Natural Products For the Busy Mama

We are constantly bombarded by articles warning us of the dangers of everyday toxins in our home. As a busy mama, you may not have time to make homemade products or even time to do the research to figure out what to buy instead. I have been in both situations over the years and this article is just for you. 

Below you will find 8 quick and easy switches I've made in my own home over the last few years. Here are my criteria when selecting pre-purchased natural products.

1. It has to work. Going "natural" doesn't mean I want to skimp on quality. 
2. It needs to be affordable.  Switching to safer products doesn't have to cost a small fortune. Trust me. 
3. Must score a "green" rating from EWG (cleaners, cosmetics) when applicable. 
4. It should smell good.  I don't always like "earthy" scents. I'm more of a citrus or floral fan. 
5. Bonus if it's available on Amazon! 

Many of these products are also eligible for Subscribe & Save so they can be delivered automatically to your door on whatever schedule you set up.  It's one of my new favorite life hacks! 

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Laundry Detergent

BEFORE:  Gain liquid -  "D" EWG rating ($12.97 for 32 loads)

AFTER: Grab Green pods - "A" from EWG.  ($12.06 for 60 loads)

INFO: These are HE washer safe and super easy to use. They also have several scented options as well. 

Dishwasher Detergent

BEFORE: Cascade ActionPacs - "D" EWG rating ($13.94 for 62 loads)

AFTER: Grab Green pods - "B" from EWG ($13.93 for 60 loads)

INFO: The citrus fan in me loves the tangerine and lemongrass but they have other scents as well. 

NOTE: I absolutely love Grab Green products. If you are hesitant to try a full size package, I'd suggest this hand soap and sample pack. This gives you an opportunity to try out several of their products. 

Deodorant

BEFORE: Degree Antiperspirant - "5" EWG rating ($3.88)

AFTER: Nasanta Magnesium Deodorant ($14.90 - this bottle lasts me SIX months!!)

INFO: It took me years of trial and error to find a deodorant that works for me. This is the only one that keeps me odor free and doesn't irritate my skin. The magnesium also has added health benefits. Many women are deficient in magnesium but don't realize it! 

Sunscreen

BEFORE: Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion - "5" EWG rating ($6.82)

AFTER: Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Spray - "1" from EWG ($12.61)

INFO: We've tried several sunscreens but this is the first one I've liked that also comes in a spray. It rubs in pretty easily and has good coverage.

Nail Polish

BEFORE: Sally Hansen  - "5" EWG rating ($4.99) 

AFTER: ZOYA - "1" EWG rating ($9.99)

INFO: They have tons of beautiful colors and they go on easily. I also really like Jamberry Nail Polish. I am not a fan of their nail wraps but their lacquer colors last a long time. 

Toothpaste

BEFORE: Crest 3D White - "3" EWG rating ($3.92)

AFTER: Himalaya Neem and Pomegranate Flouride-Free Toothpaste ($5.09)

​INFO: This toothpaste tastes great. The pomegranate and neem title is really misleading because it's more of a minty taste but rather mild. Even my daughter likes it. 

Feminine Hygiene

BEFORE: Tampax Tampons ($4.71)

AFTER: Evofem Reusable Softcup ($4.99)

INFO: These work similarly to a Diva cup but I think they are much more comfortable. They are also less expensive and reusable. 

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Shampoo

BEFORE: L'Oreal EverPure - "6" EWG rating ($7.28)

AFTER: Beautycounter Shampoo - "2" EWG rating ($22, one bottle lasts SIX months)

INFO: I've tried at least 10 brands but they all left my hair feeling oily or heavy. I even tried the no-poo method on 2 different occasions. When I finally tried Beautycounter , I fell in love. This stuff smells SO good and it actually "foams" which is practically impossible with natural shampoos.  In fact, I've switched all of my makeup and facial products to Beautycounter as well. This company is doing great things!

*NOTE: I am not a representative for Beautycounter. Just a loyal fan! 

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When switching to natural products, I encourage families to take it one product at a time. It has literally taken me years to find products that work for us and switch over. But these products and tried and true and I feel a lot better about the amount of toxins my family is exposed to. Next on my list is to tackle fabric softener and dryer sheets. I'm planning to give these wool dryer balls a shot. What's next on your list? What are your favorite natural products? Comment below. 

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