toxic free summer
1. Reach for glass water bottles
Staying hydrated is key for summer, and a reusable glass bottle will serve you (and our planet) far better than a single-use plastic bottle. Our 22oz LifeFactory Water Bottle is free of BPA, phthalates, lead and PVC, won't leach chemicals or impart any metallic taste. The wide mouth makes it easy to add ice, frozen fruit and tea bags. The patent-pending silicone sleeve makes for a great grip and helps to prevent breakage. Available in six colors and it's dishwasher safe, too.
2. Pack food in plastic-free, sustainable containers
Summer is all about transporting food to picnics, parties, BBQs, your backyard or to the office. We prefer containers that are free from BPA, lead and phthalates, and that's why we love these Airtight Stainless Steel Containers from Sanctus Mundo. They're lightweight, durable and reusable, leakproof and travel-friendly. They also come in multiple sizes, can be reheated on a stovetop and are dishwasher safe.
3. Use mineral-based, all-natural sun protection
Sunny - and even partly sunny - days require broad-spectrum sun protection. Before you reach for a tube at the drug store, take a good look at the ingredient label. For example, conventional sunscreen manufacturers use vitamin A for its antioxidant, anti-aging properties, but this compound also has photocarcinogenic properties, which can cause cancer-related tumors and lesions when exposed to light. We love the broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from mineral-based, non-nano Thinksport Sunscreen because it's free of parabens, PABA and endocrine- and hormone-disrupting chemicals. It applies and absorbs easily despite the high zinc content, and is water resistant up to 80 minutes.
Slather on all-natural sunscreen »
4. DEET-free bug spray
We love Badger Anti-Bug Shake and Spray for its organic, natural Citronella, Rosemary and Wintergreen essential oils. Unlike conventional bug sprays, Badger bug spray has no DEET, petroleum products or synthetic chemicals. It repels mosquitoes, bugs and other insects, and it's safe and effective for the whole family. The sturdy, lightweight aluminum bottle is easily recyclable, too. Take that, insects!
5. Unscented, talc-free, non-toxic deodorant
Summer is prime time for consistent underarm protection. One quick shake of the refillable lifestinks lavender deodorant decanter and you can control wetness and odor without toxic chemicals. Made from three simple ingredients (aluminum-free sodium bicarbonate, tea tree oil and lavender oil), this soft, dry deodorant can last for nine months. The decanter top features a sanitary sifter for spill-proof application. Founders The Duggan Sisters suggest you begin slowly with the Regular Strength formulation and work your way up to Extra Strength. This is powerful stuff!
A natural underarm obsession »
6. DIY ice pops
If you're in the mood for an icy, cool treat - and who isn't - skip the conventional sugary, artificial food coloring and questionable additives and make your own ice pops. We like reusable Lékué Ice Pop Molds for many reasons: BPA-free, food-grade silicone means they're lightweight, unbreakable and dishwasher safe. Too much farmer's market fruit? Blend it up, pour it in, cap it and let the freezer do the rest. Lékué molds can accommodate virtually any frozen creations you dream up.
7. BYO coffee tumbler
Whether you're commuting with coffee in a styrofoam or plastic-lined paper cup, chances are good you're ingesting potentially dangerous chemicals with every sip. Skip the landfill and bring this double-walled 16oz Klean Kanteen Wide Insulated Bottle to the cafe and fill 'er up. Free of BPA, lead, PVC and phthalates. Good for you, better for the planet.
Ditch disposable coffee cups »
8. Replenish and rebalance summer skin
Your skin could use a cooling, refreshing way to greet every day of the summer. We love Fresh Start Gentle Cream Cleanser from Goddess Garden for its silky consistency and gentle ingredient list: lavender, bergamot and vanilla essential oils help to lighten the mood and reduce stress. Tea tree essential oil offers an invigorating effect; organic aloe vera softens and soothes while willow bark helps to give your skin an overall healthy appearance. Non-GMO, biodegradable, vegan, cruelty free, free of alcohol, parabens and phthalates.
9. Clean hands on the spot
Nothing worse than sticky hands on a summer day, right? Keep your hands clean at the beach, on bike rides, hikes or camping with CleanWell Hand Sanitizer. Unlike conventional hand sanitizers, it's free of alcohol and toxic chemicals - that includes Triclosan. CleanWell is naturally antibacterial, safe for kids, gentle on sensitive skin, never tested on animals and has a fresh, pleasant scent.
Any additional tips for going toxin free this summer? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
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