Dirty Labs Laundry Detergent Review

I’ve tried a lot of laundry detergents over the last few years in effort to find something that checked all of my boxes. I obviously wanted something that effectively cleaned our clothes but I also wanted one that was less toxic for humans and the environment. I wanted a scent but I didn’t want it to be overpowering. However, I often found that scented low-toxic laundry detergents left behind no scent at all and instead left clothes smelling kind of stale. I have really never found one that was perfect but they did the trick. Then I heard about Dirty Labs laundry detergent in one of my low-toxic living groups and decided to give it a try. I was hesitant and assumed I would be getting a different version of the same thing despite the rave reviews. After using it for a few months now, I have to say I am impressed.

Dirty Labs Laundry Detergent Review

About Dirty Labs Laundry Detergent

Dirty Labs was founded by Dr. Pete He and David Watkins in effort to create a laundry detergent that was not only highly effective but safe for humans, animal life and the environment. In their words they wanted, “a sustainable, biobased approach to cleaning that’s rooted in science and aligned with nature” and with their combined knowledge in chemistry, design, development and manufacturing, they did just that. Their team uses “green chemistry” to develop products that perform while still being safe and sustainable. You can learn more about Dr. Pete and David as well as their mission here.

What Makes Dirty Labs Different?

Most cleaning products use petroleum-based ingredients but Dirty Labs uses “biobased” ingredients and “Phytolase” which is a “5-in-1 enzyme-driven cleaning technology” to provide highly effective cleaning and odor elimination while still being safe for humans and the environment. Dirty Labs fights stains, removes odors rather than masking them, softens clothes without using fats and brightens without optical brighteners. Learn more about the science behind Dirty Labs cleaning products here.

In terms of sustainability, the Dirty Labs team is going all out. They use a holitic approach and keep the impact that cleaning products have on our environment in mind when developing their formulations and packaging. Their products are biodegradeable, cruelty free, the ingredients are responsibly sourced, they utilize responsible manufacturing practices, they work to reduce their carbon footprint and they use sustainable packaging. Learn more about Dirty Labs’ sustainability practices here.

My Personal Experience With Dirty Labs Laundry Detergent

I started using Dirty Labs a few months ago. I like that they use enzyme technology and I also liked that they provide a couple of scented options. The reviews that I was hearing from other customers were really positive and I was cautiously optimistic. I initially bought their signature scent (magnolia, bergamot, cedar) and noticed that it was really sweet and floral but not outrageously overpowering. The bottle was small, only 8.6 ounces ($14) but that will wash 32 average sized loads. The detergent also comes with a silicone beaker for measuring and with options for measuring more detergent for larger and/or dirtier loads of laundry. The idea is to measure out the detergent using the beaker and then put the beaker in the detergent dispenser to be cleaned while the washing machine cleans your laundry, that way you’re not having to wash out the beaker by hand everytime you do a load of laundry. The beaker does not fit in my detergent dispenser so I just put it in the machine with the clothes. I would say the beaker is probably my least favorite part of the detergent. I have lost it a few times in the laundry and the measuring lines are hard to see. You also have to be a bit careful when pouring or the detergent drips down the sides of the bottle. These are not deal breakers for me but I do hope they change this design at some point. The bottom line is that it absolutely works, it checks my most important boxes and that’s what I want. It effectively cleans, removes stains (I still use a stain remover as I would with any detergent), our clothes smell good for longer than just one day and they do not get that weird stale smell that I have noticed with other less toxic detergents. I will say that I was not in love with the Signature Scent (magnolia, bergamot, cedar) because it was a little too floral-sweet but I love the Murasaki Scent (jasmine, matcha, vetiver), which is more of a fresh-floral. They do also offer a free and clear option. I bought their detergent for delicates and it did a great job of gently cleaning a few of my sweaters. See below for all buying options including their 21.6 ounce (80 loads) size and their laundry booster.

