You’re on a mission to go green and we’re here to help. Navigating the sea of biodegradable cleaners can be tricky, but don’t fret. We’ve sifted through the jargon, studied the ingredients and handpicked the best eco-friendly products out there.
Whether it’s the kitchen or laundry, this guide’s got you covered. Let’s empower you to make informed choices for a healthier planet.
Ready to start? Let’s dive in.
How to shop for home-cleaners
When shopping for home cleaners, it’s crucial to understand what to look for on labels. Not all products are created equal, and the information on the label can guide you to the most effective, safe, and eco-friendly choices.
From ingredients to certifications, these details can make a big difference in the cleanliness of your home and the health of our planet.
What to look for on labels
When shopping for biodegradable cleaners, it’s crucial to scrutinize the product labels. Pay close attention to the directions or uses, any cautions, the list of ingredients, and storage instructions.
These details can provide valuable information about the product’s eco-friendliness, safety, and how to use it effectively.
Directions/Uses/Instructions
Before you make a purchase, it’s crucial that you carefully examine the directions, uses, and instructions on the labels of home cleaners.
- Check if the cleaner has specific application directions.
- Scrutinize its suitability for different household uses.
- Understand how to mix and apply it.
- Learn how to dispose of it properly.
This ensures you get effective, safe, and eco-friendly cleaners.
Caution
Moving on to shopping for home cleaners, it’s key that you pay close attention to the ‘Caution’ section on the labels. This provides crucial health and safety information. Look for warnings like ‘keep out of reach of children’ or instructions for using safety equipment. Also, note down the emergency instructions and contact numbers.
Ingredients
After noting the caution details, it’s crucial that you turn your attention to the ‘Ingredients’ section of the cleaner’s label. Here’s what to scrutinize:
- Look for natural ingredients. Biodegradable cleaners should be plant-based.
- Avoid toxic compounds like ammonia and bleach.
- Beware of allergens if you’re sensitive.
- Seek transparency. The more detailed the ingredients list, the better.
Storage
When you’re shopping for biodegradable cleaners, it’s important to pay attention to the storage instructions on the labels. Look for specifications about keeping products away from heat, sunlight, or damp areas.
For instance, dry chemicals like baking soda should be stored away from wet spaces.
If a label lacks a ‘Storage’ section, check the ‘Caution’ or ‘Instructions’ sections for any relevant information.
Our top bathroom cleaners
When it comes to maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom, the right products can make all the difference. We’ve researched and compiled a list of top bathroom cleaners that not only do an excellent job but are also biodegradable.
In addition to identifying our top picks, we’ll also share some insights on certain ingredients you should avoid in cleaning products.
Our top glass and window cleaners
When it comes to sprucing up your glass surfaces and windows, we recommend the top-notch, biodegradable cleaners such as Biokleen Glass Cleanser, Bean and Lily Glass Cleaner, and Method Glass + Surface Cleaner.
For your bathroom, consider options like Biokleen Bathroom Cleaner and Attitude Window and Mirror Cleaner.
These selections not only deliver a streak-free shine but also help reduce your environmental footprint.
Biokleen Glass Cleanser
Why should you consider Biokleen Glass Cleanser as your top choice for bathroom and window cleaning?
- It’s superior in cleaning, earning a full 5-star rating.
- It’s safe, receiving an A safety rating from EWG.
- It’s sustainable, produced using renewable energy sources.
- It’s affordable, offering nearly a liter for just $5.19.
This plant-based, cruelty-free, and biodegradable cleaner lets you care for your home and the planet.
Bean and Lily Glass Cleaner
If you’re looking for a maverick in the world of glass and mirror cleaners, then Bean and Lily Glass Cleaner should be your next pick.
This neutral pH cleaner is neither acidic nor alkaline, preventing wear and tear.
It uses Polyquaternium-95, a green polymer, for a streak-free, spotless clean.
However, be aware, it contains a fragrance that may not suit hypersensitive skin types.
Method Glass + Surface Cleaner
For your next eco-friendly cleaning purchase, consider Method Glass + Surface Cleaner, a top-rated product that’s both effective on bathroom surfaces and perfect for achieving streak-free windows.
- It’s an EWG safety-rated B product.
- It uses ethanol, a potent degreaser, and antimicrobial agent.
