Health Blog
Health Blog
Clean your water bottle properly - Natural methods & tips
If you are reading this post, you have most likely already replaced your old plastic water bottle with a fresh stainless steel or glass water bottle. Congratulations to you! Now you can avoid unnecessary chemicals in your drinking water! And if you haven’t made the switch yet, you’ll find several different models to choose from in our growing range of water bottles! But how do you take care of your reusable water bottle in the best way? Does your trusty companion get the love it deserves and needs? 😉 Sometimes glass and stainless steel water bottles can develop a musty and unpleasant smell, especially if you’ve used them for a strongly scented drink or forgotten them with liquid inside for a long time. 1. Everyday cleaning of water bottle & cap If you use your water bottle daily, it should also be washed daily. This applies even if you only drink water, as saliva, dust, and other dirt can create a breeding ground for bacteria, and we don’t want that in our clean drinking water. Here we help you step by step to take care of your water bottle in the best possible way! For everyday cleaning you need: Warm water Eco-friendly dish soap Dish brush, bottle brush, and possibly a straw brush Do this: Avoid submerging the entire water bottle in dishwater. The best way is to clean the bottle by pouring warm water and eco-friendly dish soap directly into it. Put the cap on the bottle and shake it well a few times until the soap forms bubbles. Then clean it with a dish brush or bottle brush that fits the bottle neck. Rinse the bottle with water until it’s free of soap. Remember to wash both the inside and outside of the bottle, then dry it or let it air dry on the dish rack. Also wash the cap with warm water and dish soap. Take apart the parts and wash each separately. Any straws should be cleaned with a straw brush. Note! Stainless steel water bottles that are painted should usually not be washed in the dishwasher, as the paint can be damaged by the harsh treatment from heat and strong detergent. Stainless insulated water bottles should also not be washed in the dishwasher, as water can seep into seams and similar areas. We advise you to avoid washing your stainless steel water bottle in the dishwasher unless you are sure it will withstand the treatment. Glass water bottles usually can be washed in the dishwasher without problems. 2. Deep cleaning of water bottle & cap Sometimes the water bottle needs a thorough cleaning, for example if it has developed a musty smell or has been forgotten while filled with coffee or other drinks that can leave odors. Vinegar is a fantastic natural cleaner that can remove certain types of bacteria. The vinegar cleaning method doesn’t kill all bacteria but is a good way to deep clean a reusable water bottle that needs it. Just like vinegar, baking soda is also a household favorite for those who want to clean naturally. Below are two natural and simple recipes for deep cleaning water bottles. For the Vinegar trick you need: Warm water Eco-friendly dish soap Vinegar Do this: First wash the bottle as usual with warm water and dish soap. Then fill the bottle with 1/5 vinegar and 4/5 warm water (you can increase the vinegar ratio depending on how dirty the bottle is). Shake the bottle a few times and then let it sit with the mixture overnight. Rinse it out in the morning and wash it as usual if you think it still smells like vinegar. For the Baking Soda trick you need: Baking soda Warm water Do this: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda into your water bottle and fill it with warm water. Put the cap on and shake the bottle a few times, then let it sit with the mixture for a few hours. Rinse the bottle with warm water. Deep cleaning the cap: When deep cleaning caps and lids, it’s especially important to take apart all parts and wash them by hand with a dish brush and dish soap. Many parts can also be washed in the dishwasher on the top rack, which is very convenient and ensures they get thoroughly clean. Check if your water bottle’s parts can be washed in the machine. 3. How to store your water bottle The water bottle should be stored in a dry and clean place with the cap off to allow the bottle to air out. If you usually put the cap on the bottle when storing it, it’s very important that all parts have dried completely before you put it away in a cupboard. Otherwise, there is a risk the bottle will develop an unpleasant smell or bacteria will form. How do you wash your bottle? We hope you’ve got some good tips to help reduce both plastic and bacteria in your water. Do you have even more tips on how to keep bottles clean? Share them in a comment so we can all learn from each other. Good luck!
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Washing nuts - a natural and eco-friendly detergent
You've probably heard of soap nuts, right? But have you had a chance to try them? Soap nuts have many great advantages over most conventional detergents. The problems with conventional detergents If you look at the ingredient list on detergent packages, you'll find words like phosphonates, surfactants, zeolites, polycarboxylates, TAED, soap, enzymes, bleach, and perfume. And most of us have little idea what these chemicals mean. The main problem with conventional detergents is that they can contain allergens, environmentally harmful substances, and other unwanted chemicals such as fragrances and preservatives. One of Sweden's best-selling conventional detergents, for example, contains the preservative methylisothiazolinone, which is both allergenic and environmentally harmful. Even detergents with a clear environmental profile can sometimes contain pollutants like methylisothiazolinone and the fragrance limonene – both harmful to aquatic organisms. According to EU law, a complete ingredient list must be available online, but unfortunately, it can be very difficult to find. That's why certifications are important. Products with the Asthma and Allergy Association's symbol are allergen-free and limit possible allergens. The Swan is the Nordic eco-label, the EU Flower or EU Ecolabel is the European eco-label, and the Falcon is the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation's own eco-label. So besides having to become somewhat of a detective if you want to avoid unwanted chemicals in detergents, they are often expensive as well. Many also overdose detergent, but that doesn't make clothes cleaner. On the contrary, it causes unnecessary wear on textiles and wastes money. The problems with conventional fabric softeners Fabric softeners, or conditioners, are not necessary for clean clothes. Just as we use conditioner to protect hair, fabric softeners are used to protect clothes by reducing friction during washing, preventing static electricity, and making them smell nice after washing. They work by polymers in the softener binding moisture on the textile's surface. Clothes stay soft because they remain slightly damp. Fabric softeners also contain emulsifiers that dissolve mineral oil in water, as well as preservatives and fragrances. Fabric softeners are therefore directly harmful to certain materials and are not environmentally friendly. It's better to iron and wear garments to soften them, or use vinegar. Wash organically with soap nuts Instead of the strong surfactants in conventional detergents, we can wash naturally with saponins found in various plants. Soap nuts are especially rich in saponins. Plus, you don't have to keep track of complicated ingredient lists. Saponins work just like surfactants by softening the water so dirt loosens from textiles. The saponins are released from the soap nut shells when they come into contact with water warmer than 30 degrees Celsius. You can read more about saponins here. The warmer the water, the more saponins are released. Therefore, it can be strategic to use a slightly higher temperature when washing with milder agents like soap nuts. Washing clothes in a machine When you wash clothes with soap nuts, do the following: Put 4-8 soap nuts in a small cotton laundry bag or an old, thin sock that you tie up and place in the washing machine with the clothes. Let them stay in for the entire wash cycle. The soap nuts can be used for several washes, but once they lose their shine, it's time to compost them and use new ones. The higher the temperature, the fewer washes they last. For whites, you can add ½ dl sodium percarbonate in the detergent compartment. Soap nuts are naturally softening, so there's another reason to skip fabric softener with its unnecessary chemicals. You can find soap nuts here. Fragrant clothes It can feel a bit strange at first since textiles don't smell like anything after washing. If you want a scent, you can add 2-5 drops of essential oil of lemon, lavender, or another favorite fragrance in the fabric softener compartment. You can find essential oils here. If you have stains, you can treat them before washing with baking soda, sodium percarbonate (stronger), olive soap, or gall soap. If clothes smell bad, you can add vinegar in the fabric softener compartment. Vinegar is also softening. For really bad odors, you can let the garment soak in vinegar water before washing. If you want to learn more about how to reduce your expenses by starting with eco-cleaning, I recommend this online course. Do you have any good tips on how to make laundry feel soft and smell nice using natural methods? Please share in a comment so others can learn from us!
