20 Best Affordable Non-Toxic Products Under $20!

What toxic chemicals are hiding in your home?

Phthalates

Often found in plastics, vinyl flooring, and personal care products like perfumes and lotions, phthalates can disrupt hormone function. 

They’ve been linked to developmental issues, reproductive problems, and even certain cancers.

PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are used in nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and some food packaging to make them stain- and water-resistant, but they’ve been associated with liver damage, thyroid disease, and certain cancers.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing harmful gases into the air and contributing to indoor pollution.

Common sources include paints, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and new furniture, with some emitting harmful VOCs like formaldehyde.

Short-term exposure can cause irritation and headaches, while long-term exposure is linked to serious health issues like liver damage and certain cancers.

Look for zero VOC paint brands when possible, and avoid heavily fragranced items like air fresheners or scented laundry products. 

Flame Retardants

Flame retardants are chemicals added to products like furniture, mattresses, and electronics to reduce fire risk, but they have been linked to serious health concerns.

These chemicals can leach into house dust, exposing people, especially children, through inhalation or ingestion. Long-term exposure has been associated with hormone disruption, neurodevelopmental delays, and even cancer.

Pesticides

Bug sprays, flea treatments, and garden products often contain harmful pesticides that can pose risks to humans and pets, especially with repeated exposure. These chemicals can leave residues on surfaces, increasing the risk of skin contact or ingestion.

Short-term effects include irritation and nausea, while long-term exposure has been linked to neurological damage, hormone disruption, and even cancer.

2-Butoxyethanol

2-Butoxyethanol, a solvent found in cleaners, paints, and personal care products, can pose significant health risks through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion.

Exposure can irritate the respiratory system, damage red blood cells, and lead to liver, kidney, and neurological issues. While more research is needed, there are concerns about its potential carcinogenic effects.

Lead

Often present in older homes’ paint, drinking water pipes, kid’s toys, and certain cosmetics, can cause serious health problems like developmental delays and neurological damage, particularly in children. 

What are some tips for choosing non-toxic products?

Take Your Time Reading Labels 

One of the first steps in choosing non-toxic products is learning how to decipher product labels.

Start by familiarizing yourself with common toxic ingredients like phthalates, parabens, and sulfates, and avoid products that list these chemicals.

Look for products that use clear, simple language to describe their ingredients, rather than hiding behind vague terms like “fragrance” or “preservatives.”

Look For Reputable Certifications 

Keep in mind that labels like “natural” or “eco-friendly” don’t necessarily mean a product is non-toxic, as these terms are not regulated.

Instead, look for specific certifications from reputable organizations that have strict standards for non-toxic, sustainable products. Some certifications to look for include:

• USDA Organic: For personal care products, this certification ensures that at least 95% of the ingredients are organic and free from synthetic additives.
• ECOCERT: This international certification verifies that products are made with at least 95% natural ingredients and meet strict standards for sustainability and biodegradability.
• MADE SAFE: Products with this seal have been thoroughly vetted to ensure they are free from known harmful ingredients and are safe for both human health and the environment.
• Green Seal: This certification is awarded to products that meet rigorous standards for sustainability, health, and safety, with a focus on reducing toxicity and waste.
• GREENGUARD GOLD: The GreenGuard Gold Certification is a way to identify furniture that meets strict standards for low chemical emissions, particularly VOCs. 

You can always rely on us at Toxic Free Choice as a great resource for the most up-to-date information on avoiding toxic chemicals in everyday products. 

How Can You Identify Clean and Natural Products?

Carefully Read Product Labels 

• Ingredient Lists: This is your first line of defense. Look for recognizable plant-based ingredients (like aloe vera, shea butter, and essential oils) higher on the list. Ingredients are listed by weight, so those at the beginning make up a larger portion of the product.
• Avoid “Red Flag” Ingredients: Be wary of terms like parabens, phthalates, sulfates (SLS/SLES), artificial fragrances, synthetic colors (FD&C or D&C), and petrochemicals. Many of these have potential health concerns.   
• Beware of “Greenwashing”: Words like “natural” and “organic” can be used loosely. Don’t be swayed solely by these claims; investigate further.   

