Questions We’ve Answered Lately…

Want to get a batch of these in your inbox every Friday? Drop your email here.

June 6th, 2025

Q: I just saw the new heavy metal testing report on toothpaste, and I’m really concerned. Jack & Jill, which I’ve used for years, tested positive for lead—along with many other popular brands. I was already worried about xylitol after reading about its possible impact on heart health, and now this? Even Attitude brand contains both lead and xylitol. What are we supposed to do?  

A: I covered the lead in toothpaste study in a recent newsletter, but I'll say it again here: the amount of toothpaste you use is tiny, which is why federal regulations allow up to 20,000 ppl of lead in (fluoridated) toothpaste but only 15 ppm in drinking water. Still, we updated our Amazon Toothpaste Shop to exclude any toothpastes that tested above 200 ppm. I think the same is basically true of xylitol -- it's worth considering the heart risks if you're eating it (as in, using it in cooking, or even maybe consuming a ton of xylitol-sweetened gum. But the exposure in toothpaste is just too small for me to worry about. 

Q: Any suggestions for skincare of teens?

A: My top pick is probably this collection. I also like Evereden for kids, and I love everything from Primally Pure, and they have a bunch of really clean products for oily skin. Finally, Alpyn also has a nice collection of products for blemish-prone skin. 

Q: What are your thoughts on menopause hormone therapy? I’ve heard it can help your heart health and I’ve also heard it can increase your risk of heart disease. I’m only 42 and just started having some hot flashes. Is hormone therapy only to be used if you’re miserable or is it recommended and beneficial?

A: Before I answer, let me stress that I am not a doctor and you should talk to yours for actual medical advice. This is simply my layperson's understanding of HRT and what I intend to do, personally, as I enter perimenopause myself. The good news is that the latest research on HRT is actually much clearer than it used to be. For healthy women under about 60 years of age, HRT likely helps protect bone health and may have some benefits for the heart. The confusing part is that, as you mentioned, for women who start HRT later—like after age 60 or more than 10 years after menopause—it can actually increase the risk of heart disease. As for breast cancer, combined estrogen and progestin HRT (which is what they'll give you unless you've had a hysterectomy) seems to come with a small increased risk of breast cancer with long-term use, although there are some experts who argue this risk is driven by a type of synthetic progesterone that is no longer used. And of course, many things come with an increased risk of breast cancer—like drinking alcohol, having your first pregnancy after age 30, etc.—and they still might be the right choice for you. When it comes to my own choices, I would not consider taking HRT preventatively (with hopes that it would protect against osteoporosis and heart disease), and rather only if perimenopause symptoms were really impacting my quality of life. (FWIW: I have a lot of friends in their late forties who have started HRT and say it's a complete lifesaver.)

Q: I love puffy, cool pillows but haven’t liked the ones that came with our mattresses or the ones I’ve ordered from those brands. I tend to prefer Pottery Barn’s OEKO-TEX-certified pillows. Can you recommend any affordable, easy-to-purchase pillows that aren’t latex or that type? 

A: I would personally be comfortable with the Pottery Barn OEKO-TEX-certified ones. If you’re not allergic to down, those can be fine too, and are my personal preference in terms of comfort. Just make sure you go with a humane down. I like the options from The Company Store. 

Q: I’m taking Zepbound weight loss injections but someone told me that yerba mate tea has the same effect. Do you have any thoughts on this and have you come across any good versions?

A. Actually, I just ordered this tea for that exact reason! Yerba mate is definitely healthful, rich in theobromine and polyphenols. Some small studies suggest it may reduce appetite, but there's a counter argument that this is likely due to caffeine's appetite-suppressing effects more than anything unique to yerba mate. A few studies have shown yerba mate to increase lipid oxidation and improve insulin sensitivity during exercise and to help people lose weight. The TLDR is that yerba mate is not a magic bullet, but is probably a healthy addition to most people's diets.

May 30th, 2025

Q: Can you help clarify the differences between the new Nuna infant car seats — the Aire RX and the RX? I heard one has more foam and a different fabric, but I’m not sure which is considered “Best Stuff” vs. “Good Stuff.” I’d love to choose the safest, most non-toxic option.

A: When comparing these two new Nuna car seats, the key difference is in the foam used for energy absorption.

• The PIPA RX uses EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), a rigid, lightweight foam that’s effective for impact protection but can crack under stress and isn’t as environmentally friendly as...

• The PIPA Aire RX, which uses EPP (Expanded Polypropylene), which is more flexible, durable, and considered a step up in material quality. EPP is also more recyclable and less prone to breakage than EPS.

The Aire RX also includes merino wool/TENCEL organic inserts, while the RX has organic jersey knit inserts.

In terms of off-gassing or VOC exposure for people in the car, the difference between the two seats is negligible—both meet safety standards and are considered lower-emission products overall, especially compared to most other car seat brands.

If you’re choosing based purely on material safety, the Aire RX has a slight edge due to the EPP foam and natural fiber inserts. But if you’re looking for a more affordable option, the PIPA RX is still Best Stuff in the big picture! 

Q: I noticed that some of the sunscreen you recommend contain butyloctyl salicylate (which EWG rates 1–3). I saw it has potential estrogen-disrupting effects. Because of that, I’m hesitant to trust products like Crunchi’s non-tinted sunscreen What’s your take on this ingredient? 

A:  I agree that butyloctyl salicylate can be a concern in some contexts. Fortunately, Crunchi's sunscreen is EWG-Verified, and these products aren't permitted to contain butyloctyl salicylate without adequate substantiation of its concentration, purity, etc. For this reason, I consider this a clean SPF product. 

Q: I need skincare advice! I'm 42 but started menopause early, and my skin has gotten super sensitive! It doesn't take much for me to break out, but I know I need some anti-wrinkle products. The dermatologist wasn't very helpful and just tried to sell me Botox. I know you've tried a lot of products...what do you think is best for anti-aging, sensitive skin?

A: The most impactful ingredients for anti-aging are retinoids, vitamin C, and peptides. A prescription retinol product (retinoic acid) might irritate sensitive skin, so you could try an OTC one--I like Marie Veronique for a splurge, but the budget option from The Ordinary is also good (and comes in stronger and less strong versions). For vitamin C, I am using the Activist one now and it's soothing rather than irritating. Koa is another good brand for a (more affordable) vitamin C serum, and in general for sensitive skincare. In fact, I use their niacinamide booster after my retinoid and it's super soothing! Finally, for peptides, I like Crunchi the best, but again, The Ordinary makes an affordable option that I also use when feeling more frugal. 

Q: Thoughts on parasite cleanse supplements?

A: There's definitely a lot of buzz around these, but the reality is that unless you have a diagnosed parasitic infection, there's no good evidence supporting a routine parasite cleanse. In fact, some of these herbs in these products (like wormwood or black walnut) can be harsh on your body if used long-term or in high doses. Some people do feel better after using these cleanses, but I think that's a result of cleaning up their meals, supporting their gut health, or reducing inflammatory foods during the process. If you're worried about parasites, my suggestion is to get a good probiotic, focus on a nutrient-rich, low-sugar diet, and maybe get tested by a doctor if there's a real concern. 

May 23, 2025

Q: Can you recommend safe gum brands (that are free of microplastics and other gunk)?

A: This is a great question in light of the study on how much microplastic is released from chewing gum! The weird thing was that the study tested natural gums (made from chicle) and synthetic gums (made from plastic polymer) and the microplastic amount was similar between the two types. Annoyingly, the study doesn't tell us the actual brands of gums tested, but it's been suggested that maybe the plastics in the chicle-based, natural gums was from their packaging. If THAT is the case, this means that any packaged food could theoretically present the same risk (or, perhaps gum is more of a magnet from microplastic transfer from packaging?). For now, my advice (and what I'm doing myself) is to choose gums that aren't MADE of plastic. Two brands of chicle-based gum I like are Glee and Simply. And one Sneaky brand to look out for is Pur, which you'll find in health food stores but whose base is made of PVA plastic.

Q: What is an aloe gel or lotion clean enough to use on kids? 

A: Most after-sun "aloe vera" gels contain little actual aloe, and are full of synthetic fragrance and other Bad Stuff. Here is a better choice 

Q: What face wash do you recommend for a child? My second grader has already started breaking out a little. 

 A: I like Evereden for this--they have versions for kids and also teens. California Baby also has a good option. 

Q: I know you recommended the Wonder Oven air fryer, but is the GreenPan air fryer also non-toxic? 

A: The Greenpan air fryer is also safe (but I love my Wonder Oven!)

May 9, 2025

Q: Which eye masks are clean? I’m currently looking at the following brands: KNC Beauty, 100% Pure, Apres & Pure Sol 

A: I love the 100% Pure masks and have a subscription to them myself. 

PureSol are also good stuff, and this link and  will give you 15% off. 

I can't find a full list of the Apres ingredients anywhere! 

The KNC ones are also okay, but they contain retinol, so if you use them in the morning def put sunscreen on after. 

Q: I have a question about the Austin Bedroom model. It says it filters areas upto 1500 sq. ft. I live in a 2 story 1400 sq. ft. apartment. Will this filter my whole space? I assume I should put it in my bedroom, but will it reach downstairs?

A: Unfortunately, doors and walls will stymie an air filter's ability to purify the air. My home is similar in size and layout to yours—we have one larger filter on our living floor, which is open (I put it near our gas stove since that's the biggest air degrader in most homes) and then a small filter in each bedroom. 

Q: Which of the green pans are safe to use? I am looking for a frying pan for eggs and pancakes.

A: Everything from GreenPan is safe! My kids' eggs make in this little one every single morning.

Not a question but a correction: 

May 2, 2025

Q: Are you able to share your thoughts on the Jaspr air purifier? 

A: Jaspr is great, but more expensive than Austin (both upfront and in more frequent, more expensive replacement filters), and it's not quite as good for VOCs/toxins that might be in your home (including gas stove fumes). BUT, Jaspr is the top of the line for wildfire smoke if that's your concern. 

Q: I live in Canada and we have a non-stick pan here called The Rock (one is under the name Heritage The Rock and I think now Starfrit makes one too). Would this be considered Good Stuff?  

A: I hadn't heard of this brand, but I just took a look. These are aluminum pans with a nonstick interior coating. These are NOT ceramic— this is still a traditional PTFE nonstick coating. So it's PFOA-free, but not PFAS-free — PTFE is a type of PFAS. If you're looking for fully PFAS-free nonstick options, you'd want to explore ceramic-coated pans instead like GreenPan. 

Not a question, but a hot tip from a reader that I think is worth sharing. Yay Everlane!]:

I asked Everlane if their athletic leggings are free of PFAS- here’s their response: "PFAS are a pervasive issue within our industry and are most commonly used in Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finishes to achieve waterproof performance in outerwear. PFAS is generally applied to apparel to impart water-resistance or repellent properties; however, the wicking and moisture management properties for both leggings (The Perform Legging and The 24/7 Perform Legging and our bike shorts) come from fabric construction and fiber type, so in this case, no PFA would be present in those pieces or any of our activewear."  

April 25, 2025

Q: I know you’ve been talking recently about trying to drink less alcohol. I share in that sentiment as well as I know the extra calories aren’t doing me any favors and I’ve read your body can’t metabolize fat when you drink alcohol so my daily glass of wine or preferred hazy IPA is not helping my weightloss journey. My cousin turned me on to these drinks called recess. I’ve only tried the magnesium ones but they’re pretty good and don’t have any fake sugars. They have a CBD one as well but I haven’t tried those yet. Would love your feedback if you get a chance to try them as an alternative. 

A: Yes, I love Recess! It's totally Good Stuff:)

Q: What’s your take on the Lumebox? 

A: Lumebox is actually really great! I just finally checked out all their specs and they are third-party tested showing top level irradiance, wavelengths, etc. The only thing I'd say is that it's smaller than the panel I like from RedDot—but big enough if you're just using on your face!

Q: Please help me with choosing the healthiest type of pan for baking- specifically a loaf pan. 

A: There are a few I like: 

• The bakeware set from Our Place, which is on sale now. 

• The loaf pan from Xtrema (but this one is not non-stick).

• A high-quality stainless steel loaf pan from 360. 

• Safer non-stick loaf pan from GreenPan. 

Q:  A bunch of you asked on social for details on peptides after I shared this study. 

A: My top pick for a peptide serum—which goes on after a retinol product if you're using that-- is this one from Crunchi. The budget pick is the one from The Ordinary, although this one does contain a few etholylated ingredients, meaning there is a potential for contamination with 1,4-dioxane (carcinogen). 

April 4, 2025

Q: Have you heard of and do you have an opinion about Sky & Sol sunscreen? My friend is who is learning about clean living sent it to me but I’ve never heard of it. 

A: Everything from Sky & Sol is Good Stuff! And you can get 10% off with this link. 🙂.
 

Q: Is The Farmer’s Dog food a healthy choice for dogs?

A: We do think The Farmer’s Dog is basically good stuff. Meat is the first ingredient in all their recipes. Peas or sweet potatoes may be used as part of a whole-food recipe, but pea protein isolate is not the main protein source. That makes it far less concerning than some grain-free kibble brands that heavily rely on legumes and plant protein. The Farmer’s Dog is one of the better fresh food options—nutritionally complete and likely much healthier than most commercial kibble.

 Q. Have you looked into creatine at all? I am a 40yo CrossFitter who is thinking that I may benefit from the supplement.

A. Funny, I just started taking creatine! It’s one of the most well-researched and widely used supplements—and not just for gym bros! It helps increase lean muscle mass (if you’re doing strength training), improves performance, and aids muscle recovery. It might also support mood and fatigue, brain fog, etc., which I can definitely use…. The important thing, as you probably have already heard, is to drink a lot of water if you’re taking it because it draws water from your muscles. FWIW, I take Puori’s, which is Clean Label Project Certified. (If you try this one, you can use GIMMETHEGOODSTUFF for 20% off)..

Q. What is/are your favorite natural deodorant brand(s)? I’ve tried many but have never found one that I LOVE.

A. I am currently using and loving Cleo & Coco in Grapefruit Bergamont. Another one that I go back to again and again is Primally Pure. Finally, if you’re willing to try one that goes on with your fingers, Soapwalla REALLY works. 

