Here are the sources of six of the biggest household toxins - some that you can remedy today in less than a few minutes.

Realistically, you won’t be able to tackle all toxic areas of your home at once; instead prioritize and focus on the areas of your home (your bed?) or products (all-purpose cleaner?) that you use the most.

A healthy alternative would be to purchase an untreated mattress that is filled with cotton or wool. But beware: the healthy choice comes at a hefty premium — expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $4,000 for a chemical-free queen mattress. I guess you have to ask yourself: "what price for your heath?"

Another danger that lurks among the sheets are dust mites that feed on dead skin cells and can cause allergic reactions in some people. Frequently cleaning bedding in hot water is a surefire way to keep the bugs at bay.

Shower curtains
The No. 1 thing you can do to improve the quality of your home today is to get rid off all vinyl shower curtains, which are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) that off-gas toxic chemicals. A two-year study from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice in Virginia found that the curtains released toxins that linger in the air are linked to damage to the liver, lungs, central nervous system, and reproductive system. Replace vinyl shower curtains with cotton canvas, hemp, or rayon shower curtains that are machine washable.

Cleaning products
Avoid chlorine bleach, ammonia, and other acid-based cleaning products, which can not only irritate your eyes and skin, but can also cause respiratory problems.

Instead, use natural cleansers like soap, water, baking soda, borax, lemon juice and vinegar. Alternatively, swap out your old chemical-based cleaning products for natural brands like Seventh Generation, Method, or Mrs. Myers. For more information on the health and safety of household products, check out the safety information here.

Also invest in a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove dust mites, dust, and dirt from your floors. HEPA filters trap small particles that may cause problems for allergy sufferers and others with health problems.

Kitchenware
Teflon-coated pans and plastics contain carcinogens. We have heard a lot in the media about both Teflon and plastic and their potential hazards to our health and it is confusing to keep track of which cookware and which plastics are safe or not. Make it easy on yourself and your family; cook with enameled cast-iron or seasoned stainless steel and microwave and store food in glass, not plastic. If you are going to continue to use plastic, avoid putting it in the dishwasher or microwave and throw away any plastics with cracks or cloudiness. >>>>