In a world overflowing with choices, embracing a minimalist approach to household cleaning and personal care has become a cornerstone of our daily lives. Since our initial discussions on this topic in 2009 and 2012, the demand for an updated, streamlined guide has grown significantly. Many of you have asked about the specific products we use to maintain a clean home and healthy bodies, and a common query revolves around my personal skincare regimen. Our philosophy is simple: fewer products translate to more savings, more precious time, and ultimately, more valuable space. If you’re looking to declutter your cabinets, simplify your routine, and discover effective, natural alternatives, this comprehensive guide offers practical ideas and insights into our tried-and-true favorites, including my much-requested facial care secrets. Let’s dive in and transform your home and beauty routine.
Simplified Household Cleaning Essentials
Our journey to a cleaner, less cluttered home begins with a carefully selected array of versatile cleaning products that tackle virtually every task. You might be surprised to learn how few items it takes to keep our entire house sparkling. For everyday kitchen use, our go-to is J.R. Watkins Lemon Dish Soap, always on hand by the sink for efficiently cleaning pots and pans. Complementing this, we rely on J.R. Watkins Grapefruit Hand Soap, a delightful scent that graces not only our kitchen but also our bathroom and powder room, ensuring cleanliness throughout the home. And of course, no kitchen cleaning routine is complete without an effective solution for automatic dishwashing; our preferred choice is this dependable dishwasher detergent, though it humbly missed its photo op!
The true MVP of our cleaning cabinet, however, is Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Concentrate Cleaner. This product is a revelation for anyone looking to declutter their cleaning supplies. Gone are the days of needing separate bottles for toilets, tiles, and wood floors. This single concentrate handles nearly every surface in our home. Its concentrated formula means a little goes a long way; we typically dilute it by about 50% with water, which significantly extends its lifespan and reduces waste. Applied with a moist microfiber cloth, it effortlessly cleans floors, countertops, tabletops, windowsills, and more. Our absolute favorite is the Lemon Verbena scent – a truly heavenly aroma that makes cleaning a more enjoyable experience.
For an incredibly effective and budget-friendly all-purpose cleaner, look no further than a simple solution of white vinegar and water. We keep this mixture in a spray bottle, primarily using it for streak-free windows and mirrors. It’s also remarkably effective on stainless steel appliances, provided you buff it on “with the grain” of the steel for a flawless finish. My typical concoction is a 3-parts water to 1-part vinegar ratio. The beauty of this solution extends beyond its cleaning power; it’s incredibly economical and eco-friendly. A large jug of vinegar is inexpensive and lasts for ages, saving us money and trips to the store, while also freeing up valuable cabinet space under the sink from an array of specialized cleaning products.
And let’s not forget two essential tools for tackling those stubborn spots: Magic Erasers and Scrub Daddy sponges. Magic Erasers are miraculous for removing grubby marks – think messy handprints on white stair banisters or crayon art on desks. A clever tip to make them last even longer is to cut them in half. For baked-on grease and grime on pots and pans, the oddly named but incredibly effective Scrub Daddy sponges are indispensable. These simple additions complete our minimalist yet powerful cleaning arsenal, proving that less truly can be more effective.
Efficient Laundry Care for a Busy Household
Our laundry routine is designed for maximum efficiency and minimal fuss, with our cornerstone product being Seventh Generation Free & Clear Detergent. This concentrated, hypoallergenic formula is our MVP for every load, effectively cleaning clothes without harsh chemicals or irritating fragrances. Its compact size also means it takes up less valuable shelf space. A significant shift we made years ago was eliminating fabric softener and spray starch from our routine – and honestly, we haven’t missed them a bit. Our clothes feel soft and look great without the added chemicals or cost.
While our standard detergent handles most washes, some stains require a little extra muscle. For those truly stubborn marks that resist a simple pre-treatment, we turn to the heavy artillery: OxiClean powder for soaking items, or OxiClean spray for a more potent pre-treatment than detergent alone. These powerful stain fighters ensure that even the toughest mishaps don’t permanently mar our garments. For life’s unexpected spills and splatters when you’re on the go, a Tide To-Go pen is an absolute lifesaver. We keep one in the kitchen’s junk drawer, another in the car, and it’s always a smart idea to stash one in your purse. This allows for immediate spot treatment, preventing stains from setting in and saving your favorite outfits from untimely retirement, whether you’re rushing out the door or already at a meeting.
