Redefining the "Clean" in Cleaning Products: Grocery Run with us!
Choosing the perfectly “clean” cleaning products can be a daunting task. And while there’s really no such thing as perfect, we at HEI can at least help you in making green-er choices with these brands. Take out the guesswork as we already did the research for you! These are all easily accessible and available in your neighborhood grocery store chain.
1. Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation aims to “Clean with Purpose”, with a mission to transform the world into a healthy, sustainable and equitable place for the next seven generations. They have a wide range of home cleaning and home care products, you will surely find everything you need in this brand. They also have clear and very transparent labels, going the extra mile in marking which ones are plant-derived, plant-based, natural fragrance, etc with packaging made out of 100% recyclable plastic. It comes as no surprise as to why Seventh Generation is part of the Top Green Company List with its clear mission, advocacies, as well as label and company accreditation that in itself goes through a rigorous process such as: being Certified B-Corp, Leaping Bunny Certified, USDA Bio-based Certified and Safer Choice EPA Certified.
2. Dr. Bronner’s
Dr. Bronner’s as a company is a pioneer in the soap-making industry, with 150 years spanning 5 generations on its belt. Known for their all-in-one soaps, the company stays true to its founder’s vision of “making socially & environmentally responsible products of the highest quality—and by dedicating our profits to help make a better world”. Through the years they have expanded out of personal care and have naturally gone into all-in-one home cleaning. One of our favorite products of theirs is Dr. Bronner’s Salsuds Biodegradable Cleaner which is their “ultimate multi-purpose house cleaner”. It is made up of the best plant-based ingredients and is even certified vegan and organic. Other certifications include being: Leaping Bunny Certified, Certified Fair Trade and also Certified B-Corp.
3. Mrs. Meyers Clean Day
Another household staple, Mrs. Meyers claim is that they make the most effective and trusted formulas from plant-derived ingredients, all rooted in goodness. They’re standing their ground against harsh products with toxic fumes and sterile smells, making their products “A collection of household products inspired by flowers and herbs that smell delightful, but really pack a punch against daily dirt and grime”. They are thoroughly safe as proven by their USDA Bio-based Certification, Leaping Bunny Certification and being part of environmental organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance and the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).
4. Open Nature
Safeway’s store brand, Open Nature aims to provide shoppers access to simple products made from all-natural ingredients that are as close to nature as possible. Rooted in “simplicity” their products are free from dyes, fragrances, and perfumes. If it’s not essential to make a product work, it’s left out of the product. Because of this, their cleaning products have no harsh fumes, completely biodegradable and the brand has started to make it’s way into a list of eco-certifications starting off by being Certified by Sustainable Forestry Initiative and being Safer Choice EPA Certified. While a newer brand compared to the rest, it’s worth checking it out.
Of course, last but definitely not least, do not forget to choose a non-plastic scrub or non-reusable wipes for your cleaning needs. There is a good amount of available plastic-free, natural fiber scrubs out there such as that from Casabella Kind. Even the popular Scrub Daddy has now an eco-mesh scrubber made out of recycled materials and coconut husk. While it might not be as available, the alternatives are there, just need to make an extra effort to look for them. Plan accordingly and hopefully, this won’t be a problem for too long.
If you do decide to make the switch, let us know which brand and product you have tried and how it went for you. We would love to hear all about it! And for those who want a more natural, DIY approach to cleaners, catch our next post with cleaning hacks and recipes. Follow our Instagram to be updated real-time on content that helps you live your Truly Green Life.
