Household Products
What to look out for in purchasing household products and remaining cruelty-free.
Top 20 Best Cruelty-Free Household Products
As more consumers look to align their purchases with compassion for animals and the planet, cruelty-free household products have become increasingly popular. “Cruelty-free” means a product and its ingredients are not tested on animals, helping reduce animal suffering and supporting more humane business practices.
Here are 20 of the best cruelty-free products you can feel good about uisng in your home:
1. Method All-Purpose Cleaner
Known for its bright packaging and plant-based formulas, Method’s All-Purpose Cleaner cuts through grease and grime without harsh chemicals or animal testing.
2. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent
This hypoallergenic laundry detergent is gentle on sensitive skin and made with plant-based ingredients. Seventh Generation is also Leaping Bunny certified, meaning no animal testing at any stage of product development.
3. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner
Formulated with essential oils, Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day products come in a variety of fresh scents (like lavender or basil) and are always cruelty-free.
4. Ecover Zero Dish Soap
Free from fragrances and dyes, Ecover Zero Dish Soap is a gentle yet effective option for sparkling clean dishes. The company focuses on eco-friendly production and packaging as well.
5. Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap
An all-in-one classic, Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap can be used for everything from dishwashing to mopping floors. It’s vegan, biodegradable, and never tested on animals.
6. ECOS Dishmate Dish Soap
ECOS (by Earth Friendly Products) produces plant-powered cleaners in renewable energy facilities. Their Dishmate soap is a favorite for cutting grease while remaining kind to the skin and the environment.
7. Attitude Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
Free from harsh chemicals like parabens and formaldehyde, Attitude’s All-Purpose Cleaner is both vegan and cruelty-free, with minimal impact on waterways.
8. The Honest Company Dish Soap
Gentle on hands yet tough on grease, The Honest Company’s Dish Soap is made without synthetic fragrances or dyes and is certified cruelty-free.
9. Biokleen All Purpose Cleaner
Biokleen’s concentrated formula helps reduce packaging waste. The brand avoids phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances—all while maintaining a strict no-animal-testing policy.
10. Aunt Fannie’s Vinegar Wash Floor Cleaner
Combining the cleaning power of distilled white vinegar with essential oils, Aunt Fannie’s floor cleaner is cruelty-free, non-toxic, and safe around kids and pets.
11. Puracy Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner
Powered by plants and minerals, Puracy’s Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner is effective on nearly every home surface and is certified cruelty-free and vegan.
12. AspenClean All-In-One Concentrate
AspenClean uses organic, cruelty-free ingredients. The brand’s All-In-One Concentrate can be mixed for various cleaning tasks—perfect for those looking to simplify their cleaning routines.
13. CleanCult All-Purpose Cleaner
CleanCult stands out for its zero-waste packaging, utilizing refillable glass bottles and compostable cartons. Their coconut-based formula effectively cuts grime while being gentle on surfaces.
14. Common Good Refillable Hand Soap
With a refillable packaging system, Common Good offers cruelty-free hand soaps that are both gentle on the skin and the environment. Scents like lavender and bergamot make handwashing a delight.
15. Better Life Natural Tub & Tile Cleaner
Better Life’s line of cleaners avoids dyes, sulfates, and other irritants. Their tub and tile cleaner effectively tackles soap scum without animal testing or toxic ingredients.
16. Green Shield Organic All-Purpose Cleaner
Certified organic and cruelty-free, Green Shield products are made with sustainably sourced ingredients. The All-Purpose Cleaner is free from synthetic fragrances and dyes.
17. J.R. Watkins Liquid Hand Soap
Founded in 1868, J.R. Watkins has a longstanding tradition of creating natural products. Their liquid hand soaps come in pleasant, light scents and never use animal testing.
18. Aunt Fannie’s Glass & Window Vinegar Wash
Another favorite from Aunt Fannie’s, this vinegar-based window cleaner delivers streak-free shine on glass surfaces without harming animals or the planet.
19. Tru Earth Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent
Tru Earth’s pre-measured laundry strips are cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and come in compact packaging—dramatically reducing plastic use and water waste.