Dirty Labs Shopping Links:

Signature Scent (magnolia, bergamot, cedar) 8.6 ounces (32 loads) $14 or 21.6 ounces (80 loads) $26

Murasaki Scent (jasmine, match, vetiver) 8.6 ounces (32 loads) $14 or 21.6 ounces (80 loads) $26

Free & Clear 8.6 ounces (32 loads) $14 or 21.6 ounces (80 loads) $26

Hand Wash and Delicates Detergent (unscented) 8.6 ounces (32 loads) $18

Laundry Booster (unscented) 48 loads $17

My Favorite Budget Friendly Low-Toxic and Non-Toxic Cleaning and Housekeeping Products

The price of everything seems to be going up and many of us are really feeling it, especially if you’re already on a tight budget. If you’re trying to live a less toxic lifestyle, perhaps you’re worried that it’s just going to be too expensive or that you may have to make some significant compromises. When it comes to cleaning and housekeeping there are some really great, highly effective and budget friendly products available. You don’t have to compromise cleanliness but it may mean breaking up with expensive products you’ve been using. The upside is that many of these products and practices save time and waste.

My Favorite Budget Friendly Non-Toxic Cleaning and Housekeeping Products

Hydrogen Peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide can be used for both cleaning and disinfecting around the entire house. It’s incredibly versatile. It can be used to disinfect any hard, non porous surface including kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, sinks, cutting boards, doorknobs, toys, refrigerators and garbage cans. It can used to remove stains from grout and white textiles. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to sanitize beauty and personal care tools like nail tools and even your toothbrush. I’ve seen sources that say to mix 50/50 with water and some that say to use it undiluted. I use it undiluted for household and cleaning purposes. Either way make sure you’re purchasing 3% USP hydrogen peroxide. I buy a gallon jug of 3% USP hydrogen peroxide on Amazon for about $18 and then pour it into a 16-ounce glass spray bottle like these from Sally’s Organics. This is much more cost effective than buying a new bottle of cleaner or disinfectant every time it runs out and needs replacing and it creates a lot less waste.

All Purpose Glass Spray Bottles - I like using glass spray bottles for a variety of cleaning products and also plain water. They last much longer than plastic bottles and can be used over and over again. If the spray trigger breaks then I just replace that. They may cost more initially than plastic bottles but in the long run you save money because they do not have to be replaced as often. I like these from Sally’s Organics on Amazon, $25 for 2, 16 oz. bottles and replacement trigger sprayer for $5.98. Using glass spray bottles also cuts down on plastic usage.

Branch Basics Cleaning Concentrate - I had been hearing about Branch Basics for a while and they have been getting some pretty good reviews for their cleaning concentrate. Not only is it non-toxic, it can also be used for a variety of cleaning needs around the house. It’s also 100% fragrance free, it doesn’t even contain essential oils, which is great for those who are sensitive to all types of fragrance. One bottle of concentrate can be used to make an all-purpose cleaning spray, laundry detergent, hand soap and glass cleaner and floor and carpet cleaner. It can also be used many other ways around the house. The big bottle of concentrate is $55 but you get multiple refills out of this one bottle. How much you get out of that bottle of concentrate and cost per cleaning product really depends on how you use it. However, it’s indicated that one bottle of concentrate makes (3) 16 oz. bottles of all-purpose cleaner, (3) 16 oz. bottles of bathroom cleaner, (3) 16 oz. bottles of glass cleaner, (3) 10 oz. bottles of foaming wash and (1) 32 oz. laundry bottle. I know that if I added up what I normally pay for these individual products, it would be a lot more than $55. Branch Basics Cleaning Concentrate $55 or $49.50 with subscription.

White Distilled Vinegar or Cleaning Vinegar - White distilled vinegar and cleaning vinegar are not the same thing. White distilled vinegar is 5% acetic acid and cleaning vinegar is 6%. Both are affordable but plain white vinegar is definitely cheaper. You also absolutely cannot cook with cleaning vinegar. Both can be used for inexpensively cleaning certain items around your home but, because vinegar is acidic, it cannot be used everywhere. This Real Simple guide is a great way to know how and when to use cleaning vinegar (you can use it as a guide for regular white vinegar too).

Dryer Balls - I’ve been using dryer balls for a few years and I will never go back to dryer sheets. Most conventional dryer sheets are full of fragrance and leave behind a non-biodegradable sheet that ends up in landfills. You also have to buy dryer sheets over and over again. Dryer balls are fragrance free and can be used for up to three years before they need replacing. A set of 3 wool dryer balls costs less than $20, so you can imagine how much you would be saving by no longer having to purchase dryer sheets. Wool dryer balls are also known reduce drying time so that helps by reducing utility costs. If you prefer to not use wool, you can opt for dryer balls made with thermal plastic rubber. Dirty Lab’s Wool Dryer Balls (responsibly sourced) Set of 3 $18 and Nellie’s Dryer Balls (thermal plastic rubber) Set of 2 $14.60

