Why Choose Sustainable Cleaning Products
Cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that are bad for our health and the environment. Sustainable cleaning products are a great alternative that get the job done without the toxic ingredients. Here are some of the top reasons to make the switch:
Healthier for You and Your Family
Conventional cleaning products often contain chemicals linked to asthma, cancer, reproductive harm, and other health issues. Sustainable cleaners skip the dangerous chemicals in favor of plant-based, non-toxic ingredients. This makes your home healthier and safer for children, pets, and those with chemical sensitivities.
Better for the Environment
Many conventional cleaning chemicals get rinsed down the drain and end up polluting waterways. The plastic bottles are also a source of waste. Sustainable cleaners often come in recyclable or reusable packaging. The plant-based ingredients break down safely without harming the environment.
Cost Effective
At first glance, green cleaners may seem more expensive. But the large refill sizes actually make them very economical. For example, a $20 bottle of plant-based concentrate makes 16 gallons of all-purpose cleaner. That’s just $1.25 per gallon – far cheaper than store-bought cleaners!
Easier to Make Yourself
You can save even more money by making DIY cleaners from ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap. These homemade cleaners work great and only cost pennies per use. Keep reading to learn some easy DIY recipes!
DIY Sustainable Cleaning Recipes
Below I share some of my favorite recipes for effective, non-toxic household cleaners:
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1/2 cup vinegar – cuts grease and disinfects
- 1/4 cup baking soda – scrubs and deodorizes
- 1 tsp liquid castile soap – lifts dirt
- 2 cups hot water
Mix ingredients until dissolved. Store in a spray bottle and use on countertops, appliances, floors, etc. The vinegar smell dissipates as it dries.
Glass + Window Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup vinegar – cuts through grease and grime
- 1 tbsp corn starch – prevents streaking
Combine in a spray bottle and shake before each use. Spray directly on windows or mirrors and wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel.
Tub + Shower Cleaner
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
- 1/4 cup water
- 5-10 drops essential oil (optional)
Mix ingredients to form a paste. Scrub onto shower walls, tile, tub, etc. and rinse clean. The baking soda scrubs while the soap dissolves gunk. Smells fresh!
Non-Toxic Disinfectant
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup vinegar – kills bacteria
- 15 drops tea tree, eucalyptus, or lemon essential oil – extra disinfecting power
Spray directly on surfaces and let sit 5+ minutes before wiping. Safely kills germs without harsh chemicals.
Foaming Hand Soap
- 1/2 cup liquid castile soap
- 1 cup water
- 5 drops essential oil (optional)
Combine ingredients and mix with an immersion blender until foamy. Decant into a foaming hand soap dispenser. Nourishes hands without triclosan or antibacterial chemicals.
Where to Buy Sustainable Cleaning Products
Making your own cleaners is cheapest, but you can also find high-quality, eco-friendly cleaners at most stores:
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Farmer’s markets – Look for local soapmakers and artisans selling non-toxic cleaners.
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Natural grocery stores – Earth-friendly brands like Seventh Generation, Ecover, and Dr. Bronner’s.
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Home improvement stores – Many now carry green cleaners like Method and Nature’s Source.
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Online – Amazon and sustainable sites like Grove Collaborative have a wide selection.
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DIY stores – Ingredients like castile soap, essential oils, vinegar, and baking soda.
The bottom line is you have many options for finding natural, non-toxic cleaners that get your home sparkling without the scary chemicals. With a few easy recipe tweaks or new product swaps, you can create a healthier home while saving money and the planet. Give these sustainable cleaning solutions a try – your wallet and conscience will thank you!
