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April 24th, 2026
Q: What mattress do your boys currently sleep on? My youngest is due for an upgrade.
A: One sleeps on a Naturepedic and one on a
Happsy.
Naturepedic is 25% off on our website right now with code NATURE25. If you decide to go with Happsy, the code GIMME15 gets you 15% off.
Q: What raised garden beds do you recommend to plant herbs and vegetables in? Is the Vego kit safe?
A: Yes, this is a great nontoxic option.
Q: Have you checked out nitrided carbon steel pans? I recently bought one from Misen and I’m impressed so far. It also seems very safe as far as I’ve been able to research!
A: Misen carbon pans are definitely nontoxic and definitely durable, and they are designed to develop natural nonstick properties over time, basically once they are "seasoned," kind of like cast iron. I would not expect it to be as slick as a Teflon pan, but now I'm thinking I need to
order one and see!
Q: Is Seed a good probiotic for a teenager?
A: Yes! I think Seed pediatric powder is a great option for a teen--I've been taking their probiotics myself this month.
Q: Hi, I have a kid who has the start of two cavities (baby teeth). Dentist wants him to use ACT rinse but wondering if you have a less toxic rec?
A: The best fluoride rinse I have found is
this one.
April 17th, 2026
Q: I've been following your advice for 14 years now!, but I'm getting stumped: I bought
Green Pan's non-toxic pot set. No matter how carefully we use or handle these pots, they always end up with some degree of scratches on the non-stick surface. I've read that if this happens, you're being exposed to tons of chemicals and they need to be replaced. My
Our Place pan has the same issue. Are the pots truly toxic with any amount of scratches? What other options are there for non-toxic pots that I'm not replacing every few months?
A: So
GreenPan, Our Place, etc. are not actually traditional ceramic; they are metal pans with a silica-based coating that behaves like nonstick. That coating is PFAS-free, which is why we recommend them, but it is also inherently fragile and wears down quickly. When chipped, these pans are not suddenly exposing you to tons of chemicals--but they won't perform very well once they are scratched. There IS some broader concern that all these coatings are not fully transparent and may contain trace materials, but the bigger issue is durability. The problem you have correctly identified is that non-toxic + nonstick + durable doesn’t really exist in one pan (you can pick 2 of the 3, sorry). In my home, we use nonstick pans for eggs and a few other delicate foods, and we use stainless steel/cast iron for most other cooking.
Q: I bought the small Mito Red Light box you recommended years ago. In one of your Friday Q&A emails you talk about a red light mask that sounds great. Do you know if the mask works better than the Mito box? I'm trying to decide if it's worth it to splurge on a second device specifically for anti-aging.
A: The short answer is that your Mito panel is actually a stronger and more powerful device than most masks. The nuance is that because a mask sits directly on your face, it delivers light at a close distance across the entire surface every time. With a panel, results depend on distance, how evenly you position it, and whether you’re consistent. The mask can be more convenient for facial anti-aging, but if you’re already using your Mito regularly and correctly, you don't need a mask to get these results! (If you do want a mask, this is my current pick.)
Q: Since it seems that we can't really reverse gray hair, are you still a fan of Hairprint hair dye (in terms of safety) and do you have any other good stuff hair dye recommendations?
A: I've never tried
Hairprint, but yes, I think it's the best option in terms of ingredients! There is just nothing else out there (yet) that comes close.
Q: I purchased the sunscreen Coola based on your recommendation and I’m very disappointed to see the potential toxic, non mineral ingredients listed. EWG rated all the ingredients listed as potentially toxic and endocrine disruptors. How is this considered good stuff or gimme approved?
A: It's confusing, but as long as you're getting the Coola Classic Sunscreen Spray-SPF 30 it will not contain oxybenzone and homosolate. The SPF 50 version from Coola DOES contain homosolate, though. I think EWG's database doesn't have the correct ingredients for the correct formula. (Here's more on chemical sunscreens specifically.)
Q: Thank you for your recent
eggs email. It's been hard to know what kind of eggs are actually worth the price tags these days.
Lately I've been buying the Contented Hen brand sold at Natural Grocers. The price really can't be beat for free-range organic eggs and they have those nice orange-y yolks that seem to signal to me that the nutrition levels are there. Is that accurate or did I make that up?
A: No, you didn't make it up! Chickens that eat grass, bugs, etc. often produce darker yolks from the carotenoids in those foods, and this can mean your eggs will have more beta-carotene. However, the color doesn't ALWAYS mean a healthier egg--producers can change yolk color just by adjusting feed (like adding alfalfa), even if the hens aren’t actually pasture-raised. “Free-range” often means that the hens are technically outside, but not truly foraging, versus pasture-raised hens who have significant outdoor space and definitely spend time eating grass and bugs.
April 10th, 2026
Q: Have you tried Salt of the Earth electrolytes? Curious if it's good stuff. Love the taste (though I dilute it more than they call for, but I do that for all the electrolytes).
A: I haven't tried this one! But I checked out the ingredients and it looks fine.
Q: Do you have a recommendation for what to use when using the “clean washer” cycle for your washing machine? Maytag recommends Affresh tablets which I’m assuming are toxic.
A: These are the ones I recommend.
Q: I was wondering if you know anything about the brand Vove for household cleaning products. They claim to be really clean but aren’t on EWG. I think they’re new.
A: We don't recommend Vove, unfortunately, because they don't disclose what their fragrance oils are made of (they are not pure essential oils), and are generally not very transparent about ingredients!
Q: Do you think stevia is okay to use as a sugar alternative, and if so, what kind of stevia?
A: Yes, I think stevia is fine, and I like
this one.
Q: I saw your article rating protein bars, which was great, but I wanted to get your thoughts on the Truvani protein bars, which I love the taste of.
A: The
protein bar guide needs an update—Truvani
Only Bars are definitely Good Stuff, and I also think they are some of the tastier ones out there!
April 3rd, 2026
Q: What's your favorite under-counter and full house water filter system?
A: This is the whole-house filter I like (and want, but we live in a Brooklyn apartment building with other humans) and this is the under-counter one I use (which is great, and pictured above).
A: I know I've talked about this a lot on social recently, so fair question! The scent/flavor and the gel-like consistency are the two best parts!
Q: Any recommendations for good infant baby cereal? My husband came home with Gerber Rice Cereal.
A: I think in general you don't even need to start with cereal at all, but if you do, I like
this one. I would definitely avoid the white rice kind.
Q: Can you recommend a "better option" of Pepcid (liquid or chewable form) for teens?
A: Yes, this is the better brand I recommend.
A: I have never heard of this but I don't see anything concerning--still not sure I could handle not rinsing soap off, though!
Q: Is there a drip coffee pot with no plastic?
A: This is a new coffee maker without plastic! There is still a waitlist, but they have units available for May delivery (those will be sold out soon, though).
March 20th, 2026
Q: I browsed your site and even the sites of many colored mascara recs. I’m having trouble finding a safe clear mascara. Do you know of any?
Q: What nightgown brand do you wear in your IG stories?
A: It's usually one from
Lanz of Salzburg, which I would say is my favorite brand for 100% cotton nighties!
Q: How would you say Aquatru compares to the Gimme the Good Stuff brand under the sink filter?
A: Under counter is more robust water filtration for sure, but for those in a rental or who can't put something under their sick, the Aquatru glass filter pitcher is good backup! How to choose a water filter.
Q: Do you have a recommendation for a decaf black tea? I know you have one for decaf coffee, but wondering if you ever came across a good decaf black tea?
Q: What's the mascara you said was your favorite now?
A: My current favorite is
Counter. I do also love
Ilia.
March 13th, 2026
Q: I know you said that you didn't care for the Taima cutting board, but do you consider their cookware safe? Is there any leaching concerns or PFAS present with any of their products?
A: Yes, all of the Taima cookware is definitely safe:). The cutting board is great in that it's non-toxic, easy to clean, and light--I just couldn't deal with the sound of the knife on it. (Read the Cutting Board Guide.)
Q: I’d love your opinion on blenders. Although it’s hard to part with the vitamix because it’s so great, I want to find a small, non plastic single serve option. My daughter likes to make a smoothie before school and has been using my super old plastic nutribullet. I can just imagine the microplastics! We tried the Tribest glass blender but it did not blend well. Do you have any suggestions?
