This guide to the best eco-friendly cleaning products for the home will help you transform your cleaning routine into a more sustainable and toxin-free experience. From all-purpose sprays to natural scrubs, we’ve rounded up the top products that are safe for your home and the planet.
The Best Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products For Every Room!
Love it or hate it, we all have to clean our homes. It can be tempting to reach for the most potent chemical cleaners in hopes of getting the job done faster, but those harsh synthetic ingredients could be harming your family’s health and the environment rather than helping.
But what if we told you there was a better way? By using eco-friendly household cleaners, you can make your daily chores that much more enjoyable.
Instead of inhaling headache-inducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and dizzying synthetic fragrances, you can do something good for yourself and the planet by opting for more natural ways to clean your home.
Cleaning our homes shouldn’t come at the cost of our well-being or the planet’s health. These greener cleaning products harness the power of natural ingredients like plant-based surfactants, antibacterial essential oils, and potent enzymes to get the job done.
They offer all the cleaning power of harsh synthetic petrochemicals without the negative health effects or environmental pollution. With all of the greenwashing and deceptive “natural” marketing in the $60 billion cleaning product industry, we understand the struggle to find truly safe and effective eco-friendly cleaning products.
That’s why we set out to bring you the best cleaning products that live up to their all-natural and eco-friendly claims. Whether you’re dealing with everyday messes or deep cleaning challenges, our guide has something to tackle every mess.
What dangerous chemicals are found in household cleaning products?
- Chlorine Bleach: A heavy-duty disinfectant and whitening agent found in many household cleaners. Although it’s effective at killing germs, it can also release toxic chlorine gas when mixed with other chemicals like ammonia. Inhaling this gas can cause irritation to your eyes, nose, and throat, as well as difficulty breathing and chest pain.
- Ammonia: Another frequent offender, especially in window cleaners and all-purpose sprays. This strong irritant can cause severe burns to your eyes, nose, and throat. Over time, exposure has been linked to serious respiratory problems and lung damage.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): A group of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature are commonly found in cleaning products because they’re effective solvents that easily dissolve grime. They are also often used to disperse fragrances in cleaning products. However, long-term exposure has been tied to severe health problems like cancer and liver damage.
- Phthalates: Used as binding agents to hold various ingredients together. And they are often used as fragrance carriers. Phthalates are dangerous when inhaled or absorbed through the skin and have been linked to reproductive issues, birth defects, and endocrine disruption.
- Parabens: These are preservatives commonly used in cleaning products. These chemicals can interfere with the body’s hormonal system and have been associated with breast cancer and reproductive problems.
- Phosphates: These are added to some cleaning products to boost their cleaning power. While they’re not as toxic to humans as other chemicals on this list, they can be harmful to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution when they go down the drain.
- Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs): A group of chemicals used as disinfectants and antimicrobials. At high concentrations, they are extremely corrosive and are known to cause metabolic disorders and reproductive toxicity.
What makes cleaning products eco-friendly?
- Plant-Based Surfactants: Surfactants are compounds that loosen and remove dirt from surfaces. Most household cleaners use petrochemicals for surfactants but natural cleaning products will use plant-based surfactants like saponins and glucosides which are biodegradable. They’re also gentler on the skin and derived from renewable sources.
- Essential Oils: Essential oils are natural extracts from plants that possess antibacterial, antifungal, and deodorizing properties. They provide a safer and more pleasant-smelling alternative to harsh chemicals, while still effectively cleaning your home. Look for products that use essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil.
- Enzymes: Enzymes are microscopic organisms that break down organic matter. Enzyme-based cleaners are particularly useful for tackling tough stains and odors especially when it comes to your laundry. They’re biodegradable and don’t produce harmful byproducts.
- Mild Abrasives: Many abrasive cleaning products rely on microplastics to give them their scrub. Natural abrasives like baking soda can scrub away dirt just as well without contributing to microplastic pollution.