- It delivers a glorious streak-free finish.
- Note, its fragrance might affect those with hypersensitive skin.
Choose Method for a biodegradable, high-performance clean.
Biokleen Glass Cleaner
Often, you’ll find that Biokleen Glass Cleaner outperforms other cleaners with its exceptional cleaning power and eco-friendly attributes.
Made from plant and mineral-based biodegradable ingredients, it’s cruelty-free and produced using renewable energy sources.
Its performance matches leading ammonia-based products, making it not only an environmentally conscious choice, but an effective one for immaculate glass surfaces.
Truly, Biokleen offers a superior eco-friendly cleaning solution.
Attitude Window and Mirror Cleaner
When it comes to tackling stubborn smudges on your glass surfaces, you’ll find that Attitude Window & Mirror Cleaner offers a superbly effective and eco-friendly solution.
Here’s why:
- Superior performance: It outperforms many commercial brands.
- Eco-friendly: Its chemical formula is biodegradable.
- High volume: You get lots of product.
- Easy cleanup: It leaves no residue, ensuring quick and hassle-free cleaning.
Try it, and enjoy the clear, smudge-free view!
What ingredients products to avoid
In your quest for top bathroom cleaners, it’s crucial to steer clear of products containing harmful ingredients such as ammonia, chlorine bleach, and phthalates. Prolonged exposure to ammonia can damage your lungs, while chlorine bleach can lead to respiratory problems. Phthalates, often hidden in the fragrance of cleaners, are linked to hormonal disruptions.
These ingredients aren’t only harmful to your health but also detrimental to the environment. Instead, look for eco-friendly cleaners with plant-based ingredients. Be wary of vague labels like ‘natural’ or ‘eco-friendly’ without evidence to back it up. Opt for products with clear ingredient lists and certifications from trusted environmental organizations.
Making informed decisions about the products you use can protect your health and contribute to a healthier planet.
Top multipurpose Cleaners
When it comes to choosing top multipurpose cleaners, it’s crucial to know which ingredients and products to avoid. Some ingredients can be harmful to your health and the environment.
In the following section, we’ll guide you through a selection of eco-friendly, biodegradable multipurpose cleaners that aren’t only effective but also safe for you and the planet.
What ingredients /products to avoid
As you look for top multipurpose cleaners, be mindful of certain ingredients that you should avoid.
- Phosphates: These are often found in cleaning products but can cause water pollution when they enter our waterways.
- Triclosan: This is an antibacterial agent that can interfere with your hormonal system and is harmful to aquatic life.
- Formaldehyde: This ingredient is a known carcinogen and can cause respiratory problems.
- Ammonia: While effective for cleaning, it can cause respiratory issues and skin irritations.
Floor cleaners
When considering biodegradable floor cleaners, there are several options that stand out.
Rejuvenate All Floors Cleaner, Lysol Clean and Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner, and Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray are among the top choices.
Also, Black Diamond Stoneworks offers two notable solutions: Marble and Tile Concentrate, and Wood and Laminate Floor Cleaner.
Rejuvenate All Floors Cleaner
Why haven’t you considered Rejuvenate All Floors Cleaner for your cleaning needs yet? This cleaner is lauded for its versatility and effectiveness with an average 4.5-star rating on Amazon from over 8,000 reviews.
- Versatility: It’s suitable for all floor types. Whether you have laminate, hardwood, or tile, this product has got you covered.
- Ease of Use: No need for dilution. You can use it directly on your floors, saving you an extra step.
- Variety of Sizes: It comes in different sizes and bottle types, including one that fits the brand’s Click ‘N Clean mopping system.
- Highly Rated: Users like Mary McDonough testify to its effectiveness, claiming nothing else cleaned her floors as well.
Isn’t it time you gave your floors the love they deserve?
Lysol Clean and Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner
For your multi-surface cleaning needs, you’ll find Lysol Clean and Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner to be a cost-effective and versatile choice. Averaging at just seven cents per fluid ounce for the concentrate, it provides a lot of cleaning power without breaking the bank.
You’ll appreciate the fresh lemon citrus scent, a pleasant departure from harsh chemical odors. Users rave about its zero-residue effects, so you won’t be left with any unsightly streaks or marks.
Given that Lysol is one of the most trusted cleaning brands in America, you can rely on its efficiency. However, be careful with the concentration; if not adequately diluted, the scent may be too strong.