A: I just saw that
Beast now makes a stainless steel mini, and people seem to love it! I want it for myself.
Q: I had a question on gray hair products, not sure if you’ve addressed any of those? I’ve been looking at Vegamore, Iles, and GR-7 brands, but the ingredients are way beyond me!
A: I took a look at the three brands you asked about through an ingredient safety and evidence of efficacy lens.
Here are my thoughts:
- Vegamour GRO Ageless is likely the strongest option of the three. The ingredients are low-toxicity and generally supportive for scalp health. Still, the evidence for actually REVERSING gray hair is limited. But it can't hurt to try!
- Iles Formula Grey Delay Booster also looks relatively low risk from an ingredient standpoint, but it relies heavily on proprietary complexes with limited independent evidence.
- GR-7 raises more concerns. The claims are very bold, ingredient transparency is limited, and products in this category often work by just staining your hair rather than actually restoring pigment. I’d be cautious recommending it.
You might also consider Arey, which is probably the most science-backed option in this category. Its serum uses antioxidants and peptides to help preserve remaining pigment and support scalp health more generally. Still, it's positioning is more about slowing than reversing the graying process. After looking into this for you I'm tempted to try this one or the Vegamour lol.
It seems like the bottom line here is that most experts agree that while certain products may help slow graying, there isn’t strong evidence that topical treatments can actually reverse gray hair. Womp.
Q: I was wondering if you've heard of Everylife diapers? They seem to be good stuff, but I'm not sure with their top sheet.
March 6th, 2026
Q: Have you heard of the air filter called Smart Air?
A: I actually don't recommend that filter because it has a lower quality filter (not true HEPA). It's definitely better than nothing, but is more effective for basic particulates/allergens than VOCs. More on air filtration.
Q: Thank you for all that you do. My question is, have you reviewed Attitude brand body lotion yet? I know they made your good list for toothpaste so I wanted to see if you knew about their lotions. I had been using Acure, but have had more trouble finding it.
Q: I have a question on baby carriers. I have concerns both about the foam and the synthetic materials of all the structured carriers. I know Nuna for example has an organic cotton bib on theirs, but it still has foam and is made of polyester, I would just think the baby is getting all those microplastics shedding on their skin. But I always appreciate your knowledge and perspective on all this so wondering what you think!
A: You’re not wrong--even when a structured carrier includes an organic cotton panel, the bulk is still made from polyester and foam padding, which, yes, will shed microplastics. And because babies spend long stretches pressed against these materials, and because infants have more permeable skin and a lot of hand-to-mouth contact, it's reasonable to consider the prolonged exposure. Unfortunately, the only way around this is to use a wrap-style carrier that's made of just natural fibers--anything with any structure is going to have foam. But also keep in mind that babies (like the rest of us) are surrounded by microplastics all the time from myriad sources, so the actual increase in risk is really negligible. So if you love the Nuna, I say go for it. My own kids lived in the Ergo carrier for years (although we did use the Moby wrap when they were tiny).
Q: I like Counter products like you do but are you concerned about the preservative Phenoxyethanol in it? What do you think?
A: I don't recommend phenoxyethanol in baby products because infants have thinner, more permeable skin, which can lead to higher relative absorption and a greater risk of skin irritation or sensitivity. Importantly, the concern here is NOT that phenoxyethanol is a hormone disruptor or carcinogen (current evidence does not support that), but rather that babies are more vulnerable to irritation and systemic exposure from repeated, full-body use. In adults, with a mature skin barrier and detox systems, phenoxyethanol used at low concentrations as a preservative is generally considered low risk for even irritation. Even baby products with phenoxyethanol usually land in our Okay Stuff category, though! (ICYMI:
All the makeup I use, including Counter.)
Q: I was reading your prenatal vitamin guide and was wondering if you have a recommendation for a preconception vitamin for men.
A: Yes, I love the Men's Fertility Support Plan Bundle from
Needed. (Use Gimme20 for 20% off everything at Needed.)
February 21, 2026
Q: What are your thoughts on Zum laundry detergent?
A: Zum's products are mostly Good Stuff, but I would avoid the specific blends that use synthetic fragrances. You'll know because those ones will say "fragrance and essential oils" instead of just "essential oils" in the ingredients label.
Q: I read your non-toxic cookware guide and saw you mentioned carbon steel being ok for non-toxicity. Is there anything else to look for to make sure it’s ok? My husband bought this one and I wasn’t sure if there was anything sneaky to look out for?
A: This is a safe piece of cookware! Carbon steel is a great, nontoxic option, and I like this brand.
Q: My kids have recently been asking for mouthwash. I tried getting them the kid one from Poofy and they hated it. Do you have any recommendations for clean kid mouthwash? Also I’m trying to steer my husband to cleaner products too. He has used Crest pro-health for years. Do you have adult mouthwash recommendations as well?
A: Yes, it definitely is (and for whatever reason, it's only available at Target). Everything from
Branch Basics is the Best Stuff.
Q: How much sugar is in the Puori protein powder. I couldn't find anything on the Internet about how many grams of sugar is in a serving?
A: Both flavors of the
Puori protein powder have 3 grams of added sugar (coconut) per scoop. This is the protein power I take every morning.
February 6th, 2026
Q: I know you mentioned how important vitamin D is for kids and I was wondering if you know of this brand? My daughter does not like anything chewy because it gets stuck on her teeth and this is only one drop into a drink and it’s tasteless. Her hair has been growing like crazy since we started. Thanks for all the amazing work you guys do. I follow you religious.
A: Yes, that brand is Good Stuff, so no reason to stop giving her that if you've been happy with it. I usually recommend the Nordic Naturals one because they have arguably the best transparency around third-party testing.
Q: Why are Nature's Bounty (specifically, Calcium 1200 mg + Vitamin D3) and Nature Made (specifically, Burp-less Fish Oil 1200 mg) on the "Bad" list that you sent about what you can get at Target? I have researched their ingredients, but I do not see anything alarming. I cannot find on your website where you discuss these two brands.
A: There is nothing inherently dangerous about either of these brands, but we only recommend supplements that publish independent third-party certification that involve actual lab testing for content and contaminants. Nature’s Bounty products are not typically USP-verified, even though the company does follow general good manufacturing practices. Nature Made does have many products that are USP Verified, but not everything is. For this reason, there are other supplement brands that you can get at Target that we think are better bets, such as
Ritual,
HUM,
Mary Ruth's, and
Vital Proteins.
Q: I saw you answered a question recently about if there are any "truly" safe matcha brands out there and it wasn't Pique. I thought Pique was the most truly nontoxic matcha brand. Is this not true?
A: This reader wanted a ceremonial-grade matcha for the whisking method—Pique makes the very fine powders that simply dissolve in hot or cold water, so it's not really "that" kind of matcha. But yes! Pique’s matcha crystals are third-party screened for heavy metals, pesticides, and mold, and generally shows low raw contaminant numbers. But because Pique matcha does still incorporates the whole tea leaf, it will still contain some amount of detectable metal.
Q: Have you looked into portable saunas? I’m looking at them but there are so many brands. I’m looking for one that is made out of non-toxic materials so there isn’t off gassing when it heats up and also one that is quality infrared.
A: For portable saunas,
this is the one that offers the most assurances regarding non-toxic materials. In terms of efficacy, it does some independent testing, but doesn't publish full lab reports for every model. If you're open to a sauna blanket,
this is the one I bought after researching this myself.
A: Bon Charge is safe to use, but in terms of effectiveness, most of their devices do not come with widely recognized third-party testing certifications that independently verify irradiance and wavelength accuracy the way some other brands do--which is why I like
Mito,
RedDot and
LUMEBOX better.
January 23rd, 2026
Q: Is it ok for my kids to take all of the Llama Naturals supplements together?
Q: I have a question about kids probiotics and protein powder. I know recently there has been a lot of talk about lead. I try my best to limit exposure when I can and try not to worry about it otherwise. I have found a kids probiotic that tests clean and a protein powder that tests clean and was wondering what you thought about them as products. I feel like there are some other brands that might have better ingredients, but they test positive for heavy metals, so I’m just not sure what to feed my kids anymore!
