Ingredients. To find the safest, most natural products, cleaning experts recommend staying clear of the following types of ingredients: phthalates, phosphates, petroleum solvents, butyl glycol, ethylene glycol, monobutyl, ammonia, alkylphenol surfactants, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, or VOCs.

Most all-natural cleaning items that are labeled clean or plant-based include safe ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, thymol, castile soap, lemon juice, vegetable glycerin, citric acid, and oils like jojoba seed, coconut, olive, lavender, lime, orange, peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus.

Consider Validity associated with Labels. There are many cleaning products on the market that claim to be organic, but very few have the USDA certified organic label. While many of these cleaners are usually excellent options and are a lot safer than chemical-laden cleaning items, if they don’t carry the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE organic label, they can’t be considered a certified organic cleaner.

According to the EWG , using the terms “natural” or “plant-based” implies that at least some of the ingredients are natural or use of plant, but it doesn’t mean it applies to all ingredients. So, always read the labels and do your research on what’s listed if this is the priority for you.

If you’re not sure where to start , consider cross-referencing the particular EWG Guide to Healthy Cleaning to see if a particular brand meets the guidelines. The EPA also keeps a list of products that are part of the Safer Choice standard.