5 ways to reduce toxins in the kitchen

Time for a kitchen detox?

With everyday products containing an average of 15 chemicals, it’s understandable that more and more families are looking for ways to reduce the amount of toxins in their homes.

Your kitchen is a fantastic place to start this process. From plastic utensils and food storage, to chemical-based cleaning products, there’s a surprising amount of chemicals to be found in the family kitchen - all of which can find its way into the food we eat.

But, with some really simple swaps, you can begin to remove toxins from your home - making sure it’s as safe as it can be for you and your family.

1. Replace plastic cutting boards with wood or glass

Many plastic cutting boards can contain BPA, a chemical that can cause a whole range of health issues if ingested. This BPA can be released onto our food as we chop it, and then absorbed into our bodies when we eat. Using a wooden cutting board is not only a more durable option for slicing and dicing your ingredients but it’s also a healthier choice, as they can also have natural antimicrobial properties. Even better - glass chopping boards are completely chemical-free and can also be popped in your dishwasher for a quick and easy clean up. Don’t forget your non-toxic dishwasher tablets!

2. Use wooden utensils to cook

Wooden utensils make the perfect non-toxic choice when it comes to prepping and cooking your favourite family meals. Wood is a totally natural material, free from the harmful chemicals and toxins often found in synthetic materials such as plastics. Because wood is porous, it also helps trap bacteria within its fibers, preventing it from spreading to your food when properly cleaned and dried. Don’t forget your non-toxic washing up liquid to give them a thorough chemical-free scrub!

3. Get rid of nonstick cookware

Many nonstick cookware contains PFCs, which are synthetic resins which can leak into your food when they get hot. They can then be ingested on food, and even inhaled as you’re cooking. We suggest using non-toxic cookware made from cast iron, ceramic, or stainless steel instead. Whilst these options can be more expensive, they’re well worth investing in, and can last a lifetime.

4. Store and reheat food without plastic

Plastic storage boxes, sandwich bags, plastic film wrap and other kitchen plastics can be made with PVC and BPA, which is not good for our own health, and it’s not great for the environment, either. We recommend skipping the plastics and go for re-usable glass or stainless steel containers, beeswax wraps, mason jars or fabric snack bags.

5. Switch to non-toxic cleaning products

Switching to non-toxic cleaning products is one of the easiest ways to significantly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. As well as preventing harsh chemicals from entering our bodies via kitchen worktops, chopping boards and your crockery and cutlery, it will also improve your indoor air quality, and cut down on your environmental impact.

Our eco-friendly cleaning products are made with natural, plant-based ingredients, and also come in BPA-free bottles that can also be easily refilled or recycled. Don’t let the eco credentials put you off - they’re super-powerful and just as effective as our chemical-based competitors, removing 99.9% of bacteria from your kitchen surfaces.

TLDR; Here are 6 ways you can remove toxins from your kitchen.

Replace plastic cutting boards with wood or glass.
Use wooden utensils to cook
Get rid of nonstick cookware
Store and reheat food without plastic
Switch to non-toxic cleaning products

FAQs

What are BPAs?
BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical used in some plastics and resins. It's often found in plastic water bottles, food containers, and plastic cooking utensils. It can leach into food and drinks, and high exposure may affect hormones and cause health issues.

Is PVC bad for you?
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) contains harmful chemicals such as phthalates, and can release toxic fumes when heated. Long-term exposure to these chemicals may pose health risks.

Is non-stick cookware bad for you?
Non-stick cookware can release harmful chemicals if overheated or scratched. Switching to cast iron, ceramic or stainless steel can significantly reduce exposure to these chemicals.

How do I remove toxins from my kitchen?
Use glass or stainless steel containers, swap plastic for safer materials like silicone or glass, choose wooden utensils, and avoid harsh chemical cleaners. These super-simple swaps will help reduce exposure to toxins.