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11 sustainable organic products for your holiday packing
During the summer months, we travel a lot both within Sweden’s borders and abroad. Many of us pack one or two suitcases, and fitting all the essentials into the luggage is not so easy. Often, you have to repack once or twice to make everything fit, and the frustration that follows is something you’d rather avoid. We at Glimja.se want to help you! We have put together a list of practical tips on travel-friendly products and travel-sized packages that are smart to pack in your suitcase. 1. Menstrual cup Menstrual products like pads and panty liners can be bulky and take up a lot of space in your suitcase, so it’s especially convenient to bring a menstrual cup that takes up little space and can be used over and over again. Check out MonthlyCups menstrual cups in different colors and sizes. 2. Shampoo bar With a compact shampoo bar or shampoo soap, you avoid carrying a lot of unnecessary water in a plastic bottle, which is what you usually do with regular shampoo. Did you know that most shampoo soaps can be used for the whole body? Most of Malin i Ratan’s soaps can, for example, be used for shaving, face washing, hand washing, body washing, and hair washing. Perfect for travel! 3. Shea Butter in mini packaging In summer, you often get dry from all the sunbathing and swimming, and then it can be nice to have a really moisturizing product like shea butter. Zoya Goes Pretty’s shea butter comes in a small 10-gram jar, perfect for your handbag or toiletry bag when traveling. It can be used on the face, as lip balm, and on the body to give the skin extra moisture and nourishment. Also available in a larger 90-gram package. 4. Small packages of shampoo and conditioner Bruns offers many travel-friendly 100 ml packages for all their shampoos and conditioners. Perfect for travel! 5. Aloe Vera Don’t forget to pack the lifesaver ALOE 24/7! This amazing product has many uses. It is effective on burns and sun damage, dry and itchy skin, and eczema. The cream soothes insect bites, bee stings, and nettle rash. 6. Conditioner bar The conditioner bar is a solid conditioner product without unnecessary water, and just as the name suggests, it looks like a small bar. It takes up little space in your toiletry bag and is easy to use. Available for many different hair types and needs. 7. Soap dish in stainless steel It’s nice to have good storage for your shampoo soap and conditioner bar when you’re on the go. This stainless steel soap dish meets your needs. It has a grooved bottom that helps the soap dry properly between uses. Extra good is that the soap dish is food-safe and can also be used as a lunch box. 8. Mesh bag A lightweight beach bag/tote bag that doesn’t take up much space is perfect to bring in your luggage. This mesh bag with long handles from Turtle Bags can hold up to 40 kg and expands when packed. Pack your towel and swimwear in it when you go to the beach or bring it to the store when you go shopping. 9. Water bottle in stainless steel We must not forget to stay hydrated during hot summer days. With a stainless steel water bottle, you avoid buying water in plastic bottles, and the water stays fresh all day. 10. Eco soap Laundry-Cleaning-Dishwashing Malin i Ratan’s eco soap “Laundry-Cleaning-Dishwashing” replaces many cleaning products and can be used for cleaning, dishwashing, and laundry. A multi-product that is a must in the motorhome, caravan, and cabin. The soap is available with or without added fragrance. 11. Soap for seawater Grön Lycka’s soap Salty Waves is a solid soap that contains sea salt. The soap can be used in saltwater and is ideal for backpackers and sailors. It’s perfect for the travel kit. 12. Foldable spork This little foldable spoon/fork is perfect for those who hike in the mountains, camp, or backpack by train. With Life Without Plastics’ foldable spoon, you always have practical cutlery close at hand. Please leave a comment and share your smartest packing hack! 🌞
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11 simple tips for a plastic-free Christmas
Are you celebrating a plastic-free Christmas? 🎄 We all know by now that plastic isn’t great, but is it possible to celebrate a plastic-free or plastic-reduced Christmas? Of course it’s possible! We asked you, our engaged customers, if you could share your best tips for a plastic-minimized Christmas. Here are the best tips! Jennie from ekoliv.blogg.se: Go for wooden toys for the little kids. Or why not nice wooden kitchen utensils for adults? Another nice gift to get more people on board with a plastic-free life is to give, for example, bee’s wraps or pretty fabric fruit bags. Try to buy a lot in bulk for the Christmas table and bring your own bags to the store. Wrap gifts in, for example, packing material, old bags, newspapers, or fabric. If you need tape for wrapping, you can easily reduce the amount significantly; often large pieces are used when a very small piece is enough to keep the paper in place. And last but not least, RECYCLE the plastic you can’t avoid. I log all recycling in the Bower app and earn rewards at the same time 😊 Diana: We celebrate a plastic-free Christmas by both decorating a potted plant year after year and making gifts for our loved ones. The potted plant grows continuously, so there’s more to decorate each year. It’s sustainable! And the gift-giving itself works like this: we write one name on a slip of paper for each Christmas participant, draw lots, and then each person makes a gift for a family member. It’s fun, tasty, and feels meaningful since the gift also becomes personal 🙂 This year I’m going to make granola and bake seed crackers, in the name of health, for someone who needs it 😉 Here’s a little picture of our Christmas tree from above. It really looks like a tree too: Maja: My very best tip is to really skip all unnecessary plastic bags, freezer bags, and all plastic wrap. Freeze in old milk cartons, bread bags, and other unavoidable packaging. Glass jars (if you don’t fill them to the brim) work perfectly…. and get a couple of beeswax wraps (you can actually make them yourself very easily!) Christel: I can warmly recommend Bee’s Wrap, it’s perfect for covering Christmas food in the fridge instead of plastic and is easy to use and clean! I also use plates of different sizes as matching bowls! You can also