7 tips to take out the guessing and make your summer packed full of fun without the chemicals
Summer is just around the corner, and I don’t know about you, but I am so excited to hit the pool! If I lived near a beach, it would be the beach, but I'm not too close living in Dallas, Texas, unfortunately - so a pool will have to do!
I love trying to be as nontoxic as I can while still being realistic and enjoying life. Whenever I can control something to make an experience a little less toxic, I'll do it! Especially if the product works just as well or even better than its original more toxic one. If I can pack a nontoxic pool bag, this not only helps me and my family avoid exposing ourselves to harmful chemicals but also the environment!
All that to say, I hope you enjoy these tips on how to pack a nontoxic pool/beach bag for your family this summer:
Tip #1 - Choose a non-toxic sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, but many conventional sunscreens contain toxic chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Look for mineral-based sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. This Beautycounter sunscreen is my favorite one that I use for our whole family. It sprays on white, which is awesome to see where you're applying it, but blends in quickly and doesn't have that annoying oily residue or fragrances.
Tip #2 - Bring your own reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important, but avoid using disposable plastic water bottles. Instead, bring your own reusable water bottle filled with filtered water. I love the Stanley 40oz Quenchers because they are stainless steel and so big! I only need to refill mine once a day and I know I've had all the water I need to stay well hydrated.
*For optimal hydration, aim to drink 1/2 of your body weight in ounces + 1-1.5 oz of additional water for any ounce of diuretic (coffee, tea, juice, soda, etc.) that you consume.
Tip #3 - Pack natural insect repellent
Bugs can be a nuisance, but avoid using conventional insect repellents containing DEET. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like citronella or lemon eucalyptus oil. DoTerra has a spray called "TerraShield" that has Citronella, Lemongrass, Thyme, Cedar wood, Geranium, and Peppermint essential oils. It's safe for the entire family and has a nice "woody" aroma to it that I actually really like. Nothing ruins a nice pool day more than a bunch of pesky mosquitos - make sure you're prepared for the whole family!
Tip #4 - Bring a non-toxic towel
Conventional towels are often treated with chemicals like formaldehyde and flame retardants. Look for towels made from organic cotton or hemp that are free from harmful chemicals. Also be mindful of what you use for detergent to wash your towels. Many detergents contain harmful hormone disrupting chemicals. I love using Molly Suds.
Tip #5 - Use non-toxic pool toys
Many pool toys are made from PVC, which contains toxic chemicals like phthalates and lead. Look for toys made from natural rubber or silicone instead. Anything from Oli and Carol is a great option.
Tip #6 - Mitigate chlorine exposure
Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect pool water, but excessive exposure can be harmful to our health. Try to take breaks from the pool to reduce overall exposure.
Wash your swimsuit after every use to remove any residual chlorine (remember to use a nontoxic detergent, look at the nontoxic towel tip above for my favorite one!).
You can also consider using a non-chlorine alternative, such as a saltwater pool or a mineral-based system.
Finally, try a drop of iodine tincture (I like Biotics Research Liquid Iodine Forte) before hopping in. Iodine and chlorine compete for the same receptors in our body and this can help reduce our body’s overall exposure. If you have any thyroid issues or allergies to iodine, please consult your practitioner before using.
Tip #7 - Avoid plastic bags
Instead of using plastic bags, bring a reusable bag made from natural materials like canvas or hemp to carry your belongings.
So what do you think?
By following these tips, you can enjoy your time at the pool without exposing yourself or the environment to harmful toxins. Remember to always read product labels and do your research before purchasing any pool-related products. I hope you have a happy and healthy summer!