Cleaning. It’s one of those inevitable, unglamorous things that we all have to do in life (because let’s face it: If Cinderella can’t make it look glamorous, then there’s no hope). But what if I told you that you could clean and help save the planet at the same time? It’s true! In honor of “Green” Month here at Germ, here’s a list of some eco-friendly products that will make cleaning feel less like boring work and more like a superhero’s job.
(Disclaimer: I have not tried any of these products, so any claims listed here are that of the company and not me).
Green Works Laundry Detergent
Green Works is actually a division of the popular cleaning brand Clorox. In an attempt to give consumers cleaning products that are more eco-friendly, Green Works boasts a wide array of products ranging from glass cleaner to dishwashing soap to even hand soap. This laundry detergent in particular promises to “leave your clothes, towels and linens fresh and clean — without phosphates, optical brighteners or harsh chemical residue.” In fact, the website boasts that at least 97% of the ingredients used are all natural.
Method Bathroom Cleaner with powergreen® technology
Method is a company dedicated to providing eco-friendly products. Not only do they use only biodegradable ingredients in all of their products, but their packaging is made out of recycled material and can even be recycled after use! This bathroom cleaner uses a new kind of cleaning technology called powergreen® technology — a “cutting-edge green chemistry that harnesses the strength of naturally derived, non-toxic ingredients to deliver a mighty cleaning punch.” It also has a eucalyptus mint scent, which means not only will your bathroom be clean, but it will smell minty fresh, too!
Martha Stewart Clean™ All-Purpose Cleaner
If you want a “green” product that does a universal job at cleaning things, then this product is for you. It works on floors, kitchen surfaces, bathroom surfaces, car/boat surfaces, and trash cans. In addition, this cleaner — along with all the other Martha Stewart Clean™ products — contains no synthetic or artificial ingredients. Instead, the products use “proprietary formulas [that] are 99+% plant and mineral based with biodegradable ingredients.” This all-purpose cleaner, which was “certified by E.P.A’s ‘Design for the Environment,’” is also ammonia free, which is great if you have breathing problems such as asthma.
The Honest Company Dishwasher Packs
When you’re running the dishwasher, the last thing you want are toxic chemicals washing over the dishes and utensils from which you eat and drink. That’s why the Honest Company — which was founded by actress Jessica Alba and author Christopher Gavigan — promises to never use “health-compromising chemicals or compounds” in any of their products. These dishwasher packs use all natural ingredients, are free of fragrance and dyes, have a “dual-action cleaning and degreasing power,” and are enclosed in a “biodegradable pouch.” In addition, this product has received numerous eco-friendly awards, including PETA’s Cruelty Free certification and the Green America certification.
Seventh Generation Glass & Surface Natural Cleaner
If you’re looking for a cleaner that is free of harsh chemical smells and perfume smells, then this cleaner is for you. According to the website, the product is made with a “powerful, plant-based formula [that] cleans to a streak-free shine without harsh fumes.” While that’s important, what’s even more important is the company’s promise regarding all of their products: “We won’t use chemicals of concern, we won’t test on animals, and we disclose all ingredients right on our packaging. We’re committed to a toxin-free and a cruelty-free future.”
So, what do you think of these products? Do you think you might use any of them or do you already have some favorite eco-friendly cleaners that you like to use? Let us know in the comments below!