Your bathroom is meant to be a sanctuary, a space for self-care and wellness. But lurking under your sink might be products that are doing more harm to your health and well-being than good. Recent findings have raised concerns about certain items commonly found in our bathrooms, particularly their ingredients and potential health risks. Though we still do not know the full extent to some environmental toxicants in our products on our health, findings that suggest fertility or reproductive outcomes are certainly a cause for concern. Let’s look into five things you should rethink keeping under your bathroom sink and explore safer, healthier alternatives.
1. Pads and Tampons with Harmful Chemicals
Recent investigations have uncovered the presence of lead and other harmful chemicals in some menstrual products. This revelation is concerning because these products come into direct contact with sensitive areas of the body. Chemicals like dioxins, synthetic fragrances, and chlorine bleach have been linked to irritation, hormone disruption, and even reproductive health issues.
Though we do not have any research to conclude that these toxicants at the levels they are in our hygiene products have any negative outcomes- common sense begs us to ask whether we want these chemicals in contact with sensitive areas for extended periods of time. What do you think?
What to Choose Instead:
Opt for 100% organic cotton pads and tampons free from harmful chemicals, dyes, and fragrances. Brands like Rael, Cora and even Always (if you purchase their 100% cotton blend) provide cleaner alternatives that are gentle on your body and the environment. Since these options are available, we encourage you to try them until we have further information on the impact of regular hygiene products.
2. Products with Artificial Fragrances
Fragrance might make your bathroom smell fresh, but when it’s in your personal care products, it can be a major irritant. Soaps, sprays, and lotions with synthetic fragrances often contain a cocktail of chemicals that can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, or even disrupt your vaginal microbiome. The vaginal area is highly sensitive, and exposure to irritants can cause itching, burning, or imbalances that increase the risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.
What to Choose Instead:
Look for unscented or naturally fragranced products using essential oils. Choose pH-balanced soaps and body washes that are specifically designed for sensitive skin.
3. Douching Products and Vaginal Washes
The truth is, your vagina is a self-cleaning organ and doesn’t need help from douches or specialized washes. Products marketed as “freshening” agents often strip away the natural protective bacteria, throwing off your vaginal pH and increasing the risk of infections like UTIs or yeast infections. Worse, some contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that can cause irritation or inflammation.
Can we all agree we do NOT need to be douching?
What to Do Instead:
Ditch the douches. Stick to warm water and gentle, unscented soap for external cleaning only. Trust your body’s natural ability to maintain its balance.
4. Feminine Wipes
Feminine wipes promise quick freshness but often contain ingredients like alcohol, fragrance, and parabens, all of which can irritate your skin and disrupt the delicate ecosystem of the vaginal area. These wipes can also contribute to unnecessary waste, harming the environment.
What to Choose Instead:
If you feel the need for a quick clean-up, opt for a damp washcloth or look for wipes made from 100% biodegradable, unscented, and pH-balanced materials. But remember, less is more, your body doesn’t need constant intervention.
5. Plastic Razors
While not directly tied to vaginal health, disposable plastic razors are often found under bathroom sinks, and they’re not as harmless as they seem. These razors can cause microtears in the skin, increasing the risk of irritation, razor burn, and infections. Additionally, the environmental impact of disposable plastic razors is significant.
What to Choose Instead:
Consider switching to a safety razor or a reusable razor with replaceable blades. These options are more eco-friendly, provide a closer shave, and are gentler on your skin when used correctly.
A Healthier Bathroom for a Healthier You
Taking a second look at what’s under your bathroom sink can be a small but impactful step toward prioritizing your health and wellness. By replacing harmful products with safer, more sustainable alternatives, you’re not only caring for your body but also contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet.
Your bathroom should be a haven of self-care, not a source of hidden health risks. It’s time to rethink what you keep under your sink and make choices that truly support your well-being.
