7 Best Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products to Reduce Waste
Transform your industrial cleaning routine while reducing waste with eco-friendly cleaning products designed to protect the environment. By choosing eco-friendly options, you can minimise your impact and foster a healthier, more sustainable cleaning environment without compromising on effectiveness.
Here are the top 7 eco-friendly cleaning products to minimise waste:
- Reusable Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
- Eco-friendly Cleaning Chemicals
- Recycled Sheet Toilet Rolls
- Biodegradable Waste Bags
- SAO (Stabilised Aqueous Ozone) Products
- Biodegradable Disposable Gloves
- Refillable Bottles
What is considered an eco-friendly cleaning product?
An eco-friendly cleaning product is one designed to reduce environmental impact while remaining effective for cleaning tasks. These products are often made from sustainable, biodegradable, or recyclable materials, such as bamboo, glass, or natural fibres. Unlike single-use plastics or chemical-laden alternatives, eco-friendly options are durable, reusable, and safer for both the workplace and the planet. Choosing these products helps minimise waste and supports a healthier ecosystem.
1. Reusable Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
Why They’re Eco-Friendly: Reusable microfiber cleaning cloths are a sustainable alternative to paper towels and disposable wipes, helping to reduce waste and save money. By choosing microfiber, you eliminate the need for single-use products, making a positive impact on the environment.
How They Work: Microfiber cloths work by trapping dust, dirt, and grime effectively, requiring only minimal water and cleaning solution. The tiny fibres grip and hold onto particles, making cleaning tasks more efficient while using fewer chemicals, which is better for both your home and the planet.
Tip: Opt for high-quality microfiber cloths that are designed to last and can be washed and reused hundreds of times. This ensures that your investment in eco-friendly cleaning tools continues to benefit both your cleaning routine and the environment.
2. Eco-friendly Cleaning Chemicals
Why It’s Eco-Friendly: Eco-friendly cleaning chemicals are formulated with biodegradable, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for both the environment and your home. Unlike traditional cleaners, they avoid harsh substances like ammonia or bleach, reducing harmful emissions and water pollution. These products are often packaged sustainably, further minimising waste.
How It Works: Eco-friendly cleaning chemicals rely on plant-based or naturally derived components to break down dirt and grime effectively. Many also include essential oils or natural fragrances for a fresh, chemical-free scent. They are tough on messes while remaining gentle on surfaces and the planet.
Tip: Look for certifications such as “eco-labels” or “green seals” to ensure the product meets high environmental standards. Pair these cleaners with reusable tools like microfiber cloths to maximise sustainability in your cleaning routine.
3. Recycled Sheet Toilet Rolls
Why It’s Eco-Friendly: Recycled sheet toilet rolls are made from post-consumer waste paper, reducing the need for virgin trees and minimising deforestation. By choosing this product, you help decrease landfill waste and contribute to a more sustainable approach to household essentials.
How It Works: These toilet rolls are made by processing recycled paper into soft, durable sheets. The production process uses fewer resources and less energy compared to traditional toilet paper, making it a more eco-friendly choice for your bathroom.
Tip: Look for 100% recycled toilet rolls that are also plastic-free in their packaging to reduce your environmental impact further. Switching to this sustainable option is a simple step toward making your cleaning process more eco-conscious and efficient.
4. Biodegradable Waste Bags
Why It’s Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable waste bags are made from plant-based materials, such as cornstarch or PLA (Polylactic Acid), which break down naturally over time, unlike traditional plastic bags that can take hundreds of years to decompose. These bags help reduce plastic pollution and are a more sustainable alternative for managing household waste.
How It Works: When disposed of, biodegradable waste bags are designed to decompose in composting environments, turning into organic matter rather than lingering as plastic waste. They are ideal for disposing of food scraps, yard waste, or general household trash without harming the environment.
Tip: To maximise the benefits, ensure you dispose of biodegradable waste bags in the appropriate composting facilities. This will help them break down efficiently, promoting a cleaner, greener waste management system.
5. SAO (Stabilised Aqueous Ozone) Cleaning Products
Why It’s Eco-Friendly: SAO products are a game-changer for sustainable cleaning. They replace harsh chemicals with a solution made from water, oxygen, and electricity, which breaks down naturally after use. This reduces chemical waste and minimises environmental pollution. Plus, it’s safe for people, pets, and plants, making it a healthier choice for everyone.
How It Works: Stabilised Aqueous Ozone is created by infusing ozone gas into cold water, turning it into a powerful cleaning agent. This solution effectively cleans and disinfects surfaces by breaking down dirt and killing germs. Once its job is done, it reverts back to ordinary water and oxygen, leaving no harmful residue behind.
Tip: For the best results, use SAO on hard surfaces like countertops, glass, and stainless steel. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage and storage. Keep in mind that SAO works best when freshly prepared, so use it within the recommended timeframe for maximum cleaning power.
6. Biodegradable Disposable Gloves
Why It’s Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable disposable gloves are made from plant-based materials, such as cornstarch or natural rubber, which break down over time, unlike traditional plastic gloves that contribute to long-term waste. These gloves offer a sustainable alternative, reducing environmental impact and plastic pollution.
How It Works: Biodegradable gloves function just like conventional disposable gloves but are designed to decompose naturally when exposed to the elements. They provide a practical, eco-friendly option for cleaning and food handling while ensuring a safer environment.
Tip: To get the most out of biodegradable gloves, always dispose of them properly by composting or recycling, if applicable. This helps ensure they break down as intended and minimises their impact on the planet.
7. Refillable Bottles
Why It’s Eco-Friendly: Refillable bottles are a sustainable choice that helps reduce single-use plastic waste, which is a major contributor to environmental pollution. By using durable, reusable bottles, you can significantly cut down on plastic consumption and contribute to a cleaner planet.
How It Works: Refillable bottles are designed to be used multiple times, allowing you to fill them with various liquids, such as cleaning solutions, water, or personal care products. Instead of purchasing new bottles each time, you simply refill them, reducing both waste and your environmental footprint.
Tip: To get the most out of your refillable bottles, opt for bottles made of glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic. Label them for easy identification and make it a habit to refill them with your favourite eco-friendly products to create a sustainable routine.
Switching to eco-friendly cleaning tools is a simple yet impactful way for businesses to reduce waste and contribute positively to the environment. Small changes, such as replacing traditional cleaning products with more sustainable alternatives, can lead to significant environmental benefits over time. Start by incorporating just one or two items from the list to gradually adopt greener practices in your workplace.
If you have any enquiries regarding eco-friendly cleaning tools or need further information on how to reduce waste at home, feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to assist and provide additional guidance. You can contact us directly via email at marketing@wessexcleaning.com, and our team will respond promptly to address your questions.