"Green" cleaning products use environmentally friendly and sustainable ingredients and materials that are non-toxic and safe for both humans and the environment. These products are typically made from natural ingredients such as essential oils, plant-based compounds, and minerals, as opposed to harsh chemicals and synthetic substances found in traditional cleaning products.
One of the key components of eco-friendly cleaning products is their ability to break down and remove dirt, grime, and bacteria without the use of harmful chemicals. Instead, these products use natural ingredients that have cleaning properties, such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, to effectively clean and disinfect surfaces.
Consumer who look to use these greener cleaning products are also overwhelmingly interested in sustainability; reducing pollution and minimizing environmental impact is a common goal. "According to TheRoundup.org, 78% of consumers agree that environmental sustainability is important and that they want to lead more sustainable lives," shared Truly Free's cleaning expert, Maria Mooney. "63% of consumers have taken steps to adopt greener buying habits, in an attempt to become more sustainable." Aside from avoiding harmful chemicals, packaging is often designed to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable to reduce the impact on the ecosystem.
Can green products actually disinfect?
Green cleaners that are labeled as disinfectants can be effective in killing bacteria and viruses; however, it's important to carefully read the labels and make sure the natural cleaning products have been tested against specific pathogens. Some green products may use environmentally friendly ingredients such as plant-based substances or essential oils that have disinfecting properties, but they aren't always as potent as traditional cleaners made with chemical disinfectants.
Why is bleach harmful?
Using bleach in your cleaning routine comes with many health risks:
- It's a strong chemical compound that can irritate and damage the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
- Inhaling or coming into contact with bleach can lead to symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, skin irritation, and even chemical burns.
- Bleach is a toxic chemical and is potentially fatal when ingested.
- Additionally, mixing bleach with other conventional cleaning products, like white vinegar, can create harmful fumes and gases that can be dangerous to inhale.
Does it cost more to use natural cleaners?
While green household cleaners can sometimes cost more upfront, they can actually save you money in the long run. Green cleaning practices are often made using renewable energy, are durable, and are environmentally friendly, which can lead to lower utility bills, less frequent replacements, and a healthier living environment.
Furthermore, products like the reusable paper towels you'll see below can be used over, and over, and over again, bringing the price per use down well below the cost of a disposable product.
Additionally, the cost of green products is becoming more competitive as the market for eco-friendly products grows. Unlike everything else at the store, these prices are coming down!
Green Cleaning Products We've Tested and Liked
Truly Free Cleaners and Detergents
Assorted prices
Truly Free replaces bulk packaging and toxic big-brand cleaning and laundry products with all-natural alternatives in sustainable, refillable containers. The first Truly Free shipment always includes the bottles, jugs, and cleaning solutions. After that, you only need refills, which are sold in concentrated form.
- The company mailed me the Wooden Furniture Polish, which I've put to use on our dining room set. It left a very soft finish with no oily residue.
- The Laundry Detergent smells great, plus the brand's Laundry Machine Cleaner did a great job cleaning the inside of the machine.
- Another one we liked: the Dishwasher Cleaner tackled residue and buildup inside our appliance.
Foaming Hand Soap Tablets
MSRP: $25 (dispenser and four tablets)
Save on trips to the store and make your own foaming hand soap using a reusable soap dispenser, warm water, and a set of foaming soap tablets. Lasting up to 8 weeks, this comes with a pack of four different scents (Lily, Rose, Jasmine, and Unscented), eliminating the amount of plastic disposable soap containers you purchase throughout the year.
Reusable Paper Towels (aka Swedish Dishcloths)
MSRP: $25.97 (Set of 4)
These reusable, highly absorbent sponge sheets replace the equivalent of 17 disposable paper towels. We've used these reusable cloths for years as a substitute for ordinary kitchen washcloths.
They're super absorbent and long-lasting. In fact, while this manufacturer suggests that it replaces 17 towels, we've made them last for way longer, microwaving them to disinfect as needed. One thing I like about this set is that it comes in a pack of 4 and has 2 complimentary peel-and-stick wall hooks for ease of hang-drying near the sink.
Repurpose Household Products
Assorted prices
“[I had an] ah-ha moment,” shared Lauren Gropper, CEO and Founder of Repurpose, surrounded by an insurmountable amount of waste that was produced at her job. “I started by thinking small – ‘What changes could be made on a granular level that could create a ripple effect?’”
The products she helped envision are entirely plant-based and certified compostable, making it easy for consumers to make the switch from plastic:
- This super soft 3-ply toilet paper is entirely tree-free. Plus, it dissolves fast, making it a perfect option for septic systems and RV-life.
- We've put the paper towels to use, and can attest that they work just as well as your favorite picker-upper.
- These tall kitchen bags are totally non-toxic, home-compostable, and stand up to just about everything. Bonus: They’re 2 inches longer than the average bag for a perfect fit.
