The holiday season is filled with warmth and joy, but it can also bring exposure to hidden toxins. From synthetic decorations and fragrances to meals and gifts, many traditional holiday festivities contain chemicals that can affect our health. Here are some ways to keep toxins at bay, create a healthier holiday environment, and embrace more natural and eco-friendly alternatives.

Decorating Tips for a Toxin-Free Holiday

Choose Natural Decorations

• Opt for holiday decorations made from organic materials like wood, fabric, or live greenery instead of plastic, which often contains BPA and phthalates. Natural decorations add rustic charm and avoid synthetic additives commonly found in store-bought items.
• For a DIY touch, consider making your wreaths or garlands from pine branches, holly, or dried citrus. These not only look festive but also bring natural scents into your home without synthetic fragrances.

Skip Artificial Fragrances 

• Avoid candles, sprays, and air fresheners with synthetic fragrances, which may contain VOCs and phthalates that can trigger respiratory issues and headaches. Instead, simmer a potpourri of cinnamon, cloves, orange slices, and fresh greenery on the stove. This natural method gives a cozy scent to your home and promotes healthier air quality.
• Bringing in fresh pine branches or eucalyptus also adds a seasonal scent while helping to purify the air naturally.

Avoid Plastic Lights and Electronics with Flame Retardants

• Many holiday lights and electronic decorations contain PVC and flame retardants, which release toxins over time. Look for LED lights, which are energy-efficient and reduce chemical exposure, and avoid overloading outlets to reduce the risk of overheating.

Choose Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for Holiday Prep

• Traditional cleaners often contain chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and artificial fragrances that can affect indoor air quality. Opt for plant-based, non-toxic cleaning products, like Humble Suds, or make your own DIY cleaners using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These toxin-free options keep your space safe and fresh for guests.

Celebrating Safely: Non-Toxic Tips for Holiday Gatherings

Opt for Fresh, Organic, and Local Ingredients

• When preparing your holiday meals, choose organic or locally-sourced ingredients to reduce exposure to pesticides, hormones, and additives. The EWG’s Dirty Dozen list is a helpful guide to identify produce with the most pesticides—consider buying these items organic or washing them thoroughly if organic is not an option.
• For canned foods, look for BPA-free packaging or choose fresh or frozen ingredients whenever possible to limit exposure to harmful chemicals.

Use Real Plates, Silverware, and Cloth Napkins

• Skip disposable dinnerware and use real plates, silverware, and cloth napkins to reduce waste and exposure to plastic. This small change elevates your table setting while contributing to a cleaner environment.

Practice Safe Food Storage and Cooking

• Avoid using plastic containers, cling wrap, and aluminum foil for storing or reheating leftovers, as they can leach toxins into food. Instead, use glass or stainless steel containers and cover food with beeswax wraps. If you must use plastic, let hot food cool before transferring it to avoid heat-related leaching.

Keep Air Quality Healthy

• Air quality in homes during the winter has been found to be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, particularly in the winter when there is less airflow to the outdoors. Our heated homes during the winter trap dust, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), harmful gases and more. VOCs are harmful as they can cause damage to our central nervous system, kidneys, liver not to mention cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and more. Some are proven carcinogens.
• Scented candles, conventional cleaning products, offgassing furniture, carpet, new paints, among other items emit VOCs. To combat these, eliminate any of these items from your home and also open your doors and windows for a few minutes daily can help reduce levels.
• Also, be mindful when cooking with gas stoves. Use the exhaust fan when cooking and turn it on before turning on the stove. 

Make Thoughtful, Toxin-Free Gift Choices

• Many popular toys, cosmetics, and accessories may contain chemicals that affect both your family and the environment. Choose gifts made with non-toxic materials, like wooden toys or natural skincare products. Eco-friendly brands and experiential gifts (like classes or trips) also reduce waste and promote healthier, long-lasting memories.

Be Cautious with Holiday Clothing and Textiles

• Seasonal textiles like holiday sweaters, blankets, and pillows can contain flame retardants or chemical dyes. Look for organic cotton or wool clothing and wash new items before use to limit exposure to these chemicals.

FAQ: Reducing Toxin Exposure During the Holidays

1. What are the benefits of using natural decorations over synthetic ones? 

   Natural decorations are free from chemicals like BPA and phthalates often found in plastic. They add warmth and charm without compromising indoor air quality.

2. How can I naturally fragrance my home for the holidays? 

   Try simmering a potpourri with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, cloves, and greenery. This creates a cozy, inviting scent without artificial additives.

3. Why should I avoid canned foods during the holidays? 

   Canned foods may contain BPA, a chemical linked to health concerns. Choosing fresh or frozen ingredients helps limit exposure to BPA and other chemicals.

By incorporating these toxin-free alternatives, you can create a healthier, more sustainable holiday season. These small changes contribute to a safer, cleaner environment for you and your loved ones. Enjoy the festivities with peace of mind, knowing you’re making choices that benefit both your family and the planet! For more holiday wellness and eco-friendly tips, explore our blog and subscribe for updates.