8 Non Toxic Swaps to Make Today for Earth Day

Every Earth Day, we’re reminded to “do our part” to help this planet we call home. Even if you’re already sorting your recycling and carrying your reusable tote on the regular, there’s always room for a few thoughtful upgrades to your routine, and the best place to start is your own home.

This year, try making a few non-toxic swaps that are better for your health and the planet. These everyday switches aren’t just feel-good choices — they can help reduce plastic waste, reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, and streamline your home into a cleaner, greener space.

Whether you’re deep into low-tox living or just testing the waters, here are 7 simple non-toxic swaps to make today.

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A Spoonful of Plastic Makes the Memory Go Down

Researchers have found that upon autopsy, humans have, on average, a tablespoon’s worth of microplastics accumulating in their brains! They found almost twice as much in those who suffered from cognitive decline, like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Read more about that here.

While some of this is of our direct control, as much of it enters our body through the water we drink and the food we eat, we can make simple, non-toxic swaps at home to reduce the plastic that will accumulate in our bodies and on our planet.

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1. Swap: Plastic Dishwasher Packets → Blueland Dishwasher Tablets

For our first non-toxic swap, let’s start with dishes. Conventional dishwasher tablets are coated with a dissolvable plastic that can leave microplastics on your dishes and pollute our water system. And are often packed with synthetic dyes and fragrances. Enter Blueland Dishwasher Tablets—plastic-free, effective, and minimalist-approved, due to the aesthetic design of their forever tin.

These dry tablets are made of pressed powder and come in compostable paper packs. Not only do they clean greasy dishes with zero waste, but they also cut down on shipping emissions thanks to their lightweight design.

Why it matters:

• No plastic waste and less microplastic residue left on your dishes
• No synthetic fragrances
• Less water weight = lower carbon footprint

I recently swapped out the majority of our household cleaners for Blueland products after a recommendation from a friend and will review them after a few months.

There are many options for plastic-free dishwasher tablets, I just like the subscription option for Blueland because life is busy, and I like not having to think about purchasing toilet bowl cleaner. Also, Blueland products are free from preservatives, dyes, fragrances, and phosphates. EPA Safer Choice, Leaping Bunny Cruelty-Free, Vegan, B Corp Certified, Climate Neutral, USDA Bio-Preferred.

2. Swap: Single-Use Surface Sprays → Refillable Natural Cleaners

You probably already have a go-to all-purpose cleaner, but have you checked the label lately? Many contain formaldehyde releasers, phthalates, and artificial scents.

Brands like Blueland and Grove Co. offer refill tablets you mix with water in a reusable glass spray bottle. Or go DIY with white vinegar, castile soap, essential oils, and distilled water — it’s cheaper, gentler, and surprisingly powerful.

I usually make my own surface cleaner, but I am trying out Bluelands cleaning products to see how they compare.

This is probably the easiest non-toxic swap to make. I got three pretty glass bottles at TJ Maxx and used my trusty label maker to create labels for surface cleaner, glass cleaner, and fabric refresher.

Why it matters:

• Ditch hidden toxins
• Reduce plastic packaging
• Looks better on your countertop, honestly

3. Swap: Plastic Tupperware → Glass Food Storage

Storing food in plastic can cause small amounts of chemicals like BPA and other harmful chemicals to enter your food.

Glass containers are microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and won’t leach chemicals into your food, even after years of use, if they don’t break, which is the downside of glass containers. But we’ve only lost a few over the years due to the cracks, chips, and breaks.

Bonus points if you use glass jars for bulk dry goods like rice, lentils, or oats.

Why it matters:

• No microplastics in your leftovers
• Longer-lasting than plastic
• Looks better in a pantry or fridge

What is BPA and Why Should I Avoid It?

BPA (short for bisphenol A) is a chemical that’s been used for decades to harden plastics and line metal food cans. You’ll often find it in things like plastic food containers, water bottles, and canned goods. However, BPA can leach into your food and drinks, especially when heated — and it’s been linked to a laundry list of health issues, including hormone disruption, fertility problems, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

In short, it’s not something you want sneaking into your meals.
Swapping to BPA-free (or better yet, glass and stainless steel) storage options is a super simple way to cut down your exposure and make your kitchen a lot healthier, for you and the planet.

For all your non-toxic swaps, look for BPA-free products.

4. Swap: Nonstick Pans → Stainless Steel or Cast Iron

Nonstick cookware often contains PFAS, a class of “forever chemicals” linked to hormone disruption, liver damage, and more. While newer nonstick coatings claim to be safer, they still don’t break down in the environment.

Stainless steel or cast iron is a safer, non-toxic option. It may take a little learning curve, but it’s worth it. Cast iron even adds a little iron to your food (which is a bonus, especially for women and those on a plant-based diet).