Certifications to Look For

• USDA Organic: This signifies that a product contains a high percentage of organically grown ingredients and has met strict processing standards.   
• Ecocert: An international certification ensuring the use of natural and organic ingredients and sustainable practices.   
• COSMOS Organic/Natural: A European standard with similar rigor to Ecocert.
• EWG Verified: Indicates that a product meets the Environmental Working Group’s rigorous standards for ingredient safety and transparency.   
• Leaping Bunny: Assures that a product and its ingredients have not been tested on animals.   

Are “Natural” and “Non-Toxic” the Same Thing?

Not necessarily. “Natural” generally means derived from plants or minerals, but it doesn’t guarantee safety. Some natural substances can be allergens or irritants. 

“Non-toxic” means a product is free of ingredients known or suspected to be harmful to human health.   

Additional Tips

• Start Small: Replace one product at a time as you use it up, rather than overhauling your entire routine.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to reach out to brands for more information on their products.
• Look for Transparency: Brands that are open about their ingredients and practices are often a good sign.

What’s the best way to transition to a non-toxic lifestyle on a budget?

Gradual Replacement

Rather than replacing everything at once, adopt a “use it up, then switch it out” approach. As you finish a product, replace it with a cleaner, non-toxic alternative. This allows you to spread out the cost over time.

Prioritize The Products You Want To Switch First

Personal Care: Items that stay on your skin for long periods (lotion, makeup) or are used frequently (soap, shampoo) should be at the top of your list.

Cleaning Products: Since these are used around your home, switching to non-toxic cleaners can significantly improve your indoor air quality.

Children’s Products: If you have kids, prioritizing switching their products due to their developing bodies should also be one of the first things you choose to swap out.

Be A Smart Shopper

Buy in Bulk: Look for non-toxic household items like laundry detergent, soap, and cleaners in bulk to save money.

Shop Online: Online retailers often offer a wider selection of non-toxic products at competitive prices.

Check Ingredient Lists: Don’t be fooled by “natural” labels. Read the ingredients to ensure a product truly is non-toxic.

Look for Sales and Coupons: Many stores offer discounts on natural and organic products. Sign up for email lists or loyalty programs to get alerts on deals.

Are all-natural products always non-toxic?

While the term “natural” implies ingredients derived from plants or minerals, it doesn’t guarantee safety.

Some natural substances, like certain essential oils or plant extracts, can be allergens, irritants, or even toxic in high concentrations.   

Unlike the term “organic,” which has strict standards, “natural” is not regulated. Companies can use it loosely without having to prove the safety or purity of their ingredients.   

Even natural ingredients can be contaminated with pesticides or other toxins during cultivation or processing.

Can non-toxic products really make a difference in my health?

Yes! Switching to non-toxic products can absolutely make a difference in your health, both in the short and long term. 

Reducing Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

Many traditional products contain chemicals linked to various health issues, including:

Endocrine Disruptors: These can interfere with hormones, potentially leading to fertility problems, developmental issues, and certain cancers.   

Carcinogens: Some chemicals in personal care and cleaning products are known or suspected carcinogens, increasing the risk of cancer.   

Neurotoxins: These can harm the nervous system, potentially causing developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other neurological problems.

Allergens and Irritants: Fragrances, preservatives, and other chemicals can trigger allergies, asthma, and skin irritation.

By choosing non-toxic alternatives, you significantly reduce your exposure to these potentially harmful substances.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Traditional cleaning products often release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can cause respiratory problems, headaches, and other health issues.

Non-toxic cleaners, on the other hand, typically have fewer or no VOCs, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.   

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Children, pregnant women, and those with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of toxic chemicals. 

Switching to non-toxic products can be especially beneficial for these populations.

While the immediate effects of switching to non-toxic products might be subtle, the long-term benefits can be significant.

Reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals can lower your risk of chronic diseases, improve your immune system function, and enhance your overall well-being.