Best Vegan Cleaning Products for Every Room! (+8 DIY Recipes)
You’ve gone vegan, gotten your grocery lists sorted, but now what? What do vegans clean their houses with? Which cleaning products are cruelty-free? Safest for our families? Stress no more, I’ve got your list of the best vegan cleaning products (plus 8 DIY recipes!).
We’ve got:
- Logos and Phrases to Watch For
- Products for the Kitchen,
- Bathrooms,
- Bedroom / Living Spaces,
- The Laundry Room, and
- 8 DIY Recipes!
- (↑Click to Jump↑)
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Why You Need Vegan / Natural / Cruelty-Free Cleaning Products
Being vegan doesn’t end at your plate… And I’m sure I don’t have to lecture you!
You’ve stopped buying dairy, meat, leather, fur, and wool… What’s the next step?
Buying Vegan and Cruelty-Free cleaning products.
We don’t need animal ingredients… And we definitely don’t need maimed bunnies for the sake of cleaning our houses.
Luckily, vegan cleaning products also have another benefit:
They’re much more natural and safe to use.
What Do I Mean “Natural Cleaning Products Are Safer to Use”?
Have you wondered why these huge chemical corporations test on animals?
It’s because they’re unsure if their chemical-laden formulas will cause harm.
Which, I’m not sure if it’s a surprise to you, but household cleaners have already been linked to health hazards.
Most importantly:
Current US laws don’t require cleaning agents to disclose ingredients… making your search for safe, natural, vegan, and cruelty-free cleaners a pain (to say the least).
For this reason, not only will I break products down by room… but I’ll also include the Environmental Working Group’s rating for each product.
This is one of the most reliable ways to check a product’s safety rating.
What to Look For: Vegan / Cruelty-Free Logos and Their Meanings
- This logo ensures animal testing has been removed “from all stages of product development”.
- Unfortunately, this certification does not guarantee the product to be vegan.
- All Leaping Bunny companies must be open to independent audits. On top of this, commitments are renewed on an annual basis.
PETA’s “Beauty Without Bunnies” Cruelty-Free Logo:
- One of the most wide-spread cruelty-free certifications available.
- Unfortunately, the program is run on more of a “trust system”.
- Companies sign a pledge, but PETA does not conduct audits to ensure cooperation.
- Instead, they believe a company wouldn’t lie because of “potential lawsuits and a PR disaster”
- Although it doesn’t guarantee a product is vegan, there’s a combination “Cruelty-Free & Vegan” logo that makes it easy to discern.
Finally! A certification that guarantees:
- “products that do not contain animal products or byproducts”, and
- “have not been tested on animals.”
- Unfortunately, I can’t find information on any audits that may or may not be conducted.
Other (Potentially) Misleading Phrases to Watch out For
- Products could claim to be “cruelty-free” or “not tested on animals,” but their claims may only refer to the finished product.
- “We do not test on animals,” could mean they merely contract other companies to do the testing.
In short, buy from companies you trust! Otherwise, the certifiers can help maintain honesty.
One Last Note:
There are different fees for displaying the logo on products vs. just being certified.
If you don’t see a “certified” logo, Google the company to find out for sure!
What to Do With Non-Vegan Cleaning Products in the Meantime
Now, before you run frantically to the cleaning closet to check labels and dump out nasty ones, wait!
Water treatment plants have enough dangerous pharmaceuticals to filter from our water supply… Don’t overload the system with more harmful chemicals.
- Use until it’s gone,
- Donate or sell, or
- (at the very least) Dispose of Responsibly
For the Kitchen
Food-Safe Multi-Purpose Surface Spray:
I’ve been using Truce for years, and it was love at first use!
In fact, I was first introduced to these products working at a vegan restaurant…
And anyone who’s worked food-service will tell you: that sh*t gets dirty. Like, dirtier than your house could ever dream of being.
Was it a problem for Truce?
Heck no!
This guy powers through grease, grime, ketchup stains, you name it!
Best of all?
With only 6 (all pronounceable) ingredients, there’s no mystery of what you’re spraying.
Plus, Truce’s whole schtick is that their product is concentrated. You buy the spray bottle once, and then simply buy a refill that (when added to water) makes 4 whole bottles.
Feeling even more adventurous?
I’ve bought their gallon-sized refill and loved having a whole 16 refills in one container!
Dish Soap:
ECOS has been one of my favorite dishwashing liquids for a while now… They all work great!
Free & Clear (Unscented) has the highest rating on EWG, but I do enjoy the naturally-scented varieties as well.
Some product highlights:
- Gentle on hands, tough on dirty dishes
- Superb grease-cutting action
- Hypoallergenic, vegan, and gluten-free
- Made with naturally derived cleaning agents
- pH balanced
- Readily biodegradable
- Made with cruelty-free ingredients
- Recyclable container
Dishwasher Tablets:
Have a dishwasher? Hate washing dishes by hand? Don’t be left out on a cruelty-free dishwasher tablet!
