There are a lot of products out there claiming to be environmentally-friendly, eco-friendly, natural, green, non toxic, etc. But what do these terms mean when you’re trying to be “safe” products to clean your house?
Unfortunately, the terms “natural, “green”, or “eco-friendly” are pretty loosely regulated when it comes to advertising labels. If you wanted to go truly natural, you could make your own through a simple mix of vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.
But because not all of us have the time to do that (or prefer something that might smell a little different), here are the top 5 non toxic all-purpose cleaners to use at home including their grade from the EWG (Environmental Working Group).
5. Mrs. Meyer’s Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner
Who hasn’t heard of Mrs. Meyer’s? Easily available at Target and Walmart, Mrs. Meyer’s has a cleaning solution for every type of surface, and with a series of wonderful scents too. With a D rating from the EWG, it’s not the best of the non toxic list, but the brand is made with plant-based ingredients as well as essential oils. This would be my most popular pick of the list.
4. Citra Solv Multi-Purpose Spray
Also with a D rating from the EWG, this multi-purpose cleaner uses orange peel as a main ingredient, which is a natural substance commonly used as a solvent and cutting grease. You can also dilute this one with water as well and it will still work as a great surface cleaner.
3. PUR Home Multi-Surface Cleaner
Similar to this brand’s previous multi-surface scrub cleaner that received an A rating from the EWG, this cleaner is great for all those variety of surfaces that you have in your main living area including kitchen and bathroom countertops, coffee tables, desks, handles, etc. Made with plant-based ingredients, this cleaner also smells good.
2. Dr. Bronner’s - Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner
You might commonly see the line of castile soaps from the Dr. Bronner brand. This biodegradable cleaner is powerful enough to clean floors, dishes, surfaces, and even your car but still gentle enough to use on your skin. This has an A rating from the EWG.
1. Bon Ami Powder Cleanser
This scrubbing powder can be used on any surface and has an A rating from the EWG. Made from natural ingredients including limestone, feldspar, soda ash, and baking soda, it covers nearly any surface in your house with a gentle scrub. And it’s cheap too at only a couple bucks per jar.