Naturally Freshening Your Home’s Air
Maintaining a fresh-smelling home without resorting to artificial, overwhelming fragrances is a priority for us, especially since some family members are sensitive to strong perfumes. You won’t find Febreze or Glade Plug-Ins in our home. Instead, we embrace natural solutions that purify and gently scent the air. Our primary choice for ambient fragrance is soy candles infused with various essential oils, which offer a non-irritating and pleasant aroma. For instance, this Mrs. Meyer’s candle, in the same delightful Lemon Verbena scent as our multi-purpose cleaner, is a particular favorite. My little “mom hack” involves lighting it in the kitchen to create the illusion of a freshly cleaned space – no actual scrubbing required! Beyond scent, we appreciate candles that offer additional benefits, like this specific candle which doubles as a mosquito repellent when enjoyed outdoors.
Another powerful and aesthetically pleasing air purifier is nature itself: plants! They are exceptional at filtering toxins from the air, as highlighted by NASA’s research (you can check out their NASA-approved list for the most effective varieties). Beyond their functional benefits, plants add a touch of natural beauty and vibrancy to any room, which is why we aim to have something green in every space. For those moments when a room feels a bit stale or musty, Eco Me spray air freshener is our go-to. It’s a greener, natural alternative to conventional air fresheners, and the mint scent is wonderfully invigorating. A few spritzes can instantly revitalize a room, rug, or sofa.
Perhaps one of our most effective, yet subtle, tools for odor elimination is the gray charcoal bag. As I’ve shared previously on our podcast, these bags are fantastic for naturally absorbing excess moisture and neutralizing odors. The activated charcoal within the burlap bag traps unwanted smells. To “recharge” them, simply place them in direct sunlight for about an hour once a month, which releases the absorbed odors and reactivates the charcoal for another month of freshness. We strategically place these throughout our home – one in each room, and critically, one in each shoe bin in our mudroom cabinets – to ensure a consistently fresh environment. They would also be excellent for gym bags or cabinets storing sports equipment, where odors often linger. These simple, sustainable solutions ensure our home always smells naturally clean and inviting.
Streamlined Shower Essentials for Body & Hair
Our shower routine is a testament to the power of simplification. While we’ve experimented with shampoo/conditioner combo products, we haven’t found one that truly satisfies our needs. So, we’ve carefully selected a favorite pair: this amazing shampoo and conditioner. The key here is finding products that both John and I enjoy, which eliminates the need for multiple bottles and keeps our shower clutter-free. For my hair, which I recently discovered is naturally curly and not just frizzy, I swear by this AMAZING curl cream. Applied to wet hair right out of the shower, it works wonders on thick hair – whether straight or curly – taming frizz and leaving my hair soft, defined, and much more manageable. For body cleansing, John and I share this giant body wash, a true staple that lasts for months. And in a slightly rebellious move, we’ve found that conditioner makes for an excellent, moisturizing shave gel.
Beyond daily cleansing, I incorporate a few specialized products to keep my skin feeling its best. I love Burt’s Bees Deep Pore Scrub, using it 1-2 times a week in the shower. Its gentle exfoliating beads effectively slough off dead skin, leaving my face incredibly soft and refreshed without harshness. Occasionally, for an intensive hair treatment, I reach for pure coconut oil directly from the jar. Used as a deep conditioner or hair mask, it’s fantastic for softening and detangling. Just remember to wash it out thoroughly with shampoo afterward to avoid greasy hair, but the benefits of deeply nourished strands are well worth the extra step. These carefully chosen products ensure our shower routine is both simple and highly effective for maintaining healthy hair and skin.
Staying Fresh: Deodorant and Oral Hygiene
Neither of us are big on perfumes or colognes, but feeling confident and fresh is important. Our solution lies in effective natural deodorants. This journey has been one of trial and error, as natural deodorants interact uniquely with individual body chemistry. What works for one person might not work for another – it’s almost mystical! We’ve tested countless brands and currently swear by this one. Our advice? Don’t rely solely on reviews; experiment with a few options to discover what truly suits your body.
