What are the safest cleaning products for your home?
- Valentina Grandesso
- 2 days ago
- 13 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Plus, our list of common cleaning chemicals to avoid
Keeping your home clean makes it a happier, healthier place to live in. But have you ever wondered what’s actually in the cleaning products you use? Some of them might be hiding harsh chemicals that aren’t optimal for the health and safety of your family, pets, or the environment.
The good news is there are safe, natural ways to keep your home sparkling clean!
It's important to understand what makes a non toxic cleaning product safe to use over conventional cleaning products, so you can shop with confidence and chose the products that make sense for your needs. Like the food we eat, it's all about the ingredients! Instead of covering the best non toxic cleaning products in this article, we're going to uncover the best clean and natural active ingredients.
Maintaining a Healthy Home Starts with Healthy Cleaning Supplies
A lot of the "healthy" cleaning products you find on store shelves still contain chemicals that can pose significant health risks. Some of these ingredients can irritate your skin and harm your lungs with consistent exposure. For families, it's especially important to also consider what chemicals may be lingering on surfaces where your kids and pets play. Just a few of the reasons why it is so important to know what is in your household cleaning products.
What ingredients are in conventional cleaning products? Some common ingredients in popular cleaning products to watch out for are:
Phthalates
A common additive for soaps to boost lather, and often found in fragranced products—however, phthalates have been found to disrupt normal hormone functions and cause respiratory issues.
Quats (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds)
Chlorine
Ammonia
SLS, SLES, Cocamide DEA
Parabens
Checking your home for VOCs in cleaning products
We cover these frequently and for a good reason: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are pervasive in cleaning products and home goods. These gasses come from many products used in our homes and can reach concentrations up to 10 times higher indoors compared to outdoors.
This makes them a real concern for your home's air quality.
Though it may seem obvious, avoid products with labels featuring words like: "DANGER," "WARNING," or "POISON", as well as cleaning agents with strong odors that linger. Check labels carefully so you can be confident when choosing healthy home cleaning products to keep your space clean, safe, and free from harmful chemicals!
Even products labeled as 'fragrance-free' may still release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air.
VOCs are chemicals that can evaporate at room temperature and affect indoor air quality, sometimes causing headaches, allergies, or breathing problems. That’s why it's always better to look beyond the label and get the full picture of what’s actually inside the product.
One easy way to do this is to check the ventilation guidelines on the product label.
If a cleaning product used for simple everyday cleaning says you need to use it in a well-ventilated space or wear respiratory protection...that’s a red flag!
In fact, it likely contains high levels of VOCs and other harsh chemicals that will linger in your home.
Such products might even clean effectively, but they can leave behind nasty VOCs and chemicals that contribute to unhealthy air for you and your family to breathe.
Choosing products with fewer VOCs - or better yet - NO harmful chemicals, not only protects your health but also keeps your home’s air fresh and safe for everyone, including kids and pets.
The benefits of using healthy & environmentally-safe cleaning products
Making the switch to safe, natural, and eco-friendly cleaning products should be seen as more than just a trend—it’s an impactful way to create a healthier home and help the planet. It’s an easy change and you’ll love knowing you’re making a positive difference every day!
Here’s why safe and healthy home cleaning products are worth the change:
Cleaner, Safer Air to Breathe
First and foremost, most natural cleaning products don’t release harmful VOCs, which means healthier air for you and your family to breathe.
Dirt & Dust Build-Up
In addition to using natural non-toxic cleaners, using a non toxic fabric protector spray as a preventative to dirt build up is a great idea. This is why we created a spray that's free from VOCs and PFAS—so you spend less time cleaning an your home stays safe and clean for everyone to enjoy!
Allergen Free
Conventional cleaners often use vague terms like "fragrance" or "proprietary blend," so you don’t really know what’s inside. Clear labeling helps you make smarter, safer choices and avoid chemicals that can be harmful or irritating.
Eco-friendly
Biodegradable cleaning products made from plant based soap ingredients won't pollute our waterways or soil with petroleum based solvents and forever chemicals.
Cost Effective in the Long Run
Many natural products are no pricier than the conventional cleaners you're used to seeing. On top of that, many natural cleaners are multi-use, meaning one product can tackle several jobs—saving you money, space, and time in the long run!
