How we choose
A recommendation should show its work.
The original shop is an archive, not a permanent stamp of approval. New best-in-class picks must clear a stricter, visible evidence bar and explain what the evidence still cannot prove.
Research hierarchy
We start with primary peer-reviewed papers and current government sources. For health questions, we weigh randomized interventions and consistent pooled human evidence more heavily than a single small cohort. Animal and mechanistic studies can explain plausible pathways, but do not directly estimate everyday human risk.
Product inclusion
We preserve the former Be Gone Goods inventory as an archive. New best-in-class listings require an explicit phthalate-free statement for the exact product or a clearly applicable formula policy, a disclosed formula or material, strong real-world ratings when available, and meaningful independent support wherever the category offers it.
Our assurance ladder
Certified + explicit claim is the strongest label we use: a named independent program supports a current maker claim. Third-party tested + explicit claim means the maker identifies outside testing, even if the public page does not include a complete laboratory report. Explicit claim + transparent formula relies on current maker documentation and therefore carries less assurance. Every product page names its level and its limitation.
“Phthalate-free” is not shorthand for absolute zero. A certification can set a concentration limit, review a formulation, or restrict intentional use without publishing a batch-level result at every possible detection limit. We say which one it is.
Exact-match discipline
We link the exact product and size whenever possible. When an old scent, formula, or kit appears retired, the page says so and may list a current equivalent. We exclude eBay offers and avoid generic search-result links because age, authenticity, exact variant, and condition are difficult to verify.
Price sorting
Seller rows are sorted by displayed item price on the date shown. We do not pretend that item price equals delivered cost: shipping, tax, geography, subscriptions, coupons, sizes, and stock can change. Always verify the final checkout and exact variant.
Corrections and updates
Science, formulas, and prices all move. Each research brief links to its source and each comparison records a check date. If a listing has changed, the source link lets you see the current state before buying.
What we never claim
- That “natural” automatically means safer.
- That “fragrance” proves a product contains phthalates.
- That a front-label “phthalate-free” claim equals independent testing.
- That an observational association proves cause and effect.
- That buying a recommended product prevents or treats a medical condition.