March 21, 2025

Q: Thank you for the post on Olive Oils. I have a couple of questions. Is there a list of olive oils that indicate what is the percentage of polyphenols in olive oils? Also, I noticed you said that it’s not good to heat up olive oil to cook. What types of oil do you recommend for cooking?

A: Most olive oil producers and marketers don’t publish polyphenol numbers—likely because they don’t test for them. Some brands do promote their polyphenol content, often citing levels around 300 to 400 mg/kg. While that’s relatively high for typical supermarket oils, our favorite, Olea True, consistently tests above 1,000 mg/kg—and this year’s harvest is in the 1,400 mg/kg range. Polyphenols are unfortunately vulnerable to light, heat, and time. High-quality olive oil is pressed, filtered, and immediately bottled in dark glass containers to protect these delicate compounds from UV damage. If a recipe calls for olive oil in high-heat cooking, we recommend using a less expensive olive oil or switching to avocado oil, which has a much higher smoke point. You may also see producers praising unfiltered olive oil, but when it comes to preserving polyphenols, that’s not ideal. Bits of olive flesh left in unfiltered oils can begin to decompose in the bottle, degrading the polyphenol content over time. We view Olea True as a truly health-promoting oil. While we love using it on salads for the flavor, many of our customers also take it straight—a tablespoon or two a day as a supplement.

Q: I’m reaching out about your obsession with Soaring Heart mattresses that you mentioned on your website 🙂 I don’t see a mattress called a “zoned mattress” on their website. Does it have a different name now?

A: Unfortunately, Soaring Heart no longer makes the Zoned—but this one from Naturepedic is format, and everyone I know who sleeps on it loves it!  

 Q. Thank you for the work you do. I am remodeling a house built in the 1970s. It currently has copper piping. I’ve asked the builder to tie in new copper piping for all the lines to the kitchen (instead of using PEX). What is your opinion here? Would you use new copper piping or is the tie in of new copper piping ok with the old copper piping? Do you think PEX is ok at all? I’m planning to buy one of your recommendations for whole house water filtration but the water will still channel through these pipes.

A. If your existing copper pipes are in good shape (not corroded, pitted, or thinning), it’s fine to tie in new copper. Just be sure to use lead-free solder or compression fittings to prevent contamination. Both Copper and PEX (most plastic piping) can come with health concerns, but we like copper because it’s durable and long-lasting (can last 50+ years) and doesn’t leach plastic chemicals like PEX does. In terms of leaching of copper, if your water’s pH is neutral (around 7) or slightly alkaline, and the copper pipes are in good condition, leaching is minimal to none. A whole-house filtration system (like this one) can help stabilize pH and reduce potential for corrosion-based leaching.

March 14, 2025

Q: I’m just following up on the post on retinol. Is there a prescription retinal company that is cleaner? 

A: Hi—yes, if you’re going to get an rx retinol, the cleanest one is Perrigo Tretinoin Cream. Altreno has a nicer feel, but contains parabens.
 

Q: I looked up your recommendation for facial sunscreen and I found that neither isavailable. Any other suggestions? I’m looking for something I can wear every day.

A: My current favorite facial SPF is this one (looks like it’s 25% off right now). 

Q. I was delighted to find your website and have found the information extremely helpful (we have a 1 month old). I want to provide some feedback on the recent cleaning supply emails. While I appreciate that these are clean products, if our goal is to truly prioritize the health of our children, we should also consider the world they live in, and products like these generate a lot of plastic waste. If you have found products that are more condensed or tablet form to be able to use in refillable glass bottles, that would be better!

A. Very good feedback—thank you for writing! Two Good Stuff brands that use concentrate are Blueland and Healthbaby.

Q. Did you have a guide for collagen or maybe a top two about it? I feel like I saw it in one of your emails, but searching the site I couldn’t find anything.

A.  It was on IG—here you go! 

March 7, 2025

Q: I love your site and appreciate all your info! I did have a question about toddler mattresses, I got an ad for Katu and it looks good but not sure if it’s greenwashed or not. I would love your thoughts. 

A: This mattress looks good—it has all the certifications we look for, but I’m not sure if the certification applies to the entire mattress or just its components, which would be our final step in calling it Best Stuff. ICYMI, here are the brands we love after our review. 

Q: Are there any choc chip brands you’d recommend that are not high in heavy metals? Of course my kids want to make choc, caramel covered apples.

A: Yes! 🙂 This is the brand we love.  

 Q. I was looking at USA pans and they are made of aluminized steel – is this safer than aluminum? Something I read said as long as they don’t get scratched which seems tough to avoid. Looking to replace baking pans and not sure what is best.  

A. Yes, aluminized steel is generally safer than straight aluminum for baking because it has a protective silicon-infused steel coating, which helps prevent direct contact between food and aluminum. However, as you mentioned, the safety depends on preventing scratches, as deep scratches can expose the aluminum core underneath.

If you’re replacing baking pans and want something safer and long-lasting, here’s my take:

• Nonstick — Safe as long as you choose a Teflon-free brand like Our Place or Caraway. 
• Aluminized Steel (Like USA Pans) – Good choice if you hand wash and avoid scratches.
• Stainless Steel – Most durable and truly non-toxic, but may not brown food as evenly as aluminum does. I like 360 for stainless.
• Ceramic-Coated Bakeware – Fully non-toxic as long as the coating is high-quality. I like Xtrema for this category.
• Glass (like Pyrex) – Completely non-reactive but can break with temperature shock.

 Q. Are there any spice brands that you trust to not have heavy metal contamination?

A.  Yes! Burlap & Barrel tests all spices and provides COAs ensuring purity.

February 21, 2025

Q: What exactly is Powder Coated Epoxy ? I bought a bed frame for our downstairs guest room from IKEA and that’s the name of the material it is made out of.  It’s not in our primary bedroom or our kids’ rooms but I suppose my only concern would be that there’s lead in it? 

A: This is a finish commonly used on metal items, like bed frames, to provide a smooth coating. During the manufacturing process, powder coatings can release some VOCs and other chemicals. However, this is (once again) primarily a concern for workers applying the coating in an industrial setting. Once cured, the coating becomes inert and no longer off-gasses. While the presence of lead in powder coatings is possible, reputable companies, especially those selling in regulated markets like IKEA, typically adhere to strict safety standards and are unlikely to use lead-containing finishes on products like bed frames. If you ever notice chipping, you could lightly sand and repaint it, but otherwise, it should be perfectly safe.

Q: The whole house water filtration guide was extremely helpful.  I do have one question.  How do we choose between a salt based and salt-free water softener?

A: The whole house filter we recommend comes with three options:  

1. Just the filter
2. The filter with a salt-based water softener
3. The filter with a salt-free water softener

Most people can benefit from water softening (this has nothing to do with safety — it’s just about effects of hard water on skin, hair, pipes, laundry, dishes, etc.), and the salt-free option is easier and more eco-friendly to maintain. Only people with very hard water would want to consider the salt-based option. 

 Q. Is it better to buy organic milk in the plastic jug or the plastic-lined paper carton? 

A: I wish there were any easy answer for this, but here goes: 

• BOTTOM LINE, FOR HEALTH: Cartons are coated in plastic, so you aren’t avoiding that exposure by choosing a carton over a plastic jug. Unfortunately, ultraviolet light degrades vitamins A, vitamin D, and riboflavin, and it will penetrate glass and plastic containers. So the milk in the carton is probably more nutritious than the milk in the jug. 
• Milk jugs are made from #2 plastic, which is high-density polyethylene that seems to be non-leaching and safe. It is also picked up by most recycling programs. In addition to being (likely) safe and recyclable, plastic jugs are light and require little energy to ship from the manufacturer to the retailer.
• Milk cartons are made from paperboard and coated with a layer of low-density polyethylene (another plastic that’s unlikely to leach). Milk cartons are only slightly heavier than plastic bottles, but making paper requires huge amounts of water, fuels, and bleaches. The cartons are also not recyclable in most areas.
• Glass milk containers are entirely non-toxic, but producing glass uses a substantial amount of energy (although still less than what it takes to make a paper carton). If you’re able to return and reuse a glass milk bottle, the energy it takes to sterilize the bottle is relatively low, but glass is so heavy that it uses a lot of energy to transport.
• BOTTOM LINE, FOR THE PLANET: For the sake of the planet, a container that can be reused or recycled is best. A refillable glass container is our top recommendation, if you will actually reuse it. Recycling is next best behind reusing, which makes the plastic jugs our second choice. 

•  Q. Do you have a favorite brand or recommendation for a third-party tested CoEnzyme Q10 supplement?

A.  I take this one, which is third-party tested for potency as well as purity. 

February 7, 2025

Q: Is Mama Suds safe since they have sodium borate in their ingredients?

A: I love Mama Suds and think all of their products are safe. But EWG flags borax as potentially hazardous, particularly in certain cosmetic or skin-contact applications, which causes a lot of confusion.

Here’s our take on what the science says:

1. Hormone Disruption and Reproductive Toxicity: These concerns arise from high-dose animal studies, often at exposure levels much higher than what humans encounter in typical household use. For normal use in diluted household products, the risks are significantly lower.
2. Skin and Eye Irritation: Borax can cause irritation if it comes into direct contact with the skin or eyes in its raw, undiluted form. 
3. Ingestion Risks: Borax is toxic if ingested in large quantities, so it should always be kept out of reach of children and pets.

For most household uses, we consider sodium borate safe when handled properly. Especially in cleaning products where it’s SUPER diluted, I don’t think it poses any risk. The risks flagged by EWG are more relevant to concentrated exposures or occupational settings. 

Q: We got the robot vacuum – what solution do you use for it? We were considering Force of Nature but it’s getting to be a lot to make so much of it!

A:  I just use a non-toxic floor cleaner in my robot mop, which I pour into the water chamber—at the moment, I’m using this one. 

Q. Should I return my Caraway Wooden Utensils? I bought these before I got your response on the Bambu wooden utensils. I then actually went ahead and bought some from Bambu after you recommended them and they work well (and were very affordable!). Do I return the Caraway ones? I think you deem Caraway “Good Stuff” but it doesn’t seem clear what finish is on these

A: I don’t think you need to return them, no. Although yes, the Bambu ones are better. I use the ones from Carawayand Our Place. The ones to REALLY avoid are the black plastic ones, which we recently all learned are contaminated with flame retardants.

 Q. Hi Maia!

I’m wondering what you think about prescription Tretinoin? I’ve read through your Retinol post. I’ve heard from many people that it’s the ONLY thing that’s made a noticeable difference on fine lines/wrinkles. Surely it can’t be more toxic than botox, can it?!?

A. Retinoic acid, also known as tretinoin, is the most potent form of natural vitamin It doesn’t need to be converted by the skin and works directly to speed up cell turnover and increase collagen production. This form is available by prescription only because it can cause skin irritation, but there is nothing toxic about retinoic acid. The studies showing potential carcinogenesis apply only to retinyl palmitate. The problem is that prescription tretinoin products can contain other ingredients of concern. My doctor recently prescribed a retinoic acid cream from the brand called Altreno that used parabens as preservatives. So you just have to read the label (what’s new). Hope that helps! 

January 31, 2025

Q: For probiotics, why does your guide say Seed is helpful for anxiety and depression? I have major brain fog and fatigue —- take Lexapro and provigil. Trying to find healthier support. 

A: There are some specific probiotic strains that show promise in combatting mental health issues. These include (I’m pulling this from our guide): 
–Lactobacillus gasseri. Has been shown to aid in weight loss and improve metabolism, as well as in reducing stress-associated anxiety and sleep disturbance.
–Bifidobacterium lactis. Can reduce the risk of upper respiratory tract infections, depression, anxiety, and Type 2 diabetes. Boosts the immune system.
Four brands (among others) that contain one or both of these strains include: Cymbiotika, Innovix, Best Nest, and Seed. Actually, though, Seed does not contain both (only the BL), so I would go with one of the other three if you’re looking for something to treat anxiety/depression specifically!  

Q: What is the safest ice tray to use?

A:  The very safest ice tray would be stainless steel, like this one. I find these to be a hassle to use though, so I go with the silicone ones, which are safer than plastic, though some experts warn that silicone may leach at very high or very low temperatures.

Q. For several months my 12-year-old son has been petitioning us to buy him bluetooth earbuds. He has “done his own research” and made clear to us that there’s little evidence that wearing earbuds leads to negative health outcomes. I’m skeptical, but he’s not entirely wrong. How would you handle this? 

A: I think your son’s research is basically right, and my own use of any anti-radiation devices is motivated more by the a better-safe-than-sorry approach rather than a real concern about any science proving harms from EMFs from cellular devices, etc. This specific battle is one I have stopped fighting; both of my boys have airpods.

Q: My father, due to some health reasons, has started drinking a lot of Ensure. It’s easy for him to get down and packs protein and other vitamins in for him. But I’m worried about the ingredients, carrageenan for one among other bad stuff in there. I was wondering if you know of a better brand for easy protein shakes, I sent my parents your protein powder guide in case they wanted to start making their own smoothies etc at home but I’m sure the convenience factor will win out in the end. Any good suggestions?

A: In terms of premade protein or nutrition drinks, there aren’t any perfect ones, but there are a two that I know of that are definitely better than Ensure (and most of the other crap out there). They are Owyn and Kate Farms.

January 24, 2025

Q: Is parchment paper safe to cook on? I remember reading somewhere that it is made of silicone (or contains silicone or plastic?). Is that true? 

A: Yes, and some brands have PFAS. Of the brands I’ve looked into, If You Care and For Good are the best ones, which are silicone-coated. We use these in our home.

Q:  These are the pans and baking sheets we use in the oven – are these safe? If not these, what is the best option?

A:  Yes, I love these pans. Totally Good Stuff!

Q. Are paper towels bad for you, or just bad for the environment? I have been thinking of switching to the reusable versions for a while. Any you have tried and recommend? I’ve seen some in your store but haven’t pulled the trigger.

