10 Best Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for a Greener Home (2024)
Eager to try the best eco-friendly cleaning products for the kitchen and bathroom? Making the switch to eco-friendly, organic, and natural cleaning product brands not only promotes a healthier home but also contributes to a cleaner planet. Here’s our list of amazing plastic-free cleaning products made with planet-friendly ingredients.
Top Eco Cleaning Products For Your Bathroom & Kitchen, at a glance
- Best all-natural cleaner: Aunt Fannie
- Best organic Multi-Surface Cleaner: Seventh Generation
- Best Eco All-Purpose Home Cleaner: Meliora
- Best Plastic-free dish soap: Blueland
- Best eco-friendly Laundry Detergent: Tru Earth
Traditional cleaning products often contain a slew of synthetic chemicals, such as ammonia, phosphates, and chlorine, which can be detrimental to both human health and the environment. When these chemical-laden products are washed down the drain, they can find their way into water systems, contributing to water pollution and adversely affecting aquatic ecosystems.
Moreover, the widespread use of single-use plastic packaging exacerbates the plastic waste crisis, with a significant portion ending up in landfills and oceans. In fact, as many as 2.5 billion plastic cleaning bottles end up in landfills yearly. That makes plastic bottles the second most polluting item in our oceans, following only plastic bags. Microplastic has been found in human lungs and even infant blood.
Eco-friendly cleaning products, on the other hand, are formulated with biodegradable ingredients that break down naturally, minimizing harm to ecosystems. Many of these green cleaning products are also concentrated, reducing the need for excess packaging and lowering transportation-related emissions. Sustainable packaging materials, such as recycled plastics or easily recyclable materials, further reduce the environmental impact.
In addition to ingredient transparency, eco-friendly cleaning product companies often prioritize energy-efficient manufacturing processes. This includes the use of renewable energy sources and sustainable sourcing practices, aligning their production methods with a commitment to environmental responsibility.
What are eco cleaning products?
Eco-friendly or environmentally friendly cleaning products are formulations designed to minimize their impact on the environment throughout their lifecycle. Unlike traditional cleaning products that may contain harsh chemicals, eco-friendly alternatives prioritize non-toxic formulas. This makes them safer for both human health and the environment, especially in households with children and pets. Also, many green cleaning products come in minimal and sustainable packaging. This can include using recycled materials for packaging or opting for packaging-free alternatives like refill stations to reduce overall waste.
How do I choose eco-friendly cleaning products?
Look for products with transparent ingredient lists. The top eco-friendly cleaning product brands use plant-based, biodegradable ingredients. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or toxic substances that may harm the environment.
Also, look for third-party certifications from recognized eco-labels. Certifications like USDA Organic, EU Ecolabel, or Cradle to Cradle indicate that the product meets specific environmental standards, providing assurance of its eco-friendly credentials.
Opt for concentrated non-toxic cleaning products. These formulations often require less packaging, reduce transportation emissions, and help conserve resources. Concentrated products also allow you to dilute them, extending their use and minimizing waste.
Lastly, choose multi-purpose cleaners that can tackle various cleaning tasks. This reduces the need for multiple specialized products, minimizing overall consumption and waste.
Which cleaning agent is more environmentally friendly?
Vinegar: White vinegar is a versatile and effective cleaner. It has antimicrobial properties and can cut through grease and grime. Mix it with water for a general cleaning solution.
Baking Soda: Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive and deodorizer. It can be used to scrub surfaces, neutralize odors, and even unclog drains when combined with vinegar.
Castile Soap: This vegetable-based soap is biodegradable and versatile. It can be diluted and used for various cleaning purposes, including as a floor cleaner, dish soap, or hand soap.
Do green cleaning products really work?
Yes, green cleaning products are designed to be effective and can work as well as traditional cleaning products in many situations. They prioritize safety for both users and the environment. That’s why the best earth-friendly cleaning products
typically contain fewer or no harsh chemicals, reducing the risk of exposure to toxic substances.
Picks for Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
2024’s Best Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products from Green Brands
1. Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner
Price: From $39.92
First up is the Seventh Generation Multi-Surface Cleaner – your go-to solution for a sparkling and sanitized home, all while making a positive impact on the planet!
Tackle grease and grime effortlessly on cooktops, counters, and various household surfaces with this green house cleaner. This EPA-registered wonder is your ally against harmful bacteria and viruses, boasting a remarkable 99.99% kill rate in just 10 minutes. Your household deserves nothing less than the best in protection. What sets it apart? The added bonus of disinfection for hard non-porous surfaces. Powered by Thymol, an essential oil derived from the thyme plant, this cleaner not only sanitizes but also brings the refreshing aroma of nature into your home.
Unlike some disinfectants that require extra wiping and rinsing, Seventh Generation’s formula is designed for ease. The best part? No need to rinse after application! Plus, the spray bottle is crafted from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic.
2. Clean Well Botanical Disinfecting Wipes
Price: From $12.03
CleanWell’s Disposable Wipes are the ultimate blend of convenience and cleanliness in your battle against germs.
Powered by a plant-based botanical ingredient, Thymol, extracted from the thyme plant, these wipes are your trusty companions in killing germs on hard, non-porous surfaces. The beauty lies in the simplicity – wipe, air dry, and you’re done. No need for extra wiping or rinsing, even on surfaces that come into contact with food.
