Glow and Hustle

Tips for a Sparkling, Toxin-free Kitchen 

Ever stood in the cleaning aisle staring at bottles that promise to kill 99.9% of germs—only to wonder what’s actually in them? If you’re a wellness-minded mom, those big-name products with hard-to-pronounce ingredients can leave you feeling uneasy. The good news? You don’t have to choose between a clean kitchen and a healthy home. With a few easy changes, non-toxic kitchen cleaning can become your new go-to for a sparkling cooking space.

Let’s talk about why making the switch to safer cleaning is better for your family—and how to do it with simple swaps and easy DIYs.

Why Go Green in the Kitchen?

Endocrine Disruptors = Hormone Chaos

Many conventional cleaners contain chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA), parabens, and phthalates. These can interfere with the endocrine system—your body’s hormone messenger. That’s especially concerning for little ones, whose bodies are still developing and for postpartum mamas whose hormones are going through major shifts and fluctuations.

Phthalates, often found in fragrances, can hide in things like scented sprays and garbage bags. Parabens (often in beauty products) are also used in some cleaners to extend shelf life. BPA is found in plastic containers and packaging.

Gut Health Matters

Your gut microbiome plays a big role in immunity and digestion. But exposure to harsh chemicals may reduce the good bacteria and fungi that support your health. One study pointed out that kids with higher exposure to PFASs and phthalates had less microbial diversity—something we definitely want to avoid.

Environmental Impact

Every product you rinse down the sink or toss out has a final destination. Conventional cleaners can harm aquatic life and release VOCs that pollute indoor and outdoor air. Switching to green options means reducing your home’s toxic footprint.

DIY Green Cleaning: You Already Have What You Need

Before you run out to buy that sink cleaner, check your pantry! Lemons, vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide are surprisingly powerful and non-toxic.

Tip 1: Lemons + Baking Soda = Shiny, Sparkling Sink

Simple sprinkle baking soda in your sink and scrub with half a lemon. This combo removes grime, cuts grease, and smells amazing.

Tip 2: Distilled White Vinegar = Multi-Purpose Magic

Mix a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water to:

• Disinfect sponges
• Descale the coffee maker
• Clean inside the fridge
• Shine your sink faucet

Tip 3: Hydrogen Peroxide = Bleach Alternative

Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfecting powerhouse without the toxic fumes of bleach. Try it for:

• Mopping floors (1/2 cup in 1 gallon of hot water)
• Disinfecting sponges and trash bins
• Killing mold in the sink

My Trusted Green Cleaning Brands

If DIY isn’t your thing (or you’re just too tired after chasing a kiddo around), here are some clean, effective brands that simplify the switch:

Branch Basics

A mom-approved favorite! Their multi-purpose concentrate replaces dozens of cleaning products. One bottle + water = solutions for every room in your house. I’ve been a Branch Basics subscriber since 2022, and don’t plan on canceling anytime soon. Branch Basics makes it easy to swap out all your toxic cleaners with one safe, effective solution.

Why I love it:

• Plant- and mineral-based
• Reusable BPA-free (or glass) bottles
• Female-founded and family-safe
• A little goes a long way

Want to give this non-toxic cleaning system a try? Use my link for $10 off your first order.

Grab Green Cookware & Bakeware Cleaner Pods

Tough food stains? These pods tackle baked-on messes in minutes—no overnight soaking needed.

Why I love it:

• Paraben-free, biodegradable
• Plant- and mineral-based
• Perfect after messy toddler meals

Get rid of those tough, baked-on foods off your cookware here.

Bon Ami Powder Cleaner

A classic I’ve used for years! It leaves my stainless-steel sink squeaky clean without harsh chemicals.

Why I love it:

• EWG “A” rating
• Great for kitchen and bathroom surfaces
• Affordable and effective (It cost me about $3 at my local Sprouts store)

Try this long-trusted powder cleaner here.

Dirty Labs Dishwasher Detergent and Booster

I’ve tried several green dishwasher detergents, and many left residues on my dishes after a full cycle. I haven’t experienced this with this clean dishwasher detergent though.

Why I love it:

• Delivers a spot-free finish
• Non-toxic and biodegradable
• High-performing even on quick wash cycles
• Packaging is made of recyclable cardboard and comes with a wooden scoop (less microplastics)

Give this dishwasher detergent a go here.

ATTITUDE Dish Soap

This has been the only dish soap I’ve bought for a long time now.

Why I love it:

• EWG Verified
• Tough on grease
• Scents are derived from essential oils
• You can keep the soap bottle and then order refill liquid to reduce plastic

Get that nasty grease off your dishes here.

The Bottom Line

Switching to non-toxic kitchen cleaning isn’t just about a shiny sink—it’s about creating a safer, healthier home for you and your family. Whether you DIY or buy clean brands, your choices make a difference for your body, your kids, and the planet.

Small steps = big impact. Your kitchen can sparkle and stay safe.

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