Low-tox spring cleaning: The ultimate buying guide
Keeping your home clean is important all year round, and spring is the perfect time to give your space a little extra love. But have you ever considered switching to low-tox cleaning products for your spring clean?
Many conventional cleaning products contain synthetic fragrances or preservatives that can contribute to indoor air pollutants and sometimes irritate sensitive skin. While these products are generally safe when used correctly, low-tox alternatives can make cleaning gentler on you, your family, and your home. They help cut down on unnecessary chemicals and support a healthier living environment. Here’s how.
Why make the swap?
Low-tox cleaning products often replace harsh chemicals with plant-based surfactants, biodegradable formulas, and naturally derived scents. The benefits can include fewer synthetic residues on surfaces, reduced fragrance load in your air, and products that are generally kinder to waterways and septic systems, all without compromising on cleaning power.
If you’re ready to make the swap, we’ve rounded up our top Healthylife picks to help you restock, refresh, and get your home sparkling clean for spring.
Top spring cleaning picks
Dish soap
Dishwashing liquids can contain surfactants, fragrances, and preservatives that may be irritating to skin with frequent use. Low-tox dish soaps instead often contain plant-derived surfactants and natural scents, offering the same grease-cutting performance with a gentler touch.
You’ll find this dish soap cuts through grease and food residue effortlessly without chlorine, bleach, and other harsh chemicals. This plant-based formula leaves a refreshing citrus scent without any overpowering artificial fragrances.
A little goes a long way with this concentrated hard-surface all-purpose cleaner. It’s made with plant-based surfactants, natural fir needle and spruce essential oils, leaving your home sparkling clean. Plus it’s mild and gentle on the skin. Win-win!
Laundry detergents
Traditional laundry detergents often contain optical brighteners and synthetic fragrances that can linger on clothing and irritate sensitive skin. Low-tox options use biodegradable surfactants and natural scents, making them gentler on both skin and waterways. Laundry detergent sheets are an emerging trend and standout option, as they’re compact, mess-free, dissolve completely, plus skip the harsh chemicals and excess packaging. They’re a smarter, more sustainable choice for your home and your family.
If you want laundry that’s fresh, soft, and chemical-free, this laundry liquid is perfect. With an all natural, ultra-concentrated formula, it’s great for grey water and septic systems, plus it works for both front and top loaders.
We think you’ll love how this plant-based laundry liquid tackles stains while staying gentle on your skin. Infused with eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils, it leaves clothes fresh and naturally clean without any harsh chemicals.
Multipurpose cleaners
A good multipurpose cleaner can simplify your routine but some contain high-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) which are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, becoming gases or vapors. These may exacerbate or worsen conditions such as asthma. Low-tox multipurpose cleaners often use essential oils with natural antibacterial properties and plant-based surfactants, making them effective across different surfaces without strong chemical fumes.
If you want a cleaner that’s like a jack of all trades , this is it. Ideal for a range of greasy and difficult cleaning jobs throughout the house, such as stove tops, tiles, benches, marble, granite, vinyl, bathroom, and more.
Looking for a stainless steel cleaner without the harsh chemicals? Abode has got your back. This fragrance-free formula cleans stainless steel surfaces effectively, without harsh chemicals. But don’t forget to use a microfibre cloth to give you an unbeatable streak free clean.
Floor cleaners
Some conventional floor cleaners use solvents or strong synthetic fragrances that can linger in the air. Low-tox floor cleaners are often biodegradable, low-VOC, and scented with essential oils for a fresh finish without overpowering smells.
A gentle, concentrated floor cleaner that lifts dirt and grime naturally, leaving your floors fresh and sparkling.
Made with pure essential oils, you’ll love Euclove for its naturally fresh, eucalyptus-scented finish that’s safe for your family and pets.
Mould control
Some mould treatments rely on chlorine bleach, which can have a strong odour and may not address airborne spores. Low-tox mould control products often use plant-based antimicrobials to help reduce airborne mould counts and neutralise musty smells without harsh fumes.
Essential-oil-based gel that not only helps reduce existing mould, but also helps prevent it from coming back. Simply place it in a room with the windows closed for the first 24 hours. The gel will evaporate into the air coming into contact with airborne mould and bacteria.
Bathroom cleaners
Bathroom cleaning often involves strong acids or bleach to cut through grime. While effective, these can be irritating if splashed or inhaled. Low-tox bathroom products use naturally derived acids and essential oils to freshen and clean without overpowering fumes.
Made with pure eucalyptus and lavender oils, your bathroom will feel naturally fresh with this cleaner. It’s also safe for septic and greywater systems.
The bottom line
Spring cleaning is a great opportunity to create a healthier home environment. By choosing low-tox products, you can keep your space fresh and clean while reducing unnecessary exposure to synthetic chemicals. These swaps are simple, effective, and better for you, your family, and the planet.
Related reads:
- The 101 guide to deep cleaning your home
- 5 simple tips for low tox living
- From Messy House to Cosy Home: Transform Your Living Space
Reviewed by the Healthylife health experts August 2025.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health you should consult with a health professional.
About this article
Gabbie Watt
A bachelor degree qualified Naturopath, Gabbie is passionate about integrating evidence-based practice and traditional medicine. Formerly a Radiation Therapist, her background in conventional medicine enriches her holistic health approach.