Switching to eco-friendly cleaning products can help reduce your home's exposure to synthetic chemicals and plastic waste. The following roundup includes eight options that use plant-based ingredients, reusable materials, or concentrated formats to minimize environmental impact.
How we choose
From all-purpose sprays to laundry sheets and dish brushes, these products cover a range of cleaning tasks. Each is chosen for its focus on non-toxic formulation or reduced packaging, catering to households seeking a more sustainable cleaning routine.
Our 8 Picks
Better Life All Purpose Cleaner - Plant Based Home and Kitchen Cleaning Spray for Glass, Countertops, Appliances, Upholstery & More - Multi-surface Spray Cleaner - 24oz Clary Sage & Citrus
What it is
A plant-based all-purpose cleaner suitable for countertops, glass, appliances, and upholstery, with a clary sage and citrus scent.
Why it's worth it
This multi-surface spray is designed to clean various surfaces around the home, potentially reducing the number of different cleaners needed. Its plant-derived formula aims to minimize volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in your home, which may benefit those with respiratory sensitivities or pets. The scent comes from essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances.
Caveat
May require more effort on baked-on grease compared to chemical degreasers.
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets Fragrance-Free - 60 Loads Eco Liquidless Soap - Travel-Friendly for Hot & Cold Cycles, Tackles Tough Stains & Odors - Gentle on Sensitive Skin, 30 Ct
What it is
Concentrated laundry detergent sheets that dissolve in hot or cold water, packaged in a compostable sleeve.
Why it's worth it
These sheets eliminate the need for plastic laundry jugs, reducing household plastic waste. The fragrance-free formula is suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Brand states they are effective on tough stains and odors. Their slim design makes them space-efficient for small homes or travel.
Caveat
They may not dissolve fully in very cold water if the washer is overloaded.
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, Made with Organic Oils, 18-in-1 Uses: Face, Body, Hair, Laundry, Pets and Dishes, Concentrated, Vegan, Non-GMO, Lavender, 32 Oz
What it is
A concentrated castile soap made with organic oils, suitable for multiple uses including hand soap, cleaning, laundry, and pet washing when diluted.
Why it's worth it
Brand states this 18-in-1 formula can replace many specialized cleaners, reducing product clutter and plastic waste. The organic oils and lack of synthetic preservatives make it gentle for skin, but dilution is needed for most applications. It is biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact.
Caveat
Must be diluted for most uses, and may leave a residue if not rinsed thoroughly on some surfaces.
E-Cloth Home Cleaning Set, Premium Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, Household Cleaning Tools & Supplies for Dusting, Bathroom, Kitchen & Cars, Washable & Reusable, 100 Wash Guarantee, 8 Piece Set
What it is
A set of reusable microfiber cloths designed to clean glass, stainless steel, and other surfaces with only water.
Why it's worth it
Brand states these cloths trap dust, grease, and bacteria using only water, eliminating the need for chemical sprays. The set includes specialized weaves for different tasks, such as streak-free windows. They are machine washable and guaranteed for 100 washes, offering long-term use and reducing disposable waste.
Caveat
Must be washed regularly; fabric softener should not be used as it diminishes microfiber effectiveness.
Non Toxic Dish Soap Bar – Natural Solid Dish Soap with Lemon Scent – Eco Friendly, Zero Waste, Plastic Free Kitchen Dishwashing Block – Long-Lasting, Gentle on Hands and Tough on Grease – Made in USA
What it is
A solid dish soap bar that comes in compostable paper packaging, designed to clean dishes without plastic bottles.
Why it's worth it
This bar aims to replace liquid dish soap, reducing plastic waste. Brand states it is long-lasting and gentle on hands, with natural lemon essential oil for scent. It lathers on a wet sponge and can cut through grease and baked-on food.
Caveat
Needs a dry soap dish to prevent softening and dissolving too quickly.
eplanita Natural Dish Brush, 3 Replacement Heads, Kitchen Eco Bamboo Scrubber Brushes, Extra Plant Sponge, Plastic Free Washing Up, Zero Waste Cleaning
What it is
A dish brush with a bamboo handle and replaceable heads, including a plant-based sponge, designed for plastic-free kitchen cleaning.
Why it's worth it
The brush is made from sustainable bamboo and natural fibers, making it compostable at end of life. Replaceable heads mean you only discard the bristles, reducing waste. Brand states it is tough on stuck-on food and safe for non-stick pans. It comes with a plant sponge for delicate dishes.
Caveat
Bamboo handle may crack if left in water for long periods; store handle-up in a dry holder.
ATTITUDE Window and Mirror Cleaner, EWG Verified, Plant- and Mineral-Based Ingredients, Vegan and Cruelty-free Household Products, Citrus Zest, 27.1 Fl Oz
What it is
A plant- and mineral-based glass cleaner for windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces.
Why it's worth it
This cleaner is EWG Verified, meaning each ingredient is screened for health and safety. Brand states it uses no ammonia or harsh chemicals, and the citrus zest scent comes from natural essential oils. It is biodegradable, reducing environmental impact. The 27.1-ounce bottle offers multiple uses.
Caveat
May need extra buffing on very dirty or greasy glass, especially in humid conditions.
Eco Multi-Surface Cleaner Starter Kit – Refillable Glass Spray Bottle + 6 Eco Tablets – Plastic-Free, Plant-Based, Non-Toxic – Orange Scent – Zero Waste
What it is
A starter kit with a glass spray bottle and dissolvable tablets for making multi-surface cleaner at home.
Why it's worth it
This kit helps reduce single-use plastic by providing a reusable glass bottle and concentrated tablets. The tablets are lightweight, lowering shipping emissions compared to liquid cleaners. Brand states the plant-based formula is non-toxic and scented with natural orange oil, effective on dirt and grime. It is a convenient way to adopt a refillable cleaning system.
Caveat
Tablets take a few minutes to fully dissolve; the glass bottle requires careful handling to avoid breakage.
How to choose
How to choose the right eco-friendly home cleaning products for a toxin-free home
Takeaway
Adopting even one or two of these eco-friendly cleaners can cut down on plastic waste and synthetic chemicals in your home, supporting a healthier environment for your family and the planet.