Powdered Laundry Detergent - You can save money by using a powdered laundry detergent instead of a liquid. Nellie’s Laundry Soda is effective and comes out to about $.20 a load depending on what size you get. If you buy their largest size, it comes out to $.13 a load. Nellie’s uses very simple ingredients and no fragrance. You can also try Molly’s Suds. They use clean ingredients but provide a few non-toxic scent options in their powdered detergents. Molly’s runs about $.20 to $.40 per load depending on formulation and size. Powder can be used in both top and front loading HE machines. Shop Nellie’s Laundry or Shop Molly’s Suds Laundry

7 Areas You Might Be Missing When Cleaning Out

So let me start by saying I’m not an organizational or decluttering expert but I have learned a lot over the past few years as I have tried to drastically change my habits around “things,” whether that be buying new things or what I did what the things I already owned. This came from a deep desire to start simplifying my life as much as possible because I realized that it not only created more space in my home but in my head as well. I did not like clutter and I did not like have drawers, closets and my basement filled with things that we weren’t using. The relief I felt when letting things go was indescribable and I wanted to keep that momentum going and hit every square inch of my home. The realization hit me that there were A LOT of places that were easy to disregard or miss altogether. Here are the six that were the easiest for me to miss.

6 Areas You Might Be Missing When Cleaning Out

The Underwear/Sock/Bra Drawer - I have always been really good about cleaning out my regular clothing but not so good with cleaning out my drawers that contain my bras, underwear and socks. So it wasn’t shocking that, when I finally tackled that project, I found things that I had been holding onto since before I was married. Anything in bad condition or that hadn’t been worn in a long time needed to go. I had also accumulated quite a few sentimental and personal items in these drawers and those things needed to find a more appropriate home.

Bedside Table - If your bedside table has a drawer, there’s a good chance there are things in there that can be cleaned out. I know this from personal experience and was kind of shocked by what I found. Pens, old notes and lists for Santa from the kids, jewelry, notebooks, old lip balms, coins and a few other random items. Some things needed tossing and other things just needed to go back where they belong.

End/Coffee Tables and Entertainment Centers - Yes, I’m grouping these together. If any of these items have drawers or shelves in your home, they may also have items that may have accumulated crap and need to be cleaned up. Take a peek and see what you find, you’ll probably be surprised.

Makeup Bag or Drawer - Easily forgotten is the makeup bag or drawer. I’ve found eyeliners and other items that should have been thrown out years before. Do yourself a favor and go through your makeup, clean out and then maybe treat yourself to a new eyeshadow palette or lip gloss!

Toiletries/Travel Bags - I do like to keep my toiletries bags ready to go for traveling so I don’t have to pack them every time I go somewhere. However, that also has led to an accumulation of items that needed to be cleaned out. Check out those travel bags and see if you need to do the same.

The Wallet - If your wallet weighs 10 lbs. and is overflowing with receipts, it may be time to clean it out. A wallet is any easy one to forget especially since it hides away in my purse most of the time but it does need to be cleaned out occasionally. Receipts, loose change, old cards and gift cards can quickly accumulate and make it hard to find what you really need in your wallet so add that to your list when cleaning out!

The Jewelry Box/Storage - Once my jewelry was at the point where I didn’t know what I had anymore and my drawers and boxes were overflowing, I knew I had to do a clean out. It never occurred to me that jewelry was something that should be evaluated and purged on a regular basis as well. While there was a lot of inexpensive jewelry that needed to go, there were also some more expensive jewelry items that I no longer wore. I just donated less expensive jewelry but finer pieces were sold through Poshmark and I continue to use this method to help keep my jewelry collection to only the things I love and wear on a regular basis. Obviously, sentimental and keepsake type items stay in my collection.

My Favorite And Most Effective Tips For A Clutter Free Home

I don’t remember exactly when it was that I realized that my excess “stuff” was dragging me down but I do know that I was absolutely clueless about how to get it out and keep it out for good. I would donate, sell or throw things out but the clutter just kept coming back. I did refer to a couple of simplicity and decluttering experts and their advice helped get me started and reframed how I thought about my things and how I wanted to live my life. I realized I wanted an unfussy and uncomplicated life and I didn’t want the distraction of excess things. I also realized it was okay to let go of things that I may have holding onto for for reasons that didn’t really serve me. It was a good start and certainly better than where I was before but not where I really wanted to be. What I was lacking were strategies that actually worked for me, personally. So, through some trial and error, I learned to develop and tailor techniques for myself that actually stuck. I no longer feel overwhelmed and I finally feel like I am on the other side of what felt like an incredibly insurmountable task. Here’s what I’m doing to live a more simplified and clutter-free life.

