The Best Brands of Biodegradable Cleaners
Miniml is a range of eco cleaning products. Everything is made with natural ingredients (and naturally scented) and sold in refillable containers. Made in Yorkshire with local water!
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges. Choose Unscented for pregnancy/nursing and when cleaning near babies or pets (citrus oils are toxic to pets). Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
You can either find a local store to refill, or send back items empty (using QR codes) to get the containers washed and sent back to you with new product. You also get discounts when subscribing online.
- Clementine Oven/Hob Cleaner is ideal to dissolve grease and burnt-on grime, to leave your oven and hob sparkling clean. Just spray on, let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe with a clean sponge or cloth, repeat if necessary.
- Mint Window/Glass Cleaner wipes away fingerprints, dust and marks, to leave glass streak-free and sparkling. Just spray on and wipe in a circular motion.
- Spearmint Peppermint Toilet Cleaner is a nontoxic gel cleaner with citric acid. Pour around the top of the bowl and allow to run down the sides. Leave for at least 5 to 10 minutes, before flushing to rinse clean. Use a plastic-free sponge to remove tough stains (we don’t recommend toilet brushes as even the silicone ones contain microplastics). Also safe to use on urinals and bidets.
- Anti-Bac Bathroom Cleaner (cucumber mint, lavender or pink grapefruit) conforms is just left for a few minutes, then wiped off.
- Blood Orange Multi-Surface Cleaner is powerful to lift dirt, gri
- me and grease. To use, just spray directly onto the surface and wipe clean. Also good for doo r handles and handrails. Or in the office. Contains citrus, don’t use near pets.
- Nutty Almond Floor Cleaner is safe for washable floors, tiles and painted wood. Just add 1 to 2 capfuls per 5 litres of warm water in a bucket. For stubborn stains, use undiluted and wash with a soft wet cloth.
Miniml Spearmint Peppermint Toilet Cleaner is made with Yorkshire water. At end of use, you can refill it locally, or use the QR code to send off your empty container, for washing and refilling.
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges and Seep rubber gloves. Choose unscented toilet cleaner for pregnancy/nursing and when cleaning near babies or pets. Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
How to Remove Toilet Bowl Stains
Pour a cup of cleaning vinegar around the toilet rim and leave for 30 minutes, then scrub. For limescale, pour hot (not boiling) cleaning vinegar in the bowl and let it sit overnight, scrubbing with a plastic-free toilet brush.
Replace chlorine with natural oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate). Just sprinkle into the bowl, let it fizz for 15 minutes, then scrub.
How to Unblock a Clogged Toilet
The best way to prevent clogged toilets is to only flush forest-friendly bathroom tissue and nothing else. If a toilet is clogged, pour boiling water into the pan, and use a plastic-free plunger (use a strong push-pull movement to build pressure 10 to 15 times, then flush).
The best way to keep toilets smelling fresh is simply to eat a good diet and drink lots of water. Open a window if safe to do so, and wipe down surfaces regularly. Also keep the toilet lid closed when not in use, and fix leaks promptly.
Thames Water has says to check for a toilet leak, wait 30 minutes after flushing, then dry the back of the pan with some bathroom tissue. Place a dry sheet on the back of the pan.
Leave at least 3 hours, without using the loo. If the paper is wet, you have a leak! It’s a small plumbing job, less than spending £200 a year on extra water bills!
Greenscents Refillable Cleaning Products (no palm oil)
Greenscents is a wonderful brand of eco-friendly cleaning products, in Nonscents (unscented) range along with minty, lavender, bergamot or citrus scents. They are sold in 500ml bottles with aluminium lids (and a one-time purchase of a head). Then buy 5 litre and 20 litre refill containers (you can decant into the bottles, and send the containers off for refilling, when empty).
This brand also makes a NonScents range (ideal for pregnancy/nursing, allergies and for cleaning in homes with babies or pets – citrus oils are toxic to pets). Along with a multi-tasking castile soap.
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges. Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
The range includes:
Multi-Surface Spray is your go-to solution for fresh surfaces, with organic soap nuts and shikaki pods to break down grime, and lift dirt with ease. Safe for sealed surfaces like wood, marble, stainless steel and stone.
Anti-Bacterial Surface Spray is independently tested to remove 99.9% of bacteria in just 1 minute. Infused with antimicrobial bergamot essential oil, it’s safe on sealed surfaces too, and perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, taps, light switches and bins.