A: Yes, I think these both are great options. I love everything from
Seed, and while the protein powder does contain xanthan gum, I agree with you that the testing is more important! I'd feel good about both of these.
A: Yes, both of those brands are Good/Okay Stuff (depending on specific product).
Q: I would like to know what you'd recommend for the best winter moisturization and that is also unscented or very mildly scented.
January 16th, 2026
Q: What "good" body washes do you recommend?
A: I love this one from
Soapwalla, and
Primally Pure is also amazing (get 10% off with GIMMETHEGOODSTUF10 if you decide to try the PP). For something cheaper and more widely available,
Attitude is EWG-verified. Also,
bar soaps are more eco-friendly than body washes--I will list my favorite brands at the end of this email.
A: Yes, those are good stuff! I actually really like these.
Q: My questions are .... how do you get paid? Do you receive any money from companies that you recommend? How do you test things? Are you looking for such things as FDA or NSF approved? Are you basing your evaluation on what the company says is or do you / and how do you do research? What is your background? Nothing wrong with mom turned investigator but I would like to know.
A: These are all great questions, so I'll take them one by one:
How do I get paid?
Gimme the Good Stuff is both a content site and a curated marketplace. We make money in four ways:
1. When readers buy certain products through links on our site, we may earn a small commission (affiliate income).
2. Our marketplace offers a selection of products we’ve vetted and chosen ourselves.
3. Occasionally, a brand we love will sponsor content—these posts will be clearly marked as SPONSORED.
4. You may see display ads on Gimme (like you would on most media sites). These are placed automatically by an ad network based on things like your browsing history and location. I don’t choose or approve the specific ads you see, and advertisers don’t influence what I recommend or rate as “Best Stuff.”
Do companies pay me to recommend them?
No. Brands do not pay to be reviewed or to get a “Best Stuff” rating. Some brands may send samples, but that doesn’t affect whether I approve them. And while they can pay for a sponsored post (which will be disclosed at the top of the post), they cannot pay to be included in a Safe Product Guide, which makes up the bulk of the articles you'll find on our site.
How do I evaluate and test products?
I don’t do this alone. I work with a researcher with a PhD from Dartmouth University, Dr. Michael Hopkins, who helps review the ingredients, manufacturing methods, regulatory filings, and scientific literature behind many of our guides. We are not running a lab, but we do what we call forensic consumer research, which means we evaluate full ingredient lists (not just the front label), ask brands for Safety Data Sheets (SDS), certifications, and third-party test results, sleuth out ingredients that won't show up on the label (like heavy metals, phthalates, flame retardants, and microplastics) and compare company claims against independent science.
Do I rely on FDA, NSF, or other certifications?
I use them as important data points, but I don’t blindly trust them. The FDA, for example, allows many chemicals that are legal but not necessarily what I’d consider “Good Stuff.” NSF, GOTS, GOLS, Greenguard Gold, OEKO-TEX, and others can be helpful, but I always look at what’s actually in the product and how it’s made.
Do I just trust what companies say?
No. We verify as much as we can by cross-checking ingredients and asking for lab testing when available. My job is basically to be the annoying customer who won’t stop asking questions (so that you don't have to)
What’s my background?
I’m not a chemist or a doctor (although I am married to a PhD scientist!). I'm just a former writer (in the nonprofit sector) who started Gimme the Good Stuff when I became a mom and realized how much “toxic” stuff was hiding in everyday products. Over the years I’ve brought on other experts, and I’ve spent thousands of hours learning how these products are actually made. My goal has never been perfection, but rather to help people avoid the worst offenders and find genuinely better alternatives without losing our minds.
January 9th, 2026
Q: I enjoy reading these Q&As each week, so thank you for doing it! I’ve been trying to find period underwear that checks all the good stuff boxes and am wondering if you have recommendations for brands?
A: Yes! Check out Saalt, which is free of PFAS.
Q: Back in the summer you did a blog post that had 2 different down pillows. The one that you talk about now that I ordered (its your favorite Clean something). Anyway, its a bit flat for me and I wanted to try the other one you had recommended. It was a down alternative that you could take out the filling or add more if you purchased the zippered style. I've combed through your site and I cannot for the life of me find it.
A: The other pillow was
this. I like the
down one better, but I know pillow preferences are very personal:).
A: Ha, no, I didn't review it, but I have talked about it a lot, and put it in my cart several times, and it looks amazing and comfy, so if any of you guys get it, please let me know how it fits! I feel like Pact is so hit or miss--I love some stuff (their underwear, for instance, is the best), but then I hate other stuff (their leggings truly suck).
Q: Is there a good healthy nutrition drink brand for kids? Like Pediasure but organic?
A: Unfortunately, not really. A better option (although bigger hassle) is to make a high-calorie smoothie that lacks all the sugar and garbage that are in all store-bought versions. If you find yourself choosing between Orgain and Kate Farms, as you probably will because they are the best of what's out there, I think Orgain is the (very slightly) better choice; it's arguably a little bit less ultra-processed, although it still contains lecithins, natural flavors, etc. Unless medically necessary, there is no version of a Pediasure-type drink I can recommend as a meal replacement.
Q: What are your favorite Dry January drinks?
A: I'm not officially doing Dry January this year because I have been drinking less in general (although December was far from dry!)--but I've been dry so far in January. And mostly, I like really good seltzer instead of alchol--this is my all-time favorite flavor, which somehow doesn't exist in brick and mortar stores near me. I have tried a lot of NA cocktails, wines, and beers, and the ones I like the best are this beer, this cocktail, and this wine. For an adaptogenic drink, I love Recess--although I can't say they make me feel much in terms of a buzz, tbh. (Here's a post with ideas for Dry Jan, btw.)
December 12th, 2025
Q: I’ve been trying to figure out if there are any truly “safe” matcha brands. Many claim to be third-party tested, lead free etc, but then sites like Mamavation show that these products actually have heavy metals in them! Have you found any matcha’s that are safe or safer?
A: There is detectable metal in all tea, but when you drink matcha you ingest the entire (powdered) leaf, so levels will almost always be higher. I know Lead Safe Mama has tested a bunch of matcha powders, and the lowest in lead (though not in every other metal) was Encha, which does conduct testing itself. Mamavation tested green teas for PFAS, not metals, and it's hard to know if her results would hold up across more samples, etc., but based on what we do know from her testing, Pukka matcha (which is a teabag) is the only one that did not contain PFAS. Unfortunately, if you want dramatically less risk of contamination, you'd have to switch to a type of tea where you don't eat the entire leaf--so anything but matcha. (FWIW, I am currently obsessed with the loose tea from Rishi. All of their green teas are exceptional.)
Q: I am wondering if you have a tween skincare line that is recommended? My daughter is 11 and this is what she wants. 😵💫 The price point cannot be what I use for myself. 🤣Do you have any opinions on Bubble?
A: Just to be clear: no tween actually needs skincare. Their skin is naturally balanced and not yet experiencing the hormonal changes that require them to even really wash their face, much less apply anything else. But based on how many of you are asking this same question, tweens clearly WANT skincare, and many parents are allowing them to use it. In that case, the best you can do is steer them toward brands and products that won’t harm their developing skin barrier or cause hormone disruption. I like Evereden the best. Bubble is okay, but their products sometimes contain PEGs, synthetic fragrance, chemical sunscreen filters in their SPF, etc. It's "Okay Stuff," but EverEden is cleaner.
Q: I saw in your stories that you love EVOLVh Ultra Shine Shampoo, but does it get nice and sudsy?
A: Yes! That's why I first fell in love with it. It also makes my hair feel like I've used conventional shampoo. And it smells amazing. Use code GIMME15 for 15% off if you decide to try it.
Q: I see you keep ordering from Martie. Is it for real? Are items really that discounted? Is there a catch?
A: Nope, no catch and I can't seem to stop ordering from them. Not everything they carry is Good Stuff, but a lot of it actually is!
December 5th, 2025
Q: What are your thoughts on Trader Joe's mineral sunscreen for the face? I only used Beautycounter face sunscreen for years until they went on hiatus and I found that Trader Joe's was just as light, but curious about the product.
A: The Trader Joe's one isn't bad, but it is very heavy on silicones and polymers, which puts it more in the "Okay Stuff" category. The Counter face sunscreen uses more natural + skin-friendly emollients and humectants.