When it comes to oral hygiene, we prioritize a thorough yet natural approach. Our secret weapon for a truly clean mouth is the Sonicare electric toothbrush. My dentist once told me he could instantly tell which patients used Sonicare because their teeth were noticeably cleaner – a compliment that made me beam! Paired with the Sonicare, we use Tom’s of Maine Whitening Toothpaste, which cleans and naturally brightens simultaneously. While floss is an unpictured but essential part of our daily routine, we’ve opted out of using mouthwash. And yes, our dentist wholeheartedly approves of this streamlined regimen, confirming that sometimes, less truly is more for excellent oral health.
Simplified Essentials for Kids’ Care
With kids, it’s easy to accumulate an overwhelming amount of products. From the very beginning, we’ve strived to keep their routine as simple and functional as possible. Their bathroom counter, for instance, hosts just two essential items. First, Tom’s of Maine Strawberry Children’s Toothpaste, which they adore for its natural ingredients and kid-friendly flavor. Second, the foaming version of our favorite J.R. Watkins hand soap – the fun factor of foam makes handwashing an enjoyable activity for them, much more so than a traditional liquid pump.
Inside their tub, we continue the minimalist theme. We rely on Honest Shampoo & Body Wash, a fantastic 2-in-1 product that streamlines bath time. Its accompanying conditioner, also in a convenient pump bottle, completes their hair care. Pump bottles, incidentally, are a huge win for kids’ independence and reducing mess. A brilliant tip we received from another mom was to use peppermint spray to deter lice. Apparently, lice despise peppermint! We’ve made it a habit to lightly spritz their hair before brushing as part of our morning “out-the-door” routine. So far, this proactive measure has been incredibly successful. While I’m knocking on all the wood I can find, we’ve managed to avoid lice, even during a particularly bad outbreak last year when many of our daughter’s classmates were affected. Hallelujah!
Update: Life has a funny way of challenging our confidence! Despite our best efforts, lice eventually invaded our household, and it was indeed a dreadful experience (you can hear more on that here). The “lice lady” who helped us confirmed that our lapse in using the peppermint spray likely contributed to the infestation. Rest assured, we are now the most vigilant hair sprayers on the planet! The lesson learned is clear: consistency with preventative measures is key, especially when it comes to those pesky creatures.
My Minimalist Makeup Routine: Less Is Truly More
When it comes to makeup, my approach is fiercely minimalist. What you see here – a small collection that fits neatly into a pencil-case-sized bag – is literally all the makeup I own. There’s no overflowing basket, no elaborate plastic drawer system, and certainly no caboodles (though I did cherish one as a kid!). If you catch me at a speaking event, this is what’s on my face. If you spot me at Target, chances are I’m sporting nothing but lip balm and perhaps a rogue piece of lettuce from lunch. This simple approach saves time, money, and space, proving that you don’t need an extensive collection to feel polished and put-together.
My routine begins with the fabulous Physicians Formula Bronzer. I apply it with a large, fluffy makeup brush (my current one is old, but this one is similar), adding a warm, healthy glow. If I’m feeling particularly tired or need a little extra coverage, I might dab some concealer under my eyes, though I confess I’m quite lazy about this step. Next, I apply the universally adored Nars Orgasm powder beneath my cheekbones; it truly does magical things for my complexion. To highlight, I swipe this incredible highlighter stick (which I’m obsessed with!) above my cheekbones and just under my eyebrows, gently blending it in for a luminous finish.
For my eyes, I use a versatile brown eyeshadow palette. The darkest shade goes onto my eyelids and, surprisingly, lightly brushed onto my eyebrows for a subtle darkening effect. Then, I use the lightest color from the same kit just under my eyebrows, on top of the highlighter, to brighten the area. I curl my lashes before applying black eyeliner – a step I’m legitimately terrible at, despite my steady hand for painting walls! Finally, I finish with mascara. And let me tell you about this mascara: it blows every other mascara I’ve ever tried out of the water. I literally stop strangers to tell them about it! It’s an absolute miracle; people often ask if I’m wearing fake lashes or using a growth serum, but it’s just this affordable grocery store mascara. Can you tell I’m absolutely crazy about it?!