My Favorite And Most Effective Tips For A Clutter Free Home

Store It At The Store - This is a concept I heard about somewhere in my decluttering journey and it really resonated with me. At some point in my life, I had fallen into the trap of buying things “just in case.” This included gifts, household supplies, gadgets, food and even clothing. What resulted was the accumulation of a lot things that went forgotten and unused. Then came the burden of storing and eventually having to get rid of those things. Waiting to buy something until I actually needed it made so much more sense. Avoiding the urge to stockpile items freed up space in my home and also lifted a huge weight off of my shoulders. So, now whatever it may be hangs out at the store until I actually need it.

Deal With Items In The Moment - The old me would have put things in a “holding pattern” until I decided what to do with them. Now, I put things where they belong as soon as I possibly can even if it’s being thrown out, donated or sold. This is an easy way to avoid build up of clutter and unwanted items and the frustration of having to take the time to deal with it.

Avoid Buying Items On Final Sale - Final sale is final sale and once it’s in your home, it’s your responsibility even if it ends up being a complete dud. I make exceptions if it’s an item I have purchased before and I know I like it and it’s going to work out. Otherwise, I avoid taking that gamble and also avoid ending up with stuff in my home that I don’t want or need.

A Buying Freeze - Other than certain food items and essentials, it’s likely that I already have everything I need. I find this especially helpful after the holidays when we’ve received gifts and when our pantry and fridge are still full of food. A buying freeze pushes me to use things up and go through what we already have. It also eliminates any new items coming into my home that need managing. A temporary buying freeze is also a nice way to learn to appreciate what you already have.

If It Doesn’t Get Me Excited, I Don’t Buy It And If It Doesn’t Get Me Excited, I Get Rid Of It - This is another great tactic for avoiding unwanted items from even making it into my home in the first place. It’s also a good strategy for getting rid of items I already own. Obviously there are things that aren’t exciting and never will be but we need to have them in our home. My washing machine does not excite me but I’m not going to get rid of it. Clothing is typically the first thing that comes to mind but home decor, accessories and other household items certainly qualify. If it doesn’t excite me, it either doesn't come home with me or it doesn’t stay.

I Evaluate Every New Item That Comes Into My Home - While I have become more conscious of my own purchases, it’s almost impossible to avoid random items making their way into my home. I notice this especially during the holidays when gifting is at its peak. Freebies, hostess gifts, and unsolicited hand-me-downs are other ways things make their way into my home. It probably happens to all of us and the old me would have taken these items and stashed them away without any thought at all. Now, I take every item as it comes in and decide if it stays or goes. The key is to have a system in place for things that you decide to keep, donate and throw away and deal with it as soon as possible.

I Have a System for Cleaning Out - Every item I touch when cleaning out has a place to go. A bin for things that I am going to keep, donate/sell and throw out. Then I deal with the stuff in those bins as soon as possible.

5 Simple Household Items and Gadgets I Can't Live Without

We all have those items we love and can’t live without. They are the ones that perhaps we didn’t know we needed, purchased them on whim and then ended up using them so often we’re not sure how we ever functioned properly before they came along. In my effort to simplify, I am wary about buying a ton of items and gadgets that will just end up unused and cluttering up my home. However, a few thoughtfully selected items that are inexpensive and come in handy for a variety of tasks is exactly what I need and want. Here are five of those items that are my favorite and just might becomes yours! Check them out.

5 Simple Household Items and Gadgets I Can't Live Without

OXO Mini Cleaning Brushes - I can’t count how many ways I’ve used these mini cleaning brushes. The bristles are stiff and sturdy and perfect for cleaning tiny spaces like sink drains, the sink rim, grout, all those nooks and crannies in bathtubs and showers and for scrubbing stains on clothing. The best part is that after you’re done, you can throw them in the dishwasher to clean and sanitize them. SHOP HERE

Fiskar Fabric Scissors - For years I used just a regular pair of scissors for cutting fabric, thread, ribbon and string. It wasn’t until I took a sewing class that I started using a good pair of fabric scissors and decided to finally buy a pair for myself. They make such a difference in getting a clean and easy cut through anything made with fabric. I no longer sew and I still think they are one of the more useful items in my home. SHOP HERE