Q: Risewell - do you recommend the pro or regular toothpaste, both for adults and kids? And what reasons for each?
A: We covered
Risewell in this guide. TLDR: RiseWell remineralizing toothpaste contains hydroxapatite in place of fluoride. Use code GIMME10 to get 10% off everything on Risewell’s site.
In terms of the Pro:
-
For adults: Yes, we believe this is a good option. If you’re an adult with sensitivity, weaker enamel, or just want a cleaner/mineral toothpaste, RiseWell Pro is solid.
-
For kids: I think it's good for older children who have all their permanent teeth, who brush reliably, who don’t swallow toothpaste, and whose enamel is in good shape. For younger children (toddlers/early elementary) I’d recommend the Kid's Pro versus the regular Pro.
Q: Do you use both NIR and red light on your face when using the LUMEBOX? If yes, why do you use the NIR on the face?
A: Yes! I use both. Red works on surface skin, while NIR works on the deeper structures that support skin quality, healing, inflammation, circulation, etc.
Q: Hi Maia! I adore Primally Pure. I use their facial cleansing oil, body wash, lip oil and dry shampoo. The charcoal deodorant is incredible and ended my search forever for a non-toxic deodorant. Now I need to find a recommendation for a razor for a woman. Most seem like they have the soap strip. Do you have a recommendation?
A: I love Primally Pure, too! It's one of my favorite brands (and you can use GIMMETHEGOODSTUF10 for 10% off.) It's really crazy with razors because even the eco-friendly and "non-toxic" brands often have PFAS on the blades. One that I know does not have PFAS coating is this one.
November 28th, 2025
Q: Are you continuing to get the COVID vaccine for yourself and do you feel safe doing it?
A: I am not planning to get any more COVID vaccines (assuming Covid continues to be the current mild form) because for me the side effects were really unpleasant, and I am not at high risk of severe disease.
Q: I was wondering why you picked the Naturepedic over the Happsy mattress for your son? I am trying to decide on which mattress to get my 10 year old daughter.
A:
We went with the Concerto for my son because he is a giant (6'4") and he likes a plusher, more cushiony luxe feel. But my other son is on a Happsy and he loves it! You really cannot go wrong. And both are on sale right now for Black Friday:
-
Happsy – 20% off sitewide + free pillow(s) with code BLACKFRIDAY.
-
Naturepedic – On our website, you can get 15% off Naturepedic with code NATURE15, plus you can stack it with GIMME10 for an additional 10% off. On Naturepedic's site, you can get 20% off (less than our deal, you'll notice!), and various free gifts.
Q: Any recommendations for clean down-alternative comforters?
If you have ever researched how down is obtained from geese…it’s horrific and so inhumane. I believe if everyone was aware of this, they would choose an alternative product.
A: I agree with you, and that's why we only recommend (and
sell) responsibly-sourced, humane, RDS-certified down products. Otherwise, I'd go with a
cotton or
wool fill, since all traditional "down alternative" is polyester, which will shed microplastics.
Q: Have you heard of The Detox Project and/or used their tests or heard anything about this group?
A: Yes, they are great! The Detox Project is a third-party certification organization that tests for glyphosate residue in consumer products, and this certification is not a "pay-to-play" scheme. Brands do pay for testing (this is standard for any third-party verification), but The Detox Project operates independently and partners with ISO-certified labs to conduct the actual residue testing. I wouldn’t rely on it as the only measure of product safety, but it’s legitimate and credible!
November 21st, 2025
Q: If I order the AlgaeCal supplement you recommended, should I stop taking my D3/K2 and magnesium? Is this a 4-in-1 supplement?
A: I defer to your doctor of course, but the AlgaeCal has
350 mg of magnesium, 1,600 IU of D, and 100 mcg of K in a daily dose. You don't need additional magnesium, D, or K on top of that, but if your multivitamin happens to contain some, it wouldn't be dangerous (again, check with your doctor!).
Q: I bought the Sonett laundry liquid after reading your rave reviews. My question is, how do you use it? The instructions for the dosage are very confusing! I have no idea how “hard” or “soft” my water is, or how to even figure that out.
A: Because it's from Germany, the instructions are confusing! I find that this works even on a large load with half a capful. I'd do that and adjust as needed to the smallest amount needed to get your clothes clean. I have no idea if my water is hard or not either, lol.
Q: So we bought the Ecovacs Deebot vacuum/mop and love it! It’s a life saver! I was wondering if you are using the solution that it comes with for the mop as well? The ingredients look alarming and long.
A: So glad you're loving it. Nope, I don't use that cleaning solution in mine, either. I put
this in instead (a little goes a very long way--this one bottle lasts forever).
Q: Do you mail order beef/chicken/seafood, etc.? I can find good grassfed beef at my local grocery store, but our store and Costco only have organic chicken, not pasture raised. I’d love to find pasture raised.
A: I don't eat meat, and my husband does just buy a lot of Trader Joe's organic chicken and beef to make for himself and our kids (not ideal). I have never actually ordered from
Farm to People yet, but my friends LOVE it, if that's available in your area. And I have a code for $25 off, which is
MAIAJ14. For seafood, the absolute highest quality is from
Seatopia, which is not a bargain option but is the cleanest seafood I have found.
Q: What dog food do you feed your dog and why?
A: I don't have a dog, but my parents do, and after lots of research, they went with BARF, which seems like the very Best Stuff.
Q: I really want to try Sakara, but it's so expensive--are there any promos right now?
A: They have a Black Friday deal for 25% off supplements and their Level II Detox. But! My new code is MAIASAKARA and gives 25% off everything for new customers.
Q: I saw you got the new Counter mascara. So is it better than Ilia?
A: I actually just tried it this morning! The verdict: Ilia is better for lengthening, and Counter (formerly Beautycounter) is better for thickening. Final answer! (And both are on sale for Black Friday.)
November 14th, 2025
Q: Do you use LUMEBOX instead of a red light mask now?
A: I'm sure my social media has been confusing! I have both the RedDot mask and the LUMEBOX. Both use the same wavelengths of light, which are ideal for anti-aging (around 660nm plus NIR of 850nm). LUMEBOX has the highest irradiance when held up close to your face (≈140 mW/cm² at contact), but if you want to cover your entire face equally, you'd have to kind of move it around during your session. It does offer the highest power if you're looking for the fastest improvement in a specific area (say, forehead lines or a specific joint if you're looking beyond anti-aging benefits). The RedDot mask, on the other hand, has more mid-range irradiance (≈47 mW/cm²), but offers more even coverage across the face (and of course it's touching your face, so you get the full benefit of the power). The bottom line for me right now is that I am really busy, and need the biggest bang for my buck since I can't use a red light every day—so I am going with the absolute strongest one, which is the LUMEBOX, even though I have to hold it up super close to my face and I'm maybe missing the sides of my face a bit. (FYI: LUME is on sale right now for Black Friday).
Q: Hi! We're looking for a mattress for ourselves. I got one for my toddler and we love the Naturepedic. Do you have a code? Thank you!
A: Yes! My code is GIMME15 for 15% off, but actually Naturepedic has a better deal running now for Black Friday. Felix absolutely LOVES his new Concerto mattress.
Q: Do you have an air fryer recommendation other than Our Place?
A: I love my Wonder Oven (and it's on sale now, too!), but if you want a more traditional air fryer (with basket), I'd do with this one.
Q: Is there a safe budget friendly Dutch oven other than Le Creuset?
A: Yes, the ones from Caraway are significantly less expensive and also on sale now (seems like it's already Black Friday everywhere!),
November 7th, 2025
Q: What do you think of Hiya’s mineral sunscreen for kids? Is it good stuff?
A: Hiya's new sunscreen is totally Good Stuff in terms of the ingredients—it uses just zinc as a sun protectant, and all the other stuff in there is also safe! Let me know how it works if you try it:)
Q: For your migraine protocol, what dose aspirin do you use? I have been switching from Advil to aspirin this past year but I think I’m using too low of a dose. I get the worst migraines and I do 3 Advil and then ice the back of my neck.
A: My migraine protocol is two aspirin, two acetaminophen, two cups of green tea (coffee would prob work even better), and an ice cap! (FYI: The combo of meds is basically what's in Excedrin Migraine.)