- Citrus Oils: Citrus oils, such as lemon and orange, have natural cleaning and deodorizing properties. They provide a fresh, pleasant scent while effectively cutting through dirt and grease. Citrus oils are an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fragrances and cleaning agents.
Top 11 Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for Every Room
1. Truly Free
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Truly Free’s Everyday Cleaner effortlessly tackles tough messes on hundreds of surfaces, from stainless steel and appliances to toys and kitchen countertops, all while being free from harmful chemicals like fragrance, formaldehyde, and ammonia.
With its family-friendly and pet-safe ingredients, Truly Free ensures thorough cleaning without compromising the safety of your loved ones.
This revolutionary plant-powered chemistry is gentle on sensitive skin yet powerful enough to handle stubborn grime. Plus, the cleaner comes in a refillable bottle.
Price
$16.95
sustainability
Plant-powered cleaning, eco-friendly practices, safe for families & the environment, refillable packaging
location/shipping
United States, ships Canada
2. Meloria
Meloria’s All-Purpose Home Cleaner is as sustainable as it gets with their innovative solid soap refill tablets.
This MADE SAFE-certified formula harnesses organic coconut oil-based soap, proving that simple, natural ingredients can effectively clean multiple surfaces.
These ultra-concentrated, plastic-free, and preservative-free tablets transform into a powerful cleaning solution when dissolved in water, proving just as effective as traditional pre-mixed sprays.
Each kit includes a reusable glass spray bottle and refill tablets packaged in recyclable paperboard, making it a truly sustainable choice.
price
$15.99
Sustainability
MADE SAFE-certified, plastic-free refill tablets, reusable glass spray bottles, eco-friendly packaging
location/shipping
United States
3. Earthy Edith’s
Earthy Edith’s SIMPLE All Purpose Cleaner proves that less is more when it comes to effective, eco-friendly cleaning.
This all-natural cleaner has a minimalist formula made from only distilled water, organic distilled white vinegar, and carefully selected organic essential oils.
Earthy Edith’s science-backed approach uses vinegar’s natural acidity to break down proteins and fats in harmful germs, ensuring a deep clean without harsh chemicals.
Their All-Purpose cleaner will leave your space clean with a light, crisp scent that dissipates naturally, making it perfect for those who prefer a subtle, fresh aroma.
price
$15.99
Sustainability
Organic & biodegradable ingredients, concentrated formula to reduce packaging waste
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
4. Rustic Strength
Rustic Strength’s Lots Of Purpose Spray Cleaner was created out of one family’s mission to create safer, more sustainable cleaning products.
Born out of a need to reduce harmful chemicals in their own lives, this all-purpose cleaner is designed to tackle various surfaces effectively without leaving any toxic residues behind.
Each ingredient has been carefully selected from the charcoal-filtered deionized water base to the mineral-based sodium gluconate that targets metal residues.
price
$12.00
Sustainability
Family-run factory, small batch production, plant & mineral-based ingredients, refillable
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada & Mexico
5. Squeak
Squeak’s All PERP OG Cleaning Spray is the original gangsta of cleaning, propelling the brand into the cleaning world with its powerful blend of organic essential oils.
Instead of relying on synthetic fragrances and unsafe ingredients, All PERP OG harnesses the antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties of clove, lemon, cinnamon, and rosemary to create a safe and effective cleaner.
This cult favorite tackles grime on a variety of surfaces, from counters and carpets to gym equipment and toilets, leaving behind no chemical residues.
Simply spray All PERP OG on the surface and wipe away with a dry or damp cloth for a thorough, non-toxic clean. For tougher messes, let the product sit for 60 seconds before wiping.
price
$8.95
Sustainability
Harnesses the antimicrobial properties of organic essential oils, effectively tackling grime on various surfaces
location/shipping
United States
6. Rowe Casa Organics
Rowe Casa Organics Multi-Surface Cleaner harnesses the power of fourteen essential oils to create this potent germ-fighting formula that leaves your home smelling beautifully fresh and clean.