Greenscents Castile Soap is sold in glass bottles, available in Nonscents (unscented), minty or citrus scents (all with natural ingredients). They are sold in 500ml bottles with aluminium lid (and one-time purchase pump head). Then buy 5 litre and 20 litre refill containers (you can decant into the bottles, and send the containers off for refilling, when empty).
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges. Choose Unscented for pregnancy/nursing and when cleaning near babies or pets (citrus oils are toxic to pets). Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
Free from foaming agents, optical brighteners or synthetic fragrance, this is a multi-tasking marvel. You can use it to:
- Wash your hands, face and hair (avoid handling glass with wet hands)
- Use diluted to clean worktops, sinks, tiles and ceramics
- Apply a few drops directly to stains, leave for 5 to 10 minutes, then launder
- Whiten bedlinen and towels, by replacing (don’t combine) laundry liquid with twice the volume on a hot wash.
If using as pet shampoo, choose the unscented version. Read our post on dog shampoos (contains info on water temperatures and essential oils to avoid – never use them on allergies or cats).
Planet Detox is a small Devon company which offers a small range of household cleaners in metal tins or paper/cardboard packaging, made from natural clays, minerals, plant-based soap and essential oils.
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges. Choose Unscented for pregnancy/nursing and when cleaning near babies or pets (citrus oils are toxic to pets). Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
The range includes Wonder Tin (a household cleaner to clean countertops, taps, sinks, showers, tiles and toilets, one tin should last around 12 months).
The Kitchen Cleaning Bar will remove dirt, grease, stains and burnt-on-crusts from kitchen areas, using lemon and thyme oils to destroy E-coli and salmonella bacteria, with fine-grace pumice stone as a natural abrasive. Safe for counter tops, chopping boards, tiles, ceramic hobs, metal and ovens.
Other Eco-Friendly Toilet Cleaners
- Greenscents offers organic toilet cleaners in glass bottles, that again you can return for refilling. In mint, citrus or Nonscents (fragrance-free).
- Bio-D offers a fragrance-free toilet cleaner with 5L containers. Both can be refilled at one of over 700 refill points nationwide.
- Delphis Eco Toilet Cleaner is biodegradable (sold with limescale remover). Also buy commercial products including to clean urinals.
- Kit & Kin (a brand co-founded by Baby Spice Emma Bunton) offers an eco toilet cleaner. Again you buy the packaging, then just order refills.
- ElmKind offers a peppermint toilet cleaner sold in an aluminium bottle, then you just order refills after that. Note the site says it’s pet-friendly (note this is not safe near pets, it contains essential oils).
Bio-D Biodegradable Unscented Cleaners (sold in shops)
Bio-D Fragrance-Free Cleaners are vegan and sold in recycled plastic refillable bottles (including huge drums with taps, ideal for commercial use or people with big families). It’s best to use their fragrance-free versions, as some of the scented versions contain artificial fragrance. There are over 700 refill points across the UK.
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges. Choose Unscented for pregnancy/nursing and when cleaning near babies or pets (citrus oils are toxic to pets). Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
The range (all in bulk refill containers for commercial use too) includes:
- Cleansing Handwash
- Toilet Cleaner
- Washing-up Liquid
- Limescale Remover (also as spray)
- Laundry liquid
Wholesalers can order online and receive free marketing materials, and also offer refill stations, so buyers can return to refill their products. Just imagine if all shops, restaurants, schools, offices and commercial cleaning companies switched to this brand.
Spruce (concentrated eco-cleaners and sponges)
Spruce offers starter kits. You just dilute the concentrates with water to clean all surfaces. Unlike some similar brands, this one avoids artificial fragrance oils.
Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges. Choose Unscented for pregnancy/nursing and when cleaning near babies or pets (citrus oils are toxic to pets). Never mix vinegar or lemon juice with any bleach (causes toxic gas). For half-full bottles of chemical liquids, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
There are just three items in the range, which you can bundle up for savings:
- A Multi-Purpose Cleaner (geranium)
- A Glass & Mirror Cleaner (peppermint)
- A Floor Cleaner (bergamot, patchouli, geranium)
Rather than laundry sheets, we recommend eco laundry powders (most ‘biodegradable pouches are made with PLA).
Nonscents Refillable Cleaning Products (no palm oil)
Greenscents Nonscents is a fragrance-free organic cleaning brand (no palm oil). Sold in glass bottles, just send them back for washing and refilling. There’s a multi-surface spray, glass cleaner and loo cleaner, plus a castile soap that can be used for most cleaning jobs, when diluted.
They are sold in 500ml bottles with aluminium lids (and a one-time purchase of a head). Then buy 5 litre and 20 litre refill containers (you can decant into the bottles, and send the containers off for refilling, when empty).