OXO Mini Measuring Cups - I originally bought these as a stocking stuffer for my husband but I have used them more than anyone in the house. They are perfect for measuring small amounts of liquid without the hassle of spilling or overfilling a tiny measuring spoon. They have also come in handy for other tasks other than cooking and baking. I love that they come in a set of four and also multiple measurements including milliliters. SHOP HERE

Weck Jars - These jars are hand down the best thing I have bought for my kitchen in a long time. They come in all shapes and sizes and can be used for everything like canning, smoothies, overnight oats, storage, serving and about a zillion other things. Weck jars are microwave and dishwasher safe and made of glass, not plastic. They come with the canning lids but you can purchase either plastic or wooden lids. SHOP HERE

Conair Rechargeable Fabric Defuzzer and Shaver - This is not exactly a multi-tasking product but it’s absolutely necessary, in my opinion. There’s nothing I hate more than pulling out a piece of clothing and the fabric is all messy and pilled. The key thing I love about this one is that it is rechargeable. No more batteries to replace over and over again and it holds a charge for a while. It’s also really sturdy and the larger size makes it easier to de-fuzz clothing items quickly and efficiently. SHOP HERE

The Ultimate Low and Non Toxic Laundry Products Guide

*Updated from a previous post on 7/2021

Laundry is inevitable. If you have a family, you’re probably doing laundry several times a week or even everyday, so it’s important that your laundry products do the job and do it right. Unfortunately, most conventional laundry products, including detergents, stain removers and fabric softeners, contain heavy amounts of synthetic fragrance, harsh cleaning agents and synthetic dyes. Many people are starting to look for alternatives because they are concerned about the safety of these ingredients and the impact on human health and the environment. Switching can seem overwhelming especially if you’re also concerned that your laundry won’t get properly cleaned or smell as fresh as with your conventional products. The good news is that there are more low and non toxic options now than ever and they do work. They remove stains, dirt and odors, but don’t leave behind a heavy fragrance or any residues that might cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

The Ultimate Low and Non Toxic Laundry Products Guide

Detergents

Defunkify Laundry Detergent - Defunkify uses a combination of non-toxic natural/botanical and synthetic ingredients to remove stains and odors. Their claim to fame is in their name; they aim to safely remove those funky odors and stink that many laundry detergents can leave behind (think all of that synthetic athletic wear). You can buy in both liquid and powder and it comes in free and clear, fresh air, lemongrass and lavender scents. All scented formulas are made using essential oils. Get all the details on the company and their products on their website.

Truly Free - Truly Free is a company out of Michigan dedicated to creating innovative, powerful and safe products for the home. Their laundry detergent comes as a kit with a plastic jug and a refill pouch. When you run out of detergent, all you have to do is purchase the refill pouch, add it to the empty jug, add water and you’re good to go for another 50 loads. The laundry detergent is non-toxic and comes in unscented and their signature scent made from a blend of essential oils. They have a full line of products including stain removers, oxygen boosters and dryer sheet alternatives. Ingredients, reviews, shipping options and pricing are all available on their website.

Branch Basics - Branch Basics is another company dedicated to creating safe and effective cleaning products for the home, including laundry products. If you’re looking for a simple, streamlined, all purpose cleaning solution then Branch Basics may be just what you are looking for. One concentrated cleaning solution and an oxygen booster are all that you need to clean your entire home, including your laundry. Just like Truly Free, you purchase the starter kit(s) and then buy the refills when you run out. Branch Basics products are non toxic and Made Safe® certified. You can learn all about Branch Basics and their products by visiting their website.

Nellie’s - Nellie’s detergent is a powdered laundry soda that is formulated without water and other fillers so that a little goes a long way. If you’re looking for a simple, fragrance free detergent, this is good choice. There are only four non-toxic ingredients and every product is made with the health of humans and the planet in mind. They offer the powdered soda as well as travel-friendly laundry nuggets in addition to other planet and human-friendly cleaning products. Learn more about Nellie’s company and products here.

Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder - A great basic laundry detergent option and Molly’s Suds keeps coming out with new scents like lotus and peony, rosé and citrus grove, along with their traditional scents peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus and unscented. This is a great formula for lightly to moderately soiled laundry but you might need their Super Powder Laundry Detergent for heavily soiled laundry. Again, this formula is not going to leave a heavy scent behind because they do not use heavy-duty synthetic fragrances. Due to the nature of this powder, it does need to be used with only warm or hot water washes or dissolved in hot water before adding it to a cold water wash (super powder can be used in cool, warm or hot water).

