If you’ve ever started researching how to create a healthier home, you’ve probably fallen down the same rabbit hole as many of us. One piece of advice leads to another, each listing a cascade of chemicals to avoid, materials to replace and urgent changes you must make, often accompanied by alarming headlines and scare tactics. At WLLW, we believe in a different approach. This isn’t about perfection, it’s about getting back to basics, and understanding that even small, manageable changes can have a real and lasting impact on your health and wellbeing.
The truth is, yes – modern homes do contain materials and products that can affect our health. Synthetic furniture finishes can release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air and plastics in everyday items can shed microplastics into the dust we breathe. But here’s the other truth – you don’t need to overhaul your entire home or throw everything away to make a meaningful difference.
"Every household has its own priorities, budget and realities. The goal isn’t a flawless, toxin-free home – as that doesn’t exist. The goal is a space that supports your health, reduces unnecessary exposures, and feels calm, nurturing and restorative."
This is what our Start Here collection of articles is designed to help with. Think of it as your simple guide to understanding the why and the how. Each article in this series focuses on one subject at a time, with no jargon and no pressure. Just clear, practical advice.
Every home is different. Every household has its own priorities, budget and realities. The goal isn’t a flawless, toxin-free home – as that doesn’t exist. The goal is a space that supports your health, reduces unnecessary exposures, and feels calm, nurturing and restorative. It all starts here. One small choice, then another, and before long, you’ll have built a home that is as healthy as it is beautiful.
To begin, start small. Here are five of WLLW founder Lisa Sternfeld’s top priorities when it comes to building a healthier home:
What's in your air? Use air purifiers, especially HEPA or carbon filters in high-use rooms.
What's in your water? Consider water filters, what you breathe in the shower matters as much as the water you drink.
What's on your walls? Choose low or no-VOC paints, mineral paint, clay or lime plaster, or untreated materials like cork, hempcrete, or natural wood paneling.
What's on your floors? Natural fiber rugs and non-toxic rug pads can help improve air quality.
What are you sleeping in and on? Choose natural or organic bedding, bed linens, toppers and mattresses.
Photography: Nick Rochowski