Rowe Casa Organics’ aims to use only the best natural ingredients.
Incorporating unique natural ingredients like garlic bulb extract, wasabi root, and ginger root, these powerful plant compounds work together to deliver exceptional cleaning power without any toxic chemicals.
price
$16.00
Sustainability
Therapeutic-grade essential oils & plant-based ingredients, emphasize transparency & safety while promoting health & wellness for both users and the environment
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
7. doTerra
doTerra’s abōde Multi-Purpose Surface Cleaner Concentrate harnesses the power of ten distinct essential oils, including unique additions like litsea and arborvitae, to deliver professional-grade cleaning performance.
The fresh, citrusy aroma comes exclusively from doTerra’s high-quality, pure essential oils, avoiding artificial fragrances entirely.
This conscious approach to cleaning aligns with doTerra’s mission to help the world heal one drop at a time.
You can clean your whole house with peace of mind by using transparent ingredients and proven natural cleaning power.
price
$12.33
Sustainability
100% plant-based & biodegradable ingredients
location/shipping
United States
8. Clean Republic
Clean Republic’s Multi-Purpose Disinfectant offers a healthier clean for all, killing 99.9% of bacteria and viruses without the harsh chemicals found in traditional cleaning products.
This EPA-approved disinfectant spray is made with just salt, water, and electricity, making it an all-natural choice for your home.
Safe and effective, Clean Republic’s disinfectant is perfect for use around children, pets, and plants.
From highchairs and car seats to bathrooms and kitchens, this versatile cleaner tackles a wide range of surfaces.
Whether you’re cleaning at home or in a commercial setting, this plant-based disinfectant spray provides a healthier clean for everyone.
price
$18.63
Sustainability
Effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria & viruses, safe for use around children, pets & plants, minimizing environmental impact
location/shipping
United States, available on Amazon USA
9. Mighty Mint
Mighty Mint is transforming the vinegar-based natural cleaning product category by combining 6% vinegar acidity with premium US-grown spearmint oil.
Their plant-based Vinegar Cleaner draws its strength from simple, natural ingredients derived from soybeans and vegetable oils, offering an unexpectedly mild and refreshing mint scent.
The versatile formula works effectively all over your home without leaving harmful residues behind, making it safe to use around family and pets.
Mighty Mint’s commitment to using 100% plant-based ingredients ensures thorough cleaning without compromising on safety or environmental responsibility.
price
$14.99
Sustainability
100% plant-based ingredients, ensuring safety for both people & pets while promoting eco-friendly practices
location/shipping
United States, available on Amazon USA
10. Sapadilla
Sapadilla’s Multi-Surface Countertop Spray combines powerful cleaning performance with delightful aromatherapeutic benefits.
This cleaning spray has been carefully crafted with essential oil blends like sweet lavender + lime and grapefruit + bergamot, creating invigorating scents that leave your home sparkling clean and smelling wonderfully fresh.
A USDA Certified Biobased Product, Sapadilla’s plant-based formula tackles sticky countertops and greasy stovetops with ease, all while avoiding harsh chemicals and fake fragrances.
price
$17.99
Sustainability
100% plant-based & biodegradable ingredients
location/shipping
Canada, available on Amazon USA
11. Koala Eco
Koala Eco’s Multi-Purpose Kitchen Cleaner harnesses the power of Australian lemon myrtle and mandarin essential oils to create a safe, effective cleaning for all food preparation areas.
This plant-based, biodegradable formula effortlessly cleans and deodorizes without the need for toxic chemicals.
Koala Eco clearly lists every ingredient without hiding behind proprietary blends and they have a number of safety certifications including allergy-safe verification and cruelty-free status.
The company’s sustainable ethos extends to their packaging, which uses recycled, recyclable, and refillable bottles to minimize plastic waste.
price
$11.90
Sustainability
Plant-based, biodegradable formula, recycled & recyclable packaging, 1% for the planet
location/shipping
Australia, ships within the United States
What are the health advantages of using eco-friendly cleaning products?