Aspen Clean - Aspen Clean is available in either liquid or pods and checks every box you can possibly imagine. EcoCert® certified, EWG verified, biodegradable, Leaping Bunny certified, safe for babies and pets, septic safe, container is recyclable and made from 100% post-consumer resin, vegan and made from all natural sustainable ingredients. They offer several scents including unscented as well as an oxygen booster.

Delicates and Baby

Molly’s Suds Baby Laundry Powder - An extra gentle version of Molly’s powdered detergent formulated to remove all of those typical baby stains. Non toxic Sweet Baby Shea scent.

Nellie’s Baby Laundry Soda - The baby version of the Nellie’s laundry soda. Safe for infants and sensitive skin. Unscented.

Honest Hypoallergenic Baby Detergent - A gentle, fragrance-free formula with four stain-flighting enzymes.

Molly’s Suds Delicate Wash - Formulated to remove dirt, debris, oil and stains but gentle enough for silk, spandex, rayon, wool, cashmere, merino, mohair, and other delicate fabrics. Available in unscented and lavender.

Activewear

Defunkify - Defunkify’s odor fighting odor eliminating formula is effective at removing odors from regular laundry as well as activewear.

Molly’s Suds All Sport Activewear Detergent - Eliminates athletic wear stink from odor-causing bacteria and tough stains while preserving fabric integrity, including SPF. Can be used for machine and hand washing. Comes in their original citrus scent and unscented as well as a powdered version.

Stain Removers and Whiteners

Photo by Sarah Brown on Unsplash

Molly’s Suds Oxygen Whitener - Removes stains, whitens and brightens. Chlorine free. Four ingredients including fragrance from essential oils. Available in original lemon, basil, eucalyptus and lavender scents.

Molly’s Suds Stain Remover - Enzyme-powered to break down and eliminate tough stains. Unscented, dye free and safe for all washable fabrics. Effective on pet and baby stains.

Nellie’s Oxygen Whitener - Brightens colors and whitens whites without chlorine bleach. Hypoallergenic, color-safe and septic-safe. Fragrance free.

Nellie’s Wow Stick Stain Remover - A powerful multi-stain remover in stick form. Dye free, but does contain sweet orange and lemongrass essential oils to combat stain odors.

Truly Free Oxy Boost - The perfect bleach alternative. Whitens whites and brightens most colors. Can also be used in other areas of the home like the bathroom.

Truly Free Stain Stick - A non-toxic option for stain removal for clothing and other textiles.

Laundry Drying and Softening

Molly’s Suds Wool Dryer Balls

Molly’s Suds Wool Dryer Balls - By far the most non-toxic, eco-friendly, cost saving alternative to dryer sheets. Many companies offer wool dryer balls, but I’m linking to Molly’s Suds. Wool dryer balls can be used for up to 3 years, they shorten drying time and fluff and soften fabrics.

Molly’s Suds Dryer Sheets - If you just can’t live without dryer sheets, Molly Suds offers a non-toxic, biodegradable dryer sheet that is scented using essential oils. They offer unscented, lavender and peppermint scent options.

Nellie’s Wool Free (Rubber) Dryer Balls - Works the same as wool dryer balls but they are made of rubber.

Photo by PlanetCare on Unsplash

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Cozy Throw Blankets For Every Season And Budget

A home is just not complete without a collection of cozy throw blankets for naps, chilly nights in front of the tv, football games and gatherings around the outdoor fire pit. I grew up in the 70s and 80s and throw blankets were either of the handmade-by-grandma variety (nothing wrong with that) or made of wool so scratchy that you would rather freeze than use it to warm up. Throws, and textiles in general, have come a long way and the options are endless; soft alpaca knits, lightweight cotton, ultra soft fleece, dramatic chunky knits. You name it, it’s probably made into a blanket. We certainly own our fair share but one thing that has caught my attention in recent years is the impact of textiles on our environment and our health. It never occurred to me that the fabrics we wear and use in our home could be harboring harmful substances and I’ve become more conscious about looking for items made with safer textiles. If you are concerned about this and want to purchase more consciously as well, look for OEKO-TEX, GOTS and MADE SAFE certifications on the product or in the product description. Some brands, like Coyuchi and Avocado Mattress, are solely dedicated to manufacturing and selling products made with safe and sustainable fabrics under incredibly strict standards. I’m sharing a variety of throw blankets in this post, some of them will have these previously mentioned certifications and some will not, but I did try to find blankets either labeled as “non-toxic” or “sustainably sourced.”