cover food with wax paper or baking paper! If you go on a picnic, pack sandwiches and other food in wax paper or why not with Bees’s wrap! Always buy loose items in paper bags where possible and sort food waste like peels in paper bags for recycling! Don’t buy Christmas gifts made of plastic; they’re usually available in other materials! Eva: I make my own food which I always store in glass jars. I reuse everything I can, both food and stuff. I make my own lingonberry or pine branch wreaths that I give away for the first Sunday of Advent. I avoid buying anything plastic. I remold my candles from leftover old candles. I take materials from the forest to decorate with since I’m a true forest lover and that’s where I feel best. I pick many of my medicinal herbs in the forest. Christmas for me is the scent of candles… (NOT palm oil), the smell of fir and pine branches and hyacinths, my amaryllis that returns every year, lots of singing and music, and helping someone who isn’t feeling well. Elina: I planned to use old paper shopping bags inside and out to wrap this year’s Christmas gifts to give them a nice vintage look. Skipping tags and plastic ribbons, instead decorating by writing rhymes or drawing nice motifs directly on the gift and adorning with beautiful wax seals 🎁🎄 Throwing away all the nice paper and ribbons has always felt like such a waste to me, both for the wallet and the environment, while I appreciate giving nicely wrapped presents, so this felt like a fun alternative with lots of possibilities. So this year we simply match the plastic-free gift with its outside.Merry Christmas ❤️ P.S. Two of the Christmas gifts I wrapped using paper bags 🤗 Elin: My best tip for a plastic-free Christmas is: It’s really mostly about doing less, buying less, and stepping back, finding the joy and essence of Christmas. A little poem to symbolize my thoughts ❤️ Avoid wrapping paper and ribbons,instead learn how to make ita nice bow from old lovewallpaper and you'll see you'll learn New tricks to improve thingsWith small steps we can climb Helping each other and encouragingBoth big and small Because Christmas holds simple beautyTake it easy and be with your loved ones Skip plastic and other junkThat's how Santa wants to come here Then he happily stops byAnd see your Christmas is plastic-free Merry Christmas Karolina: My best trick to reduce plastic and unnecessary waste is to try to buy as many Christmas gifts as possible secondhand, and to wrap them in things already at home instead of buying paper, ribbons, and tape. I usually use brown paper bags from the grocery store, cut them open and wrap the Christmas gifts so that the brown inside of the bags is on the outside of the package. Then I skip the tape and use string instead to keep the package together! This year I found nice fabric ribbons on Tradera that I use instead of the plastic ribbons often used. Since the paper in grocery bags is coarser and rougher than regular wrapping paper, I usually draw, paint, and write directly on the package instead of buying cards! Another trick is to wrap gifts in nice kitchen towels you have at home or fabric pieces you find at thrift stores instead of paper. Maria: Really large pine cones where you paint the outer scales, different colors for different cones, which you then hang in the tree with a string, instead of plastic baubles. Victoria from rawvegan.se: My best tip to reduce plastic is to eat more whole foods and make dishes from scratch with whole ingredients that you buy loose. By basing meals on fruits and vegetables, plastic is automatically reduced! The few times you use plastic bags for food – reuse them, you can actually wash them out too! By buying in bulk, it’s not only cheaper but also reduces the amount of plastic packaging from my experience! Therese: Recycle last year’s Christmas wrapping paper and fold the paper around the gifts in a way that doesn’t require tape or ribbon. If there is ribbon, it’s fabric, also from last year. Then I don’t buy any plastic toys for the kids, wood and preferably secondhand. Leftover Christmas food is stored in glass containers or beeswax wraps, buy meat from the deli with only locally sourced meat, packed in paper. Cook and bake everything from scratch 🍞🥧🥦 Thank you and Merry Christmas! A big thank you to everyone who contributed tips for a plastic-free Christmas! The more we share different methods, the more we can reduce plastic together. What is your best tip for a plastic-minimized Christmas? Feel free to share in a comment so we can all become more sustainable 😍
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19 eco-friendly cleaning recipes with natural ingredients
Isn't it great to be able to mix your own scrub cleaner or your own multi-purpose cleaner and then tackle all the dirty surfaces in your home knowing you made the cleaner yourself with just a few simple ingredients? Here we offer 19 eco-friendly DIY cleaning recipes with natural ingredients from the French brand La Droguerie Écologique. La Droguerie Écologique – Soda Crystals / Sodium Carbonate Soda Crystals / Sodium Carbonate Sodium Carbonate is a water-soluble, crystalline powder (soda in concentrated crystal form) that has long been used as a multifunctional cleaning agent in the home. It cleans, descales, removes unwanted odors, dissolves grease in laundry, and neutralizes acids. 1. Cleaning glass and stained porcelain. For cleaning glass, carafes, bottles, and porcelain stained by tea, coffee, and similar. Instructions: Mix 20-40 grams of Soda Crystals / Sodium Carbonate per liter of hot water. Fill the container/porcelain with the solution. Shake and let stand for a few hours. Rinse with clean water/wash and let dry upside down. 2. Cleaning burnt pots and pans made of stainless steel. Easily clean your burnt pots with this simple method.Note! Suitable only for stainless steel and not for cast iron, aluminum, or Teflon (Teflon should be phased out of your kitchen anyway). Instructions: Sprinkle a layer of Soda Crystals / Sodium Carbonate at the bottom of the frying pan/pot and pour boiling water over it. Cover with a lid and let stand for about half a day. Then rinse and wash as usual. 