No Toxic Fumes or Harsh Chemicals
One of the most significant advantages of using eco-friendly cleaners is that they don’t expose you to toxic fumes or harsh chemicals.
The main threat of using toxic household cleaners is the VOCs that are released into the air, leading to poor indoor air quality.
Inhaling these fumes over the long run can lead to serious chronic health issues like liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage, and cancer.
This is particularly important for people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions, as they are more sensitive to air pollutants. Cleaner air means easier breathing and a healthier living environment for everyone.
Reduced Risk of Allergies and Skin Irritations
The natural and gentler ingredients used in eco-friendly cleaning products for the home are less likely to cause allergic reactions, dermatitis, or skin irritations.
This is especially beneficial if you have skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis or have a history of chemical sensitivities or allergies.
Safer for Children and Pets
Children are more vulnerable to toxic chemicals in household cleaning products due to several factors:
- Their thinner skin allows greater absorption of chemicals, while a higher respiration rate increases exposure to airborne toxins.
- Their developing blood-brain barrier is not fully formed until around six months, heightening their susceptibility.
- Rapid growth means their bodies are more affected by toxic chemicals and critical developmental windows can lead to lasting impacts on their health.
Additionally, children and pets are naturally curious spending a lot of time on the floor exploring their environment, sometimes with their mouths. They also spend most of their time indoors, where pollutants accumulate.
Safe cleaning products don’t leave behind harmful residues so you don’t have to be worried about what your babies and fur babies might be picking up off the floor.
What are the environmental benefits of using eco-friendly cleaning products?
- Reduced Air & Water Pollution: The VOCs in conventional cleaning products contribute to smog and ozone depletion. Chemicals like nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) and phthalates never completely dissipate and accumulation threatens aquatic life. On the other hand, non-toxic cleaning products are made from natural ingredients that break down quickly and harmlessly.
- Reduced Plastic Waste: In 2018, only 8.7% of plastic containers and packaging in the U.S. were successfully recycled. 15.8% were incinerated for energy, while 75.6% ended up in landfills. Many eco-friendly cleaning brands are committed to using refillable options or recyclable and compostable packaging to reduce plastic waste.
- Conservation of Resources: Plant-based ingredients are renewable and vastly more sustainable than petroleum-based chemicals used in many cleaners. When you choose natural cleaning products, you’re helping to conserve non-renewable resources.
What certifications should I look for when shopping for safe cleaning products?
- USDA Organic: This label guarantees that at least 95% of the ingredients are organic.
- USDA Bio-Based: This certification indicates that the product contains a certain percentage of renewable plant-based materials.
- CARB Certified: This certification ensures that the product meets California’s strict volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions standards.
- EPA Safer Choice: This program recognizes products that are safer for human health and the environment.
- Green Seal: This certification ensures products meet rigorous environmental standards for ingredients, packaging, and performance.
- EcoLogo: A Canadian certification program that evaluates products for their environmental impact throughout their life cycle.
- Fair Trade: This certification ensures that ingredients are sourced ethically and sustainably.
- Palm Oil Free: This certification guarantees that no palm oil or its derivatives are used in the product.
How do I avoid greenwashing when shopping for eco-friendly cleaning products?
How to Read Cleaning Product Labels
- Ingredient List: Prioritize products with natural, plant-based ingredients. Avoid synthetic chemicals and artificial fragrances.
- VOC Content: Look for labels that indicate low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
- Ph Level: Opt for products with a neutral pH (around 7) to avoid harshness on surfaces and skin.
Spotting Greenwashing
- Vague Claims: Be wary of broad, vague terms like “natural,” “eco-friendly,” or “green.”
- Certifications: Verify certifications from reputable organizations.