Q: I finally got my teen to switch from Old Spice Fuji body wash to Native Sea Salt and Cedar. Is the Native one ok stuff (I know it’s still not great but it’s hard when dealing with an opinionated teen).
A: Native is the same as Dr. Squatch, not quite Good Stuff, but as far as teens go, perhaps as good as you're going to get them to agree to!
Q: Have you already done a review on affordable organic sheets? If not, can you think of any great brands offhand?
A: I haven't done a guide or roundup on this, but in terms of affordable brands, Quince gets high marks, and my son has been loving his! (I linked the jersey there, but most readers also say they also really like the percale). But there's a caveat about Quince in this next question...
Q: Is Quince Good Stuff?
A: I am doing a deeper dive on Quince soon, but FWIW, I did recently hear this from a reader:
"I did want to point out something about Quince. They do say that many of their items are Okeo-Tex certified which is supposed to ensure that no harmful chemicals are used in the manufacturing of cloth products. Nevertheless, I reached out to the Okeo-Tex company and they said that Quince is using their label unlawfully. I am hesitant to buy from them since I don't know what they might be hiding if they are lying about a certification for non-toxic clothing."
My take: I do want to confirm that this is the case, and in the meantime there is no reason to think that Quince is WORSE than conventional brands. But, if this is true it's of course a huge red flag, and would definitely make Quince Sneaky Stuff in terms of their marketing.
October 31st, 2025
Q: Do you have notes on the BLUEAIR filter on your website? I looked through your Guide on Air Filters and didn't see it listed?
A: You're not crazy; that guide needed an update, but your email prompted me to add BLUEAIR! Here's the TLDR:
BLUEAIR purifiers are actually a great option if you're looking for strong particle filtration at a lower price point. They’re quieter than the Austin, too. While they don’t remove VOCs or odors as effectively (Austin uses large amounts of activated carbon), BLUEAIR still provides excellent allergen and fine particle removal.
Q: I subscribe to your emails and appreciate all the valuable information! Are you familiar with Aqua Tru countertop reverse osmosis units? They are around $315 to $400 and sit on your kitchen counter. I am looking for a RO small unit that sits on the counter because I live in a rental. If you know anything about these please let me know. Thanks!
A: AquaTru’s countertop RO systems are legit and independently certified to remove most contaminants, including PFAS. AquaTru is one of the few with broad NSF/ANSI coverage. You just have to be cool with the RO waste-water trade-off. (We prefer this one because it doesn't waste water.)
Q: Can you recommend a good brand of straws? Both smoothie and regular straws please that are not glass.
A: These are my favorite straws—and the brush is critical if you're using them for smoothies.
Q: Thanks for all your work in helping us live healthier lives! Do you know if this product is safe to use? It’s made of borosilicate glass, silicone and stainless steel. If you can safely microwave with it that would amazing.
A: These are Good Stuff! Thanks for putting them on my radar; I think I'm going to order some!
October 24th, 2025
Q: I'm wondering if you can help me. I do not want my kids using fluoride toothpaste but my husband does because our six year old has a mini cavity and the dentist convinced him to use fluoride. Is there one you would recommend?
A: I actually agree with your husband on this one. I'd do the Attitude toothpaste with fluoride for a that is prone to cavities. (More on this topic.)
Q: Is the Needed perimenopause supplement good for non-perimenopause ladies? We want another baby and wondering if the supplement you showed in your stories would help with egg quality?
A: I love the new Cellular Health Supplement for my life stage (I'm 45), but Needed also has both egg and sperm support supplements. Use code GIMME20 20% off if you decide to try anything at Needed.
Q: I love all of your reviews and your store! I was turned onto Sakara years ago through you- I’m just wondering what you think of all of the new(ish) supplements they have now including their vitamins. Thank you!
A: Overall, I trust Sakara and believe that they are doing things right over there. In particular, I have heard good things about their sleep capsules and fiber powder! You can use code: MAIASAKARA for 20% off anything at Sakara.
Q: I’m writing bc I think you are the only person who might know the answer to this, do you by any chance know of any non toxic vampire teeth for my 7 year olds halloween costume I reallllly don’t want him sucking on plastic from china all day….thank you!!!
A: I actually DO know of one pair of silicone fangs, but it might be too late for Halloween!
October 17th, 2025
Q: Why did you switch from the Marie Veronique retinol to the Goop one?
A: I alternate between these because both are so good. The MV emulsion goes on a little heavier and has a slightly higher retinoid “load.” Goop’s formula has more barrier-supporting ingredients, so is better if you have more reactive skin. The MV one is stronger, so that’s still my pick for most powerful OTC retinoid–but both are effective, and I'm using the Goop one right now. I should also mention that Dr. Hopkins, who wrote our retinol guide, is using this much more affordable one.
Q: Are you going to be updating your diaper and wipes guides?
A: Yes! Actually, there are huge changes in both of those guides, and I’m nervous about how people are going to react when they see the new rankings Dr. Hopkins came up with. We are going to try to get both of those updated before the new year. I can tell you now that the two brands he recommends if you’re looking to get both diapers and wipes from one place are Kudos and Healthybaby. (Use code GIMME15 on both Kudos' and Healthybaby's sites for for 15% off.)
Q: Which Shark Vacuum did you just buy? Sorry, I lost the link
A: This is the one I just bought. I went into a big rabbit hole on which is the best stick vacuum for ridding your home of microplastics, and this is the clear winner, because you don't have to empty it and thus release all the contaminated dust back into your house.
Q: Do "plant-based" plastics still release microplastics, and should we be worried about those?
A: It kind of depends what kind of "plant" plastic you're talking about. There are bio-based but NOT biodegradable polymers, like PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which is made from corn or sugarcane instead of petroleum. Unfortunately, this behaves basically the same way as conventional PET when it comes to shedding microplastics as it degrades. Biodegradable or compostable plastics, on the other hand, like PLA (polylactic acid) or PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) come from plant starches/sugars, and they will biodegrade--although only under specific controlled conditions (so not "backyard compostable"). Any kind of plastic, be it petroleum- or sugar,-based will shed micro- and nanoplastics (from mechanical stress, heat, UV light, and washing). That said, PLA and PHA microplastics seem to be much less toxic than petroleum microplastic, which are extremelychemically stable, so they accumulate in fatty tissues of organisms, including humans. PLA and PHA microplastics, by contrast, slowly hydrolyze into lactic acid or short-chain hydroxyacids, which we can metabolize. The TLDR here is that the biodegradable version of plant-based plastic (PLA and PHA) do shed microplastics, but it is much more likely to break down into digestible molecules rather than persist indefinitely in a body or food chain.
October 12th, 2025
Q: You said the Covid vaccine was safe? Do you still think that?
A: The short answer is yes. The longer answer is: I chose to take the Covid vaccine early on because the benefits clearly outweighed the risks at the time -- there was high spread and people were dying in my NYC neighborhood, we had very little natural immunity, and there was lots of uncertainty about long-term effects of the virus itself. Now, with more data and population immunity and different strains in circulation, the balance has shifted for me: the risk of severe illness for my kids is far lower, protection from the vaccine wanes, and side effects are better understood (while rare, the myocarditis/pericarditis risk in adolescent males following vaccination is enough for me to choose to skip any further vaccines fro my sons unless COVID mutates and becomes more serious.) But I'm not losing sleep over long-term risks of the vaccines they had, and I would make the same choice again.
Q: What was the zinc you posted in Costa Rica? Desperately trying to find one for my surfing boys!
A: Hi! It was called Pura Vida but doesn't seem to be available here-ingredients are identical to this, though! (The tinted version).
Q: What's your favorite still water?
A: I do my best to just use the filtered water from my home in a reusable water bottle. But, if I'm buying bottled water I try to find one in a Tetra Pak (paper box) or can because those have been found to have less microplastic contamination and are better for recycling. So, Liquid Death or Boxed Water Is Betterare two brands I might look for. I also look for glass bottles— Mountain Valley if possible. If I'm doing a plastic water bottle, I prefer brands that explicitly state that their water is filtered or reverse osmosis—like Essentia, for one.
Q: Do you feel like the supplements you're taking are actually helping!? l'll take things if they're actually doing something.
