Alternatives to Xenoestrogen laden Drier Sheets

If you don't already know what Xenoestrogens are here is a quick definition. Xenoestrogens are man-made substances that imitate estrogen. If you've heard the debates about how bad BPA is then you are already aware of some of the harmful effects these compounds can have (especially on children). One of the worst ways to absorb Xenoestrogens is through the skin because when we ingest them (meat/dairy products that are non-organic for example) our liver filters out some of the toxins. When we are exposed to these compounds through beauty products, plastics, sprays, household cleaners, laundry soaps/fabric sheets and the like our skin can not filter what is coming in so the toxic load is even greater. Google Xenoestrogens for more information.

My question is this why would anyone choose to use fabric sheets knowing they are LOADED with Xenoestrogens that penetrate into the fabric of your clothing which is then in direct prolonged contact with your skin.  Guess what - these options will work just as well for preventing static. Yep that is a ball of tin foil in the photo and you can use the same ball over and over again. It works - honest. Another option drier balls so worth the investment - all the goodness. Wool dryer balls shorten dry time, reduce static build up AND soften clothes, oh and you can REUSE THEM TOO. (* try out my friend and fellow Yukoner Marianne’s amazing Mighty Wool drier balls - a huge local favourite - they are amaze balls - seriously.)

But you like the smell of dryer sheets you say. Try using 6 drops of essential oil on a scrap of old cloth thrown in to the dryer along with your foil ball or add a few drops to a wool drier ball and voila - natural non toxic scent. I like Peppermint, Spearmint or Lavender but, there are lots of other options out there for essential oils that can be used. Another idea is to add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle of your laundry to help soften clothes (here is another tip - if you use soap and not detergent - you won't need a fabric softener...). 

For laundry soap my favourite is Dr. Bronner’s it is fantastic plain or with essential oils or use a natural laundry detergents like 7th Generation (read your labels) - there are a lot of options.