My New Year’s power word this year is CLEAN. Clean body, clean mind, and a clean home. And when I say ‘clean,’ I’m not talking about a resolution to clean up the constant slew of train tracks, stuffed animals, and Hot Wheels cars on my floor (Do they reproduce? Where are they all coming from?!?) I’m talking about a resolution to CLEAN the harmful chemicals that are filling our homes.
Okay, so did I get a few eye rolls already? I know my brother just did! 🙂 But I’ve read some articles lately that have really opened my eyes to the chemicals that are filling our homes. We’re talking candles that emit formaldehyde, shampoos and deodorants carrying acetaldehyde, and our very favorite laundry detergent or fabric softener filled with benzyl acetate (also known as industrial antifreeze).
Still need a little bit more to really let me rain on your parade? Check out some of these statistics from the app ‘Think Dirty.’
Currently there are 80,000 synthetic chemicals that are not fully tested (Source: Natural Resource Defense Council)
In US, cosmetic industry’s panel has reviewed just 11 percent of the 10,500 cosmetic ingredients cataloged by FDA (FDA 2000)
Only 11 Chemicals are banned in US.
Canada has a guideline for just over 650 and The European Union Health Commission has restricted over 1,300 chemicals.
There is outdated government regulations when it comes to cosmetics, that hasn’t been updated since 1930.
No legal definitions of “Natural” and Organic.
Laws are not required to regulate the use of words like “Natural” and “Organic” on cosmetics and personal care products.
Manufacturers are not required to disclose specific fragrance ingredients on the product label. Instead, the generic term parfum is listed, representing a mixture of potentially dozens of chemicals.
Gross, right?
One area that I’m focusing on in our home is with fragrance. I’m a HUGE candle burner. Every single day I like to burn a candle. Not just for the look, but I love having my home filled with “Evergreen” or “Sweater Weather.” But after reading a lot of research on the concerns surrounding candles, I’m starting to change my tune and I’m seeking the benefits of essential oils instead.
My home is still smelling clean and fresh, I’m gaining the incredible health benefits from diffusing essential oils (post on this coming soon!), but I’m also cutting out a laundry list of chemicals from burning candles. Our heath and well-being is giving me a huge ‘high five’ as we speak!
So today, I wanted to share with you 10 of my very favorite winter essential oil blends to diffuse in your home, keeping it a healthy haven this season with a touch of relaxing and inviting.

Cold Winter Night – equal parts Bergamot + Northern Lights Black Spruce
Sweater Weather – 3 drops Eucalyptus + 2 drops Juniper + 1 drop Sage
Fireside – equal parts Frankinscence + Cinnamon Bark + Orange
Winter Blues – equal parts Juniper + Orange
Fresh Snow – 1 drop Clove + 2 drops Cardamon + 2 drops Balsalm Fir
Flu Bomb – 3 drops Eucalyptus + 3 drops Tea Tree + 3 drop Orange
Winter Immunity – 5 drop Thieves (3 drops Cinnamon + 2 drops Lemon + 3 drops Clove + 1 Eucalyptus + 1 drop Rosemary)
Sweet Sleep – equal parts Lavender + Sandalwood + Cedarwood
Winter Mood Boost – equal parts Orange + Eucalyptus + Peppermint (do not use if nursing, as it’s been known to deplete supply)
Fresh Winter Air – 2 drops Rosemary + 2 drops Lemon + 1 drop Bergamot
Happy Diffusing and Happy Clean Living!

Thanks so much for the post, Rachel! This may be exactly what we (I) need to make the same move in our house 😊
I’m already loving the switch! You read about all the chemicals in fragrance and it can be borderline terrifying! So glad I could I help you! Let me know if you need any help. I’d love to share any advice or resources with you!
Thank you! Any recs on the diffuser?
Yes! I’m using this one right now https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07DJYGCHC/ref=mp_s_a_1_38_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1547005193&sr=8-38&keywords=large+essential+oil+diffuser&dpPl=1&dpID=414BB-Y5sBL&ref=plSrch. I really like it because it fills up to 1000sq ft. I’ve been eyeing this one because of how cute it is! Doesn’t cover as much square footage, but I think it’s gorgeous for a room! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0713QT9TD/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1547005064&sr=8-1&keywords=hathaspace+marble+diffuser&dpPl=1&dpID=41tJRQ2bB3L&ref=plSrch