In a sun-drenched, minimalist living room in Utah, a woman sits in a peaceful meditative pose on a plush cream rug, embodying the clarity of a home maintained with non-toxic care. Behind her, a large window reveals the crisp, bright light typical of the Beehive State, while a vibrant fiddle-leaf fig thrives in the corner, symbolizing a healthy indoor ecosystem. The scene is a testament to the powerful connection between indoor air quality and mindful living; by choosing natural, scent-free cleaning practices, she has transformed her living space into a sanctuary where every deep breath is pure, fresh, and free from harsh synthetic chemicals.

Did you know your countertop has 18 times more bacteria than your dog's food bowl? Our lab compared the average CFU per square inch throughout our kitchens with the averages for other common household surfaces. Surprisingly, our kitchens are probably a lot germier than we'd like to think. Even if you use one of the best countertop materials out there, this spot remains one of the dirtiest surfaces in the kitchen. Other grimy contenders include refrigerator handles, which average over 55,200 times more bacteria than a remote control; dishwasher handles, with 1,392 times more bacteria than a child's hand; and oven handles, with 4,550 times more bacteria than a toilet seat.