A: I mean...who knows. Am I supposed to feel different because I take a multi and a probiotic? (These are the only two l've been taking long enough to have noticed anything.) The thing is: I wasn't really feeling poorly to begin with. I've started taking a lot of supplements for the potential long-term health benefits, not because I want or expect to immediately feel any differently.
October 4th, 2025
Q: Your laundry email was so helpful and I ordered a bunch of things from your store, thank you! I was wondering if there is something you can put in the dryer, similar to the Cora ball, to prevent the micro plastics from getting into the air?
A: Thanks for supporting our store! And unfortunately, no, there isn't anything like the Cora Ball (yet!) to trap the microfiber in the dryer, although in theory the lint filter does capture the bulk of it. For now, you should just clean the lint trap after every load, because the denser that mat of fibers becomes, the less well it works. You could consider adding a secondary dryer lint filter (like this) — these aren't designed for microplastics specifically, but they do capture more fine lint before it leaves the vent!
Q: Is Esembly still best for cloth diapers? We started with esembly when we were still diapers and have just continued using it even though we’ve been done with washing diapers for a couple of years now. Worth it to switch? Or don’t fix what ain’t broken?
A: I happen to love Esembly, so if it's still working for you, I wouldn't see any need to switch! And yes, it's still my top pick for cloth diaper laundering.
Q: Any thoughts on Azuna odor eliminator?
A: I have to call this Sneaky Stuff because of this description of their ingredients: That’s a proprietary polymer blend that relies on ingredients commonly found in foods, medicines, and bath or body care products.
Q: What do you think about K2 for Vitamin D absorption?
A: Vitamin K2 and Vitamin D do work together--but the relationship is more about what the body does with calcium than about direct absorption of Vitamin D. Basically, D3 increases calcium absorption from the gut into the bloodstream, and then K2 helps direct calcium to bones and teeth while preventing it from depositing in arteries and soft tissue. Supplements with higher amounts of D3 often add K2 because taking D3 alone can raise calcium levels without controlling where that calcium goes. (Note: Lower-level D3 supplements for kids and infants are fine without K2 added). I have these D3 gummies at home for my kids (and me), and then I also take this.
Q: I've always appreciated your guidance on cleaning products, and I'd love to find out what brands of cleaning equipment you recommend. I recently saw that Mr. Clean Magic Eraser sponges leave behind a significant amount of microplastics, and I'm wondering if the same is true of Swiffer Dusters and similar products. I'd love to hear what sponges, dusters, and mops that you consider good stuff (but still work well). Thanks!
A:
You're right that a recent study found that melamine foam (the material used in Magic Eraser-type sponges) releases a huge number of microplastic fibers when scrubbed, especially against rough surfaces--like 6.5 million microplastic fibers per gram of worn sponge material. Swiffer-y cloths/dusters similarly use synthetic fibers that likely shed (but probably less). The solution here is to avoid microfiber and synthetics in cleaning supplies. We like:
September 26th, 2025
Q: What do you think of Blueland dishwasher tablets?
A: I really love the brand Blueland, and their dishwasher tablets are no exception. They are safe, pretty to look at, free of plastic, and they do actually work.
Q: Any pediatric supplements you recommend? Like omega-6 or magnesium for a ten-year-old. There are too many options out there.
A: My weekly Sunday Stuff newsletter was recently on this topic, and this is reminding me that I should add this info to our Kids Multivitamin Guide. Anyway, here is the the basic TLDR list for kids:
Q: What do you think about Clean People laundry sheets?
A: I love that Clean People's laundry sheets are free from optical brighteners, SLS/SLES, phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrance and that they have a short ingredient list with mostly biodegradable, plant-derived surfactants. However, they would not be considered Best Stuff because the sheets themselves, like all laundry sheets are made of PVA (polyvinyl alcohol), which, while technically biodegradable under certain conditions, remains controversial environmental-wise. The concern is that laundry sheets with PVA could contribute to microplastic pollution if the PVA doesn’t fully biodegrade in your local wastewater system. I'm becoming more and more reluctant to recommend anything that might be adding to our body burden of microplastics!
Q: Is Jones Road make up Good Stuff?
A: We haven't added Jones Road to any of our guides yet, but it will likely fall into either Good or Okay Stuff (not Best Stuff) when we do a blush guide! Their products are cruelty-free and they skip the major offenders like parabens, phthalates, PEGs, cyclic silicones, and EDTA. Clean-beauty purists would probably point out that some ingredients are still synthetic: preservatives, colorants, silicones, and maybe even some petroleum-derived ingredients. I'd feel fine using this stuff, personally, so let me know if you like how it performs!
Q: I love these newsletters. So we love our Nespresso in our house and don’t see us giving it up. How bad is the coffee in their pods? I do think they are plastic free so maybe somewhat better? We have the machine that reads to label to see what size cup to dispense so I don’t think there’s an option to switch out a different brand of pod. Any other suggestions to eliminate toxins? We do use water from our Gimme under sink filter so at least there’s that!
A: I am actually in your boat here with my husband—he was gifted a Nespresso machine that he is unwilling to part with (but I think he may get a Keurig for Christmas so that he can use our K-Cups!). Anyway, here's the deal: Nespresso pods are made of aluminum, which is coated or lined to avoid direct contact of coffee/water with bare metal. While that liner inside IS made of plastic, because it’s thin and not under mechanical stress, it’s much less likely to shed particles than a full plastic capsule. There ARE some concerns about aluminum exposure and whether hot water + pressure might lead to trace leaching, but this seems minimally risky. The machine parts (where water is heated, pipes, etc.) are often plastic; hot water flowing through these is probably the bigger source of microplastics in the final product. In terms of actionable fixes for these risks, depending on which Nespresso machine you have, you could look at a reusable stainless steel pod that you fill with your own grounds. Otherwise, definitely be sure to use original Nespresso aluminum pods rather than off-brand plastic ones. The bottom, bottom line here is that among pod systems Nespresso is generally better than many plastic capsule alternatives, but not 100% plastic-free.
September 19th, 2025
Q: What are your thoughts on Beddy’s for mattresses and bedding?
A: Beddy’s clearly sources certified organic materials for their mattresses, including latex, cotton, and wool—those components carry GOTS and GOLS credentials. However, Beddy’s does not explicitly state that their manufacturing facility and the finished mattresses are certified under GOTS or GOLS. The lack of mention in public databases or statements about facility-level accreditation suggests they may only hold material-level certification, not full product certification. This means we would not call this brand Best Stuff, but it would be Good Stuff.
Q: What kind of oil do you use for cooking? I know the olive oil you recommend is not for cooking. Are there any good avocado oils out there? I've read so many are not pure avocado but mixed with other cheaper oils.
A: It's true that many avocado oils are cut with cheaper oils. One that came up as very pure in testing was Chosen Foods, which I do use a lot for cooking. I've also recently gotten into Algae Cooking Club oil.
Q: A while ago you shared 2 healthy gums. Glee gum, which I just discovered has gone out of business and Simply, which is awful. We loved Glee. Recently while at Sprouts I discovered Milliways plastic free gum. Can you tell me what you think?
A: Thanks for putting this brand on my radar! It's definitely Good Stuff! And I am so sad about Glee, too! But also, I like Simply! (Especially the cinnamon flavor.)
Q. I don't see the Kind laundry detergent sheets anywhere on the 2025 laundry detergent guide. Or are they no longer good stuff? I thought I had previously bought them from the Gimme store and I love them so hoping they aren't problematic now!
A: We've decided not to carry those any more as we've become more concerned about microplastics in the waterways (because sheets like this use PVA as a binder). But for the consumer, Kind is still a safe option. We need to add it back into the guide, although we are no longer recommending anything with plastic as Good Stuff, because of environmental concerns.
Q. Do you think double-cleansing your face is a scam?
A: No! I actually love this method, but only if I have worn makeup or sunscreen that day. If you do, it does make a difference, in my experience. I
September 12th, 2025
Q: Do you recommend echinacea and if so, are there brands you've researched?
A: Some studies suggest echinacea may modestly reduce the duration or severity of colds and respiratory infections. One meta-analysis found it could lower incidence, shorten illness, and reduce antibiotic use. Other research indicates possible anti-inflammatory effects. If you're looking for a potential mild immune support remedy, echinacea can be tried short-term. For a specific brand, look for third-party testing and quality certifications (as always). I like Mary Ruth's, which is Clean Label Project–certified.
