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Got a mess? No need to stress! Enter the realm of all-purpose cleaners, your home’s trusty ally ready to tackle virtually any surface. Let’s face it: with an ocean of options available, selecting the right one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! We’ve got you covered. We’ve immersed ourselves in the world of multi-purpose cleaners, carefully analyzing the top contenders, and emerged with a curated list of store-bought champions. At the end of this post, you’ll find a guide on why switching to non-toxic cleaners is beneficial and insights into how we selected these remarkable brands.
Top Eco-Friendly Cleaning Companions for Your Home
- Best For EVERYTHING – Elva’s
- Best Fragrance-Free – The Unscented Co.
- Best Kitchen Cleaner – Ethique
- Best Glass Cleaner – Natura Solutions
- Best Bathroom Cleaner – Earthy Edith’s
- Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner – Blueland Toilet Tabs
- Best Dish Soap – Grove Collaborative’s Ultimate Dish Soap
- Best Scouring Powder – Aspen Clean’s SuperScrub
- Best Zero Waste Cleaner – 0 Waste Cleaning
- Best Carpet Cleaner – Biokleen
- Best Floor Cleaner – DIY
Best Natural Cleaning Products
1. For EVERYTHING – Elva’s 1 Cleaner
We wholeheartedly recommend Elva’s 1 CLEANER, a powerful biodegradable cleaning solution derived from plants. This all-purpose product eliminates the need for multiple specialized cleaners, making it a true multitasker.
Upon our first application, it effectively left kitchen surfaces immaculate without any harsh chemical odors. This plant-based, biodegradable cleaner ensures that surfaces are not only thoroughly cleaned but also left shining. It can be used on a variety of surfaces including glass, kitchen counters, wood, floors, and bathrooms, and is pH-balanced, making it safe for delicate items like antiques and custom wood flooring.
The usage is straightforward: simply spray and wipe for a spotless surface. It was impressive to see dull mirrors transformed into clear reflections, granite countertops restored to their original luster, and hard surfaces gleaming.
Elva’s eco-friendly packaging, featuring a refillable “Bag in a Box” 3L home refill format and an amber glass bottle, significantly reduces plastic waste. We found this cleaner to be safe for nearly all wipeable surfaces, including mirrors, glass, wood, composites, laminate, all types of flooring, granite, marble, stone, metals, stainless steel, plastic, children’s toys, leather, vinyl, car interiors, electronics, and more. It pairs excellently with Swiffer alternatives and eco-friendly mops. Due to its high performance and commitment to sustainability, we have also featured Elva’s 1 CLEANER in our Natural Laundry Detergents, Zero Waste Handsoap, Zero Waste Dish Soap, and Zero Waste Laundry Detergent guides.
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Palm-oil Free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic Safe
2. Best Fragrance-Free – The Unscented Co.
Get ready for our latest cleaning obsession: The Unscented Co.’s All-Purpose Cleaner. This is our secret weapon for achieving a clean, fresh start every day. From kitchen spills to bathroom grime, this cleaner has proven to be our reliable companion.
From the very first use, it became clear that this all-purpose cleaner is the perfect ally for tackling all our cleaning tasks. We appreciate its fragrance, dye, and phosphate-free formula—no harsh chemicals or overwhelming scents, just pure cleaning effectiveness. This has been a game-changer for those sensitive to fragrances.
Let’s not overlook the packaging! The trigger sprayer contains no metal parts, and all plastic components are 100% recyclable. Sustainability wins again! The refillable bottle is also a hit, combining effortless refilling with a comfortable grip—an innovative design.
Don’t just take our word for it; this cleaner has been put to the test in our kitchens, and it has outperformed the competition time and again, all while leaving no overpowering artificial smells behind. In summary, The Unscented Co.’s All-Purpose Cleaner receives a resounding thumbs up from us. We’re excited to keep using this product and explore their other offerings. It has truly enhanced our daily cleaning routine!
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic-Safe
Good to know 🤓
- Palm-oil-free (some products contain RSPO-certified palm oil)
3. Best Kitchen Cleaner – Ethique’s Kitchen Spray Concentrates
For those seeking an effective kitchen cleaning solution without the plastic waste, Ethique’s Kitchen Spray Concentrate is the answer! Here’s the scoop: one plastic-free box yields a 350g bottle of multi-purpose kitchen spray.