Glass Cleaner delivers a sparkling shine to windows, mirrors, splashbacks, picture frames and shower screens, to lift away dust, grease and finger marks. It’s quick to use and fast-drying too.
Read our post on how to help stop birds flying into windows.
Fruit and Veg Wash is ideal to remove pesticides, bacteria, dirt and wax (did you know that most non-organic apples are covered in shellac insects, to make them shiny?) This gentle formula helps reduce exposure to listeria, E.coli and salmonella.
Perfect for fruits, leafy greens, berries and salad veg (cantaloupe melon is a high salmonella risk, so always use separate tools and store separately from other foods, eating fresh).
Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is great for cleaning and laundry. But it’s best to buy bulk online (the tiny pots used for cooking in supermarkets are not big enough). Supermarkets don’t sell bulk baking soda, because otherwise people would buy it, and they would not make profits from chemical cleaners. Baking soda can’t be labelled as ‘new and improved!
Although safer, keep baking soda away from children and pets. Never mix any cleaner with vinegar or bleach. Don’t add essential oils to mixes if pregnant/nursing or near babies/pets.
Avoid use on aluminium or delicate fabrics. Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges and rubber gloves.
You can recycle empty chemical liquid bottles. For half-full bottles, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
Reliable Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Bicarbonate of soda makes a strong, gentle cleaner for most surfaces. Mix with water to scrub ovens, sinks, and stained counters. It breaks down grease and lifts dirt without scratching. Then rinse and leave to dry.
A sprinkle on a damp sponge will clean tiles, shine taps, and remove built-up grime on cooker hoods.
Fresh Laundry Booster
Adding bicarbonate of soda to laundry gives whites a boost and brightens colours. It softens water, helping detergents work better. Pour half a cup in with your usual powder or liquid. It removes odour from clothes, towels, and even trainers.
For tougher smells, mix with water and soak items before washing. Bedding comes out fresher and towels feel softer.
Simple Carpet and Upholstery Freshener
Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over the affected areas and leave it for fifteen minutes or longer, then vacuum it up. It helps lift stains and removes trapped smells from pets, smoke, or food. This works on mattresses and car seats as well.
Natural Air Freshener
Bicarbonate of soda neutralises odours, rather than covering them up. Place an open container in the fridge, wardrobe, or bathroom. It absorbs bad smells and keeps the air fresher.
Stove Tops and Cookware
Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda, then add a splash of warm water. Wait ten minutes, then scrub with a sponge or cloth. The residue lifts off without strong fumes or scratching. Stainless steel, enamel, and even glass cookware come up shiny again.
Clean Drains and Remove Blockages
Pouring a cup of bicarbonate of soda followed by vinegar can clear slow drains. Wait five minutes, then flush with hot water. It helps break down fat and food, leaving pipes smelling fresh. This method also clears drains in bathrooms or utility rooms, where hair or soap scum cause blocks.
Deodoriser for Shoes and Kit Bags
Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda inside, and tap out the powder the next day. It soaks up odour and moisture, keeping shoes and bags fresher. This works for gym lockers and sports helmets.
You can also sprinkle into pet beds, leave for a while (when they are out playing) then shake out thoroughly and/or vacuum, to absorb odours.
Fridge and Freezer Cleaner
Mix bicarbonate of soda with a little water to create a paste. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and seals. Rinse with a clean sponge and dry. Stains vanish and stubborn odours disappear.
Gentle Silverware Polish
Rub with a simple paste of bicarbonate soda and water, with a soft cloth. Rinse and buff dry. This can remove tarnish, but does not scratch or erode the metal.
Microwave Cleaner
Fill a bowl with water and add two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda. Microwave on high for five minutes. The steam loosens food particles, making it easy to wipe down.
Never heat up baby or pet food in microwaves.
Clean Coffee and Tea Stains
Mix a bit of baking soda in water and scrub mugs or teapots stained with coffee or tea. The stains come off with a small amount of effort, thanks to the gentle abrasion.
Freshen Dustbins
Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of your kitchen or bathroom bin to stop smells before they start. Replace with fresh powder every week for best results.
Remove Sticky Residue
Tackle stubborn sticky residues from labels, tape, or glue by making a paste with baking soda and a bit of oil. Rub gently until the residue lifts, then wash clean.
Fire Extinguisher for Small Grease Fires
If a small grease fire starts while cooking, turn off the heat, and pour baking soda on the flames. It cuts off oxygen and helps put out the fire. Never use water on a grease fire.