A: I finally got the Marley’s ones last year and I love them so much. We use a ton of paper towels, and I was feeling bad about it, but to answer your question: it’s an environmental issue not a health to humans one. But the reusable ones are really a game-changer.

Q: Are PackIt coolers Safe? Someone gave us this as a gift. 

A: Nope! Don’t worry about this:)

January 17, 2025

Q: Cooking in a plastic bag can’t be safe, right?! My husband discovered these “Kevin’s Meals” at Costco and the meat included in the meals is cooked via sous vide. They are actually really tasty, convenient, and seem to be pretty clean, but the sous vide thing worries me.

A: I definitely don’t trust sous vide for obvious reasons, but we also just have no idea how much of the food we get in restaurants, to-go, or packaged meals generally is cooked/processed in plastic, so you just have to weigh the pros and cons on a case by case basis. And I agree with you that the ingredients in Kevin’s Meals are clean!

Q:  Not sure why I think I have time to bake bread, but are there any bread makers out there that don’t have PFAS or other weird contaminants in them?

A:  The KBS 17-in-1 Bread Machine is mentioned all over as being free of PFAS, but I have not been able to find confirmation on this.

 Q. Similarly, I’m on the hunt for a new toaster/toaster oven.  Is the Our Place Wonder Oven a safe choice? 

A: Yes! I have the Wonder Oven actually and we really love it

Q: Best company for non-toxic wood cooking utensils? 

A: It’s actually SO HARD to find wooden utensils that disclose what oils they use to finish their pieces (even though most pieces are solid wood–with no glue). Bambu is the brand that I found that uses flaxseed oil to finish their utensils. (You can use the code GIMMETHEGOODSTUFF for 10% off if you want to try them.)

January 10, 2025

Q: In one of your recent newsletters you mentioned Organic Valley was the best grocery store butter. Mamavation did a PFAS test on butter wrappers (I can’t believe I’m writing that!) and found that Organic Valley contains the “organic fluoride” that she’s concerned about. What is the balance here? For instance, her tests show that Horizon butter doesn’t have PFAS in the wrapper, but you’ve mentioned that the quality of their milk (and maybe their butter too) isn’t as good. And of course we used Kerrygold forever, and that is apparently one of the worst – yay!   

A: Same, we live on Kerrygold. I still trust Organic Valley more than Horizon, despite my desperate wish that Mamavations results were the reverse! I tell myself that 1) PFAS are in freaking everything and 2) the amount of a stick of butter that is actually touching the wrapper is actually tiny compared to the whole stick.

Q:  I think you’ve mentioned you like the Larq water pitcher, but what do you think of the water bottle? My husband got me one as a gift and I’m afraid to use it. Something about the fact that it cleans itself and I don’t understand how…

A:  The water bottle is also Good Stuff! I actually want one myself.

 Q. Does stainless steel become less safe/more toxic as it wears out? If I have older stainless steel pots that are scratched, should I replace them? Do you still recommend the 360 Cookware as your favorite stainless steel pot brand?

A: Scratched stainless steel cookware is still safe. But if you want to replace, yes, I like 360! Any untreated (as in, not non-stick) stainless steel is safe.

Q: We have an All-Clad slow cooker that is about 6 years old. The insert is supposedly non-toxic ceramic but ours does have a few deep scratches on it now (despite the site saying it’s scratch-resistant). Should we replace it? I think I read that if ceramic gets scratched that it can leach heavy metals in even higher levels?? 

A: It really depends how deeply scratched–like are they chips or just scratches? You might be able to get WS to replace it (even now) if it was not supposed to scratch like this! 

January 3, 2025

Q: I have struggled to drink regular water while pregnant and breastfeeding so I started using LMNT packets. They contain stevia, citric acid (apparently this is controversial as well?), and a teeny tiny bit of maltodextrin in the “natural flavor” component of the flavored powders. The company claims it’s an extremely small amount that is used as a “carrier” for the flavor, so I’m on the fence about whether I should continue using the powders regularly. They do have an unflavored option but that kind of defeats the purpose for me because the flavor is what made me drink more water! 

A: Citric acid is controversial as inflammatory based on a few reports, but I still have a hard time really worrying about this. Maltodextrin doesn’t really concern me either, and I think if you enjoy LMNT, you should keep drinking it. 

On the other hand, I don’t think LMNT is the cleanest hydration powder out there (for the ingredients you mentioned). Needed’s doesn’t contain natural flavors, so you could see if you find it as tasty? 

FWIW, I also think the water-drinking craze is over the top, and we don’t need as much water as “they” want you to believe😉.

Q: We use the Whole Foods organic rolled oats and One Degree oats on rotation. The latter specifically states that they are glyphosate free and I have read a couple of articles that say the Whole Foods version is safe too – but wondering if you have heard anything different?

A:  Nope. My understanding is that anything glyphosate free are good. No controversy here, as far as I know! 

Q. Should we avoid mandarin oranges because of the fungicides they use on them? We do buy the organic ones when we can find them, but they don’t seem to be available that often. My kids love these (and so do I!) 

A: Saaame. It’s a drag too because I wanted to believe that you peel them and then don’t worry about the fruit inside but last year EWG did a study of just the peeled fruit and still found residue. I say buy them organic when you can and otherwise don’t worry about it. If you’re eating organic berries and lettuce you’re reducing your exposure a TON.

Q: This is a weird question, but do I need to worry about the flavors that use fruits from the “dirty dozen” since Spindrift isn’t organic? Is there enough of the actual fruit in there to be problematic in any way?

A: Hahah I’ve def had this thought but have decided that no it’s just not enough fruit to matter (we also mostly drink lemon but recently I’ve gotten into the peach strawberry which is a double dose of Dirty Dozen!!). 

December 27, 2024

Q: Llama Naturals Gummies now seem to include organic rice puree – we love these but I’m curious what you think about the new-ish formula? I assume this is a very small amount? We do try to avoid unnecessary sources of rice ingredients so I’m just wondering if this is one to worry about since we take them every day (and my kids do too).

A: It’s such a small amount that no, I don’t worry about it. My kids actually like the less sticky ones better! 

Q: What is the deal with Apeel? I recently saw a sign at my local Whole Foods that (in vague, general terms) mentioned that they potentially coat certain produce with “wax to preserve moisture, inhibit mold and fungi, or enhance appearance.” Is this Apeel without mentioning it by name? 

A:  There are two versions of Apeel, one for organic produce and one for conventional. Unsurprisingly, the organic one is better, and is made mostly of citric acid but also contains mono- and diglycerides. These aren’t concerning ingredients, really, but they are processed–you’d expect to find them in organic snacks or ice cream, maybe, but not on fresh whole fruits. It’s annoying and overall lacks transparency. One thing, though: it seems like for now it’s really only used on apples. (I still buy organic apples at WF, for what it’s worth!). 

Q. Any major issues with carnauba wax? I ask because my son is in a sprinkle-obsessed phase. We do buy the “better” sprinkles without the artificial color dyes, but is it ok for him to eat anything with “wax” in its name on a regular basis?!

A: It’s a natural wax–I’m not at all worried about it:). 

Q: I know what MCT Oil stands for, but what the heck is this?! Is it a safe/healthy cooking oil? 

A: It’s a coconut-based oil and evidence suggests it’s totally healthy. I’ve not found any reason to avoid it in the studies I’ve read.  

December 20, 2024

Q: I think I’ve seen you recommend Rael feminine care products on your website, but I saw Mamavations “tampon and pad” PFAS testing and she didn’t have Rael as one of the brands she tested. So, curious if you knew if these are “clean”?

A: I like (and use) Rael products, and trust that they are doing their best to keep PFAS out of their stuff. I am most worried, generally, about brands that intentionally add PFAS, versus the accidental contamination that can occur in so many products (for a variety of reasons). Rael definitely doesn’t do the former, and is doing their best to avoid the latter. Their statement here is reassuring.

Q: Is magnesium worth taking as a separate supplement outside of a multivitamin? I don’t have sleep issues, but I keep reading that it’s something everyone should take and that you can’t get it from food. I believe my Needed prenatal contains it, but if I discontinue that at some point I was wondering what the best brand for this one would be.

A: There is actually some pretty good science supporting magnesium supplementation (check out this cool study on depression). My go-to brands don’t make a separate magnesium supplement, but people I know in the wellness space (functional MDs and such) seem to like Pure.

 Q. Are all microwaves created equal? We have no issues using a microwave but ours is broken and we’re looking to replace it. So, I wanted to see if there’s anything I should be looking out for (for example – do some microwaves “leak” radiation or have other issues that would make them less safe?).

A: In my opinion, all microwaves are safe. In the U.S., the FDA regulates microwave ovens to ensure they emit far less than the maximum permissible radiation level.

Q: Is there any issue with stevia? As in, are we going to find out in 20 years that it causes cancer or some other disease? I don’t bake with it (I don’t love the taste), but do consume a few products pretty regularly that have stevia in them. It sounds like there might be better/more natural versions of stevia but I’m curious if overall it’s something to limit or just avoid altogether.

A: So far, there are no concerns about stevia (in other words, there are no studies showing it’s harmful). But I admit I am sort of waiting for the other shoe to drop on this, because all artificial sweeteners have come under fire for being harmful, and the same is now true for erythritol. Will we eventually learn that stevia is harmful, too? I hope not. Bottom line: I think it’s okay to eat in moderation and hopefully it’ll turn out to be totally safe, which is how it’s looking now! 

December 13, 2024

Q: Is it better to keep your iPhone on 4G or 5G…or let it alternate between the two depending on what is available? I assume maybe 4G will eventually go away, but for now it’s still an option

A: I do not have the mental energy to think about switching back and forth but yes, in theory if it turns out that EMFs are dangerous than 4G would emit less than 5G…But probably more important would be your proximity the towers themselves–again, IF it turns out there is real danger, which remains unclear. For now I think it makes sense to hedge and use some protection devices but not worry too much about it otherwise.

Q: Thoughts on tallow for eating/cooking?

A: We are big fans of tallow in cleaning products and in skincare. As for cooking, I do think tallow can be a healthy fat source, yes. Like all animal fats, it’s high in saturated fat so I wouldn’t go crazy with it (even though saturated fat isn’t the devil they thought it was, I don’t think it’s necessarily healthy in unlimited quantities!).

 Q. Is organic fleece any better in terms of PFAS? I bought an organic fleece blanket from Rawganique a few years ago thinking it might be “safer” but it seems like it may still have the same issues as regular fleece?

A: It depends—if it’s a fleece that’s just made from organic cotton but the garment itself isn’t organic, it could be treated with PFAS. Even organic certification on clothing only forbids certain PFAS, but that’s better than nothing! In any case, Rawganique specifies that it’s all PFAS-free, so they are a great option!

Q: My husband bought me this tea kettle several years ago and I really like it. However, the button to turn it on is on the fritz and it doesn’t look like it’s still under warranty so I may be in the market for a replacement. It seems to be free of all plastic and the only tiny question mark may be a small silicone piece that I can see on the bottom of the inside of the tea kettle (about the size of a pea). Not sure what that piece is for but otherwise the materials seem fine. Thoughts on this one? Is there an even better/completely safe kettle you’d recommend?

A: I love that tea kettle and a version of it is in our gift guide this year:). The only thing theoretically better is a glass one, but I had one and it was expensive and then dropped in the sink and shattered so I think these are better, honestly.

December 6, 2024

Q: I’m worried about heavy metals in my Needed vitamins, because I take them every single day. I actually emailed Needed about it and I got back a link to a NEW blog post on their website. That is somewhat reassuring, but do we just have to accept that all supplements will contain some level of heavy metals and keep taking them every day? And what about Needed’s fish oil (which I also take). I believe it’s vegan and made with algae?? Is that the same thing as seaweed (which LSM tested as extremely high in lead — and my seaweed snacks also have a Prop 65 warning on them)?

A: Yes, unfortunately every supplement and most whole foods have some level of heavy metal contamination, and what’s important is that it’s far below that Prop 65 level, which Needed’s continues to be. The bottom line is that they are doing as much as they can—and as much as any other supplement company—to keep the levels as low as possible. The only option would be to not take a supplement—I don’t think multivitamins are strictly necessary so just skipping that is an option? 

In theory, yes, algae could have similar issues to seaweed in terms of absorbing metals. Needed’s vegan omega doesn’t have a Prop 65 warning on the label does it? It’s my understanding that Needed’s whole line comes in under the amount of any contaminant that would trigger that warning. It’s also Clean Label certified. Is there a reason you’re taking the vegan version? I take their fish oil, which I just intuitively believe will be better for me (based on no hard evidence!). 

Q: What’s the deal with all the cadmium in food?! Even food Lead Safe Mama tests that doesn’t have lead, often has high levels of cadmium. Is this coming from some kind of contamination in the plants where the food is processed/made, or is it also naturally occurring?

A: Like lead, cadmium can be naturally occurring in food due to its presence in soil and water, but industrial and agricultural practices can increase the levels found in food sources. Just like what happens with lead, mining, smelting, and the application of some pesticides, etc., can release cadmium into the environment. 

 Q. While I try to avoid a lot of processed foods for my kids, they do eat a lot of “bars.” They LOVE the Skout Bars. My son has been eating them for years and I just started giving my daughter the flavors with no added sugar. We also buy Perfect Bars, and started buying some from Happy Wolf, and Once Upon a Farm. However, now I inspect the ingredients before giving one to them and I swear every single flavor has either sunflower seed butter and/or sunflower seed protein, cocoa powder cinnamon, or Himalayan pink sea salt. I know that all of those are high lead offenders. Is it ok for them to eat one of these types of bars every day?!

A: It’s SO hard with kids because the whole idea of eating a wide variety of different foods is kind of antithetical to being a child, lol. I am jealous that your kids will eat the Skout bars! As you know, Skout does have to add the Prop 65 label on their foods because of the levels of naturally-occurring metals in their ingredients. So, the risk is really the same as if your son were eating a lot of spinach or sweet potato. Is one bar a day a problem? I don’t personally think so, but the Once Upon a Farm doesn’t have a Prop 65 label—although it doesn’t look like their bars have Clean Label certification (yet anyway). Their pouches do, though. Would he be interested in mixing it up with those on some days?

