Keeping a clean home is essential, and that extends to the very floors we walk on. However, traditional floor cleaners often contain a barrage of harsh chemicals.
Not only do these substances have the potential to negatively impact our health, but they’re also a concern for younger and more vulnerable members of our households, including infants and pets, who regularly come into closer contact with floor surfaces.
Therefore, it is of paramount importance to make informed decisions when selecting floor-cleaning products, favoring options that forego toxic ingredients for safer alternatives.
Key Takeaways
- Biokleen Bac-Out Cleaner sustains multiple surfaces.
- Puracy Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo ensures gentle care.
- Aunt Fannie’s Vinegar Floor Cleaner prioritizes vinyl surfaces.
- The Cleaner Soul Cleaner shines as an economical choice.
- PUR Home Cleaner offers potent floor cleaning.
- Earth Hero/Earthy Edith’s Cleaner highlights sustainable packaging.
- AspenClean Cleaner delights with its fragrance.
Criteria for Selecting No-Harm Floor Cleansers
When assessing household cleansers for floors that claim to be safe and environmentally friendly, it is crucial to consider whether they have been examined by independent organizations.
Such endorsements often indicate that a product has undergone strict evaluations for safety and efficacy. Among these, the EWG Verified mark is a testament to a product’s compliance with the rigorous health and transparency standards of the Environmental Working Group.
Products bearing the Green Seal are recognized for meeting comprehensive sustainability benchmarks. Moreover, options labeled as Safer Choice Certified reflect adherence to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s program encouraging the use of less hazardous substances.
Transparency of Ingredients
The opaqueness in disclosing the components of floor cleaning products is a prevalent issue within the industry. Lack of compulsory regulations enables some brands to omit full ingredient listings, possibly including harmful substances like phthalates, strong preservatives, or synthetic scents.
Hence, selecting cleaning solutions that openly reveal all ingredients is vital to ensure the protection of human health and to avoid unseen risks in frequent cleaning regimes.
Best Choices
1. Eco-Friendly Multi-Surface Floor Cleanser by Cleaner Soul
Made with health and environmental consciousness at its core, this versatile floor cleanser is suitable for numerous surfaces.
Designed with pet, baby safety, and vegan standards in mind, it proudly carries a PETA certification.
Its prominent feature is the inclusion of natural citrus essence, bringing powerful antibacterial and antiseptic traits to the table.
Offered in an eco-conscious glass spray bottle, this concentrated cleaner with its orange oil content makes quick work of dirt and grime without leaving behind any chemical traces.
2. Plant-Derived Floor Cleaning Liquid by AspenClean
Committed to your health and that of the planet, this particular floor-cleaning liquid is an excellent choice for removing unwanted streaks and spots.
Recognized by the Environmental Working Group and adorned with EcoCert certification, it avoids using potent chemicals, instead opting for organic compounds such as citric acid.
Suitable for an array of flooring, including hardwood and stone, this floor cleanser omits the synthetic smells, aiming for efficiency and skin-friendly attributes.
3. Earth Hero/Edith’s Multi-Use Natural Cleaner
Designed to maintain indoor air quality while providing a robust clean, Edith’s Multi-Use Cleaner stays clear of parabens and synthetic fragrances. Utilizing the time-tested cleaning prowess of distilled white vinegar, this solution eliminates bacteria efficiently.
The application of recycled and reusable materials throughout the production process further reinforces its eco-friendly stance.
4. Aunt Fannie’s Vinegar-Based Floor Cleaner
Aunt Fannie’s solution for sanitized floors suitable for homes with kids and pets uses nothing but vinegar and plant extracts.
Attracting an A-rating from the Environmental Working Group and an EPA Safer Choice label, this product fulfills its claims of a non-toxic and allergy-friendly cleanser.
Utilizing vinegar’s innate cleaning ability, the wash manages to cleanse effectively while preserving the good bacteria essential for a balanced home environment.
5. Biokleen’s Enzymatic Floor Cleaner
Designed as an eco-conscious option in the face of traditional cleaners, Biokleen emphasizes its non-toxic, enzymatic cleaning action.
Suitable for nearly all sealed floors, it leaves behind neither residue nor overwhelming fumes, offering instead a refreshing citrus fragrance.
Its enzymes tackle a wide range of substances from oils to various particles, ensuring a deep clean.
6. Puracy’s Natural Formula for Carpets and Upholstery
Given top marks by the Environmental Working Group, Puracy’s natural shampoo is the creation of chemists dedicated to green chemistry.
This plant-derived formula is safe for both pets and children and stands up to the tough job of cleaning carpets and upholstery.
It’s aimed at dispelling odors and tackling stains without harming those who come into contact with the treated fabrics, leaving behind a subtle scent of pink grapefruit.
7. PUR Home’s Safe and Concentrated Floor Cleaner
Ranking highly on the Environmental Working Group’s scale, this cleaner is formulated to be tough on dirt while being kind to your home’s environment.
Its concentrated nature means that a small amount goes a long way, ensuring cleanliness across a variety of flooring surfaces without unnecessary waste.