Fill is sold in glass boxes with cardboard refills.
The Benefits and Uses of Cleaning Vinegar
Cleaning (white) vinegar is not the same as the Sarsons brown vinegar that you put on your chips! And you won’t usually find it in supermarkets (because it’s very effective and cheap, so they would lose profits on selling all their expensive chemical brands).
With around 6% acetic acid, cleaning vinegar is stronger than cooking vinegar. And can remove stains, cut through grease and leave surfaces sparkling. Fill is sold in glass boxes with cardboard refills.
Keep cleaning vinegar away from children and pets (don’t use to ‘kill weeds’ as it will also kill beneficial insects).
Never mix vinegar (or lemon) with bleach, it causes toxic gas. Avoid on natural stone (granite), waxed wood or unsealed grout. Ventilate rooms and wear gloves. Do not add essential oils for pregnancy/nursing or near babies/pets.
You can recycle empty chemical liquid bottles. For half-full bottles, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).
Multipurpose Surface Cleaning
Cleaning vinegar is good to lift dirt and grime from kitchen counters, sinks and even greasy hobs (when mixed with water).
For glass, spray undiluted cleaning vinegar and polish with a soft cloth for a streak-free finish. It also works on tiles and bathroom fittings, helping tackle soap scum and limescale.
Freshening Laundry
Add half a cup of cleaning vinegar to your washing machine’s rinse cycle for softer, fresher clothes. It breaks down residue from detergent and hard water, which can build up over time.
Vinegar can also help get rid of musty smells in towels and gym clothes. It’s safe for most fabrics and won’t leave behind that strong vinegar scent once dry.
Descaling Kettles and Coffee Makers
Hard water can cause limescale to build up in kettles and coffee machines, affecting taste and performance. Fill your kettle halfway with cleaning vinegar, top with water, bring to a boil, then let it sit for thirty minutes.
For coffee machines, run a brewing cycle with a vinegar solution, then flush several times with clean water. That keeps appliances running well and drinks tasting fresh.
Tackling Bathroom Mould and Mildew
Mould and mildew thrive in damp bathrooms, especially around tiles and shower curtains. Spray cleaning vinegar directly onto the affected areas and leave for an hour before scrubbing away.
Its strong acid helps break up mould at the surface, and regular use can slow its return.
Removing Stubborn Stains
Cleaning vinegar loosens many stains that are tough for normal cleaners. It works on spilled drinks, ink, grass, and even rust on some surfaces.
Dab the area with vinegar, let it soak for a few minutes, then blot or scrub to lift the mark. Always test on an out-of-sight spot first for colour-fastness.
Cleaning Windows and Mirrors
Foggy windows and mirrors often show streaks after cleaning. Use a 50/50 vinegar and water solution in a spray bottle, then wipe dry with a lint-free cloth or newspaper. The acid in vinegar cuts through greasy fingerprints, leaving glass spotless and clear.
Deodorising Drains and Bins
Strong odours coming from drains and bins can be stubborn. Pour a cup of cleaning vinegar down sinks, baths, or kitchen waste pipes. Let it work for 30 minutes before running hot water.
For bins, spray inside after every empty and wipe down. Vinegar breaks down bacteria that cause smells, keeping things fresher for longer.
Reviving Taps and Fixtures
Taps covered in water spots or limescale come back to life with vinegar. Soak a cloth in cleaning vinegar and wrap it round the affected area for an hour. Wipe away the loosened deposits with ease, leaving fixtures shiny and clean.
All-Natural Floor Cleaner
Cleaning vinegar diluted with water makes a safe, streak-free mop solution for most hard floors, including tile, vinyl, and laminated wood. It removes sticky marks left by footsteps, food and pets. Avoid using on stone floors (like marble or granite), as vinegar can dull the surface.
Rinse thoroughly and dry, before allowing children and pets back in.
Unblock Plugholes
Pour boiling water down sink, add 1 tablespoon of bicarb of soda & 250ml cleaning vinegar. It will fizz, replace plug, wait 15 minutes then flush with more boiling water.
Pet Smell Neutraliser
Vinegar works on both new and old pet smells. Blot dry recent accidents, then pour on a little diluted cleaning vinegar. Dab up the excess, let it dry, and the odour will fade. This works best for hard floors and most carpets but always check the manufacturer’s care advice.
Keep pets away, until rinsed and dried.
Miniml white vinegar is also sold in refillable packs. Just return your empties, to wash and receive refills.
Proper storage will extend the life of cleaning vinegar. Keep it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. It should last years (changes in colour and smell indicate it’s time to replace).