Q: I remember reading that you don’t drink coffee (I do not either) and I’m intrigued by that Pique mushroom drink you recommend in your newsletter. Is the benefit of coffee 100% proven or are there significant downsides to it too? I’ve debated over the past few years whether I should start drinking clean coffee for some of the purported health benefits, but is it like alcohol in the sense that if you don’t drink it you shouldn’t start just to receive the potential benefits of it? 

A: It’s not like alcohol at all in the sense that there seems to be literally zero benefit to drinking (boo!)–besides of course enjoying one’s life, which shouldn’t be discounted! Coffee is absolutely good for you, and other than possible disrupted sleep I don’t think there are any major downsides. That said–you can get the same benefits from drinking tea (especially green) so I don’t think you need to start drinking coffee for health reasons. And yes, mushrooms are clearly super good for you. I just started adding the Roots Apothecary one to my smoothies. (And of course, I think the best coffee in the world is ours!)

 Q: Do you have a recommendation for a more affordable line of super non-toxic hair and skin products that are good for the whole family? I don’t want to spend $40 on a bottle of shampoo. 
 
A. I totally get it! I love Carina for this– their products are super clean, and therefore safe for everyone, including babies–and also perform well and smell wonderful.

November 29, 2024

Q: When it comes to LVP flooring, is there any type that is “healthy-ish”? My husband is balking at the price of the cork flooring (or anything from Green Building Supply) so I am mostly asking to be able to tell him I’ve confidently ruled LVP out. 

A: So…LVP now is all pretty much phthalate-free. The problem is that they’ve simply replaced the phthalates with a different plasticizer that we don’t know much about. Basically, there are no scary studies yet about those newer plasticizers, but I am dubious about their safety. I will say that LVP DOES seem to be pretty low in terms of off-gassing from what I have read, although from an environmental standpoint it’s all really bad.  Also, straight up sheet vinyl, like the kind in a roll and not called “luxury,” is extremely toxic by all standards. 

Q: New House vs Old House – what is your opinion on the healthier option for a house (if you have the luxury of choosing)? The previous owners of our house clearly used scented laundry detergent and/or scented air fresheners because despite replacing almost all the duct-work and HVAC units in our house for various reasons, and dusting constantly, I still find dust that smells like Tide and dryer sheets! My theory is that it’s living/trapped in high up places like window-sills, walls, and light fixtures that I simply can’t reach. But it drives me crazy.

A: I think I would almost ALWAYS choose an older house (unless it’s, like, full of peeling lead paint or asbestos, lol). New houses, unless they are very specifically–and expensively!–designed/built with human health in mind, tend to have some of the worst indoor air quality. And, the fact that they are airtight makes this worse (although it’s of course great for energy efficiency). So the toxins in a new house are definitely worse IMHO than the gross scented laundry products that it sounds like are haunting your home haha. Run those air filters! 

 I believe you mentioned at one point that Ruggable rugs were actually “ok” because even though they are synthetic they don’t have added chemicals. But then someone mentioned something about the pad that you are supposed to use underneath the Ruggable rug and how that may have some questionable ingredients. Do you see any issue with using a Ruggable rug without the pad? Or swapping their pad for something safer? We have a lot of messes around here and in some rooms it’s helpful to have washable rugs that can stand up to a lot of abuse!

A: You have it exactly right–I’d use a Ruggable rug no problem, but in a perfect world I would pair it with a real rubber gripper.  

Q: Are fake house plants a bad idea (because they are made of plastic)? What is a reliable online source for real plants? And if I wanted to buy real plants locally, what are the best plants to help with indoor air quality (but also not poison my kids or my dog!)?

A: House plants likely contain vinyl in most cases (although a negligible amount). I like The Sill for online plants and you can filter to shop for just the ones that are pet safe. I think it doesn’t hurt to fill your home with plants, but the idea that they meaningfully reduce toxins in most homes has been somewhat debunked. 

November 22, 2024

Q: I’ve heard some controversy around fish oil–what’s the downside to taking a fish oil supplement? 

A: The MAIN downside I’ve heard of is that studies don’t consistently show the same benefit from taking a supplement as they do from eating actual fish. Meaning, it maybe/probably just doesn’t work as well. You’ll hear chatter about fish oil supplements being contaminated with mercury or PCBs, but studies don’t show this to be the case (the oil for supplements comes from small fish, rather than the big species where heavy metals become an issue). I take Needed’s fish oil on the days I don’t eat actual fish. 

Q: How bad is fleece? I own a large number of Patagonia fleece pullovers and jackets, and my kids love fleece blankets. With all the talk of microplastics, how “dangerous” is it to wear or wrap yourself in fleece? Is simply coming into contact with your skin an issue? Or is the issue that we are inhaling the little fibers that shed from fleece items? Is PFAS an issue here, too?

A: Yes, fleece has PFAS, and yes it’s made of plastic so microplastics are a concern–more from the ingesting than transdermal absorption. I do love that Patagonia is phasing out PFAS and vows to not use them at all by 2025, but that doesn’t do us much good in the meantime. My kids also love their fleece blankets. I know I am a broken record…but it’s just one exposure out of many so…pick your poison, I guess! (Official answer here: do as I say not as I do and avoid fleece!)

Q: Is bamboo a safe fabric? It is popular with some newer kids clothing brands.

A: I am not really worried about bamboo fabric being harmful to the wearer, but it’s pretty Sneaky–the bamboo plant itself is renewable and grows well without pesticides, but it is turned into rayon or viscose through a chemical process that involves carbon disulfide (among other chemicals), which is toxic for sure and very bad for the environment. 

Q: Since apparently I have to replace most of my clothing because of PFAS concerns, any recommendations for jeans?

A: I know Levis stopped using PFAS! There is also a brand called Organsk, but I have not seen those IRL. Jeans aside, I live in my workout clothes, so am slowly switching to more from Mate, Reprise, and Pact.

November 15, 2024

Q:  I was a huge fan of Beautycounter products and like others, have been trying to find good replacements. I’ve started using Ogee Organics and I have really liked what I’ve tried. I know they label themselves as clean beauty, but is it actually good stuff?

A: Ogee is legit natural and organic. I was actually surprised, but I think it’s a great option. Also-Beautycounter is available right now! (Unclear for how long.) And finally, I wrote a post with some suggestions for Beautycounter replacement products.

Q: Do you have recommendations for makeup for kids? My 7 year old is starting to take a lot of interest in makeup.  One of your brands you recommended for face paint has some makeup. But if you can offer more choices, that would be great! 

A:  Here is a brand I love for kids makeup.

Q: What are your thought on toothpaste that has N-hydroxyapaptite to re-minalized tooth enamel to help with sensitivity like Cocofloss or Boka & some formula by Attitude brands? 

A: Hydroxyapatite is definitely a great alternative to fluoride–some studies even suggest it may be MORE effective at tooth remineralization and sensitivity prevention. There is, however, ongoing discussions about potential concerns regarding the use of nano hydroxyapatite specifically. The key concern with nano-sized particles in general is that, due to their tiny size (less than 100 nanometers), they can potentially penetrate deeper into tissues and enter the bloodstream. However, in the case of n-HAp, there isn’t really evidence to suggest that it poses a significant risk in the amounts used in oral care products. Research so far indicates that it does not easily penetrate the soft tissues of the mouth or the digestive system after swallowing small amounts while brushing. Also, when it comes to nano particles of hydroxyapatite, the shape can influence their potential safety. Some studies suggest that rod-shaped n-HAp might have better bioactivity and remineralization potential than other shapes. Needle-shaped particles, on the other hand, raise potential concerns about tissue irritation or toxicity if they interact in unintended ways (because of the pointed shape). Spherical particles generally have the lowest cellular uptake compared to rod-shaped or needle-shaped nanoparticles. Studies in dental applications so far indicate that n-HAp in rod or spherical forms is unlikely to penetrate deeply into oral tissues or cause harm in the quantities used for dental care. I know this is a lot of complicated info, so for now the bottom line is to get a toothpaste with n-HAp that you know is cone or spherical in shape, to err on the side of caution. I know that Risewell and Boka fit the bill on this! 

Q: Do you use a machine to clean your retainers? If so which one?

A: I don’t have a retainer cleaning machine, although I always consider getting one! For now, these are the safest cleaning tabs I have found—they have a few ingredients I don’t LOVE, but I rinse the retainer before putting it in my mouth, and frankly, the plastic retainer itself is a bigger concern to me! (And they do work very well for keeping it clean.).

November 8, 2024

Q:  What’s the best natural headache remedy? I have tried a few different things I’ve read online (essential oils, various hot/cold packs) but just wondering if there’s a good go-to outside of a Motrin if it’s a really bad headache!

A: There is some evidence that a CQ10 supplement can help reduce the frequency of migraine (which is what I call my headaches even though I’ve not really been officially diagnosed). For that I like the one by Needed. Magnesium is the other natural supplement I’ve heard about for migraine. This random ice cap from Amazon works really well for me. And do you know about Genexa for a cleaner version of acetaminophen?

Q: Do you push back on dental X-rays for yourself? I know you’ve talked about your kids and their teeth (which has been very helpful, btw!) but I was curious how often an adult really needs dental X-rays.

A:  My dentist always really pushes them, and I’ve had a bunch recently because of my Invisalign (which has me gnawing on plastic all day but anywhoooo). I push back because they never seem to find much in the x-rays if they don’t see anything in the exam, but I probably do them once every other year because I just end up caving to the pressure!

Q: I’ve read mixed opinions on fish oil (some people seem to think that not only is it not beneficial, but that it’s actually BAD for you?). I took the Needed version during my pregnancy and still take it sporadically while nursing but am wondering if I should continue to take it going forward 

A: I think benefits outweigh the risks and I take Needed’s but not on the days that I actually eat fish. The MAIN downside I’ve heard of is that studies don’t consistently show the same benefit from taking a supplement as they do from eating actual fish. You’ll hear chatter about fish oil supplements being contaminated with mercury or PCBs, but studies don’t show this to be the case (the oil for supplements comes from small fish, rather than the big species where heavy metals become an issue). 

Q: Thoughts on Continuous Glucose Monitoring? Have you ever done it or known someone close to you that has? I have a feeling this wouldn’t be good for my health anxiety (ha!) but part of me is so curious to see how my body responds to various types of foods.

A: I think this is just a recipe for anxiety, and I’ve heard a lot of doctors (even integrative ones) speak out against it. 

November 1, 2024

Q:  What’s a best stuff liquid vitamin D brand that we can trust? 

A: I would go with this one from Mary Ruth’s. It’s affordable and Clean Label Project Certified.

Q: What are your thoughts on Clearly Filtered?

A:  It’s Good Stuff!

Q: Skout bars now have the Prop65 warning. Should we be concerned?

A: Skout addresses this on their site and there is nothing dodgy about their explanation – I agree with their take on the issue and will continue to eat Skout bars.

Q: What is the best/most comparable alternative to a dry sauna if I don’t have access to one? I don’t think I can afford an infrared sauna either! Is red light a good alternative?

A: The benefits of dry sauna and infrared sauna are pretty similar (if you are looking at the most robust evidence). Mainly, they both offer benefits to the cardiovascular system as well as a benefit for athletes looking to improve exercise performance. There is evidence that sauna use can provide better immune function, too. Red light therapy, on the other hand, uses lights that get to near infrared (NIR), but not actual infrared, and the benefits are more related to skin issues (wrinkles, discoloration), and also bruises, scars, muscle/joint pain. I definitely believe in the benefits of both! Because I am in it for vanity versus cardio or immune benefits, I use red light.

October 18, 2024

Q:  I keep seeing ads for Pura air fresheners. Are they actually safe? 

A: No. Unfortunately, they use a bunch of junk fragrances. None of the brands they work with even claim to be non-toxic! 

Q: Any recommendations for a high quality fiber supplement?

A:  We have not written about this, but here are two we’d recommend: This one is good if you don’t mind the taste of stevia. This one has natural flavors but is Clean Label Project Certified.

Q: Is Thrive Causmetics mascara Good Stuff?

A: It’s Okay Stuff. They don’t have the third-party testing we like, but have ommitted some problematic ingredients and tested low for PFAS. And I just really love how it performs so I do use this brand sometimes.

Q: Have you heard of WellBel supplements for hair and nails? 

A: The WellBel supplement uses only synthetic vitamin A and we like to see a blend of synthetic and natural (which is better absorbed by more people). Otherwise, there is nothing wrong with the ingredients but they don’t give info (that I can find) about 3rd party testing 

October 11, 2024

Q:  Good chapstick option for kids (my son is 4.5)?

A. My favorite for kids is the Badger because it’s super clean and face but also and creamy and comes in a chunky tube that’s easier for little hands to hold. 

Q:  Best option for nursery window treatments? Our house came with some generic blinds (they seem to be wood but my guess is they aren’t SOLID wood). I want to get rid of them because of the dangling cords but need something to replace them that is low maintenance and non-toxic, while also safe.   

A: Any cotton curtain is of course non-toxic (or non-toxic enough, lol). If you’re looking for blinds, you can search for GreenGuard certified ones, which means they are checked for various emissions. I quickly found this site that actually lets you sort to see only the GreenGuard brands. I’m sure there are more out there too.  

Q: Kids clothing labels all seem to be made with 3M paper materials – I know it’s a small surface area, but is it safe to have these touching their skin? Are those name stamps any better (no idea what that ink is made of)?

A:  Nope, no issues. I think it’s such a small area that it’s not worth worrying about. Yes, there might be minute PFAS in that label (or the ink from a stamp) but far less than your kid will probably get from a glass of water in a restaurant that doesn’t have a filter (sadly!).

Q: Why does my”Greenguard Gold Certified” dresser STILL have an artificial wood smell to it? 

A: For the time being, Greenguard Gold certification is the best we can do for any composite wood products–this means that at least the VOCs come in under a threshold. I don’t know why it still smells, but likely because it is not made of solid wood. Our Oeuf one does, too. 