3. Multi-purpose cleaner Is there anything better than a cleaning agent that suits many different purposes? With this cleaning agent, you can achieve a spotless result when cleaning your kitchen furniture, bathroom fixtures, and sink. Note! Soda solutions can darken wood types like oak or chestnut (with high tannin content). Test on a hidden area first. Instructions: Mix 10 grams of Soda Crystals / Sodium Carbonate per liter of warm water. Use a sponge and wipe the surface you want to clean. Wipe dry with a slightly damp cloth. 4. Toilet cleaning Get a sparkling result when you clean your toilet with this simple recipe. The recipe can preferably be used every two weeks. Instructions: Mix about 65 ml Soda Crystals or Sodium Carbonate in a bucket with about 5 liters of warm water. Pour the mixture into the toilet and let it work for 15 minutes. Scrub the inside of the toilet bowl with a toilet brush and then flush. La Droguerie Écologique – Citric acid for cleaning Citric acid Citric acid has a very wide range of uses such as an additive in food, as an additive in cosmetics, and as a pH regulator. It descales, cleans, and dissolves limescale and is an excellent antioxidant. Citric acid is completely biodegradable and is an effective household product that should be in every home. 1. Descaling Lime often forms in coffee makers, kettles, and washing machines. Here are some recipes to help you get rid of the lime. Descaling coffee machine: Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 liter of cold water. Fill the machine with the solution and let it work for about 15-30 minutes. Then pour out the mixture and rinse twice with clean, cold water. Descaling kettle: Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 liter of water. Fill the kettle with the mixture and let it boil and boil for a short while. Let the mixture stand for 30 minutes and then pour out. Then rinse thoroughly with water. Descaling washing machine: Pour 6-8 tablespoons of citric acid into the drum and run an empty machine at 90 degrees. Descaling taps, pressure reducing valves, shower heads: Dissolve 2-5 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 liter of water. Scrub the areas to be descaled or let soak for about 12 hours. Then rinse with water. Descaling septic tank of stainless steel: Dissolve about 3-5 soup spoons of citric acid (depending on the level of descaling) in 1 liter of warm water. A soup spoon is 15 ml (3-5 x 15 ml). Let the mixture stand in the tank for about 12 hours and then rinse thoroughly with clean water. 2. Cleaning recipes Citric acid has many uses and can be used for both pots and rust removal. Here are some practical recipes for cleaning at home. Remove stains from tea or coffee cups and vases: Pour 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid into the cup/vase and pour boiling water over it. Keep in mind that the cup/vase should withstand boiling liquids. Let stand for about 30 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with water. Remove fine films of lime, cement, or plaster: Dilute 3-6 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 liter of water. Rub the solution on the surface to be cleaned and then rinse with clean water. Cleaning burnt bottoms of stainless steel pots: Dissolve 12 tablespoons of citric acid in about 2.36 dl (1 cup) of water. Heat the solution for a few minutes in the burnt pan and then rinse well. Cleaning chrome, stainless steel, ceramic, and plastic surfaces: Dissolve 2-5 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 liter of warm water. Wipe the surfaces with the solution, rubbing if necessary. Then rinse thoroughly with water. Rust removal: Prepare a 10% citric acid solution in a bowl by mixing citric acid and water. Place the item to be cleaned (e.g., a key) in the solution overnight. A chemical reaction occurs between the citric acid and the rust. The iron oxide (rust) is then converted into a colorless substance. Then rinse the item with water. La Droguerie Écologique – Sodium Percarbonate Sodium Percarbonate Sodium Percarbonate is a water-soluble, crystalline powder (soda in concentrated crystal form) made by adding hydrogen peroxide to Soda Crystals / Sodium Carbonate. Sodium Percarbonate does not contain chlorides or phosphates that can cause major damage to our waterways. It does not bioaccumulate and has low environmental impact. Instead, it is an excellent bleach used in many commercial detergents and liquids. Sodium Percarbonate releases oxygen and works as a stain remover by quickly and completely dissolving a wide range of stubborn stains. Sodium Percarbonate is effective on all organic stains, including tea, coffee, red wine, chocolate, fruit juice, fruit stains, carrot, mayonnaise, butter, tomato sauce, olive oil, beetroot, makeup, lipstick, sweat, ink, mud, soot, grass, and urine. Can be used on various types of textiles such as whites, colored laundry, bibs, handkerchiefs, rugs, bed linens, cloth diapers, and all other textiles that can be washed in water. 1. Stain removal on white textiles White fabrics tend to yellow with age, which is not very pleasant. Sodium Percarbonate is most effective at 60 degrees but can also be used at lower temperatures like 40 degrees. Here we offer you some smart tricks so you can get your white clothes white again. For whites: 1 tablespoon Sodium Percarbonate for a full washing machine load (4-5 kg). Removal of colored stains: 2 tablespoons Sodium Percarbonate for a full washing machine load (4-5 kg). Hand washing or soaking: 1 tablespoon Sodium Percarbonate per 4-5 kg of laundry. Blood stains: Soak the garment in cold water and apply Sodium Percarbonate directly to the stain. 2. Cleaning and grease removal from exterior wood Sodium Percarbonate helps remove grease, moss, lichen, and fungus from wood. It can also be used to revive wood such as decks, piers, picnic tables, and garden furniture that have turned gray over time due to weather exposure. Cleaning wood outdoors: Mix 1-2 parts Sodium Percarbonate with 10 parts hot water (about 40°C) in a bowl until dissolved. Carefully apply the solution with a brush to the wood to be cleaned. Let sit for 15-20 minutes. Brush with a stiff scrubbing brush (e.g., coconut fiber). Rinse the brush thoroughly afterward. Rinse the wood thoroughly with water. Neutralize your wood with a solution of vinegar diluted in water. Let dry. Feel free to apply a layer of linseed oil (containing a siccative). We hope you find all these fantastic cleaning recipes useful in your home. Please feel free to leave a comment and tell us about your best DIY cleaning recipe or ask a question and we will answer!