The delightful scent of sweet orange oil isn’t just for aesthetics; it actively helps dissolve excess oil and grease, leaving your kitchen looking and smelling pristine. We were particularly impressed by its performance on glass surfaces—streak-free and sparkling.
Ethique’s kitchen spray is crafted from 100% naturally derived, ethically sourced, sustainable ingredients, making it one of the best non-toxic biodegradable cleaning products available. The packaging is noteworthy as well, being made from compostable cardboard.
Making the spray is as simple as can be. Just break the bar into pieces, place it in a heat-proof container, pour over boiling water, whisk until melted, let it cool, and it’s ready to decant into a reusable bottle—prepared in less than five minutes!
This concentrate has been a revelation for our team. Its compact size takes up significantly less storage space compared to traditional cleaning products, making it a win-win in our books. Plus, the satisfaction of reducing single-use plastic is unmatched. Ethique’s Kitchen Spray Concentrate has made a lasting impact in our cleaning routine, and we highly recommend giving it a try!
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Palm-oil Free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic Safe
4. Best Glass Cleaner – Natura Solutions
Natura Solutions is revolutionizing the cleaning game with its outstanding range of products. Leading the pack is their exceptional window and glass cleaner, which not only promises but delivers an unparalleled, streak-free shine on various surfaces, including those tricky cooktops and elegant marble counters.
Utilizing nature-derived cleaning agents alongside a dynamic multi-enzyme formula, this cleaner banishes dirt, grease, and grime. Say goodbye to unpleasant chemical residues; Natura ensures a squeaky-clean surface thanks to their enzymatic formula that speeds up the cleaning process.
Safety is paramount, and this cleaner is non-toxic and family-friendly, making it an excellent choice for households with kids and pets. Plus, it maintains a neutral pH, ensuring it’s gentle on your surfaces, plants, and fabrics. For those who embrace a vegan lifestyle, Natura Solutions is dedicated to plant-based goodness, ensuring their entire product line is free from synthetic additives.
Eco-conscious consumers will appreciate Natura’s commitment to sustainability, evident in their sourcing of ingredients and recyclable packaging. Their dedication has even earned them a 100% product rating from the USDA, reflecting their eco-friendly practices.
Once you try this cleaner, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. It sprays finely, ensuring no drips, transforming cleaning from a chore into a pleasurable experience. With no soaps, foams, dyes, or artificial scents, it’s the ideal choice for those seeking efficiency without compromising eco-friendliness. Don’t forget to check out Natura Solutions’ All-In-One Cleaner, Disinfectant & Deodorizer, which combines plant-based enzymes with hydrogen peroxide for a germ-free home.
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Palm-oil Free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic Safe
5. Best Bathroom Cleaner – Earthy Edith’s
Our journey for the best eco-friendly cleaners led us to Earthy Edith’s Natural Bathroom Cleaner, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. This cleaner embodies our core values of supporting small businesses, zero waste, and top-notch cleaning.
First and foremost, the packaging is impressive. These aren’t your average glass bottles; they are robust, reusable, and feature a spray nozzle that appears built to last. Refills are available, minimizing waste significantly.
When it comes to cleaning power, this product tackles grime like a pro. It effortlessly handles everything from bath bomb residue to the rings left after dog baths, requiring minimal scrubbing. A tip: shake well before use for optimal results.
The secret ingredient? High-acidity distilled white vinegar that disrupts the cell structures of germs, ensuring your bathroom becomes a bacteria-free sanctuary. Despite the vinegar, it leaves behind a refreshing minty scent, thanks to organic essential oils.
Earthy Edith’s operates with a zero-waste approach, promoting reusable and recyclable materials at almost every stage of production. So, while your bathroom sparkles, you’re also supporting an eco-conscious cleaning brand that aligns with your values. We are genuinely impressed and excited to keep Earthy Edith’s in our cleaning arsenal.
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Palm-oil Free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic Safe
6. Best Toilet Bowl Cleaner – Blueland Toilet Tabs
If you’re on the hunt for a greener method to keep your porcelain throne sparkling clean, look no further than the Blueland toilet bowl cleaner tablet! This little powerhouse is crafted from earth-friendly, plant-based ingredients and has the remarkable ability to eliminate stains without the harsh chemicals typically found in toilet cleaners. It’s tough on grime but gentle on Mother Earth—talk about a superhero!
