by making non-toxic swaps in key areas, benefiting your whole family, especially little ones who are extra-sensitive to toxins.

How do you remove toxins from your home?

Removing toxins from your home starts with identifying harmful ingredients and toxic chemicals in everyday items—everything from cleaning products and personal care items to cookware and furniture. Focus on simple swaps to reduce toxins room by room. For instance, try diy cleaning solutions made with baking soda, white vinegar, and a few drops of essential oils. Swap plastic containers for glass food storage to avoid chemical leaching. Opt for stainless steel pots and cast iron instead of non stick cookware with questionable non stick coatings. By tackling one area at a time, you’ll transform your entire house into a non toxic home that supports your family’s well being.

Below are my top 11 easy-to-follow swaps for a safer, healthier home—practical tips I’ve personally found make a huge difference.

Cleaning Products – Choose Natural Solutions

Did you know many cleaning supplies contain ammonia, chlorine, and phthalates that irritate your skin and lungs? Instead of dousing your home in these toxins and synthetic fragrances, switch to natural cleaning remedies with nontoxic ingredients. Simple items you already smell amazing and work wonders to cut grease and grime from your kitchen sink to your bathroom tub!

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Use vinegar and water (50/50) for windows and mirrors.

• Baking soda tackles tubs and sinks gently but effectively.

• Use DIY all purpose cleaner made with castile soap, white vinegar, and a few drops of essential oils like lemon or lavender.

• Swap toxic dish soap with eco friendly, fragrance free formulas

• For hand soap, select nontoxic products labeled “free & clear” of synthetic fragrances.

• Trusted natural brands: Branch Basics*, Dr. Bronner’s*, Sonett* , that avoid chlorine, artificial fragrance, and VOCs – look for products with the EPA Safer Choice label

The benefits of these non toxic lifestyle swaps include improved indoor air quality (no more chemical odors or headaches) and a safer environment for children and pets. Plus, DYI cleaning solutions are often budget-friendly – baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and castile soap can handle most household chores at a fraction of the cost!

Kitchenware – Safer Cookware and Food Storage

The safety of your kitchenware is vital for maintaining a healthy home environment. Recent scientific studies have highlighted potential health risks associated with toxic chemicals from certain cookware and food storage materials. Nonstick cookware and non stick pans with Teflon (PTFE) coatings can release PFAS “forever chemicals” at high heat, which are linked to cancers and hormone disruption. Aluminum cookware can leach metals if not coated.

Plastic containers, especially those made from polycarbonate (marked with recycling code #7), can leach chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) into food, particularly when heated . Even BPA-free plastics may release other concerning compounds over time.

Swap these out for inert, time-tested materials!

Non Toxic Swaps - Choose Non Toxic Cookware

• Opt for cast iron, stainless steel, or pure ceramic-coated pans (labeled PFAS-free).

• Stainless steel pots and cast iron skillets are healthier alternatives, and a cast iron pan can develop a natural nonstick layer over time.

• If you use an air fryer, look for one with a stainless steel or ceramic basket instead of traditional non stick coatings to avoid toxic fumes at high temperatures.

• For bakeware, choose glass containers or ceramic over non-stick sheets.

• Glass food storage or stainless steel containers instead of plastic for leftovers.

• For healthy food prep, consider using wooden spoons instead of plastic utensils to avoid microplastics.

• For babies, glass bottles with medical-grade silicone nipples are safest.

Additional Kitchenware Considerations:

• Cooking Utensils: Replace plastic cooking utensils, which can melt or shed microplastics, with wooden or silicone alternatives.

• Cutting Boards: Opt for bamboo or wooden cutting boards instead of plastic. Bamboo is naturally antimicrobial and avoids the issue of plastic shavings that can occur with plastic boards.

Personal Care Items – Gentle and Natural Products

We absorb many chemicals through our skin, so what you put on your body is as important as what you put in it. Conventional skincare, cosmetics, and hygiene products often contain a cocktail of problematic ingredients: parabens(preservatives that can mimic estrogen), phthalates (in synthetic fragrance, linked to hormone disruption), formaldehyde-releasing agents (preservatives like quaternium-15), triclosan (antibacterial in soaps, linked to hormone issues and antibiotic resistance), and sulfates like SLS (a harsh detergent) . These have been associated with everything from skin irritation to endocrine (hormone) disruption.

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Choose clearly labeled "paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, fragrance-free" products.

• Brands I trust: Weleda*, Primally Pure*, and 100% Pure*

• Easy DIY alternatives: homemade sugar scrubs or whipped coconut oil and shea butter moisturizers.