- Ingredient Transparency: If the ingredient list is unclear or proprietary, it might be a red flag.
- Packaging: Consider the packaging material. Avoid excessive or non-recyclable packaging.
Additional Tips
- Research: Look for reviews and recommendations from trusted sources.
- DIY Options: Consider making your own cleaning products using natural ingredients.
- Support Local Businesses: Choose products from local companies that prioritize sustainability.
Are natural cleaning products as effective as chemical-based ones?
The effectiveness of natural cleaning products versus chemical-based ones can vary depending on the specific product, the type of stain or dirt, and the surface being cleaned.
Here’s a breakdown:
- General Cleaning: Natural cleaning products, such as those made with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, can be highly effective for everyday cleaning tasks like wiping down surfaces, cleaning floors, and disinfecting.
- Tough Stains & Grime: Chemical-based cleaners might be more effective for stubborn stains or heavy grime. However, it’s important to choose products that are still environmentally friendly and safe to use.
- Specific Tasks: Some tasks, like removing mold or mildew, might require specialized cleaning products, which could be either natural or chemical-based.
It’s often a matter of finding the right product for the job. Many natural cleaning products are now formulated to be just as effective as traditional chemical cleaners, without the harsh chemicals.
Can I use eco-friendly products on all surfaces?
Generally, yes, you can use eco-friendly products on most surfaces. However, it’s important to always read the product label for specific instructions and warnings.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Surface Compatibility: Some natural cleaning products, like those containing vinegar or lemon juice, might not be suitable for certain surfaces, such as marble or granite. These materials can be sensitive to acidic substances.
- Stain Removal: For stubborn stains, you might need to use a stronger cleaner, either natural or chemical-based. Always test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface first.
- Disinfection: While many natural cleaning products can effectively clean surfaces, they might not provide the same level of disinfection as some chemical-based products. If you need to disinfect surfaces, choose a natural cleaner specifically designed for this purpose or consult a professional.
Remember, even eco-friendly products can be harmful if not used correctly. Always follow the instructions on the product label and wear protective gloves and eye protection when necessary.
How long do sustainable cleaning products typically last?
Generally, sustainable cleaning products can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Some natural products, like vinegar or baking soda, may have an indefinite shelf life when stored properly.
The lifespan of sustainable cleaning products can vary depending on factors such as:
- Concentration: More concentrated products may last longer.
- Usage: How frequently you use the product will affect its lifespan.
- Storage: Proper storage can help extend the product’s shelf life.
Are there any surfaces I shouldn’t use natural cleaning products on?
While natural cleaning products are generally safe, there are a few surfaces where it’s best to exercise caution: Marble and granite, wood surfaces, sealed surfaces, and delicate surfaces.
Always test any new cleaning product in a small area before using it on a larger surface to ensure it doesn’t cause damage.
Can I mix different eco-friendly cleaning products?
While it’s generally safe to mix different eco-friendly cleaning products, it’s important to exercise caution. Some combinations can produce unexpected chemical reactions, leading to less effective cleaning or even harmful fumes.
- Avoid Mixing Acids & Bases: Combining acidic cleaners (like vinegar) with alkaline cleaners (like baking soda) can create a chemical reaction that can damage surfaces or produce harmful fumes.
- Test Before Mixing: If you’re unsure whether two products can be mixed, test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface first.
- Check Product Labels: Always read the product labels for specific instructions and warnings.
- Consult a Professional: If you have any doubts about mixing cleaning products, consult a professional cleaner or cleaning expert.
This has been your complete guide to the best eco-friendly cleaning products for 2025.
Making the switch to eco-friendly cleaning products is a great way to keep harmful chemicals out of your living space while also supporting a greener future for our planet.
Every small change counts – whether it’s replacing your all-purpose cleaner with a plant-based option or opting for a refillable glass bottle instead of single-use plastics.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and find what works best for you and your home. And most importantly, pat yourself on the back for making a positive impact with every spray, wipe, and scrub.
