Why Switch to Eco-Friendly Cleaning?
In today's world, where environmental awareness is paramount, making conscious choices about the products we use daily is more important than ever. Cleaning products are a staple in every household, but conventional options often contain harsh chemicals that can harm our health and the environment. Eco-friendly cleaning products offer a safer, more sustainable alternative, reducing our impact on the planet while maintaining a clean and healthy home.
Traditional cleaning products often contain chemicals that contribute to water pollution, air pollution, and soil contamination [17, 23]. These chemicals can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and even affect our indoor air quality [2, 13]. By switching to eco-friendly options, which rely on natural, biodegradable ingredients, we can minimize these harmful effects and promote a healthier environment [8, 10]. Eco-friendly products are also safer for our families, reducing exposure to toxic chemicals that can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and other health problems [8, 10, 15].
This blog post will explore the top 10 eco-friendly cleaning products that are effective, safe, and sustainable, helping you make the switch to a greener cleaning routine.
Understanding Eco-Friendly Cleaning
Eco-friendly cleaning, also known as green cleaning or sustainable cleaning, goes beyond just using environmentally friendly products. It encompasses a holistic approach that prioritizes environmental safety and human health throughout the entire cleaning process [6, 25]. This includes considering the product's lifecycle, from production to disposal, and implementing practices that minimize waste, conserve resources, and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals [6].
Key Principles of Eco-Friendly Cleaning
- Non-Toxic Substances: Choosing cleaning products that are free from harmful chemicals like phosphates, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is essential for safeguarding human health and the environment [6].
- Biodegradable Ingredients: Opting for products with biodegradable ingredients ensures that they break down naturally without causing harm to the environment [16].
- Sustainable Packaging: Selecting products with minimal, recycled, or recyclable packaging helps reduce waste and conserve resources [8, 16, 18].
- Waste Reduction: Employing practices such as using concentrated cleaning agents, accurate dosing methods, and reusable cleaning tools minimizes waste generation [6].
- Resource Conservation: Conserving resources like water and energy is a fundamental aspect of sustainable cleaning [6].
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Cleaning
- Environmental Protection: Reduces pollution, conserves resources, and minimizes harm to ecosystems [8].
- Health and Safety: Lowers exposure to toxic chemicals, reducing the risk of respiratory issues, skin irritation, and other health problems [8, 10, 15].
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Reduces VOCs and other irritants, creating a healthier indoor environment [6].
- Cost Savings: Concentrated products, refillable containers, and DIY solutions can save money in the long run [18].
- Ethical Considerations: Supports companies committed to sustainability and social responsibility [8, 19].
Top 10 Eco Cleaning Products
Here are some of the top eco-friendly cleaning products available. These products have been selected for their effectiveness, ingredients, packaging, and company's commitment to sustainability.
1. Blueland
Blueland is a brand that focuses on reducing single-use plastic waste by offering cleaning products in tablet form. Their cleaning tablets are designed to be dissolved in water, creating effective cleaning solutions without the need for traditional plastic bottles [1]. Blueland's product range includes:
- Multi-Surface Cleaner: A versatile cleaner for various surfaces in your home.
- Glass + Mirror Cleaner: Designed to leave your windows and mirrors streak-free.
- Bathroom Cleaner: Effectively cleans and disinfects bathroom surfaces.
- Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Tablets that create a fizzing action to clean and freshen toilet bowls [11].
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Blueland's refillable system significantly reduces plastic waste. Their products are also made with non-toxic ingredients, ensuring a safer cleaning experience.
Practical Tip: Start with their Clean Essentials Kit, which includes reusable bottles and a set of refills to get you started [1].
2. Grove Collaborative
Grove Collaborative is a company that offers a wide range of sustainable household and personal care products. They focus on creating high-quality, eco-friendly alternatives to conventional cleaning products [1]. Some of their popular products include:
- Multi-Surface Cleaner Concentrates: Concentrated formulas that you can mix with water in reusable bottles.
- Dish Soap: Effective and gentle on your hands, made with plant-based ingredients.
- Laundry Detergent: Available in various forms, including liquid and powder, with a focus on natural ingredients.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Grove Collaborative is committed to being 100% plastic neutral and is working towards becoming fully plastic-free. They also offer discounted subscriptions and affordable refills [1].