Why it matters:

• No chemical coatings
• Lasts forever with proper care
• Safer for high-heat cooking

This is a hard one for me personally, as we were gifted a gorgeous ceramic-lined pot and pan set for our wedding, and the jury is still out their safety. Generally, ceramic pots and pans are said to be low-tox and not include PFAS, but if their coating is damaged, they might begin to leach other chemicals into food. When I upgrade next, I think I’ll opt for stainless steel, a tried and true non-toxic option.

6. Swap: Drugstore Face Wash → Natural and Refillable Cleanser

Skincare matters in the low-tox conversation, too. Skin care can contain all kinds of nasty ingredients, both for you and the planet.

My go-to non-toxic swap for face wash is the Youth to the People Superfood Facial Cleanser. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and made from nutrient-rich kale, spinach, and green tea. No sulfates, no parabens, no mystery ingredients. I have used this clean face wash for years and do not plan on changing, something that I, a habitual skincare product hopper, rarely do.

It’s simple, clean, and it leaves my mid-30s skin feeling clean and fresh, but not dried out! And also takes off my makeup better than most cleansers. I typically wear mascara, cat-eye eyeliner, powder foundation, and blush. I double cleanse with a small amount, and it takes off all my makeup like a charm.

It has also calmed down my red and sensitive skin and helps with my persistent but mild adult acne. Since switching to this, I have fewer breakouts and way less redness. My sensitive skin really loves a simple skincare approach. If you have similar skin, this might be great for you.

It also comes in a glass bottle that can be refilled and looks so cute in your bathroom.

You’re putting this stuff on your skin every day — make it count.

Why it matters:

• No animal testing
• Plant-based, gentle formula
• Glass packaging (recyclable and aesthetic)

7. Swap: Fragranced Body Wash → Castile Soap

Many commercial body washes contain synthetic fragrances and hormone-disrupting chemicals. If you want to reduce your exposure to those disruptive chemicals, try castile soap.

What is Castile Soap?

Castile soap is a completely plant-based soap made without synthetic ingredients, harsh detergents, or animal fats. Traditionally, it was made from olive oil, but today you’ll often find versions that also use coconut, hemp, or other natural oils. What makes Castile soap such a great addition to your non-toxic toolkit is its versatility — it’s concentrated, biodegradable, and gentle enough to use on your skin and around your home.

You can use it as a body wash, hand soap, dish soap, even as a base for DIY cleaners — all without worrying about chemical residues or environmental impact. One bottle can replace half a dozen conventional products (and cut way down on plastic waste), making it a go-to choice if you’re serious about living a cleaner, more sustainable lifestyle.

Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap is vegan, cruelty-free free biodegradable, and made with organic oils. It comes in a variety of natural scents (like peppermint or lavender, my personal favorites) and can be used for everything from body wash to household cleaning.

Why it matters:

• One product, many uses = less waste
• No synthetic ingredients
• Gentle on skin and septic systems

8. Swap: Aluminum-Based Deodorant → Natural Deodorant

Aluminum in antiperspirants has been linked to breast cancer and classified as a potential carcinogen, and while studies are ongoing, many prefer to err on the side of caution.

Look for a natural deodorant that skips aluminum, parabens, and synthetic fragrance. Some favorites: Native, Arm & Hammer, and Salt and Stone. Just note: your body might need a short detox period to adjust and you might have to reapply on hot days.

I have found that with Salt and Stone, I do not need to reapply even in Northern California summer heat, which is unfortunately regularly in the triple digits. It’s a splurge for me, but worth it since it smells divine and works to keep odor at bay.

Why it matters:

• Avoids controversial ingredients
• Plant-based and cruelty-free options
• Smells great, minus the endocrine disruption

Optional Bonus Non-Toxic Swaps to Consider

Want to keep going? Here are more non-toxic, low-waste swaps that make everyday life feel a little better:

• Laundry detergent sheets or tablets instead of plastic jugs
  (Try: Earth Breeze, 7th Generation, or Blueland)
• Compostable bamboo toothbrushes
  (Check for FSC-certified bamboo + castor oil bristles)
• Silicone baking mats instead of parchment or foil
• Toothpaste tablets or powders in plastic-free tins
  (Try: Bite or David’s – beeswax-free versions)
• Metal safety razor instead of plastic cartridge razors
• Reusable cloths or unpaper towels
  (Swedish dishcloths are cute and compostable)
• Natural laundry stain sticks instead of bleach or Tide pens
  (Try: Meliora or Ethique)

You can also make your own non-toxic air freshener by making your own DIY room and linen spray. Read the article below for details to make your own custom and clean version!