The final, transformative step is always a swipe of Boy Brow. This product is my favorite beauty discovery of the year; it’s somehow both extremely natural-looking and makes a huge difference. Many days, I simply wear this with lip balm and a touch of mascara, and I feel significantly more polished than without it. I use the brown color. As for lip balm, it’s always Burt’s Bees – nothing else touches my lips. I have a naturally large mouth, and even the slightest hint of color can make it look disproportionate, to the point where blog readers comment on magazine shoots when makeup artists have applied lipstick! Also nestled in my small pouch are my trusty tweezers and nail clippers for any quick grooming needs. I am by no means a makeup artist, but this fast, easy routine gets the job done. I’ve even considered making a two-minute video to show how quickly it all comes together, especially since people often ask about my cheek products and technique. Let me know if that would be helpful, and I might just muster the courage to hit record!
My Curated Nail Polish Collection
This is probably the one area where my minimalist tendencies might waver slightly, as I know many people opt for no nail polish at all. However, my small collection fits perfectly into one compact basket, and I genuinely enjoy the therapeutic process of painting my own nails and toes (a bonus: it’s significantly cheaper than salon manicures!). This little indulgence is my “treat-yo-self” category. My absolute favorite brand is Butter London. While it’s a bit pricier, its eco-friendly formula and uniquely designed brush make application incredibly easy and flawless, yielding a professional-looking manicure that lasts. For me, the investment is worthwhile for the longevity and ease of use. I also highly recommend Zoya, another eco-friendly brand offering a beautiful range of colors.
The specific shades from my collection shown above include a versatile palette for any occasion:
- Top Row: Butter London Shop Girl, Butter London Ta Ta Lacquer
- Bottom Row: Zoya Nina, Zoya Maura, Butter London Twist & Twirl, Butter London Hardwear Topcoat, Butter London Rather Red, Zoya Kylie, Zoya Louise
My “Unconventional” Anti-Aging & Skincare Routine
Now, let’s venture into what some might consider the “weird” or “woo-woo” part of my routine: my minimalist skincare regimen. You won’t find toners, makeup removers, eye creams, or a multitude of specialized lotions for wrinkles or acne in my bathroom. In fact, I don’t use traditional face wash! While I’m not a dermatologist, this approach has consistently worked wonders for my skin. Even my dermatologist, upon seeing my skin, simply remarked, “Your skin looks happy,” which I happily take as a win!
My secret lies in just three core, all-natural products that cover all my bases. These are: Bragg’s Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (it absolutely *must* be Bragg’s for its purity and concentration!), Dr. Bronner’s Organic Coconut Oil (again, quality is key – cheap or impure coconut oil can clog pores; trust a reputable organic brand like Dr. Bronner’s), and Thayers Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Mist Toner. I recently integrated the Thayers mist, and it’s a perfect complement to the other two. I mist it over my face after applying the other products. Such is my reliance on coconut oil that I leave it on my kitchen counter, having removed the label for a cleaner aesthetic.
As I’ve mentioned, coconut oil is an incredible deep conditioner for hair, but it’s equally miraculous for skin. It serves as my body lotion, face lotion, and makeup remover. At night, I gently rub a small amount onto my face before bed. A word of caution: apply sparingly in the morning, as too much can leave a shiny residue or make your hairline greasy. The key is a light dab here and there. I apply it about 30 minutes before sleep, and it absorbs beautifully without staining my pillowcase, much like any traditional moisturizer. Despite having sensitive skin, I’ve never experienced breakouts with it. I have a theory that since coconut oil is naturally antibacterial, it helps reduce blackheads and breakouts – issues I occasionally faced as an adult with other facial products.
Regarding wrinkles: when we share photos like this one or the image below, people often ask if I don’t age. Of course, I do!
However, over the past year or so of using coconut oil every night, I’ve noticed my skin feels considerably more hydrated and plumper. This increased hydration means less dryness, which in turn makes fine lines around my eyes and forehead appear less pronounced. So, yes, coconut oil is my unexpected anti-aging secret! I often joke that I’m like the dad from My Big Fat Greek Wedding, but instead of Windex, I’m armed with a big jug of coconut oil.
