SPL LIVING
PHOTO/KAYLA GLEASON
49 March/April 2020 StPeteLifeMag.com
cleaning products.
One tested the blood
in newborns – babies
who had never been
directly exposed to
any of these materials
– and they found
household chemicals
already in their
Unfortunately,
safer replacements
or alternatives for
cleaning and laundry
supplies weren’t
always available. And with this discovery, Leonard felt like it was her
responsibility to do something about it. “I started making my own
But Leonard eventually found an Oregon-based chemist who helped
her perfect the products and combat elements larger corporations
have made us feel are necessity. She notes one of the biggest
marketing tactics by companies today is scent which is typically
these brands have given them contact dermatitis and red, itchy skin.
Molly’s Suds, on the other hand, are naturally fragranced. The
cleaning vinegars, for instance, come in a wide variety, from
rosemary and orange to grapefruit and mint. “We’ve had people call
and say their skin has been breaking out for years and, after making
All of the products produced by Molly’s Suds are biodegradable,
with their washable counterparts.
“We are always safe for people and the planet so we want the
7490 30th Ave. N., Suite B, St. Petersburg
waste-free storefront right next
door. Monica Leonard opened The
into their current facility.
“The company we bought
this from, this used to be their
showroom, so we had this odd
little space we didn’t know what
to make a place where people can
come in and be educated and where we could ensure what they are
name suggests – purchase reusable jars or take free ones donated
by other shoppers. “The planet has a huge waste problem so we saw
While many of the products available are from the Molly’s Suds
line – like their bestselling laundry powders and natural whiteners –
range of supplies. The shop stocks everything from reusable straws
to package-free toothpaste tablets to washable zip-top bags.
Even the décor adheres to their waste-free standards. “The big table
in the middle of the store and the old Toledo scale were left here
from the previous owners who said they were just going to throw
don’t even think about what can be reused. We want to change that
And, while you wouldn’t initially think of a cleaning supply store
is often host to baby showers, birthdays and bachelorette parties.
“People can book us for events and come in and DIY their own
deodorants, body lotions and more. We have a whole book of
recipes and all the tools you could need whether it’s measuring cups,
The Make and Take Station is also open to everyone during regular
business hours and all of the equipment is free to use, you only have
events planned to celebrate Earth Day
and their anniversary in April, from
clothing swaps to candle-making.
2935 Central Ave., St. Petersburg
Boutique has set up shop in the heart of
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