Each tablet comes in a tin-coated steel container, making the packaging fully reusable—no unnecessary plastic waste here! And let’s not forget the refreshing Lemon-Cedar scent that leaves your bathroom smelling as fresh as a lemon grove on a sunny day.
We tested these tablets and were thoroughly impressed. They transformed a toilet in dire need of some care into a sparkling clean fixture with minimal scrubbing. Who knew cleaning the bathroom could be this simple (and eco-friendly)? Our neighbors are equally smitten, sharing their enthusiasm for these tiny cleaning titans. Give them a try to keep your bathroom and the planet clean!
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic-Safe
7. Best Dish Soap – Grove Collaborative’s Ultimate Dish Soap
Imagine this: you just threw a big gathering and now face a mountain of dirty dishes. Fear not! Grove Collaborative’s Ultimate Dish Soap is here to make your cleanup a breeze. This high-performance liquid dish soap has been proven effective against food that’s been stuck on for 48 hours.
This dish soap is not just a warrior against grime and grease; it’s also gentle on the environment. Boasting a formula that’s 98% plant-based, it contains no triclosan, parabens, phthalates, phosphates, or dyes. It’s pure and clean, just as Mother Nature intended.
Our review team particularly loves its 100% natural fragrance, with scent options ranging from Apple & Pear Blossom to Lemon & Eucalyptus. For those who prefer unscented options, there’s also a Free & Clear formula. Each fragrance transforms dishwashing from a chore into a delightful sensory experience.
What sets this dish soap apart is its packaging. Housed in infinitely recyclable aluminum, it champions zero plastic waste—a perfect choice for any eco-friendly household striving for sustainability. We found that this dish soap is gentle on the hands, proving you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for cleanliness. A little goes a long way, making it a standout feature in our cleaning arsenal.
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic-Safe
8. Best Scouring Powder – Aspen Clean’s SuperScrub
Greetings to all cleaning enthusiasts and sustainability advocates! Let’s dive into AspenClean’s All-Natural SuperScrub Scouring Powder. Infused with organic tea tree and lavender essential oils, this scouring powder is your new go-to for tackling stubborn stains around the house. Think of sinks that have seen better days, pots and pans that have cooked one too many sticky sauces, and even those notoriously dirty toilet bowls. EcoCert® certified, this SuperScrub powder is kind to the planet while being tough on grime.
Here’s how to use it effectively:
- For general tough cleaning: Wet the surface, sprinkle on the powder, and scrub. Voila, those stains are gone!
- For stove tops and ovens: Mix the powder with AspenClean Kitchen Cleaner to create a paste, scrub with a sponge, and wipe clean with a Kitchen Microfiber Cloth.
This eco-friendly cleaning alternative shines when paired with the All-Purpose Cleaner. Mix it into a paste, clean with the All-Purpose Cloth, and you’re ready to tackle dirt in every nook and cranny.
Initially skeptical, I was a loyal fan of a famous scrub brand, but I’m thrilled to report that this powder exceeded all expectations. It restored my damp pans to their shiny glory with just a bit of elbow grease, lifting years of baked-on stains from my toaster oven’s interior window. My old cleansers are now gathering dust in the basement!
As for packaging, AspenClean has rolled out several products in cardboard cubes, while most remain in recyclable plastic. Be sure to recycle; the well-made bottles are perfect for DIY cleaning recipes.
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Septic Safe
- Palm-oil Free
- Better packaging
9. Best Zero Waste Cleaner – 0 Waste Cleaning
The 0 Waste Cleaning Starter Kit is perfect for those transitioning to sustainable cleaning habits. This kit includes everything needed to keep your home clean and eco-friendly:
- Refill tablets for an all-purpose cleaner.
- A bathroom cleaner.
- A glass cleaner.
- A foaming hand soap.
Each refill tablet dissolves in water, creating a potent, effective cleaning solution. Made from plant-based, biodegradable ingredients, these cleaners are environmentally friendly, safe for pets, and vegan-friendly.