Let’s break down the routine: at night, it’s just a light coating of Dr. Bronner’s Organic Coconut Oil (I swear by this brand for its purity). I rub it into my face exactly as you would a moisturizer. That’s it. No other products. It even doubles as an effective makeup remover. Simply rub a small dab onto your face like a cold cream, then gently wipe it off with a warm, damp washcloth. The warm cloth does most of the work, lifting away all grime and makeup, even waterproof mascara. (Supermodel Gisele Bündchen reportedly uses coconut oil for the same purpose, so you know it’s good!) After wiping, if your skin feels dry, dab on a tiny bit more coconut oil. On makeup-free days, I skip the washcloth step and simply apply it as a night cream.
In the morning, my routine shifts to toning and cleansing. I wipe my face down with a light swipe of diluted Bragg’s Organic Apple Cider Vinegar. Remember, it must be Bragg’s with “the mother” for its full benefits. I dilute it by about half – 50% water, 50% ACV – and pre-mix about two weeks’ worth, storing it in a small lidded container (like one for salad dressing). Each morning, as my tea brews, I dip a cotton ball into this mixture and gently wipe it all over my face. I even keep the cotton balls and ACV in the cabinet with my mugs for convenience, as it doesn’t require refrigeration. The goal is a light coat that should be odorless once dry. If you detect a smell, dilute it further and use less; avoid dousing your face like a salad! A little goes a long way, and this step has significantly helped with preventing breakouts, reducing blackheads, and generally clarifying my skin.
Once my face dries, which takes about 10 minutes, I mist the delightful Thayers Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Mist Toner all over. It smells heavenly and has been a game-changer for adult acne. I recently traveled without it and promptly developed a zit; upon returning home and resuming use, it vanished! With over 4,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, it’s a cult favorite for a reason, and at under $9 for a large 12 oz bottle, it’s an incredible value. I can’t recommend this stuff enough.
Circling back to apple cider vinegar for a moment, here’s a truly astounding (and slightly gross, but miraculous) trick: a cotton ball soaked in undiluted ACV, held against a skin tag for a few minutes daily over a few days, will literally make it fall off. I used this method for a bothersome skin tag near my eye, and three days later, it was GONE. See ya later, taggy! (*flashes peace sign at skin tag*)
In the morning, after the ACV, you can also apply a very light coat of coconut oil, especially if your skin feels dry. It smells wonderful and adds extra moisture. Lately, I’ve been incorporating a jade roller to help absorb the oil. Call it “woo-woo,” but it feels incredibly soothing and cool on my skin, and apparently, it offers a ton of benefits. You can even witness my under-eye bags diminish when I use it in this series of IG stories.
Once a week in the evening, I also engage in microneedling with this tool, and I’m loving the results so far. It’s designed to promote firmer skin, even out skin tone, reduce fine lines, and minimize imperfections by creating tiny, controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the skin’s natural regeneration process. The best part? It doesn’t hurt; it feels like a gentle exfoliating scrub. Always clean it thoroughly after each use (I spray mine with alcohol and let it air dry). While I plan to research serums to use afterward (this one and this one look promising), for now, I simply follow with coconut oil. Surprise, surprise!
Finally, once a week (typically three days after microneedling), I treat my skin to this face mask. You can mix it with apple cider vinegar or water, and you know which one I choose! It leaves my skin incredibly soft and is fantastic for managing acne. With over 16,000 five-star reviews, its popularity is well-deserved. If you have more questions or want to see these techniques in action, including microneedling or jade rolling, check out this series of IG stories for extra info.
For other general favorites of mine, including shoes, slippers, clothes, and various household items, you can find a comprehensive list on this curated Amazon page. Embracing a simplified, natural approach to home and personal care has brought immense benefits to our lives, reducing clutter, stress, and unnecessary expenses. We hope these insights inspire you to discover your own path to a more mindful and effective routine.
More House Cleaning Advice & Resources
If you’re eager to explore more effective strategies for maintaining a clean and organized home, these additional resources offer practical tips and guides:
- How To Deep Clean A Stainless Steel Sink
- DIY 2-Ingredient Homemade Window Cleaner
- Are Robot Vacuums a Worthwhile Investment for Your Home?
- Effective Strategies To Get Rid Of Pesky Fruit Flies
- A Beginner’s Guide to Pressure Washing for Exterior Cleaning
- Finding The Best Home Air Purifier for Cleaner Indoor Air
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