Comparison of Eco-Friendly Solutions
Cleaner Soul All-Floor Cleaner
- Completely free from toxins
- Safe for pets and children
- Vegan-friendly
- Recognized by PETA
- Affordable choice
AspenClean Natural Floor Cleaner
- Endorsed by the Environmental Working Group
- Certified by Ecocert
- Infused with natural essential oils
- Noted for its pleasant aroma
Earth Hero/Earthy Edith’s Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
- Praised for its environmentally friendly packaging
Aunt Fannie’s Floor Vinegar Wash
- Attained top marks from the Environmental Working Group
- Certified by the EPA’s Safer Choice program
- Hypoallergenic properties
- Ideal for vinyl flooring surfaces
Biokleen Bac-Out Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner
- Acknowledged repeatedly by the EPA’s Safer Choice program
- Versatile across various surface types
Puracy Natural Carpet And Upholstery Shampoo
- Holds an Environmental Working Group A rating
- Specifically formulated for carpets
PUR Home Concentrated Floor Cleaner
- Earned an Environmental Working Group A rating
- Concentrated formula for effective cleaning
Advantages
Non-toxic floor cleaners offer a multitude of benefits, primary among them being their safety profile for families. These solutions are particularly important in homes with young children, who are prone to direct contact with the floor and may inadvertently ingest harmful substances from objects on the floor.
Additionally, such cleaners significantly enhance the indoor air quality of your home. Unlike conventional products, they do not release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are known to be harmful to health when inhaled.
Moreover, floors treated with non-toxic cleaners are free of hazardous residues, which ensures a safe environment for all household members to enjoy. Pairing these products with sustainable cleaning tools, like eco-friendly mops, further contributes to a clean and environmentally responsible home maintenance routine.
| Benefits | Details |
|---|---|
| Child Safety | Decreased risk of chemical ingestion and contact. |
| Improved Air Quality | Lack of VOC emission. |
| Healthier Living Spaces | Absence of harmful chemical residues on surfaces. |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly when paired with sustainable cleaning equipment. |
Hazardous Substances
Floor cleaning products may contain several hazardous chemicals that pose risks to human health and the environment.
- Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): These chemicals, found in antimicrobial cleaners, can exacerbate asthma and cause skin and lung irritation.
- Hidden Ingredients Under “Fragrances”: This term can mask the inclusion of harmful substances like phthalates, which are known to harm the respiratory system, irritate the skin, and be detrimental to the environment.
- Ammonia: A potent cleaning agent in numerous floor cleaning solutions, ammonia exposure can have harmful effects on the respiratory system.
- Methylisothiazolinone: Used as a preservative, this chemical can induce allergic reactions as well as have possible neurotoxic impacts.
- Phthalates: These chemicals, which are often added to fragrances or products to improve pliability, are recognized disruptors of the endocrine system. Pregnant individuals should be cautious.
- Sodium Xylene Sulfonate: This compound raises concerns about its impact on general organ health and visual acuity.
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Though it acts as a detergent, reducing static and boosting soap’s foaming action, it was declared an allergen by dermatologists. It also raises environmental concerns.
- Sulfates (SLS/SLES): These substances can irritate the eyes and skin. Sulfates can contain 1,4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen.
- Triclosan: Frequently used in antibacterial products, triclosan may affect the endocrine system and is potentially carcinogenic.
- Chlorine Bleach: A disinfectant known for producing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), it can also irritate the eyes, lungs, and skin.
Vinegar’s Efficacy in Floor Cleaning
Vinegar has long been recognized for its ability to tackle water-soluble stains that aren’t oily or greasy. It’s notably powerful against lime scale and rust, which commonly plague locations with hard water.
- Removes stains: Ideal for non-greasy, water-based stains.
- Counters mineral deposits: Effective in hard water areas.
- Rust removal: Can alleviate rust stains efficiently.
In terms of sanitation, even a small amount of vinegar’s active ingredient, acetic acid, can act as an antibacterial agent.
- Antibacterial properties: Shown to be effective at low concentrations.
- Durable effectiveness: Retains antibacterial action after evaporation.
FAQ
Why should I choose non-toxic floor cleaners?
Non-toxic cleaners are safer for all household members, including pets and children, reduce the risk of chemical exposure, and are better for the environment.
What certifications should I look for in eco-friendly floor cleaners?
Look for certifications like EWG Verified, Green Seal, and Safer Choice Certified, which indicate the product meets stringent health and environmental standards.
Can natural ingredients like vinegar effectively clean floors?
Yes, vinegar is an effective cleaning agent for non-greasy, water-soluble stains and has antibacterial properties, making it suitable for many cleaning tasks.
Are there any common harmful chemicals I should avoid in floor cleaners?
Avoid chemicals like quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), phthalates, ammonia, methylisothiazolinone, sodium xylene sulfonate, cocamidopropyl betaine, sulfates (SLS/SLES), triclosan, and chlorine bleach.
How can I ensure a floor cleaner is safe for my family?
Choose products with transparent ingredient lists, prefer those with natural and plant-derived ingredients, and select products with reputable certifications.
Can eco-friendly floor cleaners be used on all types of floors?
While many are versatile, always check the product label for specific surface compatibility to ensure it’s suitable for your flooring type.
Are eco-friendly floor cleaners more expensive than traditional ones?
While some may have a higher upfront cost, their concentrated formulas and lack of harmful chemicals can offer better long-term value and health benefits.
Conclusion
Choosing eco-friendly and non-toxic floor cleaners is a crucial step towards creating a safer, healthier home environment. By selecting products with natural ingredients and reputable certifications, you can protect your family from harmful chemicals while also contributing to environmental conservation. Remember, a clean home doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health or the planet.