Q: I’ve recently developed a guilty habit, I’m addicted to boba tea. How bad is this stuff for me really? Is their lead or other contaminants in the tapioca balls I should worry about? Or is it really just the sugar?
A: The real issue with boba tea is indeed just the sugar (typically more than what's in a can of soda). The pearls themselves are made mostly from cassava starch, so they’re essentially pure carbs with no fiber, protein, or micronutrients. And yes, cassava is a root vegetable that can have higher levels of heavy metals, but not more than, say, a sweet potato. Past investigations (2012–2013, in Germany and Taiwan) raised concerns when trace levels of PCBs and heavy metals were found in some tapioca pearls, but this was linked to poorly regulated manufacturers. The FDA and European food safety agencies tested U.S.-available boba after those reports and did not find unsafe levels in mainstream products. So nope, nothing to worry about besides what you already know—sugar/carbs/no nutritional value;).
Q: Do you have any insight into fiber? I was taking the Nordic Naturals fiber gummies for awhile but is there a better option that you have found?
A: Funnily enough, I just started taking a fiber gummy myself. My research suggests that these can be a legit way to boost fiber. The ones I am taking now, HUM’s Celery Juice Fiber Gummies, contain fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a clinically studied prebiotic fiber--studies show FOS supports gut microbiota and can improve regularity. As with all supplements, you want to make sure to choose a brand with clean, verified ingredients. I don't seen a Nordic Naturals fiber gummy anywhere online, but this brand does use GMP standards and shows third-party testing for safety and potency of their other supplements. Bottom line: Obviously, whole-food fiber comes with essential nutrients and benefits that isolated fiber gummies lack, but I don't see any downside to taking a high-quality fiber gummy in addition to making sure you lots in your diet.
Q: I love your laundry guide. Which of the recommended laundry detergents have you personally tried and liked? I have 4 kids who all play sports and often find the all natural detergents don’t keep our clothing or linens fresh over time. Curious which ones you’ve had luck with?
A: I totally hear you! For the BEST Stuff (meaning brands with the squeaky clean ingredients, I have had the best luck with Mama Sudsand Sonett for fresh-smelling clothes. If you want to try something that's more Okay Stuff, and uses some safe synthetics, I found that Bloop really left my clothes smelling good, and a bunch of readers have said the same.
Q: Just check out your laundry guide, and wondering what you think of the Rebel Green brand?
A: Rebel Green would be considered Best Stuff for it's pure, natural ingredients and the fact that it's scented with just essential oils. Thanks for the reminder that it should be there--I will add it!
Q: Do you still recommend Counter (formerly Beautycounter) products? Specifically the vitamin C serum?
A: Yes, I love the new Counter! I just restocked the Vitamin C for myself, which I love! Everything is still definitely Good Stuff:).
Q: Do you have a calcium supplement recommendation for kids?
A: There are not many brands of calcium for kids—the best I have found is Carlson's.
Q: Are water collector based vacuums are not as good as HEPA?
A: Correct. Water vacuums are not effective on ultrafine particles by themselves. Very small particles (like allergens, VOC-bound dust, or combustion particles) don’t always stay trapped in water; they can be re-aerosolized unless there’s a secondary true HEPA filter. (If you want a HEPA filter vaccum, the two brands that consistently are rated top for really trapping toxins, allergens, and ultra-fine dust are:
1.) Miele, which uses a sealed system with HEPA filter and multi-layer bags, resulting in basically zero particle leaking.
2.) Sebo, which also uses sealed systems and medical-grade HEPA.
Kenmore Elite Uprights (with sealed
HEPA bags) are more budget-friendly than Miele/Sebo, and still have really good filtration.
Q: Is the liquid foundation from Selena Gomez fairly clean? The flag I saw from EWG was titanium dioxide but I thought it was ok since it wasn’t inhaled?
A: The Selena Gomez foundation is free from PFAS, parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde releasers. It’s not “Best Stuff” because of the petroleum-derived synthetics and FD&C lakes. So it’s solidly Good/Okay Stuff — safe in terms of toxins, just not 100% natural.
Q: I noticed most of the Attitude brand items contain fragrance (parfum). How can that be rated as “good stuff” if it has fragrance?
A: As you probably know, fragrance is a legal umbrella term. It can hide hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates, synthetic musks, and allergens. According to our rubric, that almost always pushes a product out of “Good Stuff” and into “Sneaky” unless we know exactly what’s inside. Attitude discloses that its “fragrance (parfum)” is 100% made from natural ingredients (essential oils and plant-based isolates), IFRA-compliant, and phthalate-free. They publish safety data and are EWG Verified on many products, which requires full ingredient transparency and screening against health concerns. In other words, their use of “parfum” is more about regulatory labeling than hiding mystery synthetics. I hope that helps!
A: I do not consider this Good Stuff, unfortunately, because the fragrance, while "phthalate-free" is not disclosed. It also contains propylene glycol (“biobased” does suggest plant-derived, not petroleum, so this is probably better than conventional PG) and polysorbate-20, which is an ethoxylated ingredient and may contain trace 1,4-dioxane.
August 29th, 2025
Q: I would be lost without your guides - practically everything I use is based on your recommendations…so thank you!! For your bar soap guide, can you please include the fragrance free Tom’s bar? I’ve been using it for years so hoping it’s a good one :)
A: Thanks for the kind words:). The Tom's unscented bar soap is a great non-toxic formulation with no synthetic fragrance, preservatives, or surfactants of concern!
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A: Definitely Good Stuff! We will add them to our guide!
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Q: Can you tell me how you feel about vegan omega's versus fish oil? As far as contamination and PCB's? Is algae omega's a better source for absorption?
A: If not molecularly distilled and tested, fish oil can contain PCBs, mercury, dioxins, and other pollutants. In the U.S., quality varies widely; reputable brands use third-party testing and publish COAs, which often do show extremely low contaminant levels. Vegan omega-3 oil is extracted directly from cultivated microalgae and comes with extremely low contaminant risk because the algae are grown in controlled tanks so they bypass the food chain and avoid bioaccumulated toxins. As for absorption, both fish oil and algae oil naturally contain DHA (and sometimes EPA) in triglyceride or phospholipid form, which are absorbed similarly well in humans. The nuance here is that fish naturally provide both EPA and DHA, and many algae supplements are DHA-heavy, with little or no EPA. If your priority is lowest possible contaminant risk, sustainability, and predictable purity, algae-based omega-3 is the better choice. But for broader fatty acid coverage, a verified, high-quality fish oil is your best bet. I like Needed for both versions.
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Q: Would you review dental floss as related to plastics?
A: Thanks for the suggestion! Floss is a great idea for a future investigation! For now, I can tell you that you want to avoid plastic or coated flosses. That includes Glide / Oral-B / most “squeaky clean” flosses, which are made with PTFE. Even some “natural” brands (Tom’s of Maine in the past) have been found to contain PFAS coatings despite green marketing. We like this silk floss, which contains zero plastic and is PFAS-free.
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Q: What are the best HEPA vacuums?
A: The two brands that consistently are rated top for really trapping toxins, allergens, and ultrafine dust are: 1.) Miele, which uses a sealed system with HEPA filter and multi-layer bags, resulting in basically zero particle leaking.2.) Sebo, which also uses sealed systems and medical-grade HEPA.
Kenmore Elite Uprights (with sealed HEPA bags) are more budget-friendly than Miele/Sebo, and still have really good filtration.
Unfortunately, bagless vacuums (e.g., Dyson, Shark, etc.), even when HEPA, aren't typically sealed, which means that ultrafine particles leak during vacuuming or when emptying the bin, although this is still better than nothing. And we definitely don't recommend “HEPA-type” filters, which is just a marketing claim.
August 15th, 2025
Q: What are your thoughts on plant based toilet paper versus regular? Anything toxic going on in regular toilet paper?
