In recent years, an increasing number of parents have adopted a holistic lifestyle aimed at minimising their family’s exposure to harmful chemicals and prioritising wellness. One such parent, 29-year-old Chloe Brewster from Texas, is at the forefront of this movement. Since embracing a “crunchy” lifestyle, Brewster has transformed how her family approaches health and the everyday products they use, engaging in a quest for safer, non-toxic alternatives.
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Brewster’s journey began in earnest after she watched a documentary in 2022 that revealed how terms like “fragrance” and “natural flavours” can obscure potentially harmful synthetic chemicals. Alarmed by her findings, Brewster started meticulously researching the ingredients in the products she used daily, which soon led her to reconsider everything from skincare to cleaning supplies and even the quality of water in her home.
“It was quite an eye-opener for me, and I ended up checking the ingredient labels for everything in my house,” she shared in an exclusive interview. Brewster’s commitment deepened following the birth of her first child in 2023, prompting her to prioritise wholesome foods and outdoor activities while actively reducing exposure to household chemicals. “I was determined to make healthier choices for my family,” she recalled.
One of the most significant changes Brewster implemented was installing a whole-house water filtration system at a cost of approximately £4,000, including installation. This decision stemmed from her belief that water is crucial not just for consumption, but also for skin health. “Your skin is your biggest organ, and what you apply to it — including water — gets absorbed into your body,” Brewster emphasised.
She and her husband viewed the filtration system as a vital long-term investment in their family’s health, even though it meant reassessing other household expenses. “We had to set our priorities straight. For us, investing in a water filter and organic mattresses took precedence over fully decorating our home initially,” Brewster explained. Now, she reflects fondly on her decision, noting the clear benefits, such as improved taste in water and visible skin benefits for her and her children.
The filtration system is designed to remove various contaminants, including PFAS, lead, aluminium, chlorine, and pharmaceuticals. “This is likely our biggest health investment, and the difference has been incredible,” Brewster said. “My hair and skin feel softer than ever, and my children’s skin is beautifully smooth.”
For families considering similar lifestyle changes, Brewster advocates starting small. “Rather than attempting a complete overhaul all at once, focus on manageable steps. I always suggest beginning with items like candles, air fresheners, and room sprays, which often contain toxic ingredients labelled simply as ‘fragrance’,” she advised.
She points to her experience with the cleaning company Branch Basics as a valuable resource in her journey toward a non-toxic home. “They focus on education first, teaching me about ingredient labels and potential household toxins. Their ‘toss the toxins’ course was particularly enlightening and equipped me with the knowledge I needed,” she noted.
Brewster acknowledges the overwhelming nature of making significant lifestyle changes and the associated costs. However, she is firm in her belief that the objective should be progress, rather than perfection. “Being a crunch mum doesn’t mean achieving 100% perfection all the time. It’s about striving to provide better choices for our families daily,” she reasoned.
As Brewster continues to inspire others on this path towards a cleaner, healthier lifestyle, she encourages an incremental approach to implementing these changes. “The journey doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Even using a fridge water filter can greatly benefit your health,” she concluded. As more parents like Brewster join the ranks of the “crunchies,” a collective shift towards wellness and informed choices looks set to continue growing in communities across the UK and beyond.