If you see vague “fragrance” on an ingredient list, that could hide dozens of chemicals (including phthalates) – instead, opt for products scented only with natural essential oils or go unscented . Use products with natural preservatives like vitamin E or rosemary extract instead of parabens .

For example, you can swap a conventional lotion containing parabens for one made with organic oils and preserved with vitamin E – same moisturizing benefit without the hormone hit.

Replace sulfate-heavy shampoos with ones using gentler plant-based surfactants (like coco-glucoside) to avoid scalp and skin irritation .

Choose an aluminum-free deodorant (many use baking soda or magnesium hydroxide to neutralize odor) to avoid the parabens and triclosan in many antiperspirants.

Laundry Detergents & Softeners – Gentle, Fragrance-Free Laundry Care

Your fresh laundry shouldn’t come with a side of toxins. Yet many conventional laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets deposit a layer of chemicals onto clothes. The biggest culprits are synthetic fragrances and harsh additives. That “spring breeze” scent in detergents and softeners is typically a mix of dozens of chemicals, including potential allergens and phthalates (which help scents last).

Studies have found that scented laundry products can emit hazardous air pollutants like acetaldehyde and even benzene when used. Fabric softeners often contain phthalates (for scent) and synthetic musks like galaxolide that accumulate in our bodies , as well as quaternary ammonium compounds that can cause skin irritation or asthma. Colored detergents may have artificial dyes (e.g. D&C violet #2) linked to cancer .

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Fragrance-free detergents (e.g., .Branch Basics, NaturOli, Molly's Suds)

• White vinegar instead of fabric softener (ry adding 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar )

• Wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets.

• DIY cleaning solutions for laundry powder (washing soda, baking soda, grated castile soap).

Look for detergents labeled “Free & Clear” – meaning no synthetic fragrance or dyes. You can even try soap nuts or DIY laundry powder (mixing washing soda, baking soda, and grated castile soap) as a natural detergent.

By making these swaps, you avoid exposing your family to the “mystery cocktail” of fragrance chemicals and irritants in typical laundry products . You’ll still get fresh, clean clothes. And an added bonus: natural laundry routines are often more eco-friendly (phosphate-free, biodegradable) and can extend the life of your fabrics by treating them more gently.

Home Fragrances & Air Quality – Free From Harmful Chemicals

Everyone wants a good-smelling home, but ironically, many air fresheners and scented candles pollute your indoor air. That “clean linen” spray or plug-in emits VOCs like acetone, chloroform, and limonene, and studies show air fresheners can produce formaldehyde and other carcinogens as they react in air .

A University of Washington study found that 5 out of 6 top-selling air fresheners emitted at least one chemical classified as toxic or hazardous – yet none of those were disclosed on the labels.

Scented candles made of paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct) release soot and compounds such as toluene and benzene when burned, which are linked to cancer and respiratory issues. They also often contain synthetic fragrance and sometimes metal in wicks. Over time, using these products can contribute to headaches, allergies, or irritation for many people.

Instead of chemical-laden sprays and paraffin candles, freshen your home the natural way.

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Ventilate daily by opening windows.

• Use essential oil diffusers for safe fragrance. A few drops of pure essential oils (like lavender, peppermint, or citrus) in a diffuser or nebulizer can scent a room with no synthetic chemicals.

• You can also create your own room spray with water + a bit of vodka + essential oils

• If you love candles, choose ones made from 100% soy wax, coconut wax, or beeswax with cotton wicks. These burn much cleaner – soy candles produce far less soot and toxins than paraffin , and beeswax candles even emit negative ions that can help neutralize pollutants. Just be sure any added fragrance in natural candles is from essential oils or plant-based sources. Many artisans make non-toxic candles (look for labels like phthalate-free, paraffin-free). Beeswax candles have a mild honey scent on their own and no additives.

Rather than masking odors, address them at the source. For example, baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors in carpets or the fridge – sprinkle it, let it sit, then vacuum or wipe up. Activated charcoal (in small bags or briquettes) can absorb smells and VOCs in the air.

Houseplants are often touted for air purification – while plants do absorb some VOCs like formaldehyde, you’d need a jungle of them to significantly clean a whole house . Still, a few hardy plants (snake plant, spider plant, pothos) can slightly improve air and add ambiance, just don’t rely on them alone.

For serious air cleaning, consider an air purifier with a HEPA filter (captures particles like dust, pollen) and an activated carbon filter (absorbs VOCs and odors). This can be especially helpful if you’re eliminating fragranced products and want to clear out residual odors or if you have allergies.

Also, avoid mothballs for closets (they contain the pesticides naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene which are harmful to breathe); instead protect clothes naturally with cedar blocks or lavender sachets to repel moths.