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How to detox your home from harmful chemicals
“In the safe haven of home,” people often say. And surely the home should be a safe place even when it comes to chemicals. But unfortunately, there can be quite a few hidden chemicals lurking in the home. Chemicals enter our homes in various ways. And most of them we actually bring into our homes voluntarily through the purchases we make. Many times completely unaware of which substances are hiding in our tools, gadgets, and furnishings. When it comes to chemicals in the home, the first thing we might think of is the chemicals in cleaning products. But then there are many chemicals we often don’t even think about, which are constantly emitted from our electronics, plastic flooring, furniture, and textiles. Chemicals that can disrupt our hormone balance or cause allergies or cancer. Plastic is a fantastic material and is still needed in our modern society. But various chemicals are used in plastic to give it different properties so it, for example, doesn’t crack easily or withstand strong sunlight. Color and fragrance substances can also be added. Unfortunately, these chemicals slowly leak out of the plastic. And as a consumer, it is almost impossible to keep track of which plastics are dangerous and which are not. Legislation, controls, and labeling make it a bit easier. Chemicals in toys Children are more sensitive than adults, so we need to be extra careful about which chemicals they come into contact with. The EU’s chemical legislation is the best in the world, and the rules for toys are even stricter. Therefore, always choose toys made within the EU. And if you buy second-hand toys, make sure they were made after 2007, or even better, after 2013 when the rules were tightened further. Choose toys made from natural materials such as wood, fabric, wool, porcelain, stainless steel, paper, and ceramics. Don’t give children old electronics or other gadgets that are not toys to play with, as they are not covered by the same strict legislation as toys. Also choose chemical-free organic textiles such as duvets, sheets, and children’s clothes. Always wash all clothes and fabrics before use. Common conventional textiles can contain dye residues, anti-mold agents, and other toxic chemicals that you don’t want against the skin. Good eco-labels for textiles are GOTS and OEKO-TEX. Replace foam mattresses with ones made from natural materials. Or check that they are not treated with flame retardants. Textiles, mattresses, and even building materials release the most chemicals when they are new. Electronics do not belong in playrooms or bedrooms as they are often treated with flame retardants and contain other hazardous substances, and the dust near them often contains substances you don’t want your child to be exposed to. The kitchen In the kitchen, it is important to try to reduce the number of chemicals, especially when it comes to materials we use for cooking that get heated. This includes, for example, plastic lunch boxes and plastic utensils we use for frying. When plastic gets warm, it generally leaks more than usual. Think about the spatula or the TV remote, both of which get warm when you use them. These substances are then inhaled, get into your food, or are absorbed through the skin. Food packaging can also pose a threat. Some cardboard packaging that needs to resist water and fat can contain the extremely persistent and harmful environmental toxins PFAS. Other packaging, such as tin cans, can contain hormone-disrupting bisphenol A. Prefer packaging like Tetra Pak or BPA-free metal containers. Frying pans, baking sheets, and molds with non-stick surfaces, such as Teflon, also contain PFAS. Instead, opt for cast iron and steel. Cut down on plastic and don’t buy new plastic for the kitchen. Don’t heat plastic in the microwave and avoid melamine dinnerware (hard plastic) which can leak melamine when heated or with acidic foods. Use lunch boxes made of stainless steel or glass. Choose stainless steel, cast iron, glass, and ceramics for cooking. Use bamboo or wooden cutting boards and kitchen utensils made of stainless steel or wood. Oil the wood regularly and sprinkle salt overnight sometimes to kill bacteria. Cleaning Chemicals also accumulate in dust. Therefore, it is important to ventilate and vacuum often. Vacuum first and then wipe with a damp cloth so that the toxins end up in the trash that is incinerated and not in the wastewater. When it comes to cleaning, it is easy to clean ecologically. Choose an organic, eco-labeled dish soap and mix 1/5 with water in a spray bottle when hand washing dishes. Sonett has two types of dish soap (Calendula & Citrus) that both effectively remove dirt while being gentle on hands and the environment. Vinegar removes lime stains and odors and is good for window cleaning. Baking soda works as a metal polish, on pots with burnt food, stains, and odors. Wash clothes with laundry nuts or with an eco-labeled detergent such as Sonett’s Liquid detergent sensitive or liquid detergent lavender. Use soap for floors and ovens. The toilet is easily cleaned with Sodasans WC power gel or Sonett’s natural toilet cleaner. Avoid expensive specialty cleaners and products containing synthetic fragrances. Green plants have a fantastic ability to absorb harmful chemicals from the air, rehydrate it, oxygenate, and absorb carbon dioxide. So fill your home with Golden Pothos, Ivy, Peace Lily, Snake Plant, and other plants that purify the air. Summary Choose furnishings made from natural materials. Choose eco-labeled products. Avoid buying more plastic for your home from now on. Choose toys made from natural materials. Choose toys made after 2007 and within the EU. Wash new textiles. Cut down on plastic in the kitchen as much as possible. Choose eco-labeled laundry and cleaning products. Vacuum and ventilate to remove dust that contains many chemicals. Have live green plants at home. Here at Glimja, you’ll find eco-friendly laundry and cleaning products and most of what you need for a sustainable lifestyle!