Ideal for budget-conscious consumers, it’s a high-quality, affordable cleaning solution.
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray
While you’re considering versatile cleaners like the Lysol Clean and Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner, you might also want to check out Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray, especially if you’ve got hardwood floors to take care of.
- Ideal for Hardwood: This cleaner is specifically designed for hardwood floors, leaving them gleaming without residue or unpleasant odors.
- Versatile Use: You can use it for spot treatment or mopping, making it perfect for handling spills and small accidents.
- Highly Rated: With over 8,200 ratings on Amazon and an average of 4.7 stars, it’s a crowd favorite.
- Available Everywhere: You can easily find it on Amazon and Walmart.
However, be aware that the refill bottle sometimes spills during pouring, and it’s sold separately.
Black Diamond Stoneworks Marble and Tile Concentrate
Transitioning from hardwood to more delicate surfaces, you’ll find the Black Diamond Stoneworks Marble and Tile Concentrate is a great option for cleaning marble and tile floors. This specially formulated cleaner is designed to clean without causing any damage, even on sensitive surfaces like marble. Despite its higher price point, users insist it’s worth the investment.
You’ll simply dilute the solution, leaving your stone surfaces streak-free and without any lingering scents. One Amazon reviewer even found it to be excellent for cleaning ceramic floors post-hurricane. This hypoallergenic formula is also beneficial for those with sensitivities.
While you may need to invest in a microfiber mop for the best results, this cleaner’s 4,400 Amazon ratings and 4.3-star average attest to its value.
Black Diamond Stoneworks Wood and Laminate Floor Cleaner
Often, you’ll find that the Black Diamond Stoneworks Wood and Laminate Floor Cleaner is an ideal choice for maintaining the cleanliness and shine of your wood and laminate floors. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 stars based on over 8,600 Amazon reviews, this cleaner has proven its effectiveness to many satisfied users.
- It’s a versatile cleaner, suitable for various floor types, including bamboo, cork, and other engineered woods.
- The cleaner is biodegradable, water-based, and non-toxic, making it safe for households with kids and pets.
- Available in pour and spray bottles, you’ll find it convenient for both large areas and spot cleaning.
- Despite its only Apple Blossom scent, customers appreciate its gentle, hypoallergenic formulation.
Embrace a cleaner home environment with Black Diamond Stoneworks Wood and Laminate Floor Cleaner.
Dishwashing cleaners
Turning our attention to dishwashing cleaners, you’ll find a wide array of options available to you.
Products like Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Active Dishwasher Cleaner & Deodorizer, and TrulyFree Dishwasher Cleaner are all excellent choices.
They aren’t only effective at keeping your dishwasher clean and odor-free, but they’re also biodegradable, making them a great choice for those looking to make more sustainable purchases.
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
If you’re searching for a trustworthy and eco-friendly dishwashing solution, Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is your go-to choice. Here’s why:
- Effectiveness: This cleaner is highly effective on limescale and mineral build-up, ensuring your dishes and dishwasher remain in prime condition.
- Convenience: Affresh is compatible with all makes and models of dishwashers. Plus, it’s easy to use – just add a tablet to your regular wash cycle.
- Eco-friendly: Affresh is EPA Safer Choice Certified and septic safe, making it a responsible choice for the environment.
- Value for money: Priced at $9 for 6 uses, it’s a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable results over time.
Regular use of Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner will noticeably reduce odors and build-up, keeping your dishwasher performing optimally.
Active Dishwasher Cleaner & Deodorizer
Continuing your search for eco-friendly cleaners, you’ll find that the Active Dishwasher Cleaner & Deodorizer is another efficient and budget-friendly option. Less than a dollar per load, this cleaner doesn’t compromise on performance.
It’s a tablet that fits into your regular detergent tray and works to eliminate grime and limescale from your dishwasher. Not only does it clean, but it also helps maintain the machine’s internal parts, ensuring they function properly. It leaves a pleasant, non-overpowering lemon scent that lingers between washes.
Although not EPA Safer Choice Certified, it’s designed to clean your dishwasher when it’s empty, requiring some time set aside between regular dishwashing cycles. With 24 uses per pack, it offers value for money at just $0.50 per load.