20. Better Life Naturally Dirt-Destroying Floor Cleaner
Safe for use on various flooring types, this no-rinse cleaner by Better Life is cruelty-free and uses plant-derived cleansing agents for a fresh, clean shine.
Below is a list of commonly cited harmful or potentially concerning ingredients that may appear in household cleaning products. While some can pose immediate health risks (e.g., skin irritation, respiratory issues), others may have longer-term effects. Keep in mind that individual sensitivities vary, and research on chemical safety is constantly evolving. Always follow product labels, use proper ventilation, and consider safer alternatives where possible.
1. Phthalates
• Why They’re Used: Often found in synthetic fragrances to help scents last longer.
• Potential Concern: Linked to hormone disruption and possible reproductive issues.
2. Synthetic Fragrances (Parfum)
• Why They’re Used: Added to many products for a pleasant or signature scent.
• Potential Concern: Can contain dozens of undisclosed chemicals; may trigger allergies, headaches, or respiratory irritation.
3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) / Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
• Why They’re Used: Surfactants that create foam in products like dish soaps and detergents.
• Potential Concern: Can irritate skin and eyes; possible residue concerns if not thoroughly rinsed.
4. Ammonia
• Why It’s Used: Effective at cutting through grease and polishing surfaces, especially glass.
• Potential Concern: Can irritate eyes and lungs; may be particularly harmful to individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
5. Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)
• Why It’s Used: Powerful disinfectant and whitener.
• Potential Concern: Can release chlorine gas if mixed with other chemicals (especially acids or ammonia); can cause respiratory irritation and skin burns.
6. Triclosan
• Why It’s Used: Antibacterial agent in hand soaps and other household cleaners.
• Potential Concern: Possible contributor to antibiotic-resistant bacteria; suspected hormone disruptor.
7. Formaldehyde (and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives)
• Why It’s Used: Preservative and disinfectant in some household products.
• Potential Concern: Classified as a carcinogen; can cause respiratory irritation and skin sensitivity.
8. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
• Why They’re Used: A group of chemicals (e.g., acetone, toluene) used as solvents or propellants in aerosol sprays.
• Potential Concern: Can contribute to indoor air pollution, smog formation, and health issues such as headaches, nausea, and respiratory irritation.
9. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)
• Why They’re Used: Common disinfectants found in household wipes and sprays.
• Potential Concern: Can trigger asthma symptoms; prolonged exposure may lead to dermatitis or other sensitivities.
10. Glycol Ethers
• Why They’re Used: Used as solvents in cleaners, degreasers, and personal care products.
• Potential Concern: Some types have been linked to reproductive effects and are irritating to the eyes, skin, and lungs.
11. Parabens
• Why They’re Used: Preservatives to extend shelf life in various home and personal care items.
• Potential Concern: Suspected endocrine disruptors; may affect hormone balance in the body.
1. What are common certifications to look for?
Recognized certifications include:
• Leaping Bunny (Cruelty Free International)
• PETA’s “Beauty Without Bunnies” (for personal care)
• Choose Cruelty Free (Australia)
2. Are cruelty-free products as effective as regular cleaners?
In most cases, yes. Advances in plant-based ingredients and alternative testing methods mean cruelty-free products can be just as powerful as conventional cleaners, without the need for harmful chemicals or animal testing.
3. Are cruelty-free household products more expensive?
Not always. While some brands may cost more
4. Are homemade cleaners always cruelty-free?
Generally, yes, because most homemade cleaners rely on simple kitchen ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice—none of which involve animal testing. Just verify any additional ingredients (like essential oils) are also cruelty-free.
5. Where can I buy cruelty-free household products?
Many grocery stores, health food shops, and big-box retailers now carry cruelty-free brands. You can also explore online marketplaces and the brands’ websites directly, often with detailed product info and certifications.
6. Does “not tested on animals” mean it’s safe for pets or children?
“Cruelty-free” pertains to animal testing, not necessarily safety in all households. Always read labels to understand the product’s recommended uses, safety precautions, and potential irritants.