Q: Someone recommended putting these in my son’s bath after he swims all day (I guess it neutralizes chlorine?). We don’t spend THAT much time in the pool so I’m not sure it’s something I should be worried about. But I know hard water can have chlorine in it too. Are these safe? Necessary at all in any circumstance?

A: I’ve heard this too and I know a mom who makes a spray to put on her kids after they swim in the public pool in Vermont. I’ve tried to find studies on this and while it’s definitely true that it “neutralizes” chlorine, what I’ve read (beyond the info coming from people selling a spray) is that the main benefit is that it makes the water safer for aquatic life. Does spraying down with it after you’ve been soaking in for hours in the pool meaningfully reduce the amount that’s absorbed into your skin? I don’t know. If it’s easy enough to toss the tablet in the bath, then certainly there is no harm in doing so.

October 4, 2024

Q:  I found these laundry machine cleaning tabs on Amazon but they don’t list the ingredients on their website, which I always find sketchy. So I emailed them and got it. Does this look ok?

A. Totally safe ingredients, and I have never heard of them. Thank you; I’m going to order these!

Ingredients:
Active Ingredients:
SODIUM PERCARBONATE: Decontaminates the machine
SODIUM CARBONATE: Helps remove stains
 
Inactive Ingredients:
ZEOLITE: A volcanic mineral that absorbs odors 
SODIUM SULFATE: Helps to form the tablet
SODIUM BICARBONATE: Neutralizes odors as well as disinfects
CITRIC ACID: Descales hardwater

Q:  I think you’ve said in the past that you’re ok with Botox. Do you still feel it’s a generally safe option for wrinkles or is it not worth the potential risk? 

A: I do Botox a few times a year. I haven’t found any studies that suggest it’s harmful, and it’s been around for a long time. I mean, botulism is a natural toxin? LOL. Seriously, we are all swimming in a toxic soup and I just don’t think Botox is likely to be a big risk factor for disease relative to everything else. 

Q: Any issues with this toothpaste brand? I alternate between this and Risewell (the latter is just so expensive and the tube doesn’t last very long!).

A:  Nope, no issues. This is Good Stuff. 

Q: Is there anything safe that is proven to help eyebrows grow/thicken?

A: Castor oil is worth a shot (some evidence that it works)–isopropyl cloprostenate is the ingredient that definitely works (I’ve used Grande serums), but it’s not without some controversy. We are looking into some alternative ingredients ingredients in products that we want to carry in our store, so stay tuned on this!

Q: I know you’re generally not a fan of Tubby Todd, but how about this ointment? It works really well on both of my kids when I need to use lotion on them (which luckily isn’t too often). Is Japanese Honeysuckle Flower extract really a bad ingredient and considered the same thing as phthalates? 

A: Meh, I am not actually worried about that ingredient in tiny quantities, and while you’re right that TT isn’t my favorite in general, I think this product is fine especially if it’s really working which can be a huge challenge.

September 20, 2024

Q:  What’s a good stainless steel colander that doesn’t rust?

A. This is what we’ve had since our wedding and there is no rust at all.

Q:  Have you tried the FlavCity protein powder? I just ordered the chocolate for the third time and it’s so good taste wise. He sweetens it with banana powder. Please let me know your thoughts. 

A: This looks great but I have not heard anything from their team about heavy metal testing. I did see that Bobby posted something in his IG stories about their testing, so I will definitely update the guide when/if we can get ahold of them! 

Q: What is the best “drug store” lotion alternative? I have issues with dry hands and sometimes even rashes on my hands/fingers. The ONLY thing that works is that thick Cerave moisturizing lotion, but it has petroleum in it, which I’d like to avoid if possible.

A:  I am pretty sure the reason Cerave is working so well for you when nothing else does is BECAUSE of the petroleum-based ingredient. I’ve had a number of clients go through this, and there simply is not a natural alternative that works as well for a lot of people. Are you using this one? If so, I think it’s really not so bad. I would avoid some of their “lotions” (versus “creams”) because they still contain parabens. 

Q: Are Rahua and EVOLVh actually “clean” brands or just good compromises? They work so much better than the ultra-clean stuff I’ve tried, so I’m skeptical!

A: They are compromises but only if you’re pickier than I am, lol. And shampoo in particular is suuuuch a hard product to make completely clean. These are actually the brands I use myself, mostly. The one truly natural brand I have tried that performs well is Pure Haven’s SuperGreens line.

Q: I find the smell of natural latex a bit strong (examples: natural latex pillows I own, and the Toki Mat I have for my daughter’s play area). Even though it has a strong/distinct smell, it’s safe/non-toxic?

A: Yes, what you’re smelling is rubber – which totally has a strong kind of chemically smell but which is safe (and natural). 

September 13, 2024

Q:  My dentist wanted sealants for my kids back teeth. I declined because I didn’t even know this was a thing and putting plastic in their mouths does not seem right. Are there options?

A. I never allowed sealants to be applied to Felix’s molars, because they contain a compound that can turn into BPA when it comes in contact with saliva (!) and he didn’t really have cavities. On the other hand, dental composites (which they now use for fillings instead of mercury) are made of a similar substance, so the risk there may be the same. After Wolfie’s second tooth had to be pulled because of decay, I opted to have his four molars with the deepest grooves sealed.

Q:  What are your thoughts on the Risewell lawsuit?

A: The case was dismissed, likely because the allegations were based on a single test sample. Risewell has tested every batch of their toothpaste for PFAS contamination over the past three years, and have not found evidence of PFAS. If you have a tube of Risewell and want to see the lab results for your specific batch, you can email them at hi@risewell.com. For these reasons still consider Risewell toothpaste to be Best Stuff.

Q: Do you know where “Think Sport,” “Swell”, and “Owala” bottles fit into your water bottle ratings?

A: The stainless steel/silicone versions of all of those brands are Good Stuff 🙂

Q: I’m sure you’ve seen this, but the Mamavation site apparently found PFAS in contact lenses?! And not just a little bit – quite a lot! NOT wearing contacts is not an option for me, so what is the lesser of two evils: Dailies – high PFAS, a lower chance of eye infection, don’t have to let them sit in contact solution overnight. Or two-week wear lenses – less PFAS, possibly higher chance of infection or irritation, having to use contact solution. 

A: Yes, this is really a bummer–I wear the Oasys dailies myself and have for decades. I HATE hanging onto contacts for weeks but might go back to it. Unfortunately, I read a study that showed that contact lens wearers DO have higher blood serum levels of PFAS, so it’s not likely that it’s not absorbed through the eye as I was hoping (and women contact-wearers had higher levels than men in the study). Of course, there are a ton of other exposures to PFAS (food and water among them), but I am having a hard time knowingly putting them in my eyeball every single day. And so far J&J hasn’t issued any reassuring statement—despite, as you say, claiming that they don’t add PFAS. I’m sorry I don’t have a good answer here!

September 6, 2024

Q:  I recently read your guide on protein powders. I was wondering if you had an opinion on the protein powders by Flavcity. I have enjoyed them and their different flavours. Just curious where they would fall in your categories of Best stuff

A. The ingredients in the FlavCity protein powders are definitely clean—but they only make vague claims about “rigorous testing” so they didn’t make it into our guide. However, we just saw a social media post where Bobby pulls up testing results for their powders–so it seems very likely that it’s Best Stuff! (Will update the guide once we hear back from FlavCity.)

Q:  Have you looked into Frownies wrinkle patches?

A: I have and they are totally safe—just not convinced they’d really provide long-term results! 

Q: Which of the protein powders you reviewed did you like the taste of best?

A: I usually just do the unflavored, which means they taste like nothing. I can’t tolerate stevia or monk fruit which is in a lot of the good brands and which other people don’t seem to mind. If I want a flavored protein I go for one with coconut sugar – top pick is Puori chocolate or vanilla. Code GIMMETHEGOODSTUFF will get you 20% off if you want to try it.

Q: Are there any good and safe hair colorings? I tried Hairprint which is quite complicated to do at home, and Khadi – which my hair stylist said is not good – turned my hair greenish. She said she doesn’t think any natural hair colors work well, but I’m willing to try any and hope she’s wrong and just devoted to the ones she knows!

A: Unfortunately, I have to agree with your stylist—I have not found a truly non-toxic brand of hair dye beyond Hairprint, which I agree is a huge pain. FWIW, I go to a conventional hair salon for conventional highlights—I just do it twice a year and I did stop during pregnancy.

Q: Do you have a top two multivitamin for men?

A: We have not done a Top Two multivitamin brands for men, yet! But this is my top pick.

August 23, 2024

Q:  I don’t drink water from plastic bottles, except what do I do about distilled water needed for the Keurig coffee pot?  I’ve never found distilled water in glass bottles.  What do you do?

A. I only know of two options, neither of which is great.

1. Distill your own!
2. This company: https://virtudistilledwater.com/

Q:  Thanks for the Top Two ice cream brands. How about a good vegan plant based ice cream?

A: Non-dairy ice cream is harder to make healthy, as to get that creamy texture brands often add carrageenan, sunflower oil, and other gums/fillers. But overall, I think Van Leeuwen’s is pretty good. There’s also one called Wildgood (from Vermont!) that is really clean but I’m not sure where you can buy it.

Q: Knowing now that Band-Aids have PFAS and some are made from vinyl, are there any nontoxic, biodegradable bandages you recommend?

A: Yes, we love Patch!

Q: I was looking at Primally Pure, they have a few tallow products and pride themselves on being clean. Are they Good Stuff?

A: Hi! Yes, I love Primally Pure! There deodorant is one of my favorites. We actually have a code for 10% off with them–GIMMETHEGOODSTUF10.

August 16, 2024

Q: Our family is looking for a facial moisturizer with SPF that goes on smoothly like the Beautycounter facial sunscreen? That was by far the best one. I’ve been looking at the Detox Market’s options but there are so many, don’t know where to start. 

A. I actually JUST posted a comparison of facial sunscreens. The TLDR is that this one is the best (I think I actually like it more than the Beautycounter one, which I never in a million years thought I would hear myself say.)

Q:  I was wondering if you have heard of the brand, Olive Tree People (Oliveda)? Is it Good Stuff?

A: Yes, I just learned about this brand and after learning more about the ingredients (especially re “fragrance”– it’s all natural essential oils), confirmed that it is Good Stuff! I just ordered some products and can’t wait to try them–people have left rave reviews.

: Have you ever tried Andalou Facial30 SPF sunscreen, specifically this formula?

A: Andalou is one of those brands that runs the gamut from Sneaky Stuff to Good Stuff. For the specific product you’re asking about, I’d feel find using it. The fragrance is naturally-sourced and while the ingredients list is long, nothing is really of concern. I don’t love sodium benzoate as a preservative, but this isn’t a product for a baby so I think it’s fine as a daily sunscreen if you like how it performs! 

Q: Do you have any recommendations for lip balms/chapsticks with SPF in them? 

A: Yes, I love this one.  It’s got a squeaky clean, natural ingredients list and uses zinc for sun protection rather than chemical sunblock ingredients.

August 9, 2024

Q: Hi Maia! I would love an update on Beautycounter in case you have any, or alternatives to its products? 

A. My understanding is that they will be back eventually (not before 2025) and that they will have the same mission and standards, but not necessarily all the same products. In the meanwhile, here is where we listed some good alternatives.

Q: I know you recommend Hiya for kids multivitamins. I was wondering if you think their kids Bedtime Essentials chewable is good stuff as well?

A: I trust everything from Hiya. They really are doing it right with third-party testing, ingredient selection, etc. 

Q: If you’re buying from a trustworthy company (Babo Botanicals), and they say they’re phthalate free etc., but the ingredient list includes “fragrance”, is that kosher??  Or a bad idea?

A: I don’t know why Babo continues to list “fragrance” on their labels, and I have spoken with the founder about it several times, partially because Babo products smell so good! (Almost too good to be truly natural, right?). She’s assured me it’s all natural fragrance, their website says the same, and many of the scented products are EWG-verified. So, yes, for now, all of Babo is Good Stuff or at least Okay Stuff! 

Q: Do you use the overnight patches (for wrinkles)? I think they are silicone/gel like.    Would love a recommendation on those!! 🙏 

A: I in fact did buy these silicone patches but I have yet to actually use them! I feel fine about their safety, and their research (and marketing) convinced me to buy them—but I remain kind of dubious that I will see any dramatic results. But your question has reminded/inspired me to try them!

Q: I’ve seen a few 3 or 4 ingredient sunscreens – are those ok?? Waxhead is non-nano  Zinc and coconut oil, beeswax, vanilla 

A: The entire waxhead line is super safe (we just added it to the Best Stuff in our sunscreen guide)–but I have yet to try any of them so I can’t speak to efficacy. 

August 2, 2024

Q: What do you think of Brentwood kids mattresses?  And Birch mattresses?

A. Birch is certainly doing a lot right, but they don’t have GOLS certification for their latex mattresses, so they wouldn’t make our Best Stuff designation. Brentwood is not as good as Birch—they use memory foam and have very little in the way certifications.

Q: Thoughts on Clearly Filtered products?

A: All Clearly Filtered products are Good Stuff! I actually have one of these pitchers.

Q: I’ve had no luck with non toxic face sunscreens. Beautycounter was my favorite (but even that one felt a little heavy for me for daily use – and I felt that it made my fine lines/wrinkles more noticeable). I love how you provided an option for the least toxic chemical body sunscreen (Coola). I’m wondering if you can do the same for face sunscreen? 

A: Hi! Great question. If you’re willing to try one more mineral-based facial sunscreen, the thinnest/lightest I’ve found is this one from Pure Haven. 

If you want to avoid mineral facial sunscreens all together because they do tend to have that slightly thicker, whiter feeling (from the active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), then you’ll want to look for ones that that use avobenzone, octisalate, and/or octocrylene as these are the least toxic chemical ingredients (the ones to for sure avoid are homosalate and oxybenzone). And then of course you don’t want a facial sunscreen that has phthalates or other well known endocrine disruptors that have nothing to do with SPF! 

