The 5 Hidden Toxins We Eliminated: Our Family’s Non-Toxic Checklist for Your Home
At Little Mountain Flowers, our "Botanical Gold Standard" isn't just a philosophy—it's a lifeline. For over two decades, our family has been on a relentless quest to understand and eliminate harmful ingredients from our home.
Our family's severe sensitivities and various allergies forced us to become meticulous label readers, ingredient translators, and ultimately, experts in what truly belongs in a healthy home.
What started as a personal necessity became our passion. Now, we apply this 20 years of vetting experience to every non-toxic, sustainable home and body essential we offer. We've done the deep dive, identified the culprits, and curated a collection you can truly trust.
Here are 5 hidden toxins we've eliminated from our home, and why you should consider them for yours:
1. Phthalates: The "Fragrance" Disguise & Endocrine Disruptor
What they are: Phthalates (pronounced THA-lates) are a group of chemicals often used to make plastics more flexible and, alarmingly, to carry synthetic fragrances in countless products. Because of trade secret laws, they often hide under the generic term "fragrance" on ingredient lists.
Why we avoid them: Research links phthalates to endocrine disruption... For our family, these synthetic fragrances are a significant trigger for allergic reactions and sensitivities, making phthalate-laden products a definite no-go.
Your Action: Look for products that list "phthalate-free fragrance" or use essential oils for scent. This is non-negotiable for our non-toxic cleaning products and fine fragrance home items.
2. Parabens: The Preservative Problem
What they are: Parabens (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben) are common preservatives found in everything from cosmetics to food. They extend shelf life by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold.
Why we avoid them: Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, leading to concerns about potential endocrine disruption. While the full extent of their impact is debated, our family's sensitivities taught us to err on the side of caution. If it's easily avoidable, we avoid it.
Your Action: Check the labels of your body lotions, creams, and skincare products for ingredients ending in "-paraben." Opt for paraben-free skincare and natural body care with alternative preservation systems.
3. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: Hidden Off-Gassers
What they are: You might not see "formaldehyde" on a label, but you'll see ingredients that release it over time. Common examples include DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15.
Why we avoid them: Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen and a common allergen. Even small exposures from these "releasers" can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. For those with sensitivities, its presence contributes to poor indoor air quality.
Your Action: Scrutinize cleaning products, laundry detergents, and some personal care items. Seek out brands committed to formaldehyde-free formulations for a cleaner, healthier home environment.
5. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) / Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): The Harsh Foamers
What they are: These are common surfactants that create rich lather in shampoos, soaps, and many cleaning products.
Why we avoid them: While generally considered safe in rinse-off products, SLS/SLES can be harsh irritants, especially for sensitive skin. Our family experienced dryness and irritation, prompting us to seek gentler alternatives. For our family, certain harsh foaming agents contribute to sensitivity flare-ups.
Your Action: Look for sulfate-free shampoo, body wash, and non-toxic cleaning sprays. There are many plant-derived, gentler surfactants available that still provide effective cleaning without the irritation.
Our Promise: Vetted by Our Family, Ready for Yours
Navigating the world of ingredients can be overwhelming. That's why at Little Mountain Flowers, we apply our 20 years of meticulous vetting to every single product. From the non-toxic, sustainable home essentials of Homecourt to the therapeutic body care of Soulistic Root, each item meets our Botanical Gold Standard.
We want you to shop with confidence, knowing that if it's on our shelves (or shop), it's been scrutinized by a family who understands the profound impact of clean ingredients on a healthy life.
Ready to transform your home with natural, vetted products?