Some highlights:
- Powers away stuck-on food
- Recyclable
- Biodegradable, phosphate-free formula
- Non-Toxic & Fish-friendly
- Made with renewable plant-based & mineral ingredients
- Never tested on animals
Dishwasher Rinse Aid:
Do your dishes come out foggy and spotty after using the dishwasher?
Here’s a life-changing revelation: you gotta use the rinse aid compartment!
In short: rinse aid helps prevent spots and film from forming on your dishes. Sounds like a win to me!
Here’s the rundown:
- Made using renewable plant-based ingredients
- Non-toxic and biodegradable
- Bottle made with recycled plastic & Plantplastic®
- Never tested on animals
Floor Cleaner:
Does your floor need some love?
Here’s the low-down:
- Cleans, shines, and deodorizes any water-safe floor
- Unique blend of live enzyme cultures, citrus extracts, and orange oil
- Eco-Friendly, Non-Toxic, Plant-Based, No Artificial Fragrance, Colors or Preservatives
- No harsh fumes or residue
- Goes directly after the sources that cause build-up: dirt, oils, grease and food particles
- No negative effects on rivers, streams, plants or wildlife
- Made in the USA
- Never tested a single Biokleen product on an animal, nor have used animal ingredients in any formulation
Dish Scrubber:
Now, this might not be directly related to vegan cleaning products, but you need something to wash dishes with!
That said, I’ve been slowly swapping “everyday plastics” with alternatives… A huge one being bamboo!
This bamboo brush, for example, is made with recycled plastic and recycled stainless steel.
Best of all?
They offer replacement heads for sale, further reducing the environmental impact!
Reusable Cloths:
The last item in the kitchen is likely one of the biggest offenders: a replacement for paper towels.
If you were raised like me, it was normal for our family to go through 2-3 rolls a week. Which is not okay.
In fact, American’s obsession with paper products is threatening Canada’s Boreal forest, endangering:
(You know… no big deal!)
Vegan Cleaning Products for the Bathroom
Powerful Cleaner:
Although you can certainly use Truce for the bathroom as well (and vice versa), I wanted to give variety!
- Has commercial-grade cleaning power making fast work of tough jobs
- Freshens the air without heavy perfumes
- Takes on the toughest jobs without harsh chemicals
- Is Leaping Bunny certified
- Is safe for use around most pets, pet areas, and surfaces with which pets typically come into contact (when used as directed)
Glass Cleaner:
My secret: We totally use Truce as a window cleaner as well! We love an all-in-one but seeing as some prefer dedicated products we included this too.
That said, this cleaner is totally kick-ass. It also works on counters, tile, and granite in addition to mirrors and windows!
Method also is:
- 100% recycled plastic
- Naturally-derived
- Biodegradable
- Never tested on animals
Toilet Cleaner:
Listen: we’re talking about toilets here… What do you want me to say?
They get gross, and you need a cleaner to properly scrub off the hard-water buildup.
If the container happens to be shaped in a way that helps achieve maximum toilet-to-cleaner ratio, even better!
This natural toilet bowl cleaner is:
- Natural and Non-Toxic that’s tough on stains
- A biodegradable formula scented with essential oils and botanical extracts
- Emerald Cypress and Fir formula does not create harsh fumes
- Septic safe and cruelty-free
Eco Tile / Shower Scrubbing Brush:
Again, not directly related to vegan cleaning products, but you need something to scrub your tub with! Why not make it a plastic-free option?
That’s right:
These bristles aren’t plastic; they’re made from Tampico fiber, sourced from Agave and Yucca plants!
This scrubber:
- Handle is made from bamboo
- Bristles made from Tampico fiber, providing more water absorption than plastic
- Is beautiful, functional, and environmentally responsible, and
- A portion of the profits will be donated to causes that “promote and defend the preservation of the world’s natural forests”… (Although, I can’t find any information backing this up, so take it for what it’s worth)
Eco Toilet Brush:
Along those same lines, your toilet is going to need some scrubbing eventually… And please, for the love of God, don’t use the same brush as the shower.
This toilet brush is pretty cool: (never thought I’d be saying that!)
- Durable construction,
- Tough coconut fiber bristles
- Beechwood handle
- Hook included for easy storage
Pumice Stone:
Speaking of the toilet! These pumice stones have been a god-send for ridding yourself of hard-water rings.
Before this discovery, we’d resort to toxic chemicals to get the job done… Needless to say, this is a fabulous alternative to chemicals!
These guys are:
- An effective, safe cleaning stone,
- Non-toxic, safe around kids and pets, and
- Scratch-free
It’s not just for toilets, either!