TrulyFree Dishwasher Cleaner
When you’re in the market for eco-friendly dishwashing cleaners, you’ll find that the TrulyFree Dishwasher Cleaner is a standout option due to its all-natural ingredients.
- Powerful Cleaning: This cleaner penetrates every corner of your dishwasher with ingredients like citric acid, lemon juice powder, and salt tackling tough grime and hard water.
- Lemony Freshness: It leaves a fresh, clean, and pleasant lemony scent lingering between washes.
- Eco-friendly: It’s an eco-conscious choice, being all-natural and biodegradable.
- Premium Quality: However, it comes with a premium price tag and provides only one use per container.
Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid
In your quest for effective dishwashing cleaners, you’ll find the Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid as a remarkable solution, especially if you’re dealing with hard water or stubborn mineral deposits. This cleaner is designed to eliminate such issues in a single cycle, reaching even hidden nooks and crannies in your dishwasher.
It prevents spots and watermarks on your glassware, saving you from having to rinse them before use. Although it’s pricier than some alternatives and only offers one load per bottle, its efficiency in removing stubborn residue might make it worth the investment.
However, be aware it’s reported to leave a strong chemical scent, which could be a downside if you’re sensitive to fragrance.
Powerizer Dishwasher Cleaner With Odor Control
If you’re dealing with persistent dishwasher odors, you’ll find the Powerizer Dishwasher Cleaner with Odor Control to be an effective and eco-friendly solution. This citrus-scented cleaner isn’t only biodegradable but also free from dyes and fillers.
Here are four reasons to consider Powerizer:
- Eco-friendly: It’s a USDA Certified Biobased Preferred Product and safe for septic systems.
- Cruelty-free: It’s Leaping Bunny Certified which means it’s not tested on animals.
- Effective: It eliminates and prevents odors, ensuring your dishwasher smells fresh.
- Value for Money: At $10, you get five uses, making it cost-effective.
However, its strong citrus scent might be overpowering for those with scent-related sensitivities.
Laundry detergents
Switching your focus to laundry detergents, it’s key to consider options like Persil ProClean, Tide Original, and Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin. You’ll find that these brands offer strong cleaning power while also being biodegradable.
For those with sensitivity issues or a preference for unscented products, Tide Purclean and All Free & Clear are worth checking out.
Persil ProClean
When it comes to laundry detergents, you’ll find that Persil ProClean is a top-notch choice, especially known for its superior stain-removing capabilities. This product has been a best-seller in Europe and has been available in the U.S. since 2015.
Here are four key points about Persil ProClean to ponder:
- Persil ProClean outperforms its competitors, removing an average of 2% more stains than Tide detergents.
- Despite its higher cost compared to other brands, the stain-removing power of Persil makes it worth the investment.
- Some users find Persil’s scent too sweet, but preferences vary from person to person.
- Above all, if stain removal is your primary concern, Persil ProClean is undisputedly the best choice for your laundry needs.
Tide Original
Despite the slightly higher stain-removal power of Persil ProClean, you’ll find that Tide Original offers the best value in terms of laundry detergents, particularly for high-efficiency washers.
In our stain-fighting test, Tide outperformed other detergents by as much as 14%, proving its superior cleaning power. Its scent, ingrained in the fabric of American life, adds a comforting familiarity to your laundry routine. Since its launch in 1946, Tide’s reliability and effectiveness have made it a trusted choice among consumers.
However, it’s important to note that Tide Original may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin
In comparison to Tide Original, if you have sensitive skin, you’ll find Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin to be a superior choice for your laundry needs. It dominates in cleaning tests and outranks regular Persil as the top detergent for sensitive skin. You’ll appreciate its mild scent, a pleasant departure from the robust aroma of its standard counterpart.
You’ll love that:
- It’s designed to work in cold water, making your laundry routine energy-efficient.
- It excels at removing stubborn stains, including red wine and protein marks.
- It’s a balance between hypoallergenic detergents and standard ones, offering a superior clean.
- Despite containing sodium borate and propylene glycol, which may cause skin irritation, its cleaning prowess is unmatched.
Choose Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin for a gentle yet effective clean.
Tide Purclean (Scent Free)
For your next laundry day, consider switching to Tide Purclean, the top-performing eco-friendly detergent in our tests. This detergent is a standout, removing the most stains among its eco-friendly counterparts. As claimed by Tide, Purclean matches the cleaning power of conventional Tide products, a fact our testing confirmed.