Everyday toxins to watch for—and their safer alternatives
Pesky VOCs can sneak into everyday household items without you even realizing it.
Choosing low-VOC or (even better) zero-VOC paints as well as plant-based multipurpose cleaners is a simple way to reduce exposure and keep your home air quality much safer.
Here are some common household VOCs and where they might be hiding:
Formaldehyde
Where it’s found: Furniture, carpets, and pressed-wood items like particleboard.
Why it’s harmful: Can irritate your eyes and throat and has been linked to long-term health risks.
Toluene
Where it’s found: Paints, adhesives, nail polish, and commercial cleaning products.
Why it’s harmful: Can cause dizziness, headaches, and breathing problems over time.
Chloroform
Where it’s found: Bleach-based products and chlorinated water.
Why it’s harmful: Can irritate your lungs and affect your health over time.
Perchloroethylene (PERC)
Where it’s found: Dry-cleaned clothes, carpet cleaners, and spot removers.
Why it’s harmful: May affect your nervous system with consistent exposure.
Benzene
Where it’s found: Paints, waxes, and even cigarette smoke.
Why it’s harmful: It’s a known carcinogen and can weaken your immune system.
Acetone
Where it’s found: Nail polish remover, furniture finishes, and some paints.
Why it’s harmful: Can irritate your nose and eyes and make you feel lightheaded.
Xylene
Where it’s found: Markers, adhesives, paints, and varnishes.
Why it’s harmful: Can cause nausea, headaches, and skin irritation.
The Best All Natural Cleaning Products for Bathrooms & Kitchens
When it comes to cleaning your kitchen and bathroom, natural ingredients work just as well as traditional cleaners but without the harmful chemicals that can degrade the air quality in your home.
This means that the best cleaning products for bathroom surfaces are those that are tough on grime, but also gentle enough for your family...
So let’s take a look at some of these amazing natural options that are easy to find, safe for sensitive skin, and budget-friendly!
Baking Soda—mineral-based cleaning scrub that is non-abrasive
For those stubborn stains that just won’t budge, baking soda (aka sodium bicarbonate) is here to save the day! It’s a natural mineral, and gentle enough for delicate surfaces but strong enough to leave sinks, tubs, toilets, and even cookware, spotless.
Baking soda is a mechanical cleaner, which means it removes grime and lifts grease by scrubbing and absorbing, instead using a chemical petroleum based solvent to break down the stain.
Just mix the powder into a paste with a little water, apply it, and let it work its magic for 15–20 minutes before scrubbing—it’s a simple and effective solution you’ll love!
(You'll want to spot test first on items that may scratch easier, such as glass or mirrors, or delicate materials like bamboo fabric.)
Plant-based Surfactants—cleaning products made with botanical ingredients
Plant-based surfactants are a powerhouse in natural cleaning products. These 100% biodegradable ingredients effectively cut through grease while staying gentle on surfaces, making them ideal for everyday use. Look for options like coco glucoside or decyl glucoside, which are derived from plants and free of VOC's. They're eco-friendly, non-toxic nature means they’re tough on dirt and grime but safe for your home and the environment—perfect for daily kitchen cleanup!
Avoid synthetic surfactants like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) or SLES (sodium laureth sulfate), even if labeled as plant-based, as they can be too harsh and irritating.
This simple, non-toxic cleaning solution is perfect for freshening up surfaces, tackling everyday messes, and leaving your home smelling amazing—making it one of the easiest and best non toxic household cleaning products for a safer home!
Hydrogen Peroxide—a sanitizing cleaning product
Cleaning with products that have hydrogen peroxide is a great way to tackle messes safely and effectively. It’s a natural disinfectant that kills germs like bacteria and viruses without the chemicals or smelly VOC's. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can use it on countertops, cutting boards, and in bathrooms.
Plus hydrogen peroxide breaks down into just water and oxygen, so it's completely safe to use!
Grapefruit Seed Extract—cleaning product concentrate
Grapefruit seed extract is a hidden gem in natural cleaning products! It fights bacteria, mold, and mildew while being gentle and eco-friendly.
Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and even laundry, it leaves behind a light, fresh citrus scent without the toxic artificial fragrance.
