Screenshot These: Low-tox Cleaning Swaps That Actually Work

Cleaning was one of the first areas I looked at when I started making lower-tox choices at home, but I quickly realised how overwhelming the cleaning aisle can be... 

“Natural”, “eco”, “green”, “plant-based”… there are a lot of claims competing for your attention.

My approach now is much simpler: Look at what’s actually in the product, avoid unnecessary extras where I can, and remember that sometimes the most basic option does the job perfectly well.

So, consider this your cheat sheet for your next shop run.

In the cleaning aisle

My tip? Ignore the front. Flip it over.

Instead of relying on words like natural, green or eco-friendly on the front of the bottle, look for products that make it easy to understand what you're actually buying.

Before you buy another bottle… Check your pantry

Some everyday cleaning jobs really don't need a specialised product.

	White Vinegar Great for: Glass, mirrors, some hard surfaces and mineral build-up. A simple diluted vinegar solution can replace a surprising number of sprays. But note: Vinegar is acidic, so don't use it on natural stone such as marble or granite, and always check your surface manufacturer's instructions where you can.
	Bicarb Soda Great for: Gentle scrubbing, sinks, removing odours and tackling grime. Tip: Make it into a paste with a little water when you need some extra cleaning power.
	Hot Water & Dish Soap Great for: A LOT of things! Tip: Before reaching for a heavy-duty spray, warm water and a small amount of dishwashing liquid is often all that's needed for that everyday grease and grime.

And remember: You don't need to overhaul your cleaning cupboard.

Use what you have safely, replace things as they run out, and get into the habit of turning the bottle around before you buy the next one.

Low-tox living isn't about having the “perfect” home, it's about understanding your choices and making small changes where they make sense for you.