Practical Tip: Consider their subscription service for regular delivery of your favorite eco-friendly products, and take advantage of their plastic-free options [1].
3. Branch Basics
Branch Basics stands out for its simplicity and versatility. Their concentrated cleaning solution can be diluted to create a variety of different cleaners for various household tasks [1]. Their core product is:
- The Concentrate: A single concentrate that can be used to make all-purpose cleaner, bathroom cleaner, window cleaner, and even laundry detergent.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Branch Basics' concentrate is biodegradable, fragrance-free, and non-GMO, with natural ingredients like baking soda and organic chamomile. One bottle can replace dozens of traditional cleaning products, reducing waste and simplifying your cleaning routine [1].
Practical Tip: Purchase their Starter Kit, which includes the concentrate and empty bottles with dilution guidelines for different cleaning tasks [1].
4. Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation is a well-known brand in the eco-friendly cleaning space, offering a wide range of products made with plant-based ingredients. Their products are readily available in most grocery stores, making them a convenient choice for many consumers [14]. Key products include:
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Effective for cleaning various surfaces, made with plant-derived ingredients.
- Dish Soap: Gentle on hands and tough on grease, with biodegradable formulas.
- Laundry Detergent: Available in liquid, powder, and pod forms, with options for sensitive skin.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Seventh Generation is committed to using sustainable ingredients and packaging. Their products are also EPA Safer Choice certified, ensuring they meet strict standards for human health and environmental safety [2].
Practical Tip: Look for their Free & Clear line, which is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with sensitivities [14].
5. Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner
Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds is a concentrated, all-purpose cleaner that is effective for a variety of cleaning tasks. Made with plant-based ingredients, it is a versatile and eco-friendly option for your home [14].
- Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner: A concentrated formula that can be used for dishwashing, laundry, mopping, and general cleaning.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds is made with natural, biodegradable ingredients and comes in a recyclable bottle. It is also free from synthetic preservatives and fragrances, making it a safer choice for your family and the environment [14].
Practical Tip: Dilute the Sal Suds according to the instructions for different cleaning tasks to maximize its effectiveness and longevity [14].
6. Ecover
Ecover is a European brand that has been producing eco-friendly cleaning products for over 40 years. They are committed to using plant-based and biodegradable ingredients, and their packaging is made from recycled and recyclable materials [32]. Popular products include:
- Washing-Up Liquid: Effective at cutting through grease, with plant-based formulas.
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Suitable for various surfaces, with natural fragrances.
- Laundry Detergent: Available in liquid and powder forms, with options for sensitive skin.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Ecover's long-standing commitment to sustainability and their use of plant-based ingredients make them a trusted choice for eco-conscious consumers [32].
Practical Tip: Try their refill options to reduce plastic waste and save money [32].
7. Koala Eco
Koala Eco is an Australian brand that uses native essential oils to create natural and effective cleaning products. Their products are not only eco-friendly but also smell amazing [34]. Key products include:
- Multi-Purpose Kitchen Cleaner: Made with Australian essential oils for a fresh, clean scent.
- Multi-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner: Effectively cleans and disinfects bathroom surfaces.
- Natural Dish Soap: Gentle on hands and tough on grease.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Koala Eco's products are plant-based, biodegradable, and packaged in recycled bottles. They are also free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other harmful chemicals [34].
Practical Tip: Use their Multi-Purpose Kitchen Cleaner for a quick and easy way to freshen up your kitchen surfaces [34].
8. Method
Method is known for its stylish packaging and plant-based cleaning formulas. Their products are widely available and offer a great combination of effectiveness and sustainability [32]. Some of their best-selling products include:
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Available in a variety of scents, made with non-toxic ingredients.
- Dish Soap: Effective at cutting through grease, with plant-based formulas.
- Hand Soap: Gentle on hands and available in stylish, refillable bottles.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Method uses recycled materials in its packaging and is committed to reducing its environmental footprint. Their products are also biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals [3].
Practical Tip: Purchase their refill pouches to reduce plastic waste and save money [3].
9. Puracy
Puracy offers a range of plant-based cleaning and personal care products that are safe for your family and the environment. Their products are known for their effectiveness and gentle formulas [7]. Key products include:
- Multi-Surface Cleaner: Effective for cleaning various surfaces, made with plant-based ingredients.
