Your Guide to Non-Toxic Cleaning

When it comes to ridding our homes from bacteria, dirt, dust and germs, of course most people's first instinct is to make things sparkling and pristine clean with strong cleaning products, bleaching agents and disinfectants. But a shocking new study¹ has actually shown that regular use of some mainstream cleaning products can actually impact our long-term lung health. This is just another reason why we love natural cleaning products, which are not only better for us but so much better for the environment too.

Toxic cleaning products

This new study on cleaning products was conducted with over 6,000 participants over 20 years, with results showing that the lung function decline in women, in particular, who were regularly using cleaning products at home was comparable to smoking 20 cigarettes a day over 10 to 20 years. How can this be possible? Well the research showed that the harsh ingredients and fumes found in many cleaning products can cause a little bit of damage to our lungs and airways each day, with that damage increasing with regular and repeated use of these products and potentially leading to long-term health issues.¹

How to avoid toxic cleaning products

There's a common misconception that natural, non-toxic cleaning products won't get the job done as well as mainstream brands, but I say this simply isn't true! From washing detergent to multipurpose sprays and dish liquid, there are natural cleaning products to suit your family's needs. One of the biggest benefits of switching to toxin-free cleaning products is that it can actually help the environment too. As many cleaning products end up down the drain and in our waterways, it goes without saying that opting for plant-based, certified organic or biodegradable formulas is ideal for minimising our environmental impact, and many products come in recyclable, reusable or compostable packaging too.

Natural laundry detergent

That Red House Organic Soapberries
The That Red House Organic Soapberries are one of those natural cleaning products that never fail to wow anyone and everyone who uses them! Soapberries, also known as soap nuts, are harvested from the Sapindus Mukorossi tree in Nepal. When you pop them in water they actually produce a natural soap-like foam, thanks to the shells' high concentration of saponin! You only need to place five of them in your washing machine to effectively wash a full load of laundry thanks to the berries' natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Soapberries are also suitable for sensitive skin and are sustainably harvested, biodegradable, certified organic and vegan.

Ethique Flash! Solid Laundry Bar & Stain Remover
When it comes to removing stains naturally, I can't go past the Ethique Flash! Solid Laundry Bar & Stain Remover. This compact laundry detergent comes in the form of a solid soap-like bar which makes it perfect for travel. I use it for any hand washing and to work out any stubborn marks on clothing, but it's also gentle enough to use as a hand soap and even on dirty dishes! This 100% biodegradable bar contains Coconut Oil and Kaolin Clay to lift out oil, dirt and stains, with a fresh aroma from Lavender and Peppermint essential oils.

Natural multipurpose cleaner

Ecostore Multipurpose Spray Cleaner - Citrus
When it comes to cleaning up spills, food and dust, I love the Ecostore Multipurpose Spray Cleaner - Citrus. This antibacterial spray contains plant-based ingredients to cut through dirt, grime and grease and leave surfaces spotless and sparkling clean. Ideal for all hard household surfaces including kitchen benchtops, appliances and walls, this powerful natural cleaner has a mild and fresh Citrus scent and also comes in refillable and recyclable packaging.

Dr Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap - Citrus Orange
One of our bestsellers is the Dr Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap because it has a whopping 18 uses around the home, used diluted or straight. This Citrus Orange version is a personal favourite as it includes zesty Lemon, Orange and Lime for a fresh aroma in the famous liquid formula with Coconut, Hemp and Olive Oils. This clever multi-tasker is perfect for use as a dish liquid, laundry detergent and toilet cleaner but it's also gentle enough for use as a body wash, shampoo and facial cleanser.

Resparkle Organic Disinfectant
Another great natural option for serious bacteria and germ cleaning is the Resparkle Organic Disinfectant. This natural disinfectant contains a Bioflavenoid Complex from Bitter Orange and an Organic Acid Blend from Citrus Extracts, which work together to remove 99.9% of germs from your home, without the need to rinse afterwards! This certified organic formula is also Australian made.

Natural dish detergent

Ecostore Dish Liquid - Grapefruit
One of my favourite natural dishwashing detergents is the Ecostore Dish Liquid - Grapefruit. This super gentle liquid contains ingredients solely derived from plants, making it ideal for those with sensitivities or allergies to mainstream detergents as it is also pH balanced. With a fresh Grapefruit scent, this hardworking liquid comes in recyclable packaging, and is also available in a fragrance free version.

Source: ¹ The Independent - 'Cleaning products as bad for lungs as smoking 20 cigarettes a day, scientists warn'.