Home, sweet home. There is no better way to
feel good than to feel at home. But if we really want to make our home a safe
refuge and let it become our safe place, then we must pay attention to some
aspects of the everyday life. Here are some little changes to keep a healthier
and toxic-free (or almost) home.
1. Say good-bye to chemical air fresheners
Manu conventional air fresheners are made
with compounds that can affect air quality and our wellness. In stead, choose
natura solutions like essential oils. You can add some drops in a diffuser and
make a homemade spray with water and lavender or eucalyptus essential oil, or
put bags filled with dry plants inside wardrobes and cupboards.
2. Open your windows daily
Opening your windows at least 10-15 minutes
daily is essential to renovate the air and remove the concentration of domestic
pollutants. Ventilation reduces humidity, prevents the apparition of mildew and
improves the mood.
3. Use plastics the bare minimum
Plastic is everywhere and many of its
components can migrate to food or the environment, specially with heat. So, in
stead of using plastic containers, use glass or stainless steel ones, and avoid
heating food in plastic containers. In the kitchen, choose kitchenware made of
wood, bamboo, or cooking-suitable silicon.
4. Plants are your allies!
A part from decorating, plants can purify
the air. Pothos, ficus or palm trees are some of the most effective. In
addition, taking care of them connects you to nature and provides calm.
5. Natural homeware is best
Bedsheets, curtains or towels made with
natural fibres like organic cotton, linen or bamboo breath more, are softer to
the skin and have no chemical treatments. In addition, these products usually
have a lower carbon footprint.
6. Organic food is a better option
Whenever you can, choose organic products.
They have no pesticides or toxics and have been produced sustainably and
respecting the natural cycles. They are better for your health and the
planet's.
7. Toxic-free cleaning
Conventional cleaning products may have
irritative and aggressive substances, that are not sustainable. Most of them
can be replaced by distilled white vinegar, baking soda, lemon or white clay,
all being natural ingredients with great disinfectant and degreasing.
These little changes can have a powerful
impact in your and your family’s wellness, by transforming you home into a
healthier place.
MAKE YOUR OWN SOAP
WHAT DO YOU NEED?
STEP BY STEP
In order to make your own soap, first
choose a well ventilated place. If exterior, then better. Protect yourself with
gloves and a mask.
In an adequate container (glass, stainless
steel or plastic), pour the water and, slowly, add the caustic soda, while
stirring to completely dissolve. Don’t forget to do it with caution, since the
mixture will begin to heat.
When all is dissolved and temperature
lowers, start adding the oil and keep stirring. Remember to filter the oil
before adding it to the mixture.
Once the mixture is homogenous, as if it
was a cream, put it in moulds. Slightly hit it on the table to remove the
bubbles.
Let it rest until it solidifies, at least
48 hours. Now, you can demould and cut it. To let it cure well, let the soap
rest for at least one month.
After that time, you’ll finally have your own soap ready to do the dishes, the laundry or use as a stain remover.
