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Sustainability

What to Look for in a Non-Toxic Christmas Tree

I promise I’m not trying to be the grinch here, but when it comes to creating a healthy non-toxic home it doesn’t stop during the holidays! Christmas trees (Artificial and Real) both pose certain positive and negative attributes when it comes to a safe, healthy home.

Real Christmas Trees

Pros

  • Has the scent of Christmas.

  • Better for the environment than artificial trees.

Cons

  • You can bring unwanted mold spores into the home.

  • Sap and pollen can also cause allergic reactions (when considering cutting a tree down in the forest).

  • If it’s not organic, it might be covered in pesticides from the farm.

What You can Do

  • Spray the tree down with a hose, EC3 (mold solution), and let it dry in the sun before bringing it into the house.

  • Buy an organic tree to avoid pesticides, this still doesn’t help with the mold issue.

  • Run an air purifier in the house near the tree to keep the air clean in that area.

  • Opt for a smaller tree and only keep the tree in the home for 4-7 days max to minimize mold growth and exposure.

Artificial Christmas Trees

Pros

  • Less risk for mold and allergies.

  • Easy to buy once and have for years to come.

Cons

  • They contain toxins like PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), lead, phthalates, and flame retardants. These chemicals can offgas, meaning the chemical is reactive in normal temperatures and turns to a gas that infiltrates our indoor air and we inhale the toxins and they can release SVOCs which are heavier than VOCs and end up as particulate in our dust that we then run the risk of ingesting or absorbing through our skin.

  • Many PVC trees have been replaced with PET, and PEVA, but these are still not great for the environment.

  • It can be REALLY hard to find a toxin-free Christmas tree. There’s not a lot of companies thinking about this.

  • They can get really dusty when you store them, this can also cause allergies and mold spores can live in our dust.

  • These chemicals can cause endocrine disruption and specifically thyroid issues. Phthalates are also known as “forever chemicals” because they stick around in our system and don’t break down.

What You can Do

  • Look for more realistic, artificial trees. This is how you can tell the tree hasn’t been made with PVC.

  • Wipe down your tree really well with soap and water every year to clean off any dust build up and wipe down any SVOCs that might have degraded over the last year in storage.

  • Make sure you’re storing it in a climate controlled area in an airtight container, not cardboard. The cardboard runs the risk of growing mold which can contaminate the tree.

  • Run an air purifier in the house near the tree to keep the air clean in that area.

  • Keep your home clean to limit the amount of SVOCs in your dust.

  • Wash your hands after handling the tree to make sure you’re not absorbing any of the toxins through your skin or touching your mouth and accidentally ingesting them.

  • Buy a tree from IKEA or look for a PVC free tree. If you want to avoid toxins altogether, you might even consider an “alternative tree.” When googled, you can find some amazing DIY ideas for Alternative Christmas Trees.

  • Use a good cleaner, like Force of Nature Clean to wipe down and disinfect your tree, you can use code ‘Bundlesave30’ in December to save 30% off bundles.

Now, this doesn’t mean your Christmas tree is going to cause you issues! This is just to note that there are risks with both real and fake trees when we’re considering making swaps to a more non-toxic living space. 

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Navigating Non-Toxic Cookware

The holidays are right around the corner and along with that are lots of delicious home-cooked meals, slowing down a bit, and spending time with family and friends. As we give thanks for our health and the health of others, it only seems fitting to talk about how the cookware we are using to create these meals may be contributing to our toxin load. The idea of non-toxic cookware seems tabu, but if you think about it, the materials used to make our cookware are coming in very close contact with the food that we are ingesting. So for this holiday season, we want to educate you on what types of toxins are commonly found in our cookware and what cookware we can use to know that we’re safe.

Common Toxins in Kitchen Pans and Cookware

Let’s take a closer look at some of the toxins that might be lurking in your cookware. Keep in mind, this post is meant to highlight cooking pots, pans, and baking sheets. There are other toxins lurking in water bottles, Tupperware, take home containers, etc. but for the purpose of simplicity, we will save those for another post.

Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs)

Known as ‘forever chemicals’ because they build up in your body and never break down in the environment (yikes!). This class of polymers gives cookware it’s non-stick coating. You may have heard about these popular PFAs below, but these are only 2 of thousands of PFAs that are still used as non-stick coatings. Not only is it important to avoid the chemicals listed below, but it’s also important to head caution when buying anything labeled as “non-stick” as it might contain another type of PFA not listed here, which is still as toxic to our health. These chemicals are labeled as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The EWG has some great information to learn more about PFAs.

  • Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Also trademarked as “Teflon”, this chemical gives cookware a non-stick coating. One of the main concerns with this compound is that when it heats up, we inhale the toxic fumes during cooking. Teflon is possibly carcinogenic and should be avoided in cookware.

  • Until 2013, Perfluorooctanoic Acids (PFOAs) were used as a non-stick coating. They are resistant to water and lipids which make them a frequently used option on various types of cookware. This chemical is linked to cancer, can cause endocrine disruption leading to infertility and weight gain, as well as mental health issues and problems with the liver.

Although these two chemicals have been mostly phased out, most non-stick cookware will still use some type of PFA to achieve that non-stick coating.

If you have non-stick pans now, practice using them safely. Never use metal utensils on them as the coating is more likely to scratch off and be ingested. Store them properly so that the coating doesn’t scratch from rubbing on another pan. Only use it when you’re cooking things on low heat and make sure to run the kitchen exhaust every time you cook.

Aluminum and Copper

Both aluminum and copper can build up in our bodies and create toxicity. The jury is still out as to how bad aluminum and copper are in cookware and how much we’re actually consuming, but we tend to lean toward precautionary principle, which means if it’s not proven safe—it’s best to avoid it. Avoid cooking your turkey in an aluminum pan and opt for a stainless steel pan instead.

  • When we use anodized aluminum or aluminum foil with anything acidic, the aluminum can leach into our food and we can consume it. Aluminum has been linked to neurological disorders, specifically Alzheimers and could be worse for people who may have kidney issues, as they are less likely to process the aluminum.

  • Some copper can be good for us, but if you’re using copper, avoid cooking anything acidic in it, as that has the highest potential for leaching into whatever you are cooking and high levels of copper in the body can cause toxicity.

Lead and Cadmium

Lead and cadmium can be in the coatings of ceramic cookware and should definitely be considered when purchasing glass or enamel products. Both lead and cadmium have been limited in dish-ware but are not very regulated. To avoid these metals in your kitchenware, look for California Prop 65 warnings and avoid buying dish-ware with this warning.

  • There is no safe level of lead and it can cause neurological issues, especially in children who are still developing. Look for options that are “certified lead free” and unglazed—and keep in mind where they are being manufactured. Some countries have stricter lead regulations, where places like China and Mexico do not. An amazing resource to learn about lead in your cookware, dishes, and toys is Lead Safe Mama.

  • Cadmium is a natural metal found in nature and can also be found in the pigments of certain glazes on ceramic dish-ware to create an orange or red pigmentation. Exposure to cadmium can lead to certain neurological disorders and is best avoided.

What to Look for in Safe Kitchen Pans and Cookware

  • Be wary of non-stick pans labeled as “PFOA Free” or free of one of the above chemicals may actually have been replaced with something similar in toxicity, so beware.

  • Consider what the raw material is of the pan. Does this cause harm to your health?

  • Does the pan contain a glaze or enamel? If so, be wary and make sure it doesn’t have a California Prop 65 warning.

  • Is the pan durable? How long will it last? Consider the environment and your pocket book by investing in lifetime pieces as opposed to ones that will end up in the landfill.

Stainless Steel = Safe!

Stainless steel is my top choice for healthy cookware. Not only is it non-toxic, it’s going to last a lifetime. The main concern with stainless steel is clean-ability and the best way to clean your stainless pieces is to use Baking Soda to clean it. Your pans will sparkle like new forever with the right care and maintenance. Also, these pans can become incredibly non-stick with the right oil. My favorite oil to use, specifically when cooking eggs, is coconut oil. Coconut oil creates a nice layer to keep those eggs from sticking to the pan.

Pictured: All-Clad Stainless Steel cookware

Cast Iron and Enameled Cast Iron = Safe!

Cast iron is another great option for cooking! It distributes heat evenly and can be used on both the stove and oven, it’s inexpensive, and when seasoned and maintained properly it is non-stick. It’s best used with non-acidic meals, as the acidity can leach some iron into your food. This can be good or bad depending on your current iron levels. If you’re worried about leaching, enameled cast iron can be a great option as it has all of the same great qualities of cast iron. Pay attention to make sure there’s not a California Prop 65 warning, so you can avoid high levels of lead or cadmium that might be in the glaze and pigmentation of enameled cookware.