EPA registered for your peace of mind, these wipes pack a punch by eliminating bacteria and viruses in just 10 minutes. So, whether it’s countertops, faucet handles, or any high-touch surface, CleanWell’s top eco-friendly cleaning products have got you covered.
3. Aunt Fannie’s Cleaning Vinegar
Price: From $11.39
Meet Aunt Fannie’s is putting a delightful twist on the classic pantry staple, vinegar. While vinegar is renowned for its grease-cutting and hard water stain-dissolving prowess, the one drawback is its unmistakable pungent smell.
Available in four invigorating essential oil scents – Bright Lemon, Eucalyptus, Lavender, and Sweet Mandarin – Aunt Fannie’s natural cleaning product not only tackles grime but also leaves behind a refreshing fragrance. From grease-splattered oven glass to hard water build-up on fixtures, it can do anything!
4. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Dish Liquid
Price: From $20.90
Impressively crafted with 95% biobased ingredients, this eco-friendly cleaning product for the kitchen not only cares for your dishes but also for the planet. Say goodbye to dyes and fragrances – Seventh Generation provides a clean without unnecessary additives – it’s backed by the prestigious EPA Safer Choice certification.
The bottle is made entirely of recycled plastic. Even the flip-top cap isn’t left out – it’s mostly crafted from recycled plastic clothes hangers. How amazing is that?
5. Blueland Powdered Dish Soap Starter Set
Price: From $18
Packaged in a recyclable paper pouch, Blueland’s soap powder is not just environmentally conscious but a visual treat too. The sleek, refillable, and oh-so-stylish silicone shaker is a nod to modern design, and it’s here to revolutionize your dishwashing routine.
Simply pour the powder into the silicone shaker, place it beside your sink, and let the magic unfold. Sprinkle the soap powder directly onto a sponge or brush for quick cleanups or into a basin or bowl for larger loads.
To top it all off, Blueland’s plastic-free cleaning products aren’t just for dishes. This formula pulls double-duty as a gentle cleanser, ready to tackle your sink, cookware, and more. While it might seem a tad pricey, fear not – a little goes a long way, making it an investment in quality and sustainability.
6. Blueland Dishwasher Starter Set
Price: From $29.99
Next up is Bluehand’s dishwasher tablets! Shipped in a recyclable paper pouch, these tablets embody Blueland’s commitment to reducing waste. Simply pour the contents into the reusable, stylish metal tin, and you’re ready for a mess-free dishwashing experience. The solid, powdered green cleaning products are not only easy to handle but also arrive with a thoughtful touch – extra tablets in case of breakage.
The compact size of these tablets makes them a perfect fit for any dishwasher’s detergent dispenser, ensuring hassle-free loading every time. And don’t be fooled by their size – these tablets pack a punch, delivering very good cleaning results even in hard water conditions.
7. Dropps Dish Spray
Price: From $21.00
Dropps stands out as a one-stop shop for all your cleaning needs, offering an array of products from laundry detergents to dish sprays and an impressive selection of cleaning tools. Every ingredient is disclosed, empowering you to make informed choices about what you bring into your home.
Being a certified B Corp, Dropps goes beyond just products – they’re dedicated to making a positive impact. With carbon-neutral shipping and plastic-free packaging, they’re paving the way for sustainable practices in the industry.
8. ECOS Hypoallergenic Hand Soap
Price: From $9.79
ECOS, a pioneer in safe and eco-friendly solutions, brings you a line of hand soaps that not only meet but exceed the Safer Choice Standard. We absolutely love the refreshing scents of Lemongrass, Lavender, Orange Blossom, and the gentle touch of Free & Clear. Each hand soap is crafted with a vitamin E-infused moisturizing solution, ensuring not only cleanliness but also softness for your hands.
9. Meliora Eco All-Purpose Home Cleaning Spray
Price: From $5.49
This versatile eco-friendly cleaner is your secret weapon against dirt, grime, and more, ready to tackle floors, counters, walls, and any surface in your home.
Crafted with care and simplicity, our cleaner boasts natural ingredients like coconut oil, making it a perfect blend of ready-to-use convenience and DIY goodness. Just add a refill tab to the bottle, fill it with water, and voilà – you’re armed with a cleaning solution that lets you scrub away to your heart’s content. It’s non-toxic, cruelty-free, and proudly free from animal byproducts.
10. Tru Earth Fresh Linen Laundry Detergent Strips
Price: From $19.95
It’s time to slim down your laundry routine with a natural cleaning product for the bathroom that takes up no more space than a sheet of paper. Using Tru Earth’s laundry strips is a breeze – simply add one to your wash, and you’re good to go. The packaging is as environmentally friendly as the product itself, made from recyclable paper. And here’s the eco cherry on top – the strips are 100% biodegradable, making every wash a step towards a greener planet.
But that’s not all – Tru Earth’s Laundry Strips have your back, especially if you have sensitive skin. Certified hypoallergenic, the brand’s best eco-friendly cleaning products are perfect for those who not only care for their skin but also have a deep love for the planet.
About Author
Konstantina Antoniadou
Sustainability writer, with almost ten years of expertise in media and publishing. Focused on helping conscious readers discover the best fashion, skincare & non-toxic home products on the eco market. Her work has been featured on various digital magazines and blogs, and she continues to strive towards making a positive impact through her writing.