- Dish Soap: Gentle on hands and tough on grease, with biodegradable formulas.
- Laundry Detergent: Concentrated and effective, with plant-based ingredients.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Puracy uses plant-based ingredients and recyclable packaging. They also donate to charity with every purchase, making them a socially responsible choice [7].
Practical Tip: Try their disinfecting spray, which is EPA-listed and CDC-approved [7].
10. Homethings
Homethings is a UK-based brand that focuses on eliminating plastic waste by offering cleaning products in concentrated tablet form. Their tablets are designed to be dissolved in reusable bottles, creating effective cleaning solutions with a smaller carbon footprint [31]. Key products include:
- Multi-Surface Cleaner Tablets: Concentrated tablets that dissolve in water to create a multi-purpose cleaner.
- Bathroom Cleaner Tablets: Designed to effectively clean and disinfect bathroom surfaces.
- Glass + Mirror Cleaner Tablets: Creates a streak-free solution for windows and mirrors.
Why it's Eco-Friendly: Homethings significantly reduces plastic waste by offering concentrated tablets and reusable bottles. Their products are also made without toxic chemicals, ensuring a safer cleaning experience [31].
Practical Tip: Purchase their starter kits, which include reusable bottles and a set of tablets to get you started. Refill tablets are readily available to replenish your supply [31].
DIY Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, making your own eco-friendly cleaning solutions can be a rewarding and cost-effective option. Many common household ingredients possess powerful cleaning properties and are safe for both humans and the environment [6].
Essential Ingredients for DIY Cleaning
- White Vinegar: A natural disinfectant and deodorizer, effective for cleaning various surfaces [21, 30].
- Baking Soda: A gentle abrasive and deodorizer, ideal for scrubbing and removing odors [28, 29].
- Lemon Juice: A natural degreaser and disinfectant, leaving a fresh scent [28].
- Castile Soap: A gentle, plant-based soap that can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks [28].
- Essential Oils: Add fragrance and antibacterial properties to your cleaning solutions [28, 30].
DIY Cleaning Recipes
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar, 1 1/4 cups of water, and 10 drops of essential oil in a spray bottle [30].
- Glass Cleaner: Combine 1/4 cup of white vinegar, 1/4 cup of water, and a few drops of essential oil in a spray bottle [29].
- Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 30 minutes, then scrub and flush [21].
- Floor Cleaner: Mix 1 cup of vinegar with a pail of warm water for wood floors, or use 1/4 cup of washing soda, 1 tbsp of castile soap, and 1/4 cup to 1 cup of vinegar in 2 gallons of hot water for linoleum floors [21].
Safety Note: Always label your DIY cleaning solutions clearly and store them out of reach of children and pets.
Certifications for Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Navigating the world of eco-friendly cleaning products can be overwhelming, with numerous brands and claims vying for your attention. Certifications provide a reliable way to identify products that meet specific environmental standards and have been independently verified [2].
Key Eco-Friendly Cleaning Certifications
- EPA Safer Choice: This certification indicates that a product contains safer ingredients for human health and the environment [2, 19].
- Green Seal: Products bearing the Green Seal have been tested and certified to meet strict environmental standards [19].
- ECOLOGO: ECOLOGO certifications indicate that a product has undergone rigorous scientific testing to prove its compliance with environmental performance standards [4, 19].
- USDA Organic: While primarily for food products, the USDA Organic label can also be found on cleaning products made with organic ingredients [19].
- Cradle to Cradle Certified: This certification evaluates products based on their environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal [27].
Tip: Look for these certifications on product labels to ensure that you are choosing truly eco-friendly options [19].
Tips for Sustainable Cleaning Practices
Beyond choosing the right products, adopting sustainable cleaning practices can further reduce your environmental impact and promote a healthier home [6].
Practical Tips for Eco-Friendly Cleaning
- Reduce Waste: Buy cleaning products in bulk to reduce packaging waste and choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging [20, 25].
- Reuse Cleaning Tools: Use reusable cleaning cloths, mop heads, and sponges instead of disposable ones. Repurpose old t-shirts or towels as cleaning rags [6, 20, 25].