If you’re looking for a natural way to keep your home clean and smelling great, products with grapefruit seed extract are a fantastic choice.
Grain Alcohol—substitute for petroleum alcohols used in cleaning products
You may already know that white vinegar works well for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in your home. Believe it or not, vodka also works surprisingly well on tough grease - especially on glass, windows and stovetops! This plant-based alcohol is derived from corn or potatoes. Vodka evaporates quickly and leaves surfaces spotless, streak-free and without residue.
Vodka is a great, non-toxic option for many cleaning tasks, and it’s especially handy if you’re looking for a quick, effective solution!
TIP: How to Use Vodka as a Healthy Cleaning Solution
Glass Cleaner
Mix equal parts vodka and water (or just straight up vodka) in a spray bottle. Spray on windows or mirrors and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Kitchen Surface Cleaner
Fabric Deodorizer
Sticker Residue Remover
Tips and Cautions when cleaning with Vodka...
The Best Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for Bedrooms & Other Living Spaces
We spend so much time in our bedrooms and living spaces, so keeping these areas clean and healthy is super important. And natural cleaning products are a great way to protect the air we breathe and fabrics we relax on.
Our everyday cleaning is so much easier with versatile all-purpose cleaners that get the job done naturally. Our favorites to use in the bedroom are:
Spot cleaners with plant-derived surfactants for effective dirt removal from rugs and drapes
Detergents with natural enzymes to break down organic matter (pet messes, bed wetting, sweat)
Essential oils from plants if you enjoy fresh, non-toxic fragrance in your soaps
The places where we unwind and connect with loved ones should feel as safe as they are comfortable. That’s why it’s so important to use non-toxic cleaning products that keep these spaces fresh and free from harmful residues, creating a healthier home for everyone!
TIP: Nontoxic fabric protector spray can work wonders on carpets and furniture, adding a safe, invisible shield against stains. It’s an easy way to keep your favorite spaces fresh, comfy, and ready for anything!
The Safest Cleaning Products For Pets, Babies & Pregnancy
Creating a healthy home means choosing the right products that work for everyone! Little ones and fur babies can be especially sensitive to the chemicals found in traditional cleaning products. Here's some ingredients that should be inside pets, babies and pregnancy safe cleaning products.
Best cleaning products for stinky trash cans...
... Baking Soda
Baking soda has proven to be a game-changer in our battle against odors naturally. A quarter cup at the bottom of trash cans neutralizes unpleasant smells because of its natural pH-balancing properties.
Best laundry products for clothes, sheets & pet beds...
... Soap Nuts-Based Laundry Detergent
Soap nuts have become our go-to choice for baby clothes and bedding due to their gentle yet effective cleaning power. These natural cleaners contain saponins that lift dirt while being kind to sensitive skin.
...Washing Soda & Borax
Washing soda and borax are similar to baking soda, in that they are both purely mineral-based. Washing soda is made out of sodium carbonate and borax is sodium borate. They're both extremely gentle on clothes and work to make the water more alkaline in your wash cycle, to help loosen stains and boost the power of your detergent.
... Plant-based Laundry Booster
With so many sensitivities in the family, Jen & Rusty developed a multipurpose, fragrance-free cleaner. It was originally formulated to work with the Healthier Homes line of nontoxic construction and paint products, and evolved into a multipurpose cleaner that can also be used in the laundry, as a carpet shampoo, and to clean your car. We boost our laundry routine with ¼ cup of this hypoallergenic cleaning concentrate for extra cleaning power.
Easiest ways to clean upholstery, toys and furniture
... Sterilize Best UV Light Wands
For sterilizing sofas, rugs, mattresses and play areas best UV light wands are a cool cleaning gadget. You'll want to be mindful of what makes them work though. Since the UV wands sterilize using UV-C light radiation, be careful to only wave the wand over surfaces and not at someone when in use.
... Vacuuming & Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning is a great way to clean and sterilize mattresses and fabric surfaces. Plus, it helps to release any wrinkles. (Just avoid using steam on silk or bamboo viscose fabrics.) Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter on a regular basis, too.
