Looking to make your home greener? This guide covers the 10 best eco-friendly cleaning products available in Toronto, from plant-based all-purpose cleaners to biodegradable laundry detergents. These products are not only effective at keeping your home spotless, but they are also safe for the environment and your family. Whether you're dealing with stubborn stains or everyday messes, switching to these eco-conscious products can help reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing cleanliness.
As someone who’s been cleaning homes professionally for years, I've seen firsthand how switching to eco-friendly cleaning products can make a huge difference—not just for the environment but also for the health of your home. In Toronto, where many people are environmentally conscious, there are plenty of great options to choose from. If you’re looking to cut down on chemicals while keeping your home spotless, you are in the right place. Here’s my guide to the 10 best eco-friendly cleaning products available in Toronto.
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why eco-friendly products are worth considering. Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, respiratory system, and, more importantly, pollute our water systems. Eco-friendly alternatives are made with natural ingredients, are biodegradable, and are typically non-toxic, making them safer for both your family and the environment.
Personally, I’ve noticed a big shift in how my clients respond to their homes after using eco-friendly products. One client who used to suffer from allergies after every cleaning told me she noticed an immediate improvement when we switched to natural products. It made me realize how these small changes can make a big impact on daily life.
Seventh Generation has become a household name in eco-friendly cleaning, and for good reason. Their All-Purpose Cleaner is plant-based, free from synthetic fragrances, and effective at cutting through grease and grime. I use it frequently in kitchens and bathrooms, and it leaves surfaces clean without the harsh smells typical of chemical cleaners.
Personal tip: This is my go-to cleaner for households with kids and pets since it's both effective and safe.
Toronto-based Eco-Max makes some of the best eco-friendly cleaning products available. Their bathroom cleaner is powered by essential oils and natural plant extracts, which makes it highly effective at tackling soap scum, mildew, and hard water stains.
Personal anecdote: I started using this product for a client with hard water buildup in her bathroom, and it worked wonders without that overpowering chemical smell.
If you’re tired of streaky windows and mirrors, Method’s Glass + Surface Cleaner is a must-try. It’s ammonia-free and uses a plant-based formula to leave glass and shiny surfaces sparkling clean.
Pro tip: I use this to clean not only windows but also chrome fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens. It leaves everything streak-free!
Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds is one of the most versatile eco-friendly cleaners I’ve come across. This concentrated solution works wonders on floors, dishes, and even laundry. It’s a gentle cleaner, but don't be fooled—it packs enough punch to tackle tough jobs.
Personal anecdote: I love how this product saves me time (and money). One bottle lasts forever because it’s so concentrated. Plus, I use it for everything from floors to kitchen countertops.
Attitude is a well-known eco-friendly brand based in Montreal, and their Nature+ All-Purpose Cleaner is a great choice for people looking for a Canadian-made option. It's hypoallergenic, vegan, and comes in a variety of pleasant scents like lavender and citrus.
Pro tip: If you have allergies or asthma, this cleaner is a fantastic option because it doesn’t contain any harsh irritants.
For those stubborn stains, especially on clothing or upholstery, Buncha Farmers Stain Remover is a game-changer. This all-natural stain remover stick is made in Canada and works wonders on everything from wine to grass stains.
Ecover’s Toilet Bowl Cleaner is a natural, plant-based product that doesn’t sacrifice performance. It tackles tough toilet stains and limescale while being biodegradable and non-toxic.
Pro tip: This cleaner has a nice fresh scent, unlike the overpowering bleach smell you get from conventional toilet cleaners.
Another great Canadian option, Nature Clean’s All-Purpose Cleaning Lotion is perfect for surfaces like countertops, sinks, and stovetops. It's fragrance-free, making it ideal for those who are sensitive to scents.
Common Good’s Dish Soap is an eco-friendly option for those who want something gentle on their skin but tough on grease. It’s made from plant-derived ingredients and comes in a refillable bottle, which helps reduce plastic waste.
Pro tip: Refill stations for Common Good products can be found at select Toronto locations, which means less plastic waste and more savings.
When it comes to laundry, The Unscented Company offers a biodegradable detergent that’s both tough on stains and gentle on your skin. It’s free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
Personal anecdote: I had a client with very sensitive skin, and this detergent was the only thing that didn’t irritate them. It cleans effectively without any harmful additives.
Choosing the right eco-friendly products involves more than just looking for a "green" label. Here are some key factors to consider:
Look for products made from natural, plant-based ingredients that are biodegradable and non-toxic. Avoid products with synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia.
It’s great to be eco-friendly, but the product has to work too! Make sure the product is effective for the job at hand. Whether you need something for stubborn stains or daily cleaning, read reviews or test small amounts to see if it meets your expectations.
Many eco-friendly products come in refillable or recyclable packaging, helping to reduce plastic waste. Opt for products that offer eco-friendly packaging solutions whenever possible.
Look for certifications like “EcoLogo,” “Green Seal,” or “USDA Organic” to ensure the product meets established environmental standards.
Toronto is a fantastic place to find high-quality, eco-friendly cleaning products. If you are looking for something local like Eco-Max or a well-known brand like Seventh Generation, these products are not only better for the environment but safer for you and your family. Making the switch to eco-friendly cleaners doesn't mean sacrificing effectiveness. In fact, many of these products work just as well—if not better—than traditional chemical cleaners.
So, why not give your home a deep clean while also doing your part for the planet? You'll feel good knowing your home is fresh, clean, and free from harsh chemicals.