- Conserve Water: Be mindful of water usage while cleaning. Use a bucket or basin to avoid running taps continuously [20, 25].
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation when cleaning to minimize indoor air pollution [6].
- Efficient Appliances: Use energy-efficient appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, to reduce energy consumption [6, 25].
- Use the Right Amount: Using the correct amount of cleaning product as indicated on the label [9].
Conclusion: Embrace a Greener Clean
Switching to eco-friendly cleaning products is a simple yet impactful way to reduce your environmental footprint and create a healthier home. By choosing products made with natural, biodegradable ingredients and packaged in sustainable materials, you can minimize pollution, conserve resources, and protect your family from harmful chemicals. Whether you opt for commercially available eco-friendly brands or DIY cleaning solutions, embracing a greener clean is a step towards a more sustainable future.
Next Steps
- Start Small: Begin by replacing one or two of your conventional cleaning products with eco-friendly alternatives.
- Read Labels: Pay attention to product labels and look for certifications like EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and ECOLOGO.
- Experiment with DIY Recipes: Try making your own cleaning solutions using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
- Share Your Knowledge: Encourage friends and family to make the switch to eco-friendly cleaning products and practices.
By taking these steps, you can contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet for generations to come.
References
- The Good Trade. 10 Best Natural And Nontoxic Cleaning Products (2025)
- US EPA. Identifying Greener Cleaning Products (2025-04-06)
- The Independent. 11 best eco-friendly and natural cleaning products that actually work (2024-10-11)
- The American Cleaning Institute (ACI). Cleaning Product Certifications
- Green Choices. Environmental impacts
- Cleaning Africa Services. Sustainable Cleaning: A Complete Guide
- The Wise Consumer. 14 Non-Toxic Cleaning Brands For Your Home (2023-08-02)
- Green Facilities Resources Page. Why Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Are The Way Forward (2024-01-03)
- The American Cleaning Institute (ACI). Sustainable Cleaning Resources
- The Cleaning Authority. Benefits of Green Cleaning
- Domino. Of All the Sustainable Cleaning Products Out There, These Are the Ones That Actually Work (2025-04-22)
- Crewcare. A Quick and Easy Guide to Sustainable Cleaning
- GoGoNano. Household Chemicals and Their Impact on the Environment
- sundays. 10 Best Non-Toxic Household Cleaning Products for a Healthier Home (2024-09-03)
- ECOS®. 8 Underrated Benefits of Switching to Sustainable Cleaning Products
- Ecochem. Why Eco-Friendly Cleaning Product is Essential for Restaurants: Protecting the Planet and Your Customers (2024-09-25)
- Wikipedia. Environmental impact of cleaning products
- Total Sustainable Solutions. The Cost-Effectiveness of Using Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies (2023-12-01)
- Skipper. How to Identify Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products (2023-04-18)
- Green Sweep. Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Sustainable Practices for Your Home (2024-10-24)
- Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. Clean and Green Homemade Cleaners
- CHOICE. The eco-friendly household products that actually work – and the ones that don't (2025-04-02)
- Ovenu. The Environmental Impact of Cleaning Products (2023-08-04)
- Environment and Heritage. Easy green cleaning
- Maintenance One. The Future of Clean: Embracing Sustainable Cleaning Practices (2024-08-29)
- IPC. ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING: A GUIDE TO ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT CERTIFICATIONS (2023-07-18)
- Dealer Support. Green cleaning certifications: Understanding the labels (2023-09-21)
- Healthline. 18 Easy and Green DIY Recipes to Clean All the Things, Plus Health Benefits (2022-09-23)
- Living Well Spending Less. Green & Thrifty Cleaning Products | DIY Cleaning Supplies
- Homesteading Family. Homemade All-Purpose Spray Cleaner (Non-Toxic Recipe) (2024-06-26)
- Bluewater Cleaning. Best Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products In The UK [UPDATED 2025]
- Big Green Smile. Natural Cleaning Products | Eco Friendly Cleaning
- MadeKind. Natural, Non Toxic Cleaning Products
- Koala Eco - Natural Cleaning Products
- EWG's Guide to Healthy Cleaning
- ATTITUDE. Non-Toxic Cleaning Products & Eco-Friendly | ATTITUDE