These swaps transformed our home's air—freshness without headaches or respiratory concerns.

Water Filtration – Clean Drinking and Bathing Water

Clean water is fundamental to health, yet tap water can contain a mix of contaminants. Since 2019, over 320 toxic substances have been detected in U.S. drinking water systems – including lead from old pipes, agricultural pesticides, industrial chemicals, and the now-infamous PFAS chemicals. These harsh chemicals are linked to cancer, developmental issues, and other serious health problems.

Municipal water is treated to remove microbes, typically with chlorine or chloramine, which leaves residues and can form byproducts like chloroform (a probable carcinogen). Filtering your water is an essential swap for a healthier home, both for the water you drink and the water you shower in.

While we don’t drink shower water, hot showers can cause chlorine and other chemicals to vaporize, and your skin can absorb substances too. Showering in chlorinated water can expose you to inhaling chloroform and other byproducts – one study suggested shower inhalation might contribute significantly to chloroform exposure in homes .

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Reverse osmosis (RO) systems effectively purify drinking water. At minimum, use a filter with activated carbon, which is effective at reducing chlorine, disinfection byproducts, and many organic chemicals.

• Quality NSF-certified pitcher filters as affordable alternatives.

• The Environmental Working Group’s water database can tell you what’s in your local tap and suggest filter types .

• Showerhead filters that contains carbon or KDF media reduce chlorine exposure (and some can reduce other impurities).

Additionally, if you have an infant and use tap water to mix formula, filtering is critical – for instance, the American Dental Association even recommends using low-fluoride water for babies to avoid fluorosis .

Overall, the water swap is about purity: by taking control of water quality at the tap, you remove the last line of pollutants that municipal treatment and building pipes might leave behind.

Furniture & Home Materials – Safe Choices, Low VOC

Your furniture and home finishes (paint, flooring, etc.) might be quietly off-gassing chemicals into your home’s air. New furniture (especially if it’s made from pressed wood/particleboard or synthetic foam) often releases formaldehyde and other VOCs – that “new furniture smell” is actually chemical off-gassing .

Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause headaches, throat irritation, and asthma attacks. It’s commonly used in the glues and resins for plywood, MDF, and furniture upholstery. One article notes formaldehyde is “used extensively in modern furniture materials” like MDF and adhesives .

Over time the emissions taper off, but it can take months or years for a piece to fully off-gas. Additionally, sofas and chairs have historically been treated with flame-retardant chemicals (like PBDEs or newer replacements) in their foam to meet fire safety laws. These chemicals can migrate into dust and have been linked to hormone disruption and neurological effects. Paints, varnishes, and flooring adhesives are another source of VOCs (toluene, xylene, etc.), which contribute to indoor air pollution.

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Solid wood furniture or low-VOC certified options (GreenGuard Gold, CARB Phase 2 compliant).

• Zero-VOC paints for home decor.

When buying new furniture or remodeling, look for products labeled low-VOC or VOC-free. For wood furniture, the best choice is solid wood (e.g. solid hardwood tables, dressers) with non-toxic finishes. Solid wood pieces (or metal, or glass furniture) generally emit far fewer chemicals than pressed-wood products.

If you do buy engineered wood, choose those that meet strict formaldehyde standards – e.g., labeled CARB Phase 2 compliant or TSCA Title VI compliant. Some companies use NAF (no-added-formaldehyde) resins or ULEF (ultra-low emitting formaldehyde) – those are good keywords to watch for

. Also, look for furniture and materials with GreenGuard Gold certification, which means they have been tested for chemical emissions and certified to emit very low levels of VOCs .

Choosing natural materials pays off: e.g., a couch made with a solid wood frame, natural latex or CertiPUR-certified foam (low VOC), and organic cotton or linen upholstery will release far fewer toxins than a conventional couch made with particleboard frame and chemical-treated foam.

If replacing furniture isn’t an option immediately, you can reduce emissions from what you have: ensure good ventilation (especially when furniture is new – open windows, use fans), and consider using VOC-absorbing plants or activated charcoal around the area.

There are even sealant products you can paint onto furniture or plywood to lock in formaldehyde (these can be useful for things like the interior of particleboard cabinets – essentially creating a barrier so they off-gas less into the room).

For paints and finishes in the home, opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints (widely available now from major brands). Conventional paints and polyurethane varnishes can off-gas for weeks; low-VOC paints have minimal smell and health impact, making it safer to paint without evacuating the house.

If you install new carpet, look for “green label” low-emission carpet and air it out extensively, or choose area rugs made of wool or cotton instead of wall-to-wall synthetics.

