Non-Toxic Cleaning Products That Put the Beauty in Utility

If you’re a regular here, by now you know our love for beauty with utility runs deep. From laundry essentials to pantry basics, we’re always looking to put the pretty in practical. And yes, this philosophy also applies to our non-toxic cleaning products. Because why can’t we have safe yet effective dish soaps and surface cleaners that also look good on our counter? Well, the good news is, we can. So, we compiled a few of our favorites for you today.

But first, a few things to consider when buying cleaning products:

1. Just like your food or beauty products, take a peek at the ingredients list. Fewer is typically better, but keep an eye out for these: Methylisothiazolinone, ammonia, butyl cellosolve/glycol ether, parabens, phosphates, synthetic fragrance, sodium lauryl sulfate, phthalates, 1-4 Dioxane, fragrance, dye, synthetic foaming agents, unnatural preservatives, water softening agents, pH adjusters, formaldehyde, bleach, artificial colors, and buffering agents.
2. When possible choose fragrance-free or organic products. Look for essential oils on the ingredients list in replacement of fragrance (but opt-out altogether if you’re sensitive). Use simple detergents and soaps with short ingredient lists, and avoid antibacterial products with triclosan for home use.

And now, some of our favorite natural cleaning tips…

1. White vinegar: great for general cleaning and can also replace your fabric softener or dryer sheets—or opt for wool dryer balls. (Biokleen Laundry Oxygen Bleach Plus uses the power of hydrogen peroxide for removing stains from clothing and your carpet.)
2. Tea tree oil: This is a natural but powerful antibacterial and antifungal alternative to chemical disinfectants. Simply add a few drops of tea-tree oil and a tablespoon of vinegar to some water (option to add your favorite essential oil for fragrance), then mix it all together in a spray bottle for an effective all-purpose germ-killing cleaner.
3. Borax powder: Made from anhydrous pure powdered sodium borate (with no additives or preservatives), this powder acts as a cleansing booster for your laundry, dish detergent, carpet cleaner, or mix it with vinegar to clean the toilet bowl!
4. Bon Ami unscented powder: For stubborn surfaces like the bathroom, kitchen sink, or stovetops, there’s nothing quite like it. Made from natural ingredients like ground feldspar and baking soda without the added bleach, chlorine, dyes, or perfumes, it’s very gentle on surfaces.