Wrapping paper could be justifiable if it were all recyclable—but it is not. Mom Detective offers tips for keeping the holiday magic without as much waste.
Articles by Amy Ziff
Ask Mom Detective: Are Dishwasher Pods OK for the Environment?
Just in time for the holiday season, an update on dishwasher pods from Mom Detective. Find out how you can protect the environment and cut plastic waste as you clean up after family meals.
A Study of Toxic Chemicals Shows They Hide in Plain Sight
According to a new study, toxic chemicals are everywhere—in your home, in a lot of your stuff, and most definitely in your body. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Learn steps to reduce the sources of toxics in your life.
Ask Mom Detective: Which Clothes Are Sustainable and Which Aren’t—and Why It Matters
Mom Detective answers a question about how to swap fast fashion for truly sustainable alternatives. Hint: natural fibers are better than synthetic ones. And there are a lot of labels to look out for.
Ask Mom Detective: Do Candles Pollute The Air In My Home?
Our Mom Detective breaks down how to burn candles and protect indoor air quality, considering everything from materials to wicks and especially fragrance.
Ask Mom Detective: Are Polyester and Polypropylene Rugs a Safe Choice for My Family?
Are polyester and polypropylene rugs a safe choice for families? Our Mom Detective weighs in on indoor air pollution, microplastics, and alternatives.
The Real Story on Microplastics
In response to a New York Times article, our Mom Detective writes why she was disappointed in the biased reporting about microplastics.
Mom Detective: Why Wrapping Paper Gets a Bad Rap
Paper wrapping is often made from nonrecyclable materials, including plastics. Here are the basics of eco-friendly gift wrapping.
Ask Mom Detective: Are Dishwasher Pods OK for the Environment?
Mom Detective answers a question from a member in California: “I like to use those dishwasher pods in the disposable clear packs, but I want to make sure they break down in the environment. Do they?”
ASK MOM DETECTIVE: Are Bug Spray Ingredients Safe?
Mom Detective answers a question from a member in Louisiana: What bug spray ingredients are safe, and which should be avoided, especially for kids?
ASK MOM DETECTIVE: What is the Safest Sunscreen?
Mom Detective answers a question from a member in Georgia: “What is the safest sunscreen?”
ASK MOM DETECTIVE: Can Plastics Be Detected in Sweat?
MOM DETECTIVE answers two questions from a member in Michigan: “Is it possible to have microplastics in your sweat?” and “Can a person consume too many microplastics?”