Keeping your home clean is important for a healthy and comfortable space, but with so many cleaning products out there, it’s good to pick ones that are safe for you, your family, and the environment. Natural cleaning sprays are a great alternative to chemical-based cleaners, using plant-based ingredients and essential oils to get rid of dirt and germs without the harsh toxins.
In this guide, we’ll look at what makes a good natural cleaning spray and highlight some top options for your home.
What Makes a Cleaning Spray “Natural”?
A natural cleaning spray uses safe, non-toxic ingredients like plant-based cleaners, essential oils, and vinegar. Unlike regular cleaners, these sprays skip harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. To be considered a top natural cleaner, the product should be:
- Non-toxic: Free from harmful chemicals like parabens and sulfates.
- Biodegradable: Breaks down naturally without harming the environment.
- Cruelty-free: Not tested on animals.
- Hypoallergenic: Safe for sensitive skin.
- Effective: Cleans and disinfects various surfaces like countertops, floors, and appliances.
Benefits of Using Natural Cleaning Sprays
- Healthier Air Quality: Many chemical cleaners release fumes that can cause breathing issues or headaches. Natural sprays help you avoid these problems by keeping the air in your home cleaner.
- Safe for Kids and Pets: Natural cleaners are safer around children and pets because they don’t leave harmful chemicals behind.
- Eco-friendly: Many natural products come in recyclable packaging and are biodegradable, meaning they break down without polluting the environment.
- Gentle on Surfaces: While tough on dirt, natural sprays are often gentle enough to use on delicate surfaces like granite and stainless steel.
Top Natural Cleaning Sprays
Mrs. Meyer’s Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner
- Why It’s Great: Made with plant-based ingredients and essential oils like lavender or lemon verbena, this cleaner tackles everyday messes while leaving a fresh scent.
- Best For: General cleaning on countertops and appliances.
- Pros: Biodegradable, cruelty-free, and has a variety of pleasant scents.
- Cons: May not work as well for tough stains.
Better Life Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
- Why It’s Great: This cleaner uses plant-based ingredients like soap bark and coconut oil to power through dirt without any toxic chemicals.
- Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
- Pros: Safe for kids and pets, non-toxic, and highly effective.
- Cons: The scent is very mild, which might not be for everyone.
Puracy Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Why It’s Great: Created by doctors, this cleaner is both eco-friendly and non-toxic, using ingredients like coconut-based cleansers and green tea extract.
- Best For: Families with children and pets, and those with sensitive skin.
- Pros: Hypoallergenic and biodegradable.
- Cons: May require extra scrubbing for stubborn stains.
ECOS All-Purpose Cleaner with Orange Oil
- Why It’s Great: With natural orange oil, this cleaner is great for cutting through grease and grime while being gentle on skin.
- Best For: Kitchens and bathrooms.
- Pros: Vegan, affordable, and smells great.
- Cons: The citrus scent can be strong.
Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Why It’s Great: This cleaner uses thyme oil to disinfect surfaces, killing 99.99% of germs, including cold and flu viruses.
- Best For: High-touch areas like doorknobs and countertops.
- Pros: Disinfects naturally and meets EPA safety standards.
- Cons: The thyme oil gives it a strong herbal scent.
Also Read: Which cleaning products are safe for children and pets?
DIY Natural Cleaning Spray Recipe
If you prefer making your own cleaner, here’s an easy recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10-20 drops of essential oils (like lemon, lavender, or tea tree)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of baking soda for extra scrubbing
Instructions:
- Mix the water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Add the essential oils.
- Shake well before use, spray on surfaces, and wipe with a cloth.
Note: Avoid using vinegar-based cleaners on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite, as it can damage them.
How to Choose the Best Natural Cleaning Spray
When picking a natural cleaner, consider:
- Surface Compatibility: Make sure the cleaner works for the surfaces you plan to clean (wood, glass, etc.).
- Ingredients: Look for plant-based ingredients and essential oils, and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Scent: Choose a scent you enjoy, as many natural sprays use essential oils for fragrance.
- Effectiveness: Decide if you need a cleaner for light daily tasks or something stronger for tougher jobs.
- Environmental Impact: Opt for products that are biodegradable and cruelty-free.
By choosing natural cleaning sprays, you’re not only keeping your home clean but also protecting your family and the planet.
