NonToxic Dad News: Sept. 14, 2023

Welcome to our second edition of Non-toxic Weekly. We're excited to share this week's content with you! We all like to embrace the fall with "pumpkin spice lattes" but wait until you hear what's lurking in your straws! Not only do I talk about non-toxic living this week, but I also talk about a non-toxic mindset, personal growth, and what I prioritize in life. I hope you enjoy it! 🌿

Ah, snoring, the soundtrack of many a restless night. We’ve all been there, either snoring ourselves or nudging someone who sounds like a malfunctioning lawnmower at 2 a.m. However, there’s a solution: Stop snoring. It’s not just annoying; it can also mess with everyone’s sleep quality. So, what’s a sleep-deprived family to do? Don’t worry, I’ve got 8 simple ways to stop snoring and some tips that could turn your nighttime woes into sweet dreams.

When you think of essential nutrients, fiber might not be the first one that pops into your mind. But it’s a quiet hero in the nutrition world, playing a significant role in keeping our families healthy. Let’s dive into the world of understanding fiber, its types, and how you can seamlessly weave it into your family’s diet.

We're excited to announce a segment in our weekly newsletter: "Ask The Non-Toxic Dad Team." This is your chance to get expert answers to all your questions about toxin-free living.

Simply send your questions to [email protected], and we'll select a few to feature and answer in upcoming editions. Whether you have specific questions or you're looking for general advice, we want to hear from you!

One reader asks: “Do you have a good homemade non-toxic recipe for laundry soap?”

Here's a simple recipe for a homemade non-toxic laundry soap:

Ingredients:

• 1 bar of Castile soap (unscented or scented, depending on your preference)

• 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate)

• 1 cup borax (sodium borate, a natural mineral)

• Instructions:

• Grate the Castile soap bar into fine shavings. You can use a cheese grater or a food processor for this.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Castile soap, washing soda, and borax.

• Mix the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined. You can use a spoon or your hands to do this.

• Transfer the mixture to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.

To Use:

• For a standard-sized load of laundry, use approximately 2-3 tablespoons of homemade laundry soap.

• If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washing machine, you may need to use less detergent, so start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust as needed.

• Add the detergent directly to the drum of your washing machine before adding your clothes.

• Store the remaining homemade laundry soap in a cool, dry place.

This DIY laundry soap is free of harsh chemicals and is a great option for those looking for a non-toxic and eco-friendly alternative to commercial laundry detergents. It should work well for most types of laundry, but you can always adjust the quantity based on your specific washing machine and laundry needs.

Remember, no question is too small or too specific. Your curiosity could inspire an entire community to make healthier choices.

This week let's begin by swapping one toxic product in your home for a non-toxic alternative.

Whether it's a cleaning product, personal care item, or even a kitchen utensil, every small change counts. You can even use our recipe above for non-toxic laundry soap! Let me know what you swapped out, and remember even small steps to become non-toxic, make a big difference!

As we wrap up another edition of 'Non-Toxic Weekly,' we want to express our gratitude for your continued support and engagement. Your commitment to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle is what keeps us motivated to explore, educate, and empower.

Remember, positive change starts with small, intentional steps. Let's continue to make choices that nourish not only our own well-being but also the world we share.