Empty Nest and Navigating Dorm Life Shopping

Sending kids off to college this fall meant stepping into the empty nest stage and lots of dorm room prep. From bedding and storage to shampoo and body lotion, I tried to find safer options where I could. The truth is, it wasn’t perfect. Some products were too expensive, others weren’t available in stores, and labels were often confusing. But I’ve learned that progress over perfection is what really matters. Everyday exposures to chemicals like phthalates, PFAS, and BPA add up over time, which is why even small swaps toward safer products can make a big difference. My goal has never been perfection - it’s helping families make steady, sustainable shifts that truly support long-term health.