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5 common toxins in the home & how to create a toxin-free environment
Did you know that the air we breathe affects our health at least as much as the food we eat? That’s why it’s so important to review the quality of the environment in our home. Studies have shown that indoor air can have up to 3 times more contamination than outdoor air, even if we live in the middle of a big city. How can that be? It’s simply because we trap the air in a small space, while filling that space with unwanted substances from all kinds of sources. 5 common toxins in the home Flame retardants from home textiles, rugs, clothes & furniture. Surface treatment agents from all kinds of electronics (including appliances). Artificial fragrances from conventional detergents, fabric softeners, air fresheners, and cleaning products. Hormone-disrupting substances from paint & wallpaper glue. Unnatural chemicals from conventional skin and hair care products. If you add all the chemicals we absorb through skin contact with clothes, furniture, cleaning products, conventional beauty products, non-organic bedding, etc., you can understand the need to “detox” your home. 4 things you can do to detox your home from toxins Fortunately, there are several simple things we can do to improve our home environment so that everyone living there feels as good as possible. 1. Air out daily The fastest and easiest way to improve indoor air is, of course, to air out. Do it often and thoroughly – i.e., it’s better to air out with cross-ventilation for a short time than to keep a small window slightly open all day. One habit that is very good, however, is to leave the bedroom window slightly open overnight to improve both temperature and air quality. 2. Plant lots of plants Plants purify the air, so fill your home with as many as possible. Plants especially known for their purifying ability include Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Spider Plant, Areca Palm, Ficus, Flamingo Lily, Parlor Palm, and Golden Palm. 3. Replace your skin and cleaning products The two points above have limited effect if we don’t also address the source of the problem. You also need to stop bringing toxic chemicals into your home as much as possible. Here is a list of the most important and easiest products you can replace: You can either make your own cleaning products or buy natural ones like those you find with us. There are now plenty of natural alternatives for skin and hair care products; see, for example, our wide range here. There are also toxin-free options for laundry and dish detergents; see our selection here. We recommend that you simply stop using fabric softeners; they are not necessary. Focus on a natural, good detergent. You can do a lot with baking soda. 6 ways to use baking soda in your cleaning Clean the fridge and freezer with baking soda on a damp cloth. Rinse with clean water. The plastic parts of the fridge will look like new. Bad smell in the fridge. Eliminate unpleasant odors in the fridge by placing a small bowl of baking soda (no lid) deep inside. Shake or stir the baking soda occasionally and replace it every two months. You can reduce or completely eliminate odors from the kitchen trash bin by covering the bottom of the bin with baking soda before putting in a new trash bag. Regularly freshen up the dishwasher by running a rinse cycle with a little baking soda at the bottom of the machine. It also removes stains and hard water marks. Use baking soda to clean your wooden cutting boards. Scrub with a brush and rinse with warm water. Baking soda absorbs dirt but does not damage the wood. Clear drains. Pour a few tablespoons of baking soda into the drain you want to clear, then pour about 1 dl of vinegar or white vinegar into the drain and let it work for about 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with hot water. Can be repeated if needed. Here you can read our DIY: Guide to toxin-free cleaning. This video shows 3 different cleaning mixtures you can easily make in a spray bottle. Extra tip for cleaning: Castile soap We warmly recommend that you get liquid Castile soap. The word Castile refers to La Castilla – a region in central Spain historically significant in the history of soap. This is not only a biodegradable and organic soap for the body but can also be used for dishes, floor cleaning, and as laundry detergent. Safe and toxin-free for people, plants, and pets. Read more in this blog post for recipes and what you can do with it. 4. Choose natural furniture, clothes & home textiles A more long-term project to consider is new purchases of clothes, towels, sheets, and furniture. Are there natural or organic alternatives? Is there second hand? If you can’t buy organic or second-hand clothes, we recommend always washing them before use. Unfortunately, rugs and mattresses can contain a lot of flame retardants. We only recommend cotton rugs that can be washed or no rug at all. When it comes to bedding, it’s very important to only buy organic, good-quality items that you can use for a long time. Both organic cotton and wool duvets work excellently in bed. Wool doesn’t need frequent washing; it can be aired out. We hope this has inspired you to create a healthier everyday life for you and your loved ones. Good luck!
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Get your home ready for autumn with natural ingredients
Autumn brings something special. The air becomes crisper, the light fades more and more. The home suddenly becomes more important as you start spending more time there. The feeling of wanting to make it cozy creeps in. To create a place for rest. And where do you usually start? By cleaning. But cleaning doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals, plastic buckets, and overpowering smells. You can keep your home clean with natural ingredients you mix yourself, without compromising on results. Here you get our best recipes for washing textiles, scrubbing bathrooms, clearing drains, and creating a fresh, soft scent throughout the home. All with the help of a few basic ingredients and a little care. Basic ingredients to have at home With these in your cupboard, you can clean almost anything. Baking soda – neutralizes odors, dissolves grease, gently scrubs Vinegar or gel vinegar – against limescale, bacteria, and for drains Citric acid – effective for descaling and surface cleaning Sodium percarbonate – bleaches and cleans deeply Household soap (liquid or solid) – dissolves grease, gentle on skin Soap flakes – fragrance-free detergent for sensitive materials Smectite clay – for stubborn stains on fabric, furniture, or walls Essential oils – for both scent and function (for example lavender, tea tree, lemongrass) Spray bottles & cloths – preferably glass and natural materials Textiles that feel like new Pillows, curtains, and blankets are often used but easily forgotten. A simple homemade washing routine is enough to make them feel fresh again. You need: 1–2 tbsp soap flakes in the detergent compartment 1 tbsp sodium percarbonate in the drum (for light textiles) 3 drops of lavender oil in the fabric softener compartment Let air dry if possible. Otherwise, use low heat in the dryer. Tips: Are you washing dark textiles? Replace sodium percarbonate with baking soda instead. Scrubbing paste for kitchen and bathroom After summer, surfaces often collect more dirt than you realize. This paste is easy to mix and works in both the kitchen and bathroom. You need: 2 tbsp baking soda 1 tbsp liquid soap 5 drops of essential oil (lemongrass or peppermint) Mix into a paste. Use on stove, tiles, sink, bathtub, or grout. Scrub and rinse. Remove limescale with citric acid Limescale on showerheads or in the kettle easily disappears with this trick. You need: 2 tbsp citric acid 5 dl warm water Place the parts or pour