Our Top 5 Eco-Friendly, All Purpose Cleaners

You want the best products to keep your home clean and your family safe from harmful chemicals. Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more difficult to find cleaners that do not have an abundance of chemicals or low-quality ingredients. In addition, many well-known cleaning products use chemicals that often emit fumes and reduce the overall air quality in the home.

For example, phthalates—a known endocrine disruptor—are often used in fragranced household sprays, air fresheners, and soaps. Based on a 2003 study completed by the Harvard School of Public Health, scientists found that exposure to this chemical normally occurs through inhalation and absorbed through the skin. Another ingredient that is less than ideal to use around the home is 2-Butoxyethanol. This ingredient is often found in all-purpose cleaners along with sprays meant for kitchens and windows. While it’s extremely difficult to control your exposure to chemicals outside of the home, we’ve gathered some of the best eco-friendly cleaners to keep your family free from nasty ingredients.

Earth Friendly Products – Orange Plus Cleaner

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This all-purpose cleaner uses the power of citrus to break down dirt and oil accumulation on household surfaces. For non-porous surfaces like vinyl and hardwood floors, this spray removes everything from sticky chewing gum to syrups and oils, which are normally more difficult to get out. Oil based products such as lipstick and crayons don’t stand up against this cleaner. Being free of ammonia, chlorine, and phosphates makes this a green product that will become a great addition to your arsenal of household cleaners.

Seventh Generation Free & Clear All-Purpose Cleaner

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Seventh Generation is well known for producing green products that work well without harsh fumes or hidden surprises in the form of nasty ingredients such as glycol ethers, acids, or dyes. Plus, they pride themselves on not testing their products out on animals. While this particular cleaner wonderful to degrease kitchens and other areas requiring a heavy-duty solution, it is recommended to avoid using this on hardwood floors.

Green Works Natural Multi-Surface All Purpose Cleaner

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For an all-purpose cleaner that tackles a variety of different surfaces, Green Works definitely makes the list of green cleaners that pack a punch. From kitchens surfaces and appliances to bathroom sinks and toilets, this cleaner removes dirt and grime without all of the harsh ingredients. It’s not recommended for normal use on hardwood floors, but remember to always test it out on an inconspicuous surface before doing any major scrubbing.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Cleaner

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Mrs. Meyer’s cleaners are made in the US and do not include and harsh aromas or chemicals. As a matter of fact, they use natural essential oils to add scent to their products. Their all-purpose sprays come in Lemon Verbena, Lavender, Honeysuckle and Basil for those who enjoy having options. This product handles a variety of surfaces such as countertops, natural and synthetic stone along with wood and tile floors. The best part about this cleaner is that it uses a natural protein extract to help break down buildup and grime.

Advanage 20X Multi-Purpose Cleaner

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Maybe you need to clean up a large–really large–space. Advantage makes it easy with their concentrated non-toxic formula that uses only natural ingredients. Their phosphate-free cleaner makes 20 quarts from a single bottle, which can not only handle big jobs but also save you money in the long run. Another benefit is that Advanage can be used on a number of different surfaces and is even gentle enough to use on fabric. This cleaner is great for removing dirt and oil without leaving an unsightly residue, making it perfect to use in the home.

With so many products out on the market today, it can be overwhelming to pick one that takes care of household messes without the hard to pronounce ingredient names. However, keeping your home clean without using a beaker’s worth of chemicals is not difficult. When you are able to use cleaners that are safe to use, you will feel relieved that both you and your family are living in a home that is a little more green and healthy. You can incorporate products into your cleaning routine that use materials that are straight from Mother Earth.