Coola actually has a range of facial SPF products—most of them are Bad Stuff, (because of homosalate). There are three that rely on only the better chemical sunscreens mentioned above:

1. Sun Silk Drops
2. Illuminating Serum
3. Classic Face Mist, SPF 50

It’s worth noting that Supergoop! makes a ton of facial sunscreen products, too, and the non-mineral ones ALL contain homosalate. 

Q: My daughter has used Radius toothpaste for many years now- she’s 8. I just read recently published studies on the increased risk Xylitol poses for heart attack/stroke. I can’t find natural toothpastes without it- she won’t do mint. What are your thoughts?

A: I saw the studies, too. These participants were drinking xylitol-sweetened drinks, and I do think we should definitely be studying this effect and probably be limiting our own xylitol consumption in the meanwhile. However, I’m not concerned about the minimal amount of xylitol that might be accidentally ingested by using toothpaste that contains xylitol—the dental benefits outweigh any theoretical risks in my opinion! (Here’s our toothpaste guide.)

July 19th, 2024

Q: I love your answering questions! I was wondering if you had any thoughts on microblading (for eyebrows) or tattoos in general? 

A. Two things lately have made me concerned about tattoos. First, the news about high rates of bacteria contamination of tattoo ink; And second, the study linking tattoos to an increased risk of lymphoma.  Together, these headlines have me feeling skittish about any sort of tattoos! 

Q: Hi!  My 6 year old daughter is using the Evereden kids shampoo/conditioner that you recommended around Christmas time. We love it! However, it’s not cutting it for her summer chlorine hair. I noticed That ever Eden has a specific shampoo meant for after pool and sun. I was wondering if this is a brand where it’s all good stuff? Or if you had any other recommendations for safe shampoo that helps remove chlorine build up?

A: I’m not a big fan of that one from Ever Eden, actually. For swim/sport haircare for kids, my pick is Babo’s line. Hope that helps! 

Q: Do you have any recommendations for non-toxic (less toxic?) laminate flooring? We are redoing our basement so it needs to be able to withstand water but l’m worried about the chemicals for my young sons.

A: Look for laminated floors that are GreenGuard Gold certified. For a list of these and a TON of info on finding safer laminate flooring in general, this is a great post. 

Q: My daughter has been spending a lot of time outside this summer and while I’m all set on sunscreen for her face/body, I haven’t figured out how to best protect her scalp (a hat is clearly the best but she refuses to wear one; I’m currently putting the liquid stuff there which isn’t ideal but will work). Do you have any best/good stuff for powdered sunscreen? Or any other suggestions to protect her scalp?

A: In general, Super Goop isn’t my favorite line, but this product is the best powder sunscreen for scalps that I’ve found.

July 12th, 2024

Q: I know you get tons of questions but I’ve been in my head after researching all the different eyebrow tints. Is there a safer at home option? Some claim to be safer (Mina iBrow) because it uses Henna but it still uses P-PHENYLENEDIAMINE. Is it a huge concern since it would be on my brows for 2 minutes once a month? I’m sick of coloring them in each morning only to sweat them off in the summer.

A. Sadly, none of the eyebrow tints I have looked into are what we could possibly call Good Stuff, because as you noted, most have PPD, and this is definitely on the no-no list (immunotoxin). Have you looked into this brand, which is not at all natural, but is PPD-free?  All of this said—I dye my hair with conventional stuff in a conventional salon, so we all just have to decide for ourselves what our compromises will be.  I wish I had a better, more definitive answer! 

Q: I have heard that reverse osmosis water can also remove minerals that we need to have so it’s important to add some to our daily routine? Is that true? And if so. What would you suggest adding? 

A: When you get an RO system, I recommend one that adds the beneficial minerals back in. This is the one I had before we installed our undercounter filter (you’d want to choose the Alkapure option.)

Q: I‘m in need of a vacuum and found a newsletter from you that recommended the Miele. I started looking but there appear to be several versions. Do you have a preference?

A: This is the model that I want. It’s the most well reviewed, and comes with HEPA filtration. Let me know if you get it! (And I will be jealous!)

Q: I saw the Top Two Underwear Brands which is GREAT. What about bras???

A: If you’re smaller-chested like I am, the Subset bralettes are amazing!

July 5th, 2024

Q: Hi! Love your site and recommendations… wondering your thoughts on the kids’ YETI Rambler Jr. 12 oz Kids Bottle, with Straw Cap? I am trying to sort everything out for my kids’ camp and want to send them with something non-toxic since they’ll drink from it all day long in the hot sun… thank you! I am also considering the Klean Kanteen Kids’ 12 Oz Classic Narrow W Sport Cap. Appreciate your thoughts if you have the time! Thank you so much.

A. This is easy: both Good Stuff 🙂 We sell Klean Kanteen in our store and you can now get free shipping on orders over $50

Q: Hi! Huge huge fan. Trust you on all things for me and my family. Thank you for all that you do! I’ve read a few conflicting things about HEPA Air Purifiers as it relates to ozone. Do they produce it?! Can’t seem to get a straight answer.  Want to buy a few Austin units for our house but am wary after looking into this.   Any guidance here?

A: HEPA purifiers do not produce ozone, no! 
If you choose to purchase an Austin through our website, please use 
GIMMEAUSTIN15 at checkout for 15% off any unit!

Q: I know you like the Molly’s suds brand…are the laundry sheets they make any good? I don’t see them listed on your laundry guide.

A: I haven’t used these so can’t speak to performance, but yes the ingredients look fine! 

Q: I’m so glad to hear your answer about laser hair removal! I’ve been wondering that too. Do you believe that the at home IPL devices for hair removal are safe as well? I noticed you mentioned using IPL for your face.

A: Hi! I do think at home laser-hair removers can be safe. I am a wimp with the pain they cause even when done by a pro, but this one blows cool air so might make it more tolerable? (I like the brand in general as well.)

June 21, 2024

Q: What dryer sheets do you use?

A. This is a pretty predictable answer, but my advice is to ditch dryer sheets and get organic wool dryer balls. If you really want something scented you can add some drops of high quality essential oils to your dryer balls. This brand sent me a reusable dryer sheet, which is also great. If you want a traditional disposable dryer sheet, then our pick is this.

Q: I’m an addiction psychiatrist and saw your IG stories about you reading CBD studies on it’s use for anxiety, which is so promising. Which exact product do you buy?

A: Yes, I’m really encouraged by this and other studies on its use for anxiety. I’ve been diagnosed with both GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) as well as PD (panic disorder). These gummies are the broad spectrum that I started with and now I’m taking this full spectrum in 750mg.

Q: Do you know of any safe exterminator companies in Brooklyn to use? I hate having harsh or toxic chemicals sprayed (especially bc we have 2 elementary aged kids) but we can’t live with the creepy crawly silverfish and centipedes we get in the apartment.

A: Yes, for anyone in NYC I recommend Biomonde, which we’ve used for pest control as well as carpet and window cleaning!

Q: I can’t find an automatic coffee maker that doesn’t have plastic or aluminum in contact with heated water. I almost pulled the (very expensive) trigger on a Ratio, but then realized the heating element was aluminum. Which is worse — heating aluminum or heating plastic every day for coffee? 😫

A: I’m so concerned about microplastics at the moment that I would probably choose aluminum, actually. Mostly because aluminum is much less likely to leach in significant amounts than plastic is!

June 14, 2024

Q: I have a question regarding your list of non-toxic toys. I saw on your guide that ApplePark is listed as one of your favorite brands, but I also saw that in general you advise against purchasing toys from China. I wanted to ask if you still recommend ApplePark toys. Were they always manufactured in China? Or perhaps this is a change.

A. I In general, I trust toys coming from China less than toys coming out of Europe or the U.S. That said, there are so few brands that are manufactured outside of China, that this alone doesn’t preclude a toy company from being included in our Good Stuff category. If a toy brand has other third-party certifications (which Apple Park does) it can still be a safe option!

Q: Why does Truvani protein powder have a lead warning? Caused me to throw mine away after I bought it. Ugh we can never win.

A: I know! I recently tried Truvani’s vanilla protein powder, which has a very clean ingredient list, but I hated the stevia flavor — it was SO sweet. In any case, the Prop 65 warning isn’t actually very useful (see here), but I wish Truvani had independent test results available for their products. It seems like something their brand in particular should provide.

Q: Are goop products Good Stuff?

A: Goop is hit or miss when it comes to their branded products. Some products are definitely Good Stuff, but some aren’t. For example, we mention why their multivitamin isn’t in our Good Stuff here. On the other hand, these bath salts are one of my all time favorite self-care items. Sorry I don’t have a better, clearer answer about this brand.

Q: What are your thoughts about Blueland cleaning products?

A: We think Blueland is Good Stuff, although not ever single product qualifies as Best Stuff. We recommend them in our Laundry Detergent Guide, and our Natural Dish Soap Guide.

May 31, 2024

Q: What do you think about mattresses with coils? EMF’s?

A. I don’t think there is any good science to support a concern about coils in mattresses leading to increased concentrations of EMFs. We’ve looked into this extensively each time we update our Safe Mattress Guide, and have not found anything to suggest there is a danger from buying a mattress with coils inside of it! (Although we sleep on latex mattresses that don’t have them in any case.)

Q: I saw your recommendation for RKIN Countertop water filter and was wondering if you recommend their newer version as well? (more digital and Cold/hot water) I like the design better but we will stick to what you recommend is best.

A: The reason we don’t offer that newer RKIN in the store is because it is also makes water alkaline, which we think is kind of a scam— per our post here. (It won’t hurt you, but we just don’t think it’s needed!)

Q: I’m wondering if you have ever delved into the topic of safe hair removal, specifically long-term solutions for unwanted hair. When I was young I used all the toxic Nair-type products, then as an adult turned to waxing and threading. Now in my 40s I’m interested in a permanent / less maintenance solution but feel wary about things like laser treatments. If you have any thoughts I’d love to hear them!

A: We have not written anything about hair removal products or devices, but I have looked into lasers more generally, since I have been treated with different types for discoloration on my face (IPL, Clear & Brilliant, and Erbium). Lasers emit non-ionizing radiation, which does not cause cancer, and is even used in the treatment of some types of skin cancer. I would personally feel totally comfortable going to a reputable place for laser hair removal. 

Q: You recently mentioned taking a specific probiotic for anxiety? Can you say more about that?

A: Yes! When Dr. Hopkins provide all his research for our Probiotics Shopping Guide, he included studies on specific strains for specific conditions. You’ll find this in a table in that Guide. My main health issue is anxiety, so I went looking for probiotic blends with lactobacillus gasseri (study) and bifidobacterium lactis (study). Four Good Stuff brands with both of these: Cymbiotika, Innovix, Best Nest, Seed (I chose Cymbiotika). Dr. Hopkins stressed that the specific strains probably matter less than just a high quality blend with high CFUs. Again, there’s more of this in the guide@

May 24, 2024

Q: I saw your recommendation of the GreenPan waffle iron. Do you recommend all of the green pan waffle irons or only that one in particular you linked to Amazon? Ideally I was looking at one of their larger ones that makes 4 waffles rather than 2.

A. All of the GreenPan waffle irons use the same technology—so are equally safe:)

Q: Do you have a recommended brand of collagen that you trust? I think my hair is getting thinner 😢

A: You and me both! This is the one I’ve started taking, because I trust this brand and they do ton’s of third-party testing etc: Needed’s collagen powder. 

Q: Can you please guide me on what safe hardwood floor sealer to use? Our contractor already installed unfinished hardwood floors in part of the house and the rest will be sanded down and sealed/finished. I am looking to keep the natural light wood color.

A: We used AMF Safecoat, but really didn’t LOVE the look of it. I have heard better things about this one from Vermont Natural Coatings. 

Q: What is your favorite butter?

A: Organic Valley cultured butter! (More on their milk versus Horizon and others.)

May 17, 2024

Q: I got your email about makeup recommendations but am genuinely curious why you haven’t recommended 100% Pure? My local organic store sells it and they say it’s the cleanest?

A. So funny that you’re asking, because 100% Pure actually JUST sent me a coupon code – if you want to buy directly from them use GIMME20 for 20% off. (I like their cleansers, creams, and eye patches, and look forward to trying their makeup!)

Q: I learn so much from your posts and love your honesty and approachability! My question for you is…do you still use and love your Wonder Oven? I got rid of my Cosori air fryer when the Teflon started wearing away and got the Wonder Oven. It has such a different look and feel that I am hesitant to use the air fryer function.

A: Here’s the truth about our Wonder Oven: We use it many times every day-to toast, bake, and air fry. We all love it! (Felix, aged 14, mostly appreciates that it can fit an entire Amy’s frozen pizza; our old toaster oven was too small and he’d have to cut the edge off his daily after-school pie!).

Q: I’m almost afraid to hear the answer, but I saw you mention on IG that you’re not planning to take more Covid vaccines. Why? And do you regret getting them for your kids?

A: I continue to believe that Covid vaccination was important in the early days of the pandemic when death rates were high (and boosters may continue to be valuable for higher risk populations). As for my family, I’m not intending to get more shots for my kids, barring of course a further mutation that make Covid dangerous again. I wrote more about my thoughts on this and other vaccines here.

May 10, 2024

Q: Would you happen to have a non toxic quesadilla maker you’d recommend? 

A. I make our quesadillas in this Xtrema pan with a cast iron press.

Q: Is Beautycounter coming back?

A: I really don’t know. I’ve been on two calls to hear what the founder/CEO has to say, and her messaging very much changed from “we will be back up in ten days with all the same stuff” to “we are coming back, hopefully before the holidays this year, but everything is being evaluated and subject to overhauls.” (I am not literally quoting her here–that’s just my bottom line impression.) So, for now, if you are a Beautycounter customer, I wrote this post to help you find Beautycounter alternatives (and where you can still buy Beautycounter…for now). 

Q: Does taking CBD help with your anxiety?

A: I’ve struggled with anxiety since my twenties, and have tried everything from changing my diet (didn’t help) to taking a daily antidepressant (saved my life more than once!). Even after we published a CBD shopping guide, I shied away from using it myself out of some irrational fear that it would make me feel anxious (certainly THC has this effect on me!).