the mixture into the appliance. Let stand for 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly. Freshen up the sink and washbasin With just two basic ingredients, you keep the kitchen clean naturally. A simple all-in-one solution that freshens up, dissolves grease, and cleans – without harsh cleaning agents. How to: 2 tbsp baking soda 2 tbsp vinegar Pour baking soda into the drain (sink, washbasin, or toilet), then add vinegar. Let it work for 10–15 minutes. Rinse with boiling water. Tips: This mixture works great to: freshen up the sink and washbasin dissolve grease and dirt in the drain Clean the toilet with natural ingredients The toilet is a place where we want it both clean and fresh – without harsh cleaning agents. Here is a simple recipe with natural ingredients that help dissolve deposits, reduce bad odors, and give a fresh feeling. How to: Sprinkle 1 tbsp of sodium percarbonate in the toilet bowl, preferably around the edges. Carefully add vinegar, let it bubble and work for 10–15 minutes. Add a few drops of essential oil, tea tree or eucalyptus, if you want a fresh scent and antibacterial effect. Scrub with the toilet brush and flush. Tips: Want to boost the effect? Let the mixture sit overnight before scrubbing. This makes it easier to remove buildup and gives an extra fresh feeling in the morning. Surface spray for those surfaces you rarely think about Light switches, door handles, and windowsills are small but often dirty. This surface spray cleans them quickly. You need: 200 ml water 1 tbsp vinegar 1 tsp citric acid 5 drops of lavender or rosemary Glass spray bottle Spray and wipe with a cloth. How to: Start by pouring the water into the spray bottle. Add vinegar and citric acid. Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil – lavender for a calm, floral scent or rosemary for a refreshing feel. Screw on the lid and shake the bottle gently before use. Spray directly on the surface, such as door handles, windowsills, or light switches, and wipe with a clean cloth. For extra dirty surfaces, let the spray sit for a minute before wiping. Tips: Spray frequently on contact surfaces in the home to keep bacteria and dirt away. Store the bottle in a dark, cool place for longer shelf life. Avoid using on natural stone or delicate wood surfaces – always test on a small area first. Remove stains with clay Old stains on sofa cushions, walls, or other textile surfaces can seem hopeless, but sometimes a dollop of clay is enough to save them. Smectite clay cleans gently yet effectively without harsh chemicals and works great on both textiles and hard surfaces. You need: 1 dollop of smectite clay (about the size of a pea) A few drops of water How to: Mix the clay with a little water until you get a firm but moldable paste. Apply directly to the stain – preferably with your finger or a small spatula. Let it dry completely. The clay attracts dirt while drying. Gently brush off the dry clay with a soft brush or cloth. Wash the surface as usual if the material allows, otherwise wipe with a lightly damp cloth. Tips: Always test first on a hidden area, especially if you’re cleaning textiles or painted surfaces. Also works on stains from grease, makeup, or dirt – especially on light materials. If you want an even gentler cleaning, you can add a little baking soda. Set the mood with a homemade autumn mist When you’ve finished cleaning, or just want to create a softer feeling at home, a natural room spray is a lovely finishing touch. This homemade mist gives a warm, gentle scent without feeling overpowering. Perfect for creating calm and harmony in the hallway, bedroom, or closet. You need: 50 ml water 1 tsp witch hazel water 10 drops of essential oil – choose one or mix freely: Lavender – calming and floral Myrrh – earthy and warm Rosemary – fresh and clear Glass spray bottle How to: Mix water and witch hazel water directly in the spray bottle. Add your essential oils – try, for example, 4 drops of lavender, 3 of myrrh, and 3 of rosemary for a balanced autumn scent. Screw on the lid and shake gently before each use. Usage: Lightly spray over textiles, in the hallway or closet, on curtains, sofa cushions, or even shoes. Avoid delicate surfaces and always test on a small area first. Tips: For an even calmer feeling in the bedroom: use only lavender and myrrh. For a fresher scent by the front door: add a few drops of citrus or peppermint. Store the bottle in a dark, cool place for longer shelf life. Clean on the surface – but also in the feeling Cleaning with natural ingredients is just as much about what you avoid – strong scents, plastic, and disposable products – as what you get. It’s simple, affordable, and gentle on both body and home. And maybe that’s exactly why it feels so satisfying.
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How to clean thoroughly – without chemicals and strong scents
Have you washed a garment and still felt that it doesn’t quite feel fresh? Or does that favorite sweater start to itch after just a few minutes on your skin? Many common detergents are full of substances that create a feeling of “freshly washed” – without actually making the laundry cleaner. Synthetic perfumes, optical brighteners, and bleaches are common culprits. But the good news is that you can get your laundry truly clean, fresh, and gentle with just a few natural ingredients. Without burdening either your skin or the environment. Why more people choose to wash naturally Washing is about more than just removing dirt. It’s also about caring for your skin, preserving the lifespan of your clothes, and protecting the water that flows into the drains.Here are some reasons why many choose a more natural path: Softer on the skin – perfect for children and sensitive skin No perfume that “sticks” to the fabric Kinder to materials like wool, linen, and bamboo Fewer chemicals that affect the environment Easy to adapt to your household’s needs What you need to get started Soap flakes – mild but effective cleaning Baking soda – neutralizes bad odors Sodium percarbonate – gently bleaches and removes odor molecules Vinegar – works as a natural fabric softener and descaler for the machine Essential oils – for a mild, natural scent (e.g. lavender, lemongrass, or eucalyptus) You don’t need everything at once. Start with what feels most useful to you. Washing recipes for different needs Everyday clothes & bedding Suitable for cotton, linen, synthetics, and blends. 1 tbsp soap flakes 1 tbsp baking soda Wash at 40–60 degrees Celsius. For a mild scent: add 1 tbsp vinegar and 3 drops of lavender oil to the fabric softener compartment. Light textiles & stains Good when you want to freshen up colors or remove odors. 1 tbsp soap flakes 1 tbsp sodium percarbonate Preferably wash at 60 degrees Celsius. Sportswear & other smelly laundry Some odors can be especially stubborn but are not impossible to remove. 1 tbsp soap flakes 1 tbsp baking soda 1 tbsp vinegar in the fabric softener compartmentFeel free to add a few drops of lemongrass or lavender oil. Baby clothes & sensitive skin Extra gentle for small bodies and skin that easily gets irritated. 1 tbsp soap flakesWash at 40 degrees Celsius. Vinegar as fabric softener is optional. Tips for a sustainable laundry routine Leave the washing machine door open after washing Clean the detergent drawer with vinegar and an old toothbrush every month Hang laundry outside when the weather allows – sun and wind work wonders Use laundry bags for delicate garments Start with a smaller dose than you think – natural products are often more concentrated than you expect Once you’ve started… When you switch to natural washing, it’s hard to go back. Clothes feel softer on the skin, the scent becomes mild and clean, and you avoid that artificial perfume haze. It simply becomes a way to care for your body, wardrobe, and our planet all at once.
