Spring Clean your Home & Hormones: Ditch Endocrine Disruptors

AUTHOR: MARIAH PRINCE ALLEN, DNP, FNP-BC

Spring is a season of renewal—a time to refresh your space, clear out the clutter, and set the tone for the months ahead. But while you’re deep-cleaning your home, have you thought about the hidden toxins lurking in everyday products?

Many household items—from cleaning sprays to skincare and plastic food containers—contain endocrine disruptors, chemicals that interfere with hormone balance, metabolism, and energy levels. And for high-achieving women balancing demanding careers, the last thing you need is something secretly working against your health and productivity.

Let’s dive into how these chemicals affect your body and how to detox your home for hormone-friendly living.

What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are hormone-disrupting chemicals that interfere with your body’s natural signaling system. They mimic or block estrogen, thyroid hormones, and cortisol, throwing off metabolism, weight, mood, and energy levels.

These toxins have been linked to:

✔ Unexplained weight gain and difficulty losing weight

✔ Fatigue and brain fog

✔ Irregular cycles and worsened perimenopause symptoms

✔ Increased stress and anxiety

✔ Sleep disturbances and inflammation

The good news? You can eliminate many of these hidden toxins just by making a few simple swaps.

5 Common Sources of Endocrine Disruptors & What to Use Instead

1. Cleaning Products: Most cleaning sprays, detergents, and air fresheners contain phthalates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, all of which disrupt hormones and metabolism.

✔ Swap it for:

• Fragrance-free or naturally scented cleaning products with essential oils

• DIY cleaning sprays made with white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon

• Reusable microfiber cloths instead of disposable wipes

2. Plastic Food Containers & Water Bottles: Many plastics contain BPA (bisphenol A), a chemical that mimics estrogen and can disrupt hormone balance. Even BPA-free plastics can contain harmful compounds.

✔ Swap it for:

• Glass or stainless steel food storage containers with silicone lids

• Beeswax wraps or reusable silicone food bags instead of plastic sandwich bags

• A stainless steel or glass water bottle to avoid plastic exposure

3. Skincare & Beauty Products: Your skin absorbs up to 60% of what you apply, meaning toxic ingredients in lotions, deodorants, and makeup can enter your bloodstream. Parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are common offenders.

✔ Swap it for:

• Fragrance-free, plant-based lotions and moisturizers

• Aluminum-free, natural deodorants

• Mineral-based or botanical skincare and makeup

4. Candles & Air Fresheners: Most scented candles and air fresheners contain synthetic fragrances, which are loaded with endocrine-disrupting phthalates.

✔ Swap it for:

• Beeswax or coconut wax candles with essential oils

• An essential oil diffuser instead of aerosol sprays

• Dried herbs or citrus peels for a natural home fragrance

5. Tap Water: Your tap water may contain pesticides, heavy metals, and hormone-disrupting chemicals. Municipal water treatment doesn’t always remove these toxins.

✔ Swap it for:

• A high-quality water filter that removes heavy metals, pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues

• A reusable stainless steel or glass water pitcher with a built-in filter

Small Changes, Big Impact

You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight. Start small—swap out one product at a time, read labels, and become more aware of what you’re bringing into your home. Think of this as more than just a spring cleaning checklist—it’s a way to take back control of your energy, metabolism, and long-term wellness.

Your Home, Your Health, Your Power

The products you use daily send signals to your body. And just like a successful business, your hormonal health depends on the systems and environment you create. Spring cleaning isn’t just about decluttering your home—it’s about detoxing your life. And when you remove hidden hormone disruptors, you free up more energy to lead, create, and thrive.

Want a complete checklist to help you spring clean your home and eliminate hidden toxins?

Download My Endocrine Disruptors e-Book