But I’ve recently started a CBD regimen for anxiety and I am happy to report that when I use the Green Compass CBD products I don’t feel remotely high, lol. I feel relaxed immediately after taking the CBD gummies or oils but this could be placebo since it is supposed to take weeks for the effects to really become apparent (much like when starting an SSRI). If you suffer from anxiety, you should know that there are several well-designed studies on CBD working for anxiety disorders, including this one, which concludes that “Preclinical evidence conclusively demonstrates CBD’s efficacy in reducing anxiety behaviors relevant to multiple disorders, including PTSD, GAD, PD, OCD, and SAD.” This is exciting for me as I have been diagnosed with both GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) and PD (panic disorder). I will keep sharing my experience with CBD on Instagram.

May 3, 2024

Q: Isn’t it possible to make gas stoves safer?Nothing cooks like fire. 

A. My husband agrees with you that nothing cooks like fire, and it’s going to be a battle to get him to (eventually) switch to an induction range. The only  way to make a gas stove safer is to run a good air filter near it whenever you turn it on! I have this one. (For more on gas stoves, see our Q&A from April 19). 

Q: Which deodorant did you post about recently that last longer than Beautycounter and do you sell it in your store?

A: We don’t sell this one in our store, but I am really loving Pure Haven’s tea tree formula — it lasts all day, through a workout, etc. If you’re placing a Pure Haven order, I also love this haircare set — I’ve been so pleasantly surprised by how well it works considered that this is one of the most natural brands out there. 

Q: I was wondering if you had recommendations for hand soaps.  I have been using Seventh Generation and Method. 

A: I don’t love Method in general because they use synthetic fragrance, but the Seventh Generation one is actually okay. My favorite hand soap is this foaming one that lasts a long time, softens my hands, and smells so good. I also just gifted my mom the refillable one from Common Good–it’s such a cute bottle for the sink and she loves it.

April 19, 2024

Q: Do you have a non-toxic waffle iron recommendation?

A. Most waffle irons (All Clad, Cuisinart, etc.) are coated in PFAS chemicals and should be avoided. I feel much better about the newer irons with silicone coatings, such as this one from Green Pan.  If you want something uncoated, you could get this, but it’s really intended for use over a campfire! 

Q: I LOVE your Clean Caffeine in decaf, but I wonder–does decaf coffee have the same benefits as regular?

A: Yes! Decaf coffee contains the same antioxidants as regular coffee, and it’s a superfood! There was also arecent study showing decaf specifically reduced the risk of colon cancer. Just make sure any decaf you get is water-processed. (Our decaf is, of course.😉)

Q: Just wondering if you guys have done any research on a robot vacuum with Hepa filters?

A: Yes! Vaccuming is SO important for improving indoor air quality (dust is where a lot of unavoidable toxins accumulate). This is the robot vacuum I recommend (we are getting it ourselves actually!).

Q: I am renovating my home and am torn between doing gas or induction for my stove. At first I thought induction was the safest but I read you can’t use it if you have a pacemaker, it has high levels of EMF and could cause miscarriages..is this true?

A: I’ve decided pretty much for sure that when we renovate my kitchen, I will get an induction stove. Gas stoves are simply SO bad for indoor air (if you have one, make sure to run a filter next to it!). I’ve not ever read anything about induction stoves and miscarriages. In fact, this study suggests a lower risk of preterm birth in mothers who cook with induction stoves. Since pacemakers regulate the heart’s electrical activity, I can see how in theory the EMF produced by an induction stove could interfere there –this is a question for a cardiologist.  The bottom line is that the science in unequivocal about the dangers of gas stoves, and so far induction stoves appear to be safe, based on current science. 

April 12, 2024

Q: I recently purchased your Clean Coffee and was wondering if it’s USDA certified organic?

A. All of our coffee beans are sourced from fully certified organic farms. We do not buy or use any other kind. Because the only ingredient in our coffee is those beans, it would be redundant for us to also apply for the same status. It would also drive the prices up to do so. Our coffee is better than organic, too, because it comes in certified non-toxic, compostable bags. We do this because it seems silly to offer organically grown coffee that is shipped to you in a bag that contains PFAS and other toxins. 

Q: Which type of cleanser would be best for taking off sunscreen? I don’t typically use anything besides water, but now that I am using a mineral sunscreen I feel like water is not getting it off. 

A: For the absolute gentlest way to get sunscreen off (you can’t do it with water, you’re right—the minerals are too sticky)–I would try a cleansing balm like this one. Then, if you feel any residue remains, you can suds up with a super gentle facial bar, like this or this. 

Q: My daughter is in early puberty. What deodorant is safe? I don’t want to go overboard, but she smells through her clothes.

A: My favorite deodorant for kids is this one in the lavender scent, which also has anti-fungal properties and may be good for tweens/teens with eczema.

Q: Is Figgy safe for kids furniture?

A: Yes! I actually just learned of this brand when looking for a play sofa that could fit under my teenager’s lofted bed and become a sleeping space for friends when they stay over (NYC problems!). It’s really hard to find anything non-toxic, and while Figgy is made with a polyu foam (versus pure latex), and is not organic, they have CertiPUR, Oeko-Tex, and GreenGuard Gold certifications, which are good enough for me! Figgy actually just sent me a discount code for my readers–use code GOODSTUFF for 15% off.

Q: Is Figgy safe for kids furniture?

A: Yes! I actually just learned of this brand when looking for a play sofa that could fit under my teenager’s lofted bed and become a sleeping space for friends when they stay over (NYC problems!). It’s really hard to find anything non-toxic, and while Figgy is made with a polyu foam (versus pure latex), and is not organic, they have CertiPUR, Oeko-Tex, and GreenGuard Gold certifications, which are good enough for me! Figgy actually just sent me a discount code for my readers–use code GOODSTUFF for 15% off.

Q: Do you have a recommendation for a silicone (or other) hot water bottle for back, etc. pain?

A: You should definitely avoid PVC hot water bottles, especially when they’ll be filled with hot water (which only makes them offgas more).  Here is a silicone one I like.

Q: What is a good moisturizer for your face? One that goes on under your foundation?

A: For a daily moisturizer that is entirely free of toxins and has a bunch of active anti-aging ingredients, I like the Daylight Advanced Facial Cream from Crunchi. If you want something at a lower price point that has fewer actives but it just a really nice daily moisturizer, I love this one from Carina Organics.

Q: I have sensitive skin and I also want products that are the MOST natural and simple. Can you recommend some brands?

A: Yes! I will list 10 products that I adore below, and these brands are safe across the board!

1. Carina Organics Daily Face Moisturizer
2. HiBar Solid Face Wash Bar
3. Jumbo Sticks from Green Goo
4. Tandi’s Naturals Sea Salt & Activated Charcoal Facial Bar Soap
5. Soapwalla Toning Mists
6. Love & Sage – Hydrating Face Cream
7. FATCO Face Cleansing Balm
8. Lumion Oxygen Face Mist + HOCL
9. Farmaesthetics Nourishing Lavender Milk
10. Arame Nourishing Eye Cream from Nolaskinsentials

March 29, 2024

Q: I wonder if you have a recommendation for a healthy eye liner pencil and mascara that don’t run?

A. I love the Ilia lengthening mascara and it does not run. I don’t like their thickening formula, though, because it’s hard to wash off. As for eyeliner pencils, I have not found one that I love, so I do a pressed powder with a brush. Specifically, Beautycounter’s eye palette and Ilia shadow brush.

Q: I see you ordering from Old Navy on social media. I get nervous that it’s toxic. Can you share your thoughts please. 

A: Yes, I admit to buying these sweatpants and matching sweatshirts in the Tall sizes that Old Navy offers. (If you know my IRL, you know that my trauma is that everything has been too short on me since I was 15 years old). I have the set in three colors. This is not because they are toxin-free, but because they are cheap and they fit me and I feel more put together in a matching sweatsuit. Anyway, we know that Old Navy clothing contains PFAS and probably other contaminants, so when I post about buying them it’s about transparency in the concessions I make. If you want a safer sweatsuit set, check out Mate (which I haven’t tried myself and fear would be too short on me!).

Q: What are your thoughts on protein powder versus collagen powder?

A: Collagen and protein powders are both made of protein—it just depends what your goals are. Collagen powder is missing some amino acids so it’s not a complete protein, but the precise amino acids of collagen protein powder is WHY it’s so good for skin, bones, etc. If you’re looking to really build muscle, you might want a real protein powder—this one looks pretty clean. For most of my readers who eat a diverse diet, I would recommend a collagen protein powder over a whey one–studies show that collagen supplementation likely confers benefits to digestion as well as hair, skin, and joint health. My favorite is Needed’s collagen powder. And if you have a teen, I like the Ramp powders. 

March 22, 2024

Q: Can you say more about your feelings on strep and antibiotics?

A.In last week’s email, I posted a reader question about mild strep throat (meaning, a positive strep test in a child who does not have any symptoms or just a slight sore throat without a fever, etc.). The point of my reply was not to suggest that anyone skip antibiotics for strep throat. My advice, as always, is to find a good pediatrician and follow her treatment plan. The not-very-helpful opinion I expressed to this reader was just a prediction that we may see sore throat testing and treatment guidelines change to more closely resemble those in Germany and other European countries. I want to add a few caveats to that, though, which include: 

–The risk of PANDAS from untreated strep.
–The risk of severe illness in populations with strep outbreaks, like what happened last winter in the UK. This also happened to a lesser degree in a neighborhood school where I live. No one died but it was hugely disruptive and miserable for the affected families. 

And of course, my prediction could be totally wrong—maybe antibiotics for strep won’t follow the trend of antibiotics for ear infections. And maybe instead of worrying about antibiotics for strep, which is a bacteria and thus an appropriate target for antibiotics, we should worry more about the fact that doctors are STILL prescribing them for viruses.

Q: I saw your dad’s post on 1,4-dioxane in water. How do we check our water and how do we fix it if it’s bad? 

A: I hope you’re all following us on IG and seeing my cute dad’s posts on toxin-related news pieces (including which ones are worth freaking out about and which are media hype). Recently, he mentioned this map which shows the areas (in 45 stats) that have carcinogenic 1-4, dioxane in their water supply. Fortunately, my water in New York City is okay, but if you check this map and live in a bad area (Long Island people should definitely be aware of this), you’ll need a filter to address it.  If you have one of the filters that I do—the Gimme Clean Water—it’ll reduce 1,4-dioxane by about 50% but not entirely eliminate it. You’ll need reverse osmosis to do that. And since 1,-4-dioxane can be absorbed transdermally, some of our readers in these bad zones have chosen to get whole house RO filters. I know this is a daunting prospect, and if you want to pick the brain of the expert, give us a call at 717-869-6968 and we will put you in touch with John.

Q: Why do you say Prime is worse than any other drink?

A: I posted on social the other day about how my kids eat a lottt of junk but I really will never purchase Prime for them. Let me be clear: I’m not claiming that Gatorade is notably healthier than Prime, but we have to draw the line somewhere and Prime is my somewhere! Even the things Prime does right—like using coconut water—are basically sneaky (it’s from concentrate so really not that healthy at all). But my real gripe with Prime is the artificial sweeteners it uses (sucralose and acesulfame potassium). These likely mess up our gut health and insulin and I am really opposed to them for kids. Finally, Prime’s Energy version has way too much caffeine. If your kid MUST have a hydration drink, the healthiest one I’ve found is Nooma, which is organic and uses stevia for a sweetener. (Roar is okay but uses erythritol for a sweetener and I’m not crazy about that one either).

March 15, 2024

Q: Hi Maia! Strep has been going around and my son tested positive with mild symptoms. His pediatrician recommends antibiotics to prevent future complications like rheumatic fever. I know you’re not a doctor but I’ve always respected your thoughts on these topics. I hate antibiotics and would really like to avoid them, but is strep one of those instances where they’re necessary? 

A. As you note, I am not a doctor, so I will answer this as a mom. The possible complications from strep are scary–including blood infections and rheumatic fever–so when Felix had strep throat in kindergarten, I didn’t hesitate to fill that antibiotics prescription. Since then, however, I have considered the fact that many asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic kids are likely walking around with strep throat at any given time. So you’d think we’d at least occasionally hear of a case of rheumatic fever! Also, Germany (among several other countries) doesn’t always recommend strep tests or antibiotics for mild sore throats. I am not suggesting that you skip antibiotics for your son, and I definitely defer to your pediatrician on treatment. But I do think it’s possible that we may see the guidelines on antibiotics for strep change in the coming years, and that you are reasonable to wonder about the risk of rheumatic fever from untreated mild strep throat. I have never seen any data about this!

Q: What is the absolute gentlest bar soap for a baby? 

A: I love bar soap because it’s so much more environmentally friendly than baby washes. And for a baby, you need only the simplest stuff. Two bars I love: 

1) This one is literally JUST olive oil in bar soap form.

2) This one is made of tallow and just a handful of gentle herbs.

Q: How completely flipped out should I be about benzene being found in acne products? I’ve been using benzoyl peroxide on my face every single day since I was 12. 

A: You’re not alone! Tons of people use benzoyl peroxide because it really by reducing acne-causing bacteria. As you know, a recent study found that OTC acne products with benzoyl peroxide can form carcinogenic benzene. While this only happened when the products were exposed to higher temperatures, I would avoid anything containing benzoyl peroxide while we await studies that confirm these alarming results. (By the way: as bad as benzene is, it’s also unavoidable, as it is found in car exhaust and gas stoves, etc. etc.)

There are two natural brands that make products for acne-prone skin. The first, Pure Haven created uses natural sources of salicylic acid in their Clear Up line. And it’s 20% off right now.

I also love Nola Skinsentials for oily and acne-prone skin. I’ll list my favorites from this Black-owned business below. 

March 8, 2024

Q: I have the Marie retinol cream you like and just bought the Crunchi serum and Beautycounter cream you recommend–in what order do you put them on?

