Stop using products tested on animals

Like my “reduce reuse recycle” goal, this is bound to be an ongoing thing, but I feel pretty comfortable marking it as complete. It’s firmly fixed in my consciousness now. When we go to the store for “personal care items,” I mark the things for which we need to find new brands. This system seems to be working pretty well.

I switched from Secret Platinum strength to Tom’s of Maine this weekend, not just because of the animal testing issue but also because of the aluminum content. I hate feeling like I’m shellacing my armpits, but unfortunately, I sweat like a fat 12-yr-old boy. March in Illinois is one thing, but July in Florida is going to be a whole ‘nother story.

I traded my Chapstick for Burt’s Bees, Ivory soap for Pure & Natural, and Dove shampoo for Tresamee (sp?). I’m trying to keep in mind that this is a process. My house just isn’t going to be suddenly free of products tested on animals. But every time I buy something cruelty-free, I feel a little better.

I switched from Dove bodywash (Unilever tests) to St. Ives, which does not. I also bought Kleenex brand instead of Puffs. Proctor & Gamble tests for sure, but I don’t know about Kleenex. If anyone knows, please give me a shout.

I went to PETA’s website and downloaded their lists of companies that do and do not test on animals. I did NOT read anything else on the site. It’s just too horrific, and if I don’t avoid reading that stuff, I’m angry all the time, which is really bad for me. So… Lists only, no browsing.

I don’t plan to throw out any products I already own (what would be the point of being so wasteful?), but I’ll be replacing them with animal-friendly alternatives as I use them up.