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Pure products without unnecessary additives – approved, reviewed, and loved
Our favorites for those who want to choose natural alternatives Finding pure products without unnecessary additives shouldn’t be difficult. But we know it’s a jungle out there, so we have chosen to make it easier for you here at Glimja. All products in our range are reviewed by our health experts, tested by our own team, and followed up over time. What stays with us is carefully selected, free from junk, and chosen with care for both your health and the planet. Here we have gathered some of our most appreciated favorites. Natural alternatives to common products, from supplements and health products to skincare and home. Pure products that deliver on their promises and that we use ourselves every day. Supplements with only good stuff inside It’s easy to be tempted by attractive packaging and good marketing. At the same time, many supplements contain fillers, colorants, or forms that the body has difficulty absorbing and that we prefer not to have in our bodies. Many of us still choose supplements as a complement in everyday life. For long-term health, better recovery, less stress, or to support the immune system. And then we think it’s important that you actually get what you pay for. Something that benefits you and not just looks good on the surface. That’s why we have chosen a different path. At Glimja, everything is free from junk and selected with care for the body. In our supplement range you will find supplements with high bioavailability, pure ingredients, and forms that the body recognizes. Products chosen by us to truly support the body. Our most beloved favorites MaryRuth’s Morning Multivitamin + Hair Growth Närokällan Magnesium Glycinate Nature Provides Bioactive B12, liquid Holistic K2 + D3 in coconut oil Vimergy Vegan Omega 3 Pureness Evening Magnesium Vimergy Micro-C Dr Formulated Probiotics for Women Are you unsure about what suits you? Our health experts are happy to help you choose the right one. Natural health products for long-term well-being The foundation for feeling good is nutritious food. Sometimes it can still be valuable to supplement with extra nutrition in the form of natural health products. Maybe you have a colorful powder in your morning smoothie, drink a protein shake after training, take an herbal extract for the immune system, or sprinkle algae over your lunch plate. Here you’ll find plant-based powders, protein powders, herbal extracts, and other natural supplements without unnecessary additives. Pure products that can support the body daily and complement what you already eat. Things we and our customers like to have at home Glimja Dulse Flakes Vimergy Wheatgrass Juice Powder Global Healing Supergreens Glimja Spirulina Powder Vimergy Lemon Balm The Organic Lab Pink Pitaya Nature’s Answer Oregano Oil Pureness Natural Protein Powder Terranova Life Drink Holistic Hemp Protein Powder Ballot-Flurin Propolis Extract Vimergy Ashwagandha Pure ingredients for a more natural pantry Maybe you’re like me and really enjoy baking and cooking from scratch. Trying out new recipes and ingredients. Or maybe you just want to swap a few basics in your daily routine for simpler and more natural choices. Sometimes it can still be hard to know where to start, so I’ve picked out some favorites a little further down. In our pantry, you’ll find pure ingredients that work just as well for baking as for cooking, making it easy to add more fiber and variety to everyday life. And if you’re looking for a really tasty snack, I want to recommend the dates. Things many like to have in the pantry Mother Earth Tiger Nut Flour Mother Earth Quinoa Mother Earth Coconut Flour Holistic Coconut Oil Psyllium husks Almond butter Cacao nibs Hazelnuts Dave & Jon's dates Coconut sugar Apple cider vinegar Vegetable broth and nutritional yeast Skincare that lets your skin breathe and feel good We wash our face and the rest of our body daily. We moisturize with day creams and serums. We treat ourselves to a face mask now and then and maybe wear makeup every day. That’s why it’s important to remember that the skin is the body’s largest organ and what we apply to it matters. For that reason, we have avoided silicones, mineral oils, and synthetic fragrances. You should be able to keep your lovely rituals while feeling that you’re giving both yourself and your skin something that truly benefits it. Here you’ll find natural skincare that lets your skin breathe, recover, and stay balanced. Favorites for your daily skincare routine Fushi Black Cumin Oil Fushi Jojoba Oil 100% Pure Coffee Bean Eye Cream 100% Pure Cucumber Cloud Foam Cleanser i+m Naturkosmetik Hyaluronic Serum Evolve Organic Beauty Miracle Vitamin C Mask Evolve Organic Beauty Gradual Tan Eco by Sonya Coconut Body Milk Odylique Creamy Coconut Cleanser Akamuti Golden Jojoba Oil i+m Crème de la Crème 100% Pure Body Lotion Vanilla Bean Here you’ll also find organic makeup that is easy to use, both for everyday and special occasions.And gentle skincare for the very little ones is gathered here. A home without unpleasant substances Most of us love the feeling of coming home to a clean house. Maybe your favorite scent is lavender, or a fresh note of lemon balm? Then it can be comforting to know that cleaning and laundry products can smell amazing and do their job without containing unnecessary chemicals. Here we have gathered products that keep the home clean without leaving unpleasant residues behind. Things you can use every day, feel safe with, and that give that wonderful feeling of freshly cleaned, whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry. Things that make the home feel clean Baking soda Dishwasher detergent Household soap Liquid laundry detergent Citric acid Stain remover Essential oil, lavender Essential oil, tea tree Essential oil, eucalyptus Essential oil, lemongrass oil Want tips on how to easily mix your own cleaning products just the way you like them? Read more here. Start with one natural choice at a time Whether you already have half your kitchen cabinet filled with supplements or have just started thinking more about your health, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. But do you need to change everything at once? No, we don’t think so. Small steps go a long way. The most important thing is to choose something that feels reasonable and that you actually want to continue with when you notice the difference yourself. Maybe you start by switching your vitamin D to one without fillers, or add spirulina to your morning routine. Or perhaps you want to try a new facial cleanser or replace your laundry detergent. Only you know what feels right for you right now. Start there. And if you want guidance, our health experts are here to help you find natural choices that suit your needs.
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