The concern

Shampoo and conditioner usually come in #1/#2 plastic bottles, and conventional formulas often contain sulfates (SLS/SLES), parabens, synthetic fragrance and silicones. Parabens are studied as endocrine disruptors.

Why the swaps are safer

• Bars use no bottle at all.
• Refillable formats cut single-use plastic.
• Paraben-/sulfate-free options reduce irritation.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Liquid body wash and hand soap come in plastic bottles and may contain triclosan, synthetic fragrance, PEGs and preservatives like methylisothiazolinone. Triclosan is studied as an endocrine disruptor.

Why the swaps are safer

• A plant-based bar of soap cleans just as well without a plastic bottle.
• Bars come in paper or cardboard, cutting plastic waste.
• Simpler, plant-derived ingredient lists.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Bar soap is generally the low-waste, plastic-free choice in this category. The main thing worth checking is whether a conventional bar adds artificial fragrance or preservatives, which can bother sensitive skin.

Why the swaps are safer

• Choose simple, unscented bars.
• Look for short ingredient lists.
• Often package-free.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Facial cleansers come in plastic tubes/pumps; common concerns are parabens, fragrance, and (now largely phased-out) plastic microbeads, banned in US rinse-off cosmetics since 2015.

Why the swaps are safer

• Bars/glass packaging cut plastic.
• Fragrance-free reduces irritation.
• Avoids plastic microbeads.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Face lotions and moisturisers come in plastic jars/pumps and frequently contain parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance and petroleum derivatives (mineral oil, petrolatum).

Why the swaps are safer

• Glass packaging avoids plastic.
• Simple plant oils have few additives.
• Fragrance-free reduces irritation.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Sunscreen typically comes in a plastic tube, and chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate are studied as endocrine-disrupting and reef-damaging. A 2025 peer-reviewed review summarises the endocrine evidence.

Why the swaps are safer

• Mineral filters (zinc oxide) sit on skin, not absorbed like some chemical filters.
• Reef-safer.
• Non-nano options reduce particle uptake.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Conventional deodorants/antiperspirants use plastic packaging and contain aluminium compounds, parabens, propylene glycol and fragrance. Aluminium's health effects are debated, regulators have not confirmed a cancer link, but many people prefer to avoid it.

Why the swaps are safer

• Cardboard/refillable packaging cuts plastic.
• Aluminium-free if you prefer to avoid it.
• Paraben-free formulas.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Shaving cream and gel usually come in an aerosol can (metal with a plastic cap). Typical product labels list isobutane propellants, fragrance and triethanolamine. This is a lower-concern item, included mainly for the aerosol packaging waste and for fragrance sensitivities rather than a strong health hazard.

Why the swaps are safer

• Shave soap + brush is package-light.
• No aerosol propellants.
• Lasts a long time.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Disposable razors and cartridges are almost entirely single-use plastic and are hard to recycle because they combine plastic, rubber and metal, so most are thrown away. Globally only about 9% of plastic is recycled. This is a waste concern rather than a health one.

Why the swaps are safer

• A metal safety razor lasts for years.
• Only the thin blade is replaced.
• Cheaper per shave over time.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Plastic toothbrushes (handle + nylon bristles) send billions to landfill yearly, and worn plastic contributes to microplastics.

Why the swaps are safer

• Bamboo handles are compostable.
• Same brushing performance.
• Widely available.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Toothpaste tubes are among the hardest plastics to recycle; formulas may contain SLS, saccharin, triclosan (now removed from most brands) and microplastics in some whitening pastes.

Why the swaps are safer

• Tablets/jars avoid the tube.
• SLS-free reduces irritation.
• Keep fluoride per your dentist.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Mouthwash comes in a plastic bottle and often contains alcohol, artificial colour and synthetic flavour; some antibacterial rinses use triclosan.

Why the swaps are safer

• Tablets/concentrates cut plastic.
• Alcohol-free is gentler.
• Glass packaging recyclable.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Floss and its container are plastic, and some conventional flosses are coated with PFAS ('forever chemicals'). A study linked PFAS-coated floss with higher PFAS body levels.

Why the swaps are safer

• Silk floss is biodegradable.
• PFAS-free coatings avoid forever chemicals.
• Refillable glass dispensers cut waste.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Lip balm usually comes in a plastic tube with petroleum-based formulas (petrolatum, mineral oil), plus synthetic fragrance and sometimes parabens.

Why the swaps are safer

• Metal/cardboard tubes cut plastic.
• Beeswax/plant oils instead of petroleum.
• Fragrance-free options.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Styling products come in plastic bottles or aerosols and contain polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP, a plastic polymer), synthetic fragrance and propellant gases.

Why the swaps are safer

• Glass/aluminium packaging cuts plastic.
• Natural styling (e.g. aloe) avoids synthetic polymers.
• Pump beats aerosol.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Aerosol dry shampoos come in plastic-capped metal cans. In 2022 the U.S. FDA announced recalls of several aerosol dry shampoos after benzene, which the FDA classifies as a human carcinogen, was detected, and the independent lab Valisure reported quantifiable benzene in most dry-shampoo batches it tested. So the issue is documented contamination found in specific products, not a guaranteed ingredient in every can.

Why the swaps are safer

• Powder versions skip the aerosol.
• No propellants or benzene risk.
• Glass/tin packaging.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Conventional hair dye comes with a plastic tube and bowl, and most permanent dyes contain p-phenylenediamine (PPD). Dermatology reviews describe PPD as one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis from hair dye, with reactions reported from mild rashes to, rarely, severe ones. It is best understood as an allergy and irritation risk that affects some people, not a claim that dye harms everyone.