A: First off, all toilet paper is technically “plant-based,” whether it’s made from trees or bamboo, so that label is just good marketing. The real distinction is between conventional tree-based paper and more sustainable options like bamboo or sugarcane. From a health perspective, most toilet paper isn’t something I stress too much about, unless it’s scented, dyed, or treated with lotions. The bigger argument for bamboo or sugarcane is an environmental one: both are more sustainable than tree-based paper because bamboo and sugarcane grow incredibly fast and don't require as many resources to produce. There’s one health-related caveat to be aware of, though: recycled toilet paper can sometimes contain trace amounts of BPA or BPS, which are hormone-disrupting chemicals found in things like thermal receipt paper. Virgin pulp toilet paper (made from new, non-recycled wood) typically does not contain BPA, nor does bamboo or sugarcane toilet paper.
So bottom line:
- At a minimum, go for fragrance-free, dye-free, and lotion-free toilet paper.
- The best bet for the environment is bamboo or sugarcane-based. Overall, PlantPaper is my top toilet paper pick (bamboo)—it's free of not only BPA, but all the other things you'd worry about, uses zero plastic in its packaging, and is good for the planet.
- If you want to be really eco-friendly, you'll choose reusable organic cotton TP.
- If you're considering recycled TP, look for brands that explicitly test for BPA or that avoid recycled content made from thermal paper—Who Gives a Crap recycled TP is my recommendation for this.
Q: Is there a swim diaper you recommend? I couldn’t find any swimsuit information on your website although I feel like you used to sell a couple.
A: We did used to sell a swim diaper, but that brand was discontinued. For a reusable swim diaper, I like Esembly. For a disposable option, I'd go with Hello Bello.
Q: Can you remind me of your favorite water bottle?
A:
This is my favorite water bottle to carry around and use at home.
If you want one that can go in your bag and not leak, then I love
this one.
Q: What are you favorite clean makeup brands for someone who just wants really basic products?
A: I like the following four brands best (specific products I like from each in parentheses):
- Ilia (lengthening mascara, complexion stick, multi-stick, eyebrow gel)
- Ogee (primer, contour/blush sticks, tinted moisturizer)
- Crunchi (liquid blush, lip oil)
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Beautycounter (tinted moisturizer, lipstick)
August 1st, 2025
Q: I appreciate your guides so much. I have been ordering spring water delivered to my home through Kentwood Springs. I am now wondering about the quality and how "clean" it is. I know there are several water delivery services out there and wondered about the quality of them and which is best. If you are looking for another idea for a review guide...this could be a good one!!I
A: Here's a shortish answer, since we don't have a guide on this yet! Spring water
can be a healthy, safe option, so long as it's sourced from a protected, regularly tested aquifer and not overly treated. The problem is that many large water delivery companies (like Kentwood Springs, which is part of the Primo family) use the term “spring water” loosely, and often the source isn’t disclosed. Sometimes it’s just municipal water filtered and labeled as “spring-style.”
Kentwood, specifically, is a regional delivery brand based in Louisiana and it offers water from various sources—springs, wells, artesian wells, and even just treated municipal water, depending on the location. One option that tends to rank high for quality (and transparency) is Mountain Valley Spring, which is part of the same Primo family as Kentwood Springs.
Mountain Valley spring water is bottled from
one protected spring in the Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas, with a consistent source that’s been in use since 1871. In certain areas, Kentwood can deliver Mountain Valley, so I recommend you check what source is being delivered in your specific area.
Q: Hi! The new website is fantastic! I was scrolling through the updated face lotion guide looking for my 9-year-old whose skin seems to be needing a bit more than a general rinse. I know you have mentioned Evereden for face wash, so I’ve purchased the Steer Clear cleanser from them. For this age group, would you recommend Evereden’s Let’s Bounce moisturizer or the Acure brightening moisturizer from the updated guide?
A: Thanks so much for those kind words! I do like Evereden in general for tweens—basically, all of their products are ones that I would feel fine about my own kid using. Acure is also basically fine, although you do have to read the labels more there. (I like this Acure cream for a tween.) If you wanted something even more natural/gentle, you could try this. (Might be a tougher sell for a tween, ha!)
Q: What category would Blueair purifers fall under- okay stuff?
A: Blueair purifiers are actually a great option if you're looking for strong particle filtration at a lower price point. They’re quieter than the Austin, too. While they don’t remove VOCs or odors as effectively (Austin uses large amounts of activated carbon), Blueair still provides excellent allergen and fine particle removal. (I will add this to our air filter guide when we update it!)
Q: My 10-month-old daughter’s blood test showed some lead in it. What could be in our household that you could point to as potential sources?
A: This happened to my son at his 12-month appointment, and I had our water tested, checked various other potential exposures, and never figured out what caused the transient elevation (it came back to normal within a month). Here are the most likely reasons (in order) that a child might have truly elevated levels of lead in her blood:
- Old paint/dust. This is the #1 cause in the U.S, and homes built before 1978 (and especially pre-1950) may have lead-based paint, even under newer paint layers.
- Contaminated soil. Lead from old exterior paint or past use of leaded gasoline can persist in yard soil, especially near old buildings or busy roads.
- Water. Lead pipes can leach lead—especially if the water is acidic or sits in the pipes overnight. (You can contact your state or local health department for a free testing kits.)
- Toys or jewelry. This is most likely only true of vintage items or imported, cheap costume jewelry.
- Imported ceramics. Handmade or imported pottery and dishes (especially from Mexico, India, or China) may have lead in their glazes.
- Imported spices. Products like turmeric, paprika, and curry powders, can contain lead.
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Parents jobs or hobbies. Working in construction, painting, auto repair, stained glass, or shooting ranges can lead to “take-home” exposure on clothes or shoes.
While you wait for the retest (which I suspect will come back normal), you could try to increase your daughter's consumption of calcium, iron, and vitamin C, which help reduce lead absorption.
9 comments
Colleen
Hey! Thanks again for everything you post. I noticed that you had a post on laser hair removal but the link doesn’t work anymore. While I know you aren’t a doctor, do you have any toxicity or health concerns with laser hair removal? Thank you!
Susan Baker
My husband was diagnosed of Parkinsons disease 2 years ago, when he was 49. He had a stooped posture, tremors, right arm does not move and also a pulsating feeling in his body. He was placed on Senemet for 8 months and then Sifrol was introduced and replaced the Senemet, during this time span he was also diagnosed with dementia. He started having hallucinations, lost touch with reality. Suspecting it was the medication I took him off the Siferol (with the doctor’s knowledge) and started him on PD-5 natural herbal formula we ordered from AKNNI HERBAL CENTRE, his symptoms totally declined over a 3 weeks use of the AKANNI HERBAL Parkinson’s disease natural herbal formula. He is now almost 51 and doing very well, the disease is totally reversed! (Visit w w w.aknniherbscentre .com)
Susan Baker
My husband was diagnosed of Parkinsons disease 2 years ago, when he was 49. He had a stooped posture, tremors, right arm does not move and also a pulsating feeling in his body. He was placed on Senemet for 8 months and then Sifrol was introduced and replaced the Senemet, during this time span he was also diagnosed with dementia. He started having hallucinations, lost touch with reality. Suspecting it was the medication I took him off the Siferol (with the doctor’s knowledge) and started him on PD-5 natural herbal formula we ordered from AKNNI HERBAL CENTRE, his symptoms totally declined over a 3 weeks use of the AKANNI HERBAL Parkinson’s disease natural herbal formula. He is now almost 51 and doing very well, the disease is totally reversed! (Visit w w w.aknniherbscentre .com)
Roberto
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease four years ago. For over two years, I relied on prescription medications and therapies, but unfortunately, the symptoms continued to worsen. My mobility declined, tremors increased, and I experienced growing fatigue and discomfort that affected my daily life. Last year, out of desperation and hope, I decided to try an herbal treatment program from NaturePath Herbal Clinic. Honestly, I was skeptical at first, but within a few months of starting the treatment, I began to notice real changes. My energy improved, the discomfort eased, and I felt stronger and more capable in my daily life. Incredibly, I also regained much of my stamina, balance, and confidence. It’s been a life-changing experience I feel more like myself again, better than I’ve felt in years. If you or a loved one is struggling with Parkinson’s disease, I truly recommend looking into their natural approach. You can visit their website at www. naturepathherbalclinic .com
Delia
Is there a fish oil (DHA) you recommend for children over 3 years of age?