The Journey to Toxin-Free Living: How I Made the Switch

When I first started exploring the idea of living naturally, I quickly realized that it wasn't just about the food we eat or the products we use. It was a complete lifestyle shift — one that required intention, education, and a lot of patience.

My journey to toxin-free living began out of necessity. As I prepared to start a family, I started reading labels more carefully. I was shocked to discover how many harmful chemicals were hiding in everyday products: soaps, lotions, cleaners, even items marketed as "baby-safe." 

Identifying the Problem

I didn’t set out to be an “all-natural” guru — I was just a mom who wanted better for her family. But the deeper I dug, the more I realized how much we weren’t being told. What started as small changes turned into a passion for living cleaner, simpler, and more intentionally.

Ingredients like parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and sulfates have been linked to a range of health concerns — from skin irritation to hormonal disruption. And yet, they were everywhere in products we trusted.

I realized that protecting my family meant more than just buying organic produce. It meant transforming our entire home environment.

Taking the First Steps

The first thing I did was audit our home. I made a list of everything we used daily: soaps, shampoos, detergents, dishwashing liquids, lotions, deodorants, candles, and cleaning products.

My goal wasn't to throw everything away overnight but to make more intentional choices as we replaced items naturally.

Here’s where I started:

● Swapped Commercial Soaps for Handmade Ones: I began making our own soap with simple, clean ingredients, which eventually became the foundation of Suds & Buds Apothecary.

● Switched to Natural Cleaners: Vinegar, baking soda, vodka, and essential oils replaced chemical-laden cleaning sprays.

● Replaced Personal Care Products: I opted for mineral-based sunscreens, aluminum-free deodorants, and herbal remedies instead of synthetic pharmaceuticals whenever possible.

● Minimized Plastic Use: We started using glass storage containers, beeswax wraps, and stainless-steel water bottles.

The Challenges I Faced

Going toxin-free isn't always easy. It required:

● Education: Learning to decode labels and spot hidden chemicals was time-consuming but essential.

● Budget Adjustments: Quality natural products can be more expensive upfront, but the investment in our health made it worth it.

● Trial and Error: Not every "natural" product worked for us. Some were ineffective, overpriced, or greenwashed. I had to learn through experience and I’m still learning as companies change and reformulate or change ownership.

Building Our Own Solutions

Out of necessity (and frustration), I started making many products myself. It gave me peace of mind to know exactly what ingredients were going onto our skin and into our home.

My homemade soaps, balms, and tinctures worked so well that friends and family began asking for them and just like that, Suds & Buds Apothecary was born.

Today, every product we offer from our small-batch soap bars to herbal wellness remedies reflects the lessons I’ve learned on this journey: simplicity, transparency, and deep care.

Benefits My Family Has Experienced

● Healthier Skin: Dryness, eczema, and sensitivity have significantly improved for our family.

● Cleaner Air: Eliminating synthetic fragrances and harsh cleaners made our home smell fresher and feel healthier.

● Stronger Immune Systems: Natural living has our overall wellness and resilience.

● Peace of Mind: The biggest benefit is knowing I’m doing everything I can to nurture and protect my family.

Tips for Starting Your Own Toxin-Free Journey

● Start Small: Focus on one category at a time — like personal care or cleaning products.

● Learn to Read Labels: Look for certifications like USDA Organic, and watch out for greenwashing terms like “natural” without verification.

● DIY When You Can: Homemade alternatives are often more affordable and more effective.

● Find Trusted Brands: Support businesses that are transparent about their ingredients and sourcing.

● Give Yourself Grace: It’s a journey, not a race. Every single step you take matters.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

Switching to a toxin-free lifestyle changed everything for our family. It deepened our connection to nature, empowered us to live more intentionally, and eventually inspired the creation of Suds & Buds Apothecary.

If you’re thinking about making the switch, remember this: It’s not about perfection. It’s about making mindful choices — choices that align with your values, protect your health, and respect the earth.

Every small step counts. And I’m honored to walk this path with you.

[Explore our handcrafted, toxin-free products crafted with care and intention at sudsandbudsapothecary.com