Why the swaps are safer

• Henna/plant dyes avoid PPD.
• Lower-tox salon lines exist.
• Always patch-test and glove up.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Conventional nail polish can contain the 'toxic trio' (formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate); removers are acetone in plastic bottles. Note some '3-free' polishes swap DBP for another plasticiser (TPHP).

Why the swaps are safer

• '10-free' polishes avoid the worst solvents.
• Acetone-free removers are gentler.
• Glass bottles recyclable.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Foundation/BB cream come in plastic pumps/tubes and may contain parabens, synthetic fragrance and titanium-dioxide nanoparticles.

Why the swaps are safer

• Refillable compacts cut plastic.
• Mineral/'clean' formulas reduce additives.
• Glass packaging recyclable.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Mascara comes in a plastic tube with a wand and often contains parabens, propylene glycol and carbon black (classified as possibly carcinogenic).

Why the swaps are safer

• Refillable/clean formulas reduce additives.
• Tubing mascaras remove easily.
• Look for paraben-free.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Eyeliners and eyeshadows use plastic casing. U.S. FDA testing and peer-reviewed studies have detected heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in some eye cosmetics, generally as trace contaminants carried in by mineral pigments rather than as added ingredients. Reported levels vary widely between products and regions.

Why the swaps are safer

• Brands that test for heavy metals.
• Refillable palettes cut plastic.
• Mineral formulas.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Lipstick comes in plastic or metal tubes; trace lead has been detected in many lipsticks (generally at low levels), alongside fragrance and preservatives; some also use phthalates.

Why the swaps are safer

• Lead-tested clean brands.
• Refillable metal bullets cut waste.
• Fragrance-free options.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

PVC shower curtains are one of the worst offenders: they off-gas phthalates and many VOCs, worst when new and in a hot, steamy bathroom. A report measured 100+ VOCs released from new PVC curtains.

Why the swaps are safer

• Natural fabrics don't off-gas.
• Cotton/linen/hemp are washable.
• No 'new plastic' smell.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Plastic shower caddies and shelves are often low-grade plastics. They can degrade with constant heat and moisture, and cheap plastics can leach additives over time, though there is little research aimed specifically at caddies. Treat this as a sensible, lower-confidence precaution rather than an established fact.

Why the swaps are safer

• Stainless steel resists rust/leaching.
• Bamboo is renewable.
• Both last longer.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Synthetic bath puffs/loofahs are microplastic shedders; natural loofahs are fine.

Why the swaps are safer

• Natural loofah is plant-based and compostable.
• Cotton washcloths are reusable.
• No microplastic shedding.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Plastic-stem cotton swabs shed microplastics; paper-stem versions are widely available.

Why the swaps are safer

• Paper/bamboo stems biodegrade.
• Same use.
• Reusable options exist.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Bathroom cups and soap dishes are often made from polypropylene or polystyrene that can wear, scratch and discolour over time. This is a minor, mostly waste-and-durability item rather than a notable health concern.

Why the swaps are safer

• Glass/ceramic are inert.
• Stainless is unbreakable-ish.
• All last longer.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

PVC bath mats off-gas phthalates; some rubber mats can contain latex allergens.

Why the swaps are safer

• Natural rubber avoids PVC phthalates.
• Teak mats are durable.
• Washable cotton mats outside the tub.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Toilet bowl cleaners come in plastic bottles and, according to their labels and safety-data sheets, often contain strong acids (such as hydrochloric acid), chlorine bleach and fragrance. These work but are corrosive and irritating, so the swap is mainly about gentler ingredients and less plastic packaging rather than a specific disease risk. The U.S. EPA Safer Choice program lists certified gentler products.

Why the swaps are safer

• Refills/concentrates cut bottles.
• Citric-acid cleaners are gentler.
• Fragrance-free options.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Conventional bathroom cleaning sprays come in plastic bottles and often list quaternary ammonium compounds (‘quats’), fragrance and solvents such as 2-butoxyethanol on the label. Studies have linked quats to occupational asthma in people who clean frequently; the risk from occasional home use is much less studied.

Why the swaps are safer

• Plant- and mineral-based cleaning tablets skip the ammonia, chlorine and synthetic fragrance in conventional sprays.
• You reuse one bottle and only re-buy the tablets, which ship in compostable cardboard.
• Fragrance-free and third-party certified options are available.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Plug-in and spray air fresheners are plastic devices that continuously release synthetic fragrance compounds, phthalates and VOCs into the air.

Why the swaps are safer

• Activated bamboo charcoal absorbs odors at the source instead of masking them with synthetic fragrance.
• It is unscented, so it avoids the phthalates and VOCs in plug-in fresheners and is safe around pets.
• One bag is reusable for about two years by recharging it in sunlight, then it composts.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.

The concern

Older homes may have PVC or even lead pipes. Studies have detected vinyl chloride (a recognised carcinogen) leaching from PVC pipe into water, usually at low levels below the EPA limit, with higher readings after long stagnation or in hot conditions. This is structural, so the fix is bigger than a product swap; it is included for awareness rather than as an easy change.

Why the swaps are safer

• A good water filter reduces exposure now.
• Choose PEX/copper on any renovation.
• Test water if you suspect lead.

Safer alternatives

Our product criteria: We only link to products made from non-toxic, non-plastic materials with recognized third-party certifications (GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold) where applicable. These are suggestions based on our research, always verify a product's certifications and ingredients before purchasing. We are not responsible for third-party product claims or changes in formulation.