The glass cleaner refill excels on windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces, effectively combating dirt, grime, and grease for a streak-free finish. The bathroom cleaner is specifically designed to tackle stubborn bathroom dirt and grime, ensuring a sparkling and fresh bathroom. The all-purpose cleaner refill is ideal for everyday cleaning tasks, while the foaming hand soap is gentle on the skin yet tough on dirt and bacteria.
Using the 0 Waste Cleaning Starter Kit allows users to significantly reduce their plastic waste. The compact size of the tablets also saves space in your cleaning cupboard, making them a fantastic choice for those with limited storage. Plus, this cleaning kit comes in plastic-free packaging made from paper and plant-based cellulose (corn), showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
And here’s a bonus: these refills are just as affordable as regular cleaning products, coming in a pack of four, with each tablet making a whole bottle of cleaner. If you’re eager to learn how to clean your home with zero waste, check out our comprehensive guide. And if you’re building a plastic-free cleaning kit, we’ve got you covered too!
Discount Code: THEECOHUB15
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Palm-oil Free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Better packaging
- Septic Safe
10. Best Carpet Cleaner – Biokleen
Biokleen’s Concentrated Carpet & Rug Shampoo is an effective solution for maintaining the freshness and cleanliness of your carpets, rugs, and fabrics. This product utilizes robust plant-derived cleaning agents that break down stains and neutralize odors, resulting in rejuvenated fabrics with a pleasant aroma.
Designed for use in homes, rentals, or by professional carpet cleaners, this formula is free from harsh chemicals, ensuring the safety and longevity of your carpets and rugs. It’s also safe to use around pets and effectively eliminates pet-related stains and odors.
Biokleen’s Carpet & Rug Shampoo is safe for all washable fibers and does not contain phosphates, chlorine, ammonia, brighteners, artificial colors, or fragrances, underscoring Biokleen’s commitment to providing natural, eco-friendly cleaning solutions.
User experiences with this shampoo have been overwhelmingly positive. Even when used at full strength on high-traffic or heavily stained areas, it performs remarkably, eradicating dirt and stains while leaving carpets looking fantastic. The product also works well when diluted, offering flexibility in usage. The initial citrus scent is delightful but quickly fades after application, ensuring it doesn’t linger excessively in your home.
Things we love ❤️
- Good Ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Palm-oil Free
- Sustainable sourcing
- Septic Safe
- Better packaging
11. Best Floor Cleaner – DIY
Eco-friendly cleaning isn’t just a trend; it’s a responsible and effective way to keep our homes spotless while caring for the planet. One of the best ways to take charge of your cleaning routine is to create your solutions. Today, we’ll share a simple, eco-friendly floor cleaner recipe that works wonders.
Why is this eco-friendly floor cleaner effective? The ingredients are straightforward and free of harsh chemicals. The star of this recipe, Castile soap, is a natural, biodegradable soap made from vegetable oils, making it safe for your family, pets, and the environment. While vinegar is a fantastic natural cleaner, it can damage natural stone, hardwood, and certain tiles over time. This eco cleaner is gentle yet effective and suitable for all flooring types.
What you need:
- 2 gallons of heated water
- 2 tablespoons of Castile soap or 4 drops of Sal Suds
- 5 drops of your chosen essential oil (such as pine or tea tree oil, or any scent you prefer)
Instructions for Preparation:
- Pour the hot water into a bucket, then add the Castile soap and your chosen essential oil.
- Gently mix the ingredients, taking care not to create too much froth or foam.
Directions for Use:
Submerge a mop into the prepared mixture and mop the floor, being careful not to oversaturate it. Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the floor, discard the used water and refill the bucket with 2 more gallons of hot water (without soap) to go over the floor again with a clean mop.
Why Make the Switch to Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products?
The daily cleaning rituals we engage in—be it for our homes, clothes, or dishes—can inadvertently pollute our environment. Surprisingly, the very tools we use to rid our spaces of dirt often contribute to a greater mess on our planet and in our homes.
Many cleaning products are housed in single-use plastic containers, most of which end up in landfills despite our best recycling efforts. However, packaging is only the tip of the iceberg. These bottles often contain harmful ingredients and complex chemical compounds that are difficult to pronounce and understand.
Organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) have reported that many cleaning supplies release harmful fumes that can trigger health problems, including chemical burns, poisonings, and even carcinogenic effects. For instance, chlorine bleach can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system and can be fatal if accidentally mixed with ammonia, another common cleaning agent. Ammonia carries its own risks, including potential blindness and severe skin burns. Other harmful compounds, such as Triclosan and Triclocarban, commonly found in dish soaps, have been associated with hormonal imbalances and breast cancer.
Beyond these health concerns, these ingredients pose a significant threat to the environment. They often release volatile organic compounds that contribute to smog and lead to a phenomenon known as eutrophication—excessive nutrient saturation in water bodies that can harm aquatic species and trigger algal blooms.
Considering these potential repercussions, a sparkling clean toilet bowl or a spotless kitchen counter isn’t worth the associated environmental harm or health risks. Using toxic chemicals to clean contradicts the essence of cleanliness. When dusting corners or tackling stubborn stains, opting for products that lessen the impact on our health and the wider environment is a smarter choice. Eco-friendly products ensure our spaces are clean while preserving the health of our shared home—our planet.
Our Criteria for Choosing Eco-Friendly Cleaners
In a world increasingly aware of our environmental footprint, making conscientious choices about the products we use daily is more crucial than ever. This is particularly true for cleaning products that we regularly introduce into our homes and, ultimately, our planet’s ecosystems.
Selecting eco-friendly cleaners goes beyond merely eliminating dirt and grime; it involves taking responsibility for our health, the well-being of other living beings, and preserving the world we all share. Thus, when shopping for cleaners, it’s essential to consider factors like ingredient quality, vegan and cruelty-free standards, palm oil usage, sustainable sourcing practices, packaging, and septic safety.
1. Good Ingredients:
Choose products made from safe, natural, and non-toxic ingredients. They should be effective at cleaning without posing harm to your health or the environment.
2. Vegan:
Vegan cleaning products contain no animal-derived ingredients. Choosing vegan products avoids ingredients often sourced through methods harmful to animals or their habitats.
3. Cruelty-Free:
Cruelty-free products haven’t been tested on animals. Selecting these products helps reduce animal suffering and promotes ethical treatment.
4. Palm-Oil Free:
Palm oil production often leads to deforestation and biodiversity loss. Opting for palm-oil-free products supports the preservation of crucial ecosystems.
5. Sustainable Sourcing:
This refers to obtaining ingredients and materials in a way that respects the environment and local communities, ensuring that your product isn’t depleting resources or causing environmental harm.
6. Better Packaging:
Look for products with minimal, recyclable, or compostable packaging to significantly reduce waste and plastic that ends up in landfills or oceans.
7. Septic Safe:
Septic-safe cleaners won’t harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic system or cause clogs, ensuring your waste management system remains effective and reducing costly repairs.
A Final Word on Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable Cleaners
Maintaining a clean home isn’t just a labor of love; it’s also about choosing the right tools. By “tools,” we mean the best natural and eco-friendly cleaning products. You might be a dedicated fan of traditional favorites like white vinegar and baking soda, and who could blame you? However, not all messes are created equal, are they?
That stubborn water stain around your bathroom faucet? It’s different from the persistent wine stain on your prized marble countertop. They won’t yield to the same cleaning agent. While countless gadgets claim to make cleaning a breeze, we’re here to let you in on a secret—you only need a handful of tried-and-true items to conquer even the messiest situations.
Sustainability is the name of the game, and we wholeheartedly support green cleaning products that deliver results without harming our planet. After testing everything from scrub brushes to hand soaps (we love a clean space), we’re excited to share our top picks of eco-friendly cleaning warriors. With these versatile and practical products, housekeeping will feel less like a chore and more like a leisurely stroll.
As we conclude, let’s reflect on why we began this journey. Our seasonal cleaning rituals or daily tidying sessions aren’t just about achieving a spotless home; they’re about creating a healthy, sustainable living environment while doing our part for Mother Nature. Yes, we all want to finish cleaning quickly, but not at the expense of a job half-done. That’s where the choice of cleaning products comes into play.
Choosing eco-friendly cleaners isn’t merely about being kind to the planet; it’s about achieving a thorough clean without the nasty chemicals. So, whether you’re preparing for your annual deep clean or addressing everyday messes, remember to go green. You’ll not only end up with a sparkling clean home but also contribute to a cleaner planet.
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