Pumice stones are also great at cleaning:
- Hard water rings from toilets (you were paying attention, right?),
- Calcification build-up on grills, tile, and concrete,
- Scale from swimming pools,
- Rust on barbeque racks and iron cookware, and
- Other stains you failed previously to remove
Now, most “pumice stones for toilets” come with a plastic handle. Great for keeping your hands away, not so great for the environment.
These, thankfully, are 100% pumice (and seem cheaper because of that!).
However: it seems from the product page that “each stick is individually packaged”… Unfortunately, be aware this may not be a 100% plastic-free option.
Natural Rubber Gloves:
Remember when I said typical pumice stones for toilets come with a plastic handle?
Since mine are lacking the feature (and resulting distance from toilet water)… I grabbed myself some natural rubber gloves.
Now, not only are these gloves made from 100% latex, and come in a compostable, responsibly sourced box… These gloves are also produced using Fair Trade rubber.
What’s fair trade rubber?
In short, rubber that wasn’t sourced using near-slave labor. This natural rubber is sourced from:
- A responsibly managed plantation, and
- Rubber tappers paid livable wages.
Learn more about Fair Rubber here!
For the Bedroom / Living Areas
Air Freshener / Fabric Spray:
Now, I’m going to be serious for a moment. Conventional air fresheners are toxic.
Don’t believe me?
What did they find?
“All products tested gave off chemicals regulated as toxic or hazardous under federal laws, including carcinogens with no safe exposure level, but none of these chemicals were listed on any of the product labels”
Do your family a favor and ditch the harmful, artificial fragrance sprays.
What do I use instead?
I love the Aura Cacia aromatherapy mists!
Not only are these 100% essential oils, but they’re also blended for therapeutic benefits.
We are in love with:
Furniture Polish:
Cruelty-free cleaning products doesn’t mean your furniture can’t sparkle!
This furniture polish and cleaner:
- Is made with essential oils,
- Penetrates and lifts dirt, grime, oil, and grease,
- Uses olive oil to bring out the natural beauty of wood
- Is 100% natural, plant-based, non-toxic, and biodegradable,
- Also is ammonia-free, phosphate-free, chlorine-free, dye-free, and free of petroleum ingredients
- Is always cruelty-free and never tested on animals
Vegan Cleaning Products for the Laundry Room
Laundry Soap:
It’s laundry soap, what kind of introduction do you need!?
First, you should know:
Powders are significantly better for the environment than big plastic jugs of liquid.
I mean, your washer adds water anyways, why not just use something light that comes in a nice, neat cardboard box?
Anyways, I digress.
This laundry soap:
- Cleans tough stains and odors, leaving no residue or harsh scent
- Is equal to 150 HE loads (or 100 standard loads of laundry)
- Contains eco-friendly, non-toxic, plant-based ingredients,
- With no artificial fragrance, colors, or preservatives
- Does not negatively affect rivers, streams, plants, or wildlife.
Oxygen Powder:
Think oxy-clean is just for chemical-lovers? Think again!
I’ve been using ECOS Oxo-Brite since I started doing my own laundry, and good lord is this guy powerful.
This chlorine-free, bleach alternative is perfect for removing stains, brightening colors, and whitening whites. I haven’t felt the fear of splashing bleach for years!
Oxo Brite:
- Is fragrance-free,
- Removed mold and mildew stains,
- Works on a variety of materials (just not wool, silk, or leather (thank goodness for a vegan wardrobe!)), and
- Is made of replenishable/sustainable ingredients
This fairly-large tub lasts our small family quite a while, as well. That’s a win-win for me!
Dryer Balls:
I searched and searched, but there is not a fabric sheet that is rated above a “C” on EWG.
In fact, we haven’t used them in years.
What do we use instead of dryer sheets?
Dryer balls!
Now, I’ll admit: these guys have a fair bit of debate surrounding them. Some say they work, some say they’re a waste of time.
What do I say?
Whether or not they help reduce drying time or static buildup, they definitely help lift and separate clothes… Resulting in fewer wrinkles and (in my theory) reducing drying time.
Vegan Cleaning Products for Help Cleaning up After the Fur-Babies
Natural Carpet Stain Remover:
Listen, anyone who’s adopted animals will know: fur-babies can make just a big of a mess as human babies!
My doggie princess, Athena, for example, has a terrible submissive-urination habit.
In short: she was abused in her past, so out of fear she pees at the feet of new people to show her subversion.
Yes, we feel bad for you, no we don’t want the house reeking like piss.
Enter: natural carpet and rug shampoo.
Here’s the rundown:
- Tough on Dirt, Gentle on the Earth,
- Safe on all washable fibers,
- Super Concentrated,
- Natural,
- Non-Toxic, and
- Biodegradable
Natural Cat Litter:
Now, I don’t have any cats, but if I did: this is the litter I’d be using.