... Hypochlorous For Cleaning
Hypochlorous acid solutions are amazing—they’re the same thing our immune systems naturally produce to fight germs! This gentle yet powerful cleaner is perfect for baby items, killing 99.9% of germs while being completely safe. And the best part is that doesn’t leave any harmful residue on surfaces like play areas, changing tables and toys. It safely turns into water, so you can feel good about what your little ones are touching.
... Ozone Water
Ozone is a powerful disinfectant and effectively removes odors and stains. We use it in the laundry, for water purification and for various surface cleaning tasks. By simply passing ozone through water, a very powerful (and economical) sanitizer is born. The only downside is ozone will quickly dissipate, so you can't make ozonated cleaning solutions and store them.
Our top choice for the best nontoxic cleaning product is...
When it comes to an easy to use sprayable surface cleaner, we found our perfect budget-friendly power duo for non-toxic cleaning that works after learning about natural cleaning solutions. Our cleaning routine has completely changed thanks to... vodka and vinegar! We believe that the best cleaning solutions don't need to be expensive or complicated.
Homemade Vodka + Vinegar Cleaner
This dynamic duo creates a super, streak-free cleaner that works on so many surfaces in the home. Here's our favorite all-purpose recipe:
½ cup white vinegar
½ cup vodka (unflavored)
1½ cups water
10 drops each of lavender and lemon essential oils (optional, for fragrance)
This simple, non-toxic cleaning solution is perfect for freshening up surfaces, tackling grime, and leaving your home smelling amazing - plus, it’s a great pet safe cleaning option!
Vodka dissolves oils and cuts through grease without leaving any strong smells, which is great if you’re sensitive to odors. Add vinegar to the mix, and its natural acidity tackles grime and germs like a pro. Together, they’re a dream team for cleaning!
These two ingredients create a potent yet safe cleaning solution that works great on:
Glass and mirrors (leaves zero streaks!)
Kitchen countertops and backsplashes
Bathroom surfaces and fixtures
Doorknobs and light switches
Stovetops and range hoods
A quick spray on high-touch surfaces fights germs without exposing your family to harsh chemicals.
FAQs:
What are the safest household cleaning products to use?
Baking soda: Cleans, deodorizes, softens water, and works as a gentle scrubbing powder.
Castile soap: Non-toxic, biodegradable, and great for general cleaning.
White vinegar + water: A simple, effective cleaner for everyday use.
Plant-based cleaners: Look for options with natural enzymes and essential oils for a safe, eco-friendly alternative.
How can I clean my house without using toxic chemicals?
All-purpose cleaner: Mix white vinegar and water.
Heavy-duty scrub: Combine baking soda and lemon juice into a paste.
Kitchen cleaner: Use baking soda alone for surfaces.
Bathroom scrub: Mix baking soda and salt for a powerful clean.
Mildew remover: Use a solution of white vinegar and table salt.
What are some of the best natural cleaning ingredients?
White vinegar: Disinfects and removes buildup, rust, and hard water stains.
Baking soda: Perfect for scrubbing and deodorizing.
Lemon juice: Natural bleach with a fresh scent.
Hydrogen peroxide: Sanitizes and fights germs naturally.
Essential oils: Adds fragrance and mild antimicrobial properties.
Plant-based surfactants: Cuts through grease and is biodegradable.
What are effective cleaning tools for a thorough house cleaning?
Microfiber cloths: Ideal for dusting and wiping surfaces.
Scrub brushes: Handy for tough stains and grout.
Spray bottles: Mix your own cleaning solutions.
HEPA vacuum: Removes allergens and dust effectively.
Steam cleaner: Deep cleans without needing chemicals.
How can I create a safe cleaning environment for pets, babies, and during pregnancy?
Go natural: stick with simple, non-toxic cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, or plant-based options. They’re gentle but still get the job done!
Avoid strong scents: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products are your best bet to avoid any irritation.
Try Hypochlorous acid: It’s a super-safe sanitizer that’s tough on germs but kind to your family.
Keep products out of reach: Store cleaners safely away from curious little hands or paws.
Ditch harsh chemicals: Avoid anything that needs strong ventilation or has warning labels you can’t pronounce.
At Healthier Homes, we're all about nontoxic swaps! It's what we do, every day.
Making the switch to natural, non-toxic cleaning is easier than you think. Start with the safest cleaning products, like an all-purpose cleaner and a fabric protector, to keep it simple and effective :)