By swapping to furniture and materials with low or no VOC content, you reduce the risk of headaches, allergies, or more serious health effects from chronic VOC exposure . This is especially important for kids – their smaller bodies and developing systems make them more vulnerable to fumes.

A low-toxicity home (often called a “green” or healthy home) might include, for instance, a dining table made of reclaimed wood and finished with beeswax oil, a sofa from a sustainable brand that avoids flame retardants, organic cotton curtains instead of PVC blinds, and VOC-free paint in all the rooms. Each of those choices contributes to cleaner air and a safer haven.

And an often-overlooked bonus: natural furniture and materials can be higher quality and more durable, since you’re often choosing solid craftsmanship over cheap composite materials. So you’re investing in pieces that last, which is both economically and environmentally beneficial.

Mattresses & Bedding – Healthier Sleep

We spend about one-third of our lives in bed, so your mattress and bedding should be toxin-free, it is crucial. Traditional mattresses can be a major source of chemical exposure: many are made with polyurethane foam (which can emit VOCs, sometimes called a “foam smell” or chemical odor) and are treated with flame retardant chemicals to meet flammability regulations .

Older mattresses often had PBDE flame retardants (now banned for toxicity) and newer ones might contain chemicalslike antimony trioxide (a flame retardant linked to cancer) or fiberglass fire barriers .

These substances can leach out: fiberglass shards from some mattress covers have caused household contamination, and chemical flame retardants can migrate into your bedroom dust.

Additionally, mattresses with vinyl covers (common in crib mattresses or waterproof protectors) can off-gas phthalatesor PVC chemicals that may affect development.

Bedding can also be an issue: wrinkle-resistant sheets are treated with formaldehyde (as discussed above), and some cheap textiles contain residues of dyes or finishes that could irritate skin.

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Organic mattresses made with latex, cotton, or wool, free from flame retardants and VOCs.

• Organic or Oeko-Tex certified sheets and pillows.

When it’s time for a new mattress, seek out organic or natural material mattresses. These use components like natural latex rubber (from rubber tree sap) instead of polyurethane foam, organic cotton or wool batting instead of polyester, and avoid chemical flame retardants by design. Wool is a natural flame retardant, so many organic mattresses use a wool layer to meet fire codes without adding chemicals.

Look for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for the cotton/wool and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) for latex – these ensure the materials are truly organic and also restrict harmful additives.

Another certification to look for is CertiPUR-US for foam; CertiPUR-US certified foams are at least made with lower VOC emissions and without certain toxic flame retardants or heavy metals.

For example, an EWG-verified mattress or a GOTS-certified organic cotton futon will have 95%+ organic content, no added flame retardants, and very low VOC levels. Several brands specialize in non-toxic mattresses (such as Naturepedic, Avocado, etc.), offering options from crib size to king.

If a fully organic mattress is out of budget, even opting for a “hybrid” mattress with a pocket-coil spring core and a CertiPUR-US foam comfort layer will reduce some foam volume and often have less off-gassing than an all-foam bed. Always open a new mattress in a well-ventilated area and let it air out for a few days if possible.

All these swaps lead to a cooler, cleaner, and more comfortable night’s rest without your body being a sponge for industrial chemicals overnight.

Baby & Children's Products – Safer Alternatives

Babies and children are especially vulnerable to toxins, making non-toxic swaps in their gear and toys crucial. Historically, baby products contained harmful chemicals, such as BPA (bisphenol A) in older plastic bottles and phthalates in soft vinyl toys, both linked to hormonal and developmental issues. Flame retardants, previously common in pajamas and still used in car seats and crib mattresses, are another area of concern.

Non Toxic Swaps:

• Swap plastic bottles for glass ones with silicone sleeves—these are non-toxic and durable. Stainless steel bottles with silicone nipples are another safe, unbreakable option.

• For teethers, opt for silicone or natural rubber from reputable brands.

• Replace plastic toddler cups and plates with stainless steel, tempered glass.

• Wooden toys with non-toxic finishes and medical-grade silicone options. Avoid vinyl bath toys; instead, select PVC-free or silicone alternatives. Organic cotton or Oeko-Tex-certified stuffed animals are ideal.

• Choose natural-material toys like wooden or sustainably sourced rubberwood, finished with non-toxic paints.

• Choose chlorine-free diapers (unbleached or oxygen-bleached) without fragrances, phthalates, or dyes. For wipes, fragrance-free or reusable cloth wipes with water are the safest choices

• Snug-fitting cotton pajamas for children avoid flame retardant treatments

• Select BPA-free and PVC-free products for strollers, high chairs, and play mats. Opt for PE-covered play mats or, even better, organic cotton mats or blankets to avoid foam off-gassing.