Pictured: Lodge cookware

Ceramic Cookware = Safe!

Through body ceramic cookware can be a healthy option as well and works great for many people. Ceramic offers great heat conduction for a nice even cook. Similar to cast iron, it can be used on both the stove and the over. Because it is through-body there is no concern of the coating peeling off over the life of using the product. It does not leach into your food and works well with acidic dishes!

Pictured: Xtrema cookware

Be Cautious of "Green" Cookware and Ceramic Coatings

  • Be wary of companies claiming to be green or “non-toxic”. Alternatives used in replace of the chemicals above don’t always mean “non-toxic”; they might be just as toxic but not have mainstream awareness yet.

  • Ceramic coatings on cookware can wear off easily and only last a couple of years. You may end up buying multiple pans when you could have just invested in one of the high quality options above that will last you a lifetime.

We’re a fan of slowly swapping out our products over time so it’s not as big of an investment to swap to cleaner products for our home. Many of these companies will be having Black Friday sales, so take advantage of those while you can! We wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!

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Why Shopping Small Is More Important Than Ever

Over the last few years, shopping small has gotten chic. But there are more reasons why you should shop local than just following the trend. Shopping at local stores, for local food, and with small business owners is a win-win for everyone involved. Here are a few examples of why it’s more important than ever to shop small.

It’s Sustainable

I’m sure you’ve heard it already, “Shopping small is more sustainable”. But what does that really mean? A lot of different things, actually.

If you’re shopping for locally produced foods, it’s more sustainable because the food isn’t transported as far, cutting down on vehicle emissions. Because the commute — so to speak — is shorter for local produce, you’re also benefiting by eating fresher, more nutrient-dense food! And you’re more likely to shop what is naturally in season, which encourages farmers to work their land with more respect for the natural capabilities of the Earth (less chemicals and depletion of the soil!).

With less chemicals and more nutrient-dense foods, you can nourish your body and staying healthier throughout the year!

For instance, did you know that locally produced honey and elderberry syrup can help you fight seasonal allergies and cold/flu symptoms (you can do a quick online search to learn more from professionals)?

If you decide to shop at a local boutique, chances are they have a partnership with other local small business owners, non-profits, or organizations that are doing good for the community. This means that every time you spend money with them, you’re not only giving the shop money but also all the other people who are involved in the process!

Local shops are also more often concerned with sustainable packaging, shipping, and production. You can have more control over making low-to-no plastic purchases, buying in bulk, and saving money/resources on shipping. For instance, see if you can find a no-plastic store in your area where you can buy shampoo and conditioner in bulk. Just bring a clean, empty shampoo or conditioner bottle to the store and fill it up!

Bottom line: Momma Earth thanks you when you shop local!

It Builds Community

In more ways than one, shopping local builds community. The most obvious way is that most local shop owners are very familiar with their clients and therefore have a better, more loyal relationship with them. Here’s a story about just that:

Earlier this year, I was shopping in a local boutique in my hometown (Charlotte, NC). As I was walking around the store, I noticed a needlepoint hanging on the wall. This needlepoint looked familiar to me — very similar to one that had hung in my parents’ house in my childhood. I snapped a picture and sent it to my mom.

Immediately, I received a phone call from my mom, “That’s our needlepoint! I accidentally gave it away and thought I’d never see it again!”. My heart began to race — what was I going to do? Were they selling it? Would they give it back to us?

In short, I approached the person working at the shop and told her the story. We spent 15 minutes talking about how incredibly serendipitous the day had turned out to be before taking the needlepoint down and bringing it out to my car.

This store is now my favorite boutique in town and I have become a loyal customer. Would that have happened at a Target? Definitely not. I guess it’s all about what you’re looking for. I, for one, am looking for a place that feels like home as soon as I walk through the door.

How to Start Shopping Small

If you’re looking for ways to shop local but aren’t sure how to start, a great way to begin is by checking out the website for your local Chamber of Commerce. Many small businesses will be registered members and should be listed in a directory. Social media is also a great way to find small, local businesses. Where are your friends shopping? Next time they post that cute new plant in their Instagram stories, click on the handle of the shop they tag and see where it takes you!

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