What sets Purclean apart is its hybrid formula. While 75% of its ingredients are plant-based, the rest are petroleum-derived. This doesn’t compromise its cleaning capabilities but makes it a more environmentally friendly choice.
All Free & Clear
If you’re dealing with sensitivities to dyes and perfumes, consider All Free & Clear, a detergent that’s both effective in removing stains and gentle on your skin. Although it has a medicinal odor due to the absence of masking scents, it doesn’t transfer this smell to your laundry.
Here are four key aspects to remember about All Free & Clear:
- It’s a popular choice among consumers sensitive to dyes and perfumes.
- Despite being perfume-free, it outperforms other similar options in terms of cleaning efficiency.
- The odor it possesses doesn’t transfer to your laundry.
- Its price per load is reasonable, given its targeted market of individuals with sensitive skin.
Choose All Free & Clear for a skin-friendly, effective laundry solution.
Things to consider when buying biodegradable cleaners
When you’re shopping for biodegradable cleaners, there are several key factors you should consider.
First, assess the performance of the cleaner, ensuring it effectively tackles dirt and grime.
Secondly, scrutinize the cleaning contents, avoiding those with harmful chemicals, and instead, opt for eco-friendly ingredients that are kind to both you and the environment.
The Performance
You need to consider several factors to ensure the performance of your biodegradable cleaners. Not all cleaning products are created equal; some may not be as effective as they claim. Don’t simply trust the ads; instead, listen to the experiences of friends and relatives, or better yet, try it out for yourself.
Here are four key things to keep in mind while shopping:
- Effectiveness: Assess if the product can clean tough dirt and stains.
- User Experience: Gather feedback from other users. Did they find the product effective?
- Ingredients: Check for any harmful chemicals. Biodegradable cleaners should be safe for you and the environment.
- Value for Money: Consider the price and the quality. Is it worth it?
Making informed decisions can help you find a product that works best for your cleaning needs.
The Cleaning Contents
In choosing biodegradable cleaners, it’s vital to consider the cleaning contents of the product. This is particularly crucial if you’re aiming for eco-friendly products or if you have allergies to certain chemicals. Checking the label helps you avoid potentially harmful ingredients that can impact your health.
When scrutinizing the label, look for hazardous ingredients such as phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances, which can cause skin irritation and environmental harm. Opt for cleaners containing natural ingredients like citrus oils, enzymes, and plant-based surfactants. Products bearing certifications like the EPA’s ‘Safer Choice’ label can also reassure you of their eco-friendliness and safety.
Your health, the environment, and cleanliness need not be mutually exclusive with the right biodegradable cleaner.
The Awareness for the Environment
As a conscious shopper, it’s essential that you’re aware of the environmental impact of the cleaning products you choose. Your choices can significantly affect the health of our planet and your own well-being.
Here are some vital things to consider:
- Performance and Reliability: Ensure the product effectively cleans and isn’t just marketed as ‘green’.
- Cleaning Contents: Be mindful of the ingredients. Many can be harmful to both your health and the environment.
- Environmental Benefits: Opt for products that conserve water and energy, reducing your carbon footprint.
- Alternative Cleaning Options: Consider using household items, like baking soda or vinegar, which are often just as effective and are less harmful to the environment.
Make your shopping count for the environment.
Think of Other Options
When considering biodegradable cleaners, it’s crucial to think beyond conventional options and explore alternatives that are effective, green, and cost-efficient.
Baking soda, for instance, can be an excellent cleaning agent and is effective at removing mold. It’s not only green but also extremely cost-effective.
Vinegar, another common household item, has numerous cleaning benefits, including spot removal and odor neutralization.
It’s essential to check the contents of your cleaning products, especially if you’re aiming for eco-friendly choices or have allergies. Avoid ingredients that may be harmful to your health.
Conclusion
By choosing biodegradable cleaners, you’re making a positive impact on our planet. Remember to check labels and ingredients to ensure you’re purchasing truly eco-friendly products.
From bathroom to laundry cleaners, every choice counts. It may feel like a small step, but your decision to switch contributes significantly to environmental conservation.
So, shop wisely, and rest assured that you’re moving towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Every product you choose matters, and together, we can make a difference.