Lightweight Options (good for summer, warmer climates or if you need a light layer)

Coyuchi Topanga Organic Matelasse Throw - Made with 100% organic undyed cotton yarn. GOTS certified. Each throw is different and unique due to nature of the fabric. Four color options. $148

West Elm Walker Noble Kuba Throw - Made with 100% organic GOTS certified cotton in a neutral sand color. West Elm worked in collaboration with L.A. artist, Walker Noble, to design this unique throw. $90

Kyra Home Muslin Cotton Throw - 100% organic cotton made from plant-dyed yarn. Description claims to have OEKO-TEX® Type 2 certification. 11 colors and 2 sizes. Over 2,500 five-star reviews. $28-$37

Midweight Options (good for spring or fall when it’s not too cold or hot)

Boll & Branch Sweater Knit Throw - 100% organic cotton knit. Fair Trade Factory, GOTS and STANDARD 100 OEKO-TEX® certified. A luxurious, high quality organic cotton blanket. Available in 3 colors. $148

West Elm Double Cotton Throw - 100% sustainably sourced cotton with a 85% cotton and 15% linen lining. 5 color options. $90

Pottery Barn Hayes Faux Mohair Throw - 55% polyester and 45% acrylic. STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® and sustainably sourced materials. Super soft, warm and with a heathered, twill weave. Available in 4 colors. $79

Super Soft and Cozy Options (good for colder weather)

Pottery Barn Dream Faux Fur Throw - 100% recycled STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified polyester. Fluffy and soft. Three neutral colors. $129.

Cariloha Plush Bamboo Throw Blanket - Carbon neutral item that’s made with 50% bamboo viscose and 50% polyester. Soft and plush. Available in three colors. $119.

Pottery Barn Fireside Cozy Sherpa Reversible Throw - 100% STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified polyester. Comes in red, tobacco and ivory. $49

Wool or Other Natural Animal Fiber Options (non-synthetic and good for colder weather)

Coyuchi Tahoe Climate Beneficial Wool Throw - 100% climate beneficial wool sourced from a Northern California ranch. Wool is produced in woven in the USA. Washed and combed for softness. $248

Pottery Barn Blomus Merino Wool Throw - 85% wool and 15% cashmere. Crafted in Italy. Soft and lightweight. 4 neutral color options. $179

Standard Textile Home Wool Plaid Throw (sold through Target) - 100% brushed wool. Super soft. Traditional plaid with fringe detail. Available in 2 colors. $140

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Ten Essentials I’m Buying For My Fall Kitchen Refresh

After 20 years of marriage, many of our beloved kitchen gadgets and appliances are breaking down or becoming obsolete. There are also several items that just need to be replaced on a regular basis (I’m looking at you dingy dish towels and stinky, stained cutting boards), so I thought it would be a good time to give our kitchen a little refresh. This time, I am being much more conscious about materials regarding both sustainability and safety. I’m selecting products made with glass, stainless steel, cast iron, wood, bamboo and other non/low-toxic surfaces as much as I possibly can without sacrificing functionality or completely breaking the bank. It’s impossible to avoid every single toxin and concerning chemical in the kitchen but you can definitely reduce your exposure with some thoughtfully chosen items.

Ten Essentials I’m Buying For My Fall Kitchen Refresh

Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor - After 20 years of use, our old Cuisinart food processor finally broke down. We need a new one because we use it multiple times a week and after a lot of research, I decided to stay with the Cuisinart brand. I like the large capacity and the fact that it lasted 20 years says a lot about its quality. It comes with multiple blades for slicing, mixing, chopping and shredding. There are food processors that use glass or stainless steel instead of plastic. However, they just can’t compete with the Cuisinart capacity and they now use BPA-free plastic, which is not perfect but it’s better. Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor $249.95 on Amazon with options for paying over time.

Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware Set - After years of research and buying and trying different pans, I decided to go back to good old-fashioned cast iron. However, now you can buy pre-seasoned cast iron and avoid the hassle of cooking and cleaning unseasoned cast iron cookware. Yes, the pre-seasoning is non-toxic and much safer than any non-stick cookware on the market right now. Lodge 5-Piece Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware Set $106.34 on Amazon with options for paying over time.