Why natural cat litter?
Regular cat litters are full of dangerous ingredients that are potentially toxic to your cat.
“But I’m using a “natural” cat litter!”
Want the lowdown? This product is:
- Made from walnut shell, which neutralizes litter box odors better than clay, pine, corn, and wheat litters.
- Proven to absorb 3x better.
- Silica dust-free so you and your cat kid can breathe easy. It also doesn’t stick to your cat’s paws, so litter won’t be tracked through your home.
- All-natural and 100% biodegradable.
Plus, certain essential oils are dangerous for cats, so even the “natural” litters can cause an issue!
DIY Vegan Cleaning Product Recipes for a More Zero-Waste Approach
Zero-Waste cleaners more your thing? Looking for recipes to replace (almost) everything on this list?
I’ve got you covered with 8 DIY recipes to get your zero-waste, vegan, and cruelty-free cleaning journey started.
Don’t Forget Any Supplies You May Need From Amazon:
All-Purpose Cleaner That Doesn’t Reek Like Vinegar:
Ingredients:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part filtered water
- Lemon Rind (or 5-10 drops Citrus essential oil)
- Rosemary Sprigs (or 5-10 drops Rosemary essential oil)
Directions:
- Combine ingredients in a spray bottle, shake, and voila!
- If using fresh ingredients (as opposed to essential oils), allow them to infuse for a week before using.
- Otherwise, use the solution to remove spills, hard water stains, or even wall smudges.
Best of all?
Rosemary has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, making this cleaner even more powerful!
Glass Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part filtered water
- Dash of dish detergent (or Dr. Bronners)
Directions:
- Combine ingredients in a spray bottle, and mix gently to combine
To use:
Spray on glass/mirror and before it has a chance to dry, wipe off with paper towels or newspaper.
Vegan Cleaning Product Recipes Using Dr. Bronners
Have you ever noticed Dr. Bonner’s soaps are referred to as “18-in-One”? Have you wondered what the 18 uses are?
- (*clears throat, deep breath*)
- Shaving,
- shampoo,
- dental cleaning,
- body wash,
- hot towel massage,
- bathing,
- deodorant,
- breath freshener,
- mouth wash,
- baby wash,
- after-shave,
- hand soap,
- foot soak,
- laundry wash,
- pet wash,
- fruit & veggie rinse,
- pest spray,
- and household cleaner.
(*gasping for air*)
Now, I won’t vouch for all of these (I’m sorry, Dr. Bronners as toothpaste was terrible)… But what can and will vouch for the incredible cleaning power of Dr. Bonner’s.
The list doesn’t end there, though! We have a total of 6 incredible Dr. Bronner’s-based DIY cleaning recipes just for you!
All-Purpose Spray:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Dr. Bronner’s
- 2 cups warm water
- Optional: a few drops citrus essential oils for incredible scent.
Directions:
- Mix ingredients gently and add to a 16-oz spray bottle
- Use as you would any other all-purpose cleaner!
Laundry Detergent:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Dr. Bronner’s
- 3/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup sea salt
Directions:
- Add all ingredients to a gallon-sized container
- Fill to the top with warm water, mix well to combine
To use:
Add 1/4 cup of this mixture to a typical-sized load of laundry
Liquid Dish Soap:
Ingredients:
- 10 parts water
- 1 part Dr. Bronner’s
Directions:
- Mix ingredients gently in a handy container
- Use as you would any other liquid dish soap
Automatic Dishwasher Detergent:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Dr. Bronner’s
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 Tablespoon lemon/lime juice
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients gently in a container of suitable size
To use:
Add one Tablespoon of this mixture to your dishwasher’s detergent dispenser
If you’re getting spots left on dishes: add pure white vinegar to rinse-aid compartment before running cycles.
Carpet Spot Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 part Dr. Bronner’s
- 1 part hydrogen peroxide
Directions:
- Pour ingredients in a dark spray bottle (light degrades peroxide)
- Mix gently to combine
- To use: treat carpets as soon as the stain occurs. Spray a small amount over the stain and use a clean cloth or brush to scrub/blot up… All while removing as much moisture as possible.
Floor Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup Dr. Bonner’s
- 3 gallons warm water
Directions:
- Combine ingredients in a large container
To Use:
Mop as you would normally to clean tile, wood, and vinyl floors
There you have it! Our top vegan cleaning products for every room of the house!
Did we miss anything?
How well did your cleaning closet score!?
Kathryn
January 3, 2021 at 2:50 pmI want to buy a hard floor vacuum brush attachment that will fit the Eureka Mighty Mite. I saw one that says it’s made with horsehair bristles, and I definitely don’t want that! Any suggestions? Thank you.