By making these non-toxic swaps, you create a cleaner, safer environment for your child. This approach reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, lowers the risk of developmental issues and allergies, and provides peace of mind.

Simplifying with fewer, high-quality, non-toxic products can also reduce clutter and encourage creative play—a wonderful bonus of embracing a toxin-free lifestyle.

© Sophie Kröher

Clothing & Fabrics – Natural and Safe

The clothes we wear can be a hidden source of chemical exposure. Conventional cotton, one of the most pesticide-intensive crops, often leaves residues in finished garments. Additionally, textiles frequently undergo chemical treatments like formaldehyde resins for wrinkle resistance, perfluorinated chemicals (PFAS) for stain or water resistance, flame retardants, and potentially harmful dyes.

A 2022 analysis found 75% of stain- or water-resistant textiles tested contained PFAS chemicals . PFAS on clothing(like waterproof jackets) can rub off on your hands and gradually wear off into your environment.

Non Toxic Swaps

• Choose organic or untreated natural fiber clothing when possible. Organic cotton ensures no synthetic pesticides or harsh chemicals were used in production.

• If organic isn’t available, look for Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification, confirming the clothing is tested for harmful substances such as formaldehyde, azo dyes, and nickel.

• Bamboo viscose (from reputable brands), hemp, and linen are other eco-friendly fabrics worth considering.

Marketing Terms to Avoid

Avoid clothing labeled "antibacterial" or "odor-fighting," as these often contain antimicrobial chemicals like silver nanoparticles or triclosan, unnecessary for daily wear and harmful to the environment. Similarly, avoid "stain-resistant" or "water-repellent" fabrics unless explicitly labeled PFAS-free, as many such fabrics still contain these harmful chemicals. Opt instead for clothing from brands using safer alternatives like silicone or polyurethane coatings for water resistance.

Wash Before Wear

Always wash new clothing before first use to remove surface chemicals, excess dye, and finishing agents. Using fragrance-free detergents and adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle helps eliminate residues, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.

Flame Retardants and Children’s Sleepwear

Children’s sleepwear (above size 9 months in the U.S.) is required to be flame-resistant or snug-fitting. Opt for snug-fitting cotton pajamas labeled as "wear snug-fitting, not flame resistant," as these do not contain flame retardants. Avoid loose-fitting, flame-resistant polyester pajamas, which might contain alternative flame retardant chemicals. Be cautious with furniture upholstery and curtains labeled as flame-retardant; consider untreated replacements or organic cotton slipcovers to minimize exposure.

Dry Cleaning

Traditional dry cleaning uses perchloroethylene (perc), a probable carcinogen and VOC. Safer alternatives include "wet cleaning" or CO2 cleaning services, which avoid harmful chemicals. If you must use traditional dry cleaning, air out clothes outdoors before bringing them indoors.

By selecting organic or minimally-treated fabrics, you reduce chemical exposure and skin irritation. Even small changes—such as switching underwear, bedsheets, and kids’ pajamas—can significantly decrease your family’s contact with harmful substances.

Over time, you'll build a wardrobe of comfortable, stylish, and safer clothing, beneficial to both your health and the environment.

Key Takeaways

• Identify & Replace: Look for harmful ingredients in cleaning products, personal care, and home goods, then swap them for healthier alternatives (e.g., non toxic dish soap, fragrance free laundry detergent, cast iron or stainless steel cookware).

• Filter Air & Water: Use HEPA air purifiers, ventilate daily, and invest in filtered water (RO or carbon) to remove harmful chemicals like chlorine byproducts and PFAS.

• Go Natural: Simple swaps (like baking soda, white vinegar, and a few drops of essential oils) can replace harsh chemicals. Look for nontoxic ingredients in all purpose cleaner, hand soap, and dish soap.

• Choose Safer Materials: Opt for solid wood or GreenGuard Gold furniture, organic mattresses, low-VOC paints, and bpa free or glass containers. Avoid non stick cookware and traditional candles made with paraffin wax.

• Think Long-Term: Switching to a non toxic or non toxic living mindset improves your family’s well being over time. Tackle your entire house in steps, focusing on one room at a time.

Making these non toxic swaps step by step transformed my family’s health and how I feel about our non toxic home. Each small change significantly improves air quality, reduces chemical leaching, and supports overall well being.

Remember, you don’t have to do everything at once. Choose one or two areas to start, and gradually you’ll create a safer, healthier space for your entire family. Investing in non toxic living now reaps long-term benefits for happiness and well-being.