Emeril Lagasse Power Air Fryer 360 - My son has been bothering us to get an air fryer for a while now and we also need to replace our toaster oven. I like this particular model because it also functions as a toaster oven which means I can replace our old one and get an air fryer without taking up any additional counter space. It also has nearly 9,000 5-star reviews, so I feel I can buy with confidence. Special note: This air fryer does come with a Prop 65 warning but it refers to BPA in the cord which does not affect the food in any way. Emeril Lagasse Power Air Fryer 360 $165 on Amazon.

Greener Chef Organic Bamboo Cutting Board - My larger cutting boards are getting old and breaking down and I want to replace them with bamboo. I like that bamboo is renewable and this one, by Greener Chef, is non-toxic. It’s free of dyes, stains, chemical resins, plastic and formaldehyde. The larger size is perfect for meal prep but small enough that I can store it away when I’m not using it. Greener Chef is another small business that sells their products on Amazon and I like supporting small business as much as possible. This cutting board has over 11,000 5-star reviews, so this one makes it on my list. Greener Chef Organic Bamboo Extra Large Cutting Board $19.99 on Amazon.

Joseph Joseph Nest Prep & Store - This set of four mixing bowls are made with stainless steel and include lids so that you can easily go from prep to storage. I’m eyeing the larger bowl as good storage for soups and other leftovers that may not fit into our regular storage containers. The nesting design allows both the lids and bowls to fit neatly together for efficient storage. The bowls also have non-slip bases and we know how helpful that is. Joseph Joseph Nest Prep & Store $100 at Williams-Sonoma.

Williams-Sonoma Stainless Steel Salad Spinner - We need another salad spinner and I like that the inner part that holds the greens is stainless steel and can be used as a strainer for other food items. The strainer holes are small enough so that you can spin dry smaller greens like sprouts and micro-greens without them falling through or getting caught. The outer plastic parts that have little to no food contact are made of BPA-free plastic. Salad spinners help dry your greens so that dressing stick to them better and they also work as a good storage vessel! Williams-Sonoma Stainless Steel Salad Spinner $69.95 at Williams-Sonoma.

Williams-Sonoma Spider Skimmer - Have you ever had a tool mysteriously disappear from your kitchen? Perhaps we lost in our move a few years ago or maybe it broke and someone forgot to let me know. In any case, I have needed a new one of these for a while. Skimmers come in handy for a variety of kitchen tasks including deep frying, stir frying and sauteing. Made of non-reactive stainless steel. Williams-Sonoma Spider Skimmer $39.95 at Williams-Sonoma.

Chef’n Glass Mandoline - A mandoline is so handy to have in the kitchen for slicing and other cuts like crinkle cuts and julienne but the one we own is large, clunky and hard to use. I love this one by Chef’n because it’s small and easy to use and I can store it right in the drawers in my island for easy access. It’s also made of glass and stainless steel (the pusher part is made of plastic). Chef’n Glass Mandoline $109.95 at Williams-Sonoma.

Set of 6, Weck Tulip Jars (35.9 ounce) - Weck glass jars are one of the best things to happen to my kitchen in a long time. They are so incredibly versatile. They are originally designed for canning but can be used so many other ways. I want this set of larger jars for larger amounts of soups, sauces and broths as well as dry items in my pantry but I know they will have so many more uses. I do recommend buying the plastic or wooden lids as they are much easier to use than the canning lids. I will link those here as well. Set of 6, Weck Tulip Jars (35.9 ounce) $34.95 at Williams-Sonoma and lids are linked here (you will need lids in the LARGE size for these particular jars).

Dish Towels - My kitchen towels definitely need a refresh since we use them so often for so many things and they get dingy fast. I like to take my old kitchen towels and use them for rags in other areas if the house like the bathrooms. I’m going to link a couple towel options; one is really inexpensive and great for dirtier kitchen tasks and the other is higher quality, nicer looking and really absorbent. Both options are 100% organic cotton and use non-toxic dyes and both are sold by small businesses. Full Circle Organic Cotton Dish Towels, Set of 3 for $8 and Coyuchi Organic Waffle Kitchen Towels, Set of 6 for $58.

*The Quiet Life Chronicles partners with several affiliate programs, meaning that I can earn a commission from purchases/clicks by those who visit this site at no additional cost to you!