Trying to clean up your routine can feel overwhelming at first, especially when every product on your shelf seems to have a list of ingredients you can’t pronounce. But going “more natural” doesn’t have to mean tossing everything you own or spending a fortune on fancy products. In fact, just making a few intentional swaps can help you feel better about what you’re using every day, while supporting your health and the environment at the same time.
Here are nine easy changes that can help you create a more natural daily routine, without the pressure to be perfect.
Choose Organic Tampons or Pads
When it comes to period care, one simple switch can make a big difference. More women are looking for products that are better for their bodies and the planet, which is why organic tampons have become such a popular choice. They’re made without chlorine bleaching, synthetic fragrances, or unnecessary chemicals—just 100% organic cotton. For anyone with sensitive skin or who’s concerned about what goes near delicate areas, this swap offers peace of mind.
Swap Out Conventional Body Wash for a Cleaner Option
Body wash is something most of us use every day, so it makes sense to choose one that’s gentle and nourishing. Many conventional washes contain sulfates, parabens, and artificial scents that can strip your skin or trigger irritation.
Look for body washes that are sulfate-free and scented with essential oils or plant-based extracts instead. Bonus points if they come in refillable packaging or bar form to cut down on waste.
Switch to a Natural Deodorant
This one gets a lot of mixed reviews, but it’s worth trying. Natural deodorants skip the aluminum and synthetic fragrances found in traditional antiperspirants, and many people find they work just as well once your body adjusts.
If you’ve tried one and didn’t love it, try a different formula—there’s a wide range out there, from baking soda-free options for sensitive skin to more heavy-duty ones made with magnesium or charcoal. It may take a little trial and error, but finding one that works for your body is a huge win.
The key here is asking a brutally honest friend if you stink or not when trying natural deodorants. If you do after giving it a fair chance, try a different formula.
Use Dryer Balls Instead of Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets might make your laundry smell good, but they’re often coated with synthetic chemicals and waxes that aren’t great for your skin or your dryer.
Wool dryer balls are a natural alternative that help reduce static, soften clothes, and shorten drying time. You can even add a drop or two of essential oil if you miss the fresh laundry scent. They’re reusable for hundreds of loads, so they’re better for the environment and your wallet.
Try Refillable or Concentrated Cleaning Products
You don’t have to go full DIY to clean your home naturally. There are plenty of brands now offering refillable cleaning products and concentrated solutions that drastically cut down on plastic waste and harsh ingredients. Just fill a reusable bottle with water, add the concentrate, and you’re ready to go.
Not only do they take up less space in your cabinet, but many of them work just as well as traditional cleaners—without the chemical smell.
Replace Plastic Food Storage with Glass or Silicone
Plastic food containers are convenient, but they can also leach chemicals into your food over time, especially when reheated. Swapping out your old plastic containers for glass ones (or food-grade silicone bags and wraps) is a safer and more durable option.
Silicone storage bags are great for snacks, lunches, and even freezing leftovers, while beeswax wraps can replace plastic wrap for covering bowls or wrapping sandwiches.
Use Gentle Laundry Detergents
Conventional laundry detergents can be packed with enzymes, dyes, and fragrances that irritate sensitive skin—especially for babies and young kids. A natural detergent can be a gentler alternative that still gets clothes clean. Look for options labeled hypoallergenic or formulated for sensitive skin. Powdered versions and detergent sheets are also great low-waste choices.
You can also try making your own using our 3-ingredient laundry detergent tips to see how your family likes it. It’s super easy to mix up a batch and is way more affordable than many commercial brands.
Switch to a Natural Toothpaste
Your mouth is one of the most absorbent parts of your body, so it makes sense to be picky about what goes in it. Natural toothpastes avoid ingredients like artificial sweeteners, sulfates, and synthetic dyes. Instead, they use baking soda, xylitol, coconut oil, and essential oils to clean teeth and freshen breath. Some even come in recyclable or plastic-free packaging, giving your dental routine a little eco-upgrade.
Light Candles Made with Soy or Beeswax
We all love a good candle, but many store-bought ones are made with paraffin wax, which can release potentially harmful chemicals as they burn. Switching to candles made with soy or beeswax is a simple way to clean up your air and still enjoy a cozy, relaxing vibe at home. Choose candles scented with essential oils instead of synthetic fragrance blends, and you’ll have a healthier option that smells just as good (if not better).
Making your daily routine more natural doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. And you don’t have to do it all at once—little things add up. Swapping out one product at a time can lead to a healthier home, a lighter footprint, and a routine that just feels better. Start small, try what works for your lifestyle, and let the rest evolve over time. After all, even the tiniest change is a step in the right direction.