The 2 Best Cleaning Supplies (According to Their Ingredients)
1. Seventh Generation Free & Clear All-Purpose Cleaner
Why it’s one of the best:
Seventh Generation consistently earns high marks from EWG and EPA Safer Choice for using plant-based surfactants, avoiding synthetic fragrances, and being transparent about every ingredient on the label. Their Free & Clear All-Purpose Cleaner is fragrance-free and dye-free, which significantly reduces the risk of respiratory irritation and allergic reactions. EWG rates several Seventh Generation Free & Clear formulas as A-grade, meaning minimal health concerns.
Key benefits:
No synthetic fragranceNo dyes, parabens, or harsh preservativesPlant-based, biodegradable cleaning agentsSafer for people with asthma or allergies
2. Branch Basics Concentrate
Why it’s one of the best:
Branch Basics has become a cult favorite due to its incredibly clean ingredient list—no parabens, no phthalates, no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and no synthetic fragrance. The concentrate is made primarily from coconut-based surfactants and plant-derived minerals. The brand is recommended by many integrative health practitioners because of its low toxicity and versatility.
Key benefits:
Non-toxic plant-based formulaSafe for pets, kids, and sensitive skinNo hormone-disrupting chemicalsOne concentrate used for dozens of household needs
The 2 Worst Cleaning Supplies (According to Their Ingredients)
1. Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner + Bleach
Why it ranks among the worst:
While bleach is effective for disinfecting, Clorox Clean-Up combines sodium hypochlorite with fragrances and stabilizers that create additional chemical byproducts. According to the CDC, mixing bleach with other common household compounds—even accidentally—can release chlorine gas, a potent respiratory irritant. EWG gives many bleach-based cleaners D or F ratings due to concerns about asthma-triggering fumes and long-term respiratory effects.
Ingredient concerns:
Releases fumes linked to asthma and lung irritationCan react dangerously with ammonia or acidsContains fragrance chemicals linked to allergies
2. Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Why it ranks among the worst:
Fabuloso is a popular household staple because of its strong scent and low price—but that scent is exactly the problem. Many versions contain undisclosed “fragrance blends,” which EWG notes can include phthalates (possible endocrine disruptors), allergens, and VOCs. The product also includes preservatives like methylisothiazolinone, which researchers have connected to skin sensitization and allergic reactions.
Ingredient concerns:
Heavy synthetic fragrancesPotential endocrine-disrupting compoundsContains known skin allergensPoor ingredient transparency
The Bottom Line
Switching out cleaning supplies might seem minor, but research shows that indoor air quality can be 2–5 times more polluted than the air outside, largely due to chemical cleaners. Choosing low-toxicity, fragrance-free alternatives can help reduce asthma symptoms, prevent skin irritation, and improve overall indoor wellness.