A. Yay! I hope you like these three as much as I do. At night, this is my exact face routine (including the products you mentioned):

1. Oil cleanse with this balm, ending with a good scrub with a charcoal cloth.
2. Foam cleanse with a clarifying  wash and the Luna 3. 
3. Apply toner with reusable rounds. 
4. Dab on pea-sized about of Marie Veronique retinol emulsion. (The tube lasts forever.)
5. Use one dropper of Crunchi peptide serum on face and neck.
6. Slather on Beautycounter ceramide cream.
7. Lock it all in with Love & Sage oil-based cream. 

Q: I keep hearing that workout clothes can be toxic–what do you recommend for yoga pants?

A. Ugh, yes, articles like this one are terrifying and I hate to say it but I do agree with the conclusions they draw (which is: workout clothes often contain chemicals like bromated flame retardants and PFAS, and your skin can definitely absorb this stuff). This is scary for me since I work out almost every day and I tend to wear my leggings (Beyond Yoga, Lulu Lemon, Alo, etc.) alllll day. This type of clothing (both the production and disposal of) is also an environmental nightmare. One of my goals for 2024 was to upgrade my workout clothing, but I haven’t made much progress. But! Your question just prompted me to put the following items in a cart (these brands are all clean):

1. Groceries leggings.
2. Pact set. (An insane bargain especially now when Pact is having a daylight savings sale).
3. MATE biker shorts. (I want their leggings, too!).

Q: What do you make of the news about applesauce having lead? I’m now freaked out to feed my daughter any applesauce in case this happens again!

A: We did see this in the news, and of course it’s horrifying. In this case, the cinnamon seems to be the cause of the contamination (from the grinder), but apple sauce and juice CAN be sources of heavy metal exposure in general (usually arsenic). You’ve probably noticed that I am constantly harping on how important independent testing is. This is why. We love brands that are Clean Label Product verified, like Once Upon a Farm and Serenity Kids because they are testing for contaminants, including lead.

March 1, 2024

Q: Do you have any clean, effective eye cream recommendations for 40-somethings? 

A. I am enjoying 100% Pure’s caffeine eye cream for depuffing and moisturizing. I use this in the morning. At night, I am not currently using an eye cream, instead just putting my other skincare products under my eyes—at the moment, that is Crunchi’s peptide serum, Marie Veronique’s retinol night emulsion, Beautycounter’s ceramide water cream, and Love & Sage’s oil-based face cream. I used to be a minimalist, but this combo is really doing it for me these days! 

Q: I saw that Honest Co. diapers are now elemental chlorine free instead of TOTALLY chlorine free. Is this worse or better?

A. Honest diapers are Good Stuff (not Best Stuff) in our Diaper Guide. We gave them this designation because they are free of dyes, fragrance, lotion, parabens, and phthalates—but they still have a top and back sheet that are made of petroleum-based plastic. This switch to elemental chlorine-free doesn’t change our ranking—in fact, we think this distinction is meaningless. (The reason requires kind of a long, boring explanation, but you can read it here.)

Q: Do you love the new undereye concealer you mentioned buying?

A: I recently unboxed (on Instagram) a new undereye concealer, after finding that I hated Ilia’s and think Beautycounter ‘s is only okay. TLDR: Crunchi’s My Alibi is amazing. As a bonus, it’s probably the cleanest of these three brands if you were to be very picky about every single ingredient. I’ve been applying it with Ilia’s blending brush — and it’s hands-down the best I’ve tried. 

Q: Is there any evidence that multivitamins actually DO anything?

A: This has been the million dollar question for a long time but some recent studies changed my mind a bit and then here is another recent one suggesting that there really is a benefit for cognition. (You can check out our multivitamin guide for the brands we like.)

February 23, 2024

Q: Firstly thank you! You have been so helpful for the past few years. Secondly- could you please do an article about electrolyte drinks.  Love your opinion and what flavored drink you recommend.  

A. There are 7 key elements needed to maintain electrolyte levels: sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, bicarbonate. The best way to get these substances is through the foods we eat, and many “sports drinks” are  high in sugar and dyes. Some don’t even contain the aforementioned seven substances. Generally, “electrolyte enhanced waters” are a better bet than a “sports drinks.” These are just plain water with these nutrients added back in. Electrolyte powders can be even better as they can be added to your own filtered water. My favorite is this one. 

Q: How can I get PFAS out of my water cheaply and without installing a filter since I am just a renter?

A. You’ve maybe seen the brand new headlines that a whopping 60% off this country drinks water contaminated with PFAS from the taps in their homes. This is not even surprising to me, and it’s why we’ve been harping on the importance of a water filter for years. If you can’t pull off an undercounter unit that includes PFAS filtration, the next best bet is a pitcher filter that specifies that it takes care of PFAS. You could also get a reverse osmosis counter-top filter (I had and loved this one when I was a renter). RO water filters do effectively remove PFAS

Q: What’s your take on all the Stanley cup drama?

A: Lead in insulated water bottles is nothing new–and in almost all cases there is no way for the lead that’s used inside the insulated part to touch liquid in the cup OR the hands of the person holding the cup. If the “button” on the bottom of your Stanley tumbler is compromised or falls off, then you should throw the cup away. Otherwise–despite the lawsuit–I don’t see how drinking from a Stanley presents any risk. We have, however, never sold Stanley in our store, and one of the reasons we’ve chosen to partner with Klean Kanteen is that they do NOT use any lead, even in their insulated bottles. Instead, Klean Kanteen cups are sealed with a button made of either silica or glass. 

Q: Do you think tea is healthier than coffee?

A: I don’t drink coffee, but I don’t actually think tea is healthier. Both tea and coffee are superfoods with a ton of well-documented health benefits. I drink tea instead of coffee for a few reasons, the biggest of which is that it has less caffeine so I can have 3 or 4 cups without getting jittery–thus prolonging my cherished morning ritual! I also drink my green tea plain, so I can intermittent fast while still caffeinating myself in the morning (alas, I don’t like black coffee!). I’m sure you know that both tea and coffee can be sources of toxin exposure, and because they are daily habits it is worth making sure you’re getting the Good Stuff. We have written about the safest coffeeand tea on our blog. 

February 16, 2024

Q: Is Athletic Greens/AG1 good stuff? 

A.  I feel like I see an AG1 ad every time I turn on the TV, which made me skeptical, obviously. But I was curious like you, so I recently looked at the ingredients and then had my mom (a trained holistic health coach) look as well. Honestly, it seems pretty legit. They are using the right versions of vitamins and minerals, and they say they have third-party testing for purity (although I have not seen the actual Certificate of Analysis yet). AG1 has a lot of antioxidant/nutritional powerhouses in its blend–including green tea, cocoa polyphenol, ashwagandha, reishi, and kelp extracts. There are a few things I am not so into, like the fact that it has stevia, which just does not taste that good to me most of the time. I also don’t love natural flavors (more on my thoughts on that here), but it’s not a deal-breaker. Also, AG1’s probiotic blend contains only 7.2 billion CFU (to be considered Best Stuff they must have at least 20 billion)–so I would not replace a high quality probiotic supplement with this. In any case, AG1 offered to send us some so we are going to try it.

Q: I just went to a “Melaleuca” party. They tout themselves as environmentally friendly and free of toxins. They are for sure an MLM and they got super worked up about EWG when inquired about their products on there. What can you share about this company? I’ve been following Gimme the Good Stuff for about 9 years now and don’t recall seeing anything by them. 

A. I am surprised I have never mentioned Melaleuca, actually, because they’ve been around forever and are constantly reaching out to see if I can include them in our guides. I can’t get on board with this company–they are super vague about their ingredients and I have never gotten the transparency I would need from them to recommend them. That said, I am not totally against MLM business models. For one thing, I know a lot of women making real money doing it, and some of these brands are among the cleanest out there. Three that I love: Crunchi, Beautycounter, Pure Haven. If you’re interested in any of these as a business, hit reply and I will put you in touch with the women who are crushing it in this space. And if you want to shop their products, I consider all three of them entirely safe. 

Q: Which is your favorite Seed Phytonutrients products? Which scent do you like?

A:  This is the Seed set that I use, and it smells amazing. 

Q: I know you’re a vegetarian, but what do you think of tallow in skincare, etc.?

A:The timing of this question is funny because I just approved a new brand of tallow-based skincare–FATCo–to bring into our store’s lineup. And Tandi’s (tallow-based soaps and cleaning products) was the first product line we carried a decade ago–and it remains a best seller! So yes, if I don’t think too hard about what tallow IS, I can smear it on my face, lol. In case you don’t know: Tallow is rendered animal fat, which is known for its versatility and eco-friendly qualities in skincare and cleaning products. Its use dates back centuries, and modern formulations harness its natural emollient properties, making it a nourishing ingredient for the skin. Tallow is rich in fatty acids that closely resemble the skin’s natural oils, promoting hydration and aiding in moisture retention. When tallow is incorporated into laundry soap, it helps to break down and lift away dirt, grime, and stains from fabrics because of this same unique blend of fatty acids. Tallow-based laundry soaps clean effectively at lower temperatures, which makes it environmentally friendly (it’s also biodegradable). As you can tell, we love tallow! 

February 9, 2024

Q: What’s the healthiest non-dairy creamer? 

A.  We’ve written guides for almond and oat milks–and there are some truly healthful brands out there! Creamers are harder–they tend to have a lot more seed oils and other thickeners, for obvious reasons. I think the Elmhurst Unsweetened Oat Creamer is probably the best best, but I would avoid the flavored versions.

Q: Did you make your own baby food? 

A. I really tried with Felix, but he was SO slow to accept any solids (still wanted to mostly just nurse even well beyond his first birthday). I become very discouraged after spending time and money preparing food that ended up being tossed. So I ended up relying on pouches for a lot of the purees he started on. And you guys are lucky because now there are fresh and frozen baby foods that are legit as healthful as when you can make at home! These include Yumi and Little Spoon. (Little Spoon is the most affordable, and they are having a sale right now–50% OFF your first order with code LOVEBUG50.)

Q: Recommendation for a stain-remover, please. 

A:  I can’t believe I don’t talk about this miracle bar more often. It REALLY works, and will last for years.

Q: What is the difference between Naturepedic and Happsy?

A: You hear me talk about these two mattress brands a lot, and both of them are really wonderful (they are actually made by the same parent company). Happsy is my top pick for kids because it’s super safe and more affordable than the other brands we call Best Stuff.  Naturepedic is the most luxurious non-toxic mattress for pickier sleepers (especially the EOS)–and it is now EWG-verified. Both Happsy and Naturepedic are on sale for Presidents Day.

Q: Are microcurrent devices like the Bear or NuFace safe? 

A: After I posted in my Stories about the Bear, a few of you asked what I think about microcurrent devices more generally. I’ve looked into both the safety and efficacy–it’s good news on both fronts. I am vowing to actually start using the Bear–which has been in my cabinet unopened for months. Anyway, my post was also about this Secret Sale. If you use code MAIA25 you’ll get an extra 25% off. The Luna 3–which I have been using for years to wash my face–looks like the best deal at 41% off (before the code). I was considering buying the Iris for my eye bags, but then a follower told me it doesn’t work so I am sticking with Luna 3 and Bear! 

Q: Do you have a recommendation for a non-toxic popcorn popper?

A: If you’re cool with a microwave (I use mine freely and without worry!), then this popcorn maker is great and made of glass. 

Q: Do your kids actually eat the Skout bars?

A: This made me laugh because nope, they sure don’t! But *I* love the peanut butter versions and I really love the peanut butter cookies. Also! Friends say that their younger kids DO like the bars–so maybe you want to try them for a toddler before their tastebuds are ruined by Z-Bars. (I think the Skout sale–up to 30% off–is ending this weekend, if you want to try to get your little kids hooked.)

January 26, 2024

Q: Is newer nonstick cookware actually safe? I mean brands like Caraway, the Always Pan, etc. that are so heavily advertised.

A.  I think the new nonstick technology is a huge improvement over the old stuff (Teflon is made of PFAS, which are now called “forever chemicals,” and which we know are really bad stuff). Some purists will tell you to cook on only stainless steel or cast iron, and we do plenty of that in my home (brands I like can be found in this guide). But I also really love the cookware I have from Our Place and Caraway. Both of these brands have disclosed the independent testing that reveals that their pots and pans don’t contain heavy metals or PFAS. Even safer than these brands is a company called Xtrema–I have an egg pan and a roasting tray from them and both are wonderful. They are more less-stick than truly nonstick, but I have zero concerns about their safety. (It looks Xtrema is actually having a huge sale right now.)

Q: Is there a cheaper mattress than Happsy that you think is safe enough for a kid? 

A. Last week, I recommended Happsy as my top pick for a more affordable toxin-free mattress. But, if you want an even less expensive one, you might consider this futon, which is what my kids slept on comfortably for a decade each, and which start at $658. 

Q: But should we get organic cotton for underwear at least?

A:  I got this follow up after I said that synthetic materials are unlikely to pose a danger to the person wearing them (although materials like viscose, polyester, and nylon are bad for the environment.) But! I do choose to wear almost exclusively organic cotton bras and underwear. My favorite brands are Subset and Pact. 

Q: Do you think epidurals are dangerous? Did you have them? 

A: I did not have an epidural during the births of either of kids (here is more on that, if you’d like to read a bit of one of my birth stories). There are some studies that show an association with (short-term) neural delays in kids who were born with an epidural. But other studies show epidurals actually improve neurological development because they reduce the risk of postpartum depression in mothers. Here are three things I think about when it comes to epidurals: 

• The lack of any pain medication during my births, especially the first one, made labor and delivery truly excruciating (Wolf’s birth was mercifully short).
• As soon as the birth was over, I did appreciate being able to get up and leave the hospital so quickly. (The photo above is of Felix and me about 24 hours after his birth–I had already forgotten the misery of getting him into the world because I was so in love!). 
• Almost every wonderful, brilliant, healthy kid I know came into the world via a pain-medicated birth, so I can’t say I believe epidurals to be “dangerous.” 

I do love sharing war stories with women who also skipped pain meds–so if you are one of them, feel free to hit reply and we can talk about transition without an epidural ;). 

Q: I can’t find the jumpsuit on Levi’s that you were wearing the other day!

A: Ha, a bunch of you asked for this link. It looks like they don’t make the tan color anymore, but here it is in green.

January 19, 2024