9 Tips For Enjoying The Great Outdoors The Non-Toxic Way

Fertilizers and pesticides can contain chemicals made from petroleum. Try mulching, mowing, hand weeding, or using an organic spray in your yard.

Unfortunately, like other personal care products, sunscreens are poorly regulated and contain hazardous ingredients. When shopping, check the labels and avoid these dangerous ingredients:

* Oxybenzone

* Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate)

* Insect repellent

You can also check out the Environmental Working Group's Guide to Safer Sunscreen for nontoxic options!

The best way to protect yourself against the sun is to find some shade and sport a stylish hat! Healthy skin trumps a tan any day.

Regardless of what type of sunscreen you use, avoid sprays and loose powders. These are much easier to accidentally inhale, and can be poisonous.

Making and using your own compost can be an alternative to using synthetic fertilizers. Beyond Pesticides has lots of good tips!

Get rid of your lawn, and the maintenance it requires! Go natural with native plants, rock gardens, and other easy landscaping techniques.

When shopping for outdoor supplies such as tools, planters, toys, and play sets, choose wood & metal options instead of plastic. These are better for the environment, aren't made from petrochemicals, and are less likely to contain toxic chemicals. If these aren't options, try to find products made out of recycled plastics. Check out this list of eco-friendly outdoor play equipment companies from Inhabitots!