I am very environmentally conscious, green, eco, sustainable person. However I have always had it in the back of my mind that I'm not quite there, not quite good enough, not quite knowledgeable enough, but I reason with myself that life is a learning curve and every little I do contributes to a big difference.

One day while wondering through a book shop (a passion of mine) I came across the book I now call my bible: 'Save Cash and Save the Planet' FOE, 2005). I read the book from cover to cover very quickly and have since taken on board a lot of what it has to say.

There were many little pointers for me, growing my own loofas, joining my local FOE, but the main thing I have jumped on with both feet is chemicals, or the lack of. I had no idea how often we put ourselves at risk, or what the dangers really are. My first stop was writing an article detailing the most important points (in my opinion) to send to others. This however, just made me more passionate (well angry) that there was so much out there that is advertised as safe, or we are led to believe is safe, but is doing so much damage to our bodies and the environment.

Halfway through ‘my bible’ I was preaching to anyone and everyone: “this book is brilliant”, “It has all the answers”, “It suggests…”. It was probably this that led a friend to lend me another book, either to shut me up or because she knew I would love it: ‘The Thrift Book’ by India Knight. Although it did not take the place of ‘my bible’ it did continue to inspire and teach me, and as it was more recent give me another long list of websites to trail through.

So my mission was clear: make my own natural toiletries and cleaning products. But why stop there. I also feel compelled to inform any that are interested in my findings on a whole range of issues. I have divided them into categories listed at the side, feel free to browse through. Feedback is always welcome.