Chronic Illness: 9 Household Products I Actually Use
Living with multiple chronic illness means I have to be extra careful with what products I use.
Not only am I concerned about forever chemicals and the impact they have for myself and my family - but because of my sensitivity to smells I am more selective.
I also have high histamine levels - smells and chemicals can trigger sneezing, troubled breathing, rashes and headaches.
I know right away if something is gonna affect me or not. And I will immediately stop using it.
And honestly the day after use is usually even worse, exhaustion, sore throat, itchy skin and a thick sinus headache.
Over the last few years I have worked to eliminate many products from use in my home and found replacements that will work with my body.
I have made a list of a few products here that I thought could help you - save time for you (and a chronic illness flare)
1. Dish Soap:
Mrs. Meyer’s - it actually cleans. Without harsh chemicals. it is biodegradable and plant derived. comes unscented or a couple of scents (I love the lavender scent).
2. All Purpose Cleaner:
Eco Max - multiple scents. It is actually tough on dirt without being chemical, I don’t feel like I can’t breathe when I am using it. And no lasting harsh smell afterwards. Scents are made from pure essential oils. Made in Canada.
3. Laundry detergent:
Lemon Aide - liquid detergent that is all natural, biodegradable and free of dyes and phosphates. I love that it is made from lemon and lavender essential oils. This effective and high performance detergent comes in a recyclable tetra pack - so you can get more loads from your bag. Product of Canada.
4. Laundry soda:
Nellie’s - this laundry soda - a powder that comes in a tin. It is comparable to the laundry powder that I used to use to get out tough dirt and stains (my partner is a contractor and his clothes get really dirty!) highly concentrated, hypoallergenic, and septic-safe powder detergent. It is eco-friendly, safe for your entire family and pets. Nellie’s has a number of products to use in your home. Canadian company.
5. Dryer sheets and dryer balls:
I have a love for dryer sheets and these were hard to give up. I found that Clean People has dryer sheets that actually work and aompletely plastic free packaging and are powered by 97% plant based ingredients, no phosphates, parabens, phthalates, chlorine bleach, artificial dyes, petroleum, ammonia. I also use wool dryer balls. I like this brand as well - especially like using them when I am doing any bed linens or towels.
6. All-in-one-soap:
Green Beaver - pure castile soap. This is 100% natural. Comes unscented and in scents. Made in Canada. This is best used when diluted 1:4 parts soap to water with a few drops (20 or so) of essential oils of your choice. Use a glass or ceramic reusable soap pump for hand washing. Instead of purchasing an unnatural hand soap, you can easily make this at home reducing waste and usually all natural products.
7. Essential oils:
Cedar & Co. I love this company that makes blends that I can use knowing that their ingredients are pure and safe. I use them in my diffusers, added to my hand soap mix or drop a few in my bath water. Lovely female owned business in Bancroft Ontario - made in Canada.
8. Dishwasher tabs:
Nellie’s - I especially like this brand. I find so many dishwasher tabs make my dishes smell like fake, strong scents that make me feel uncomfortable using them. These do a great job and are phosphate free and septic friendly. Made in Canada. Also you get many more many cubes for your money than other companies.
9. Soap bar:
Dove - original or sensitive. This basic soap bar is my go-to. I have one in every washroom and the kitchen, as I wash my hands a lot. It doesn’t dry my hands out or leave a scent that gives my a migraine. Sensitive and ph balanced. It goes everywhere with me.
Hope these household recommendations help you navigate life a little easier - and without a flare!
