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Looking for the best non-toxic floor cleaners in 2024? Good call! While most regular formulas do exactly what they say – leave our floors sparkly clean and smelling fresh – the health risks are not worth it.
Certain chemicals in cleaning products release fumes that irritate the respiratory system and mess with the body’s hormonal system as well. If this isn’t enough, they also contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life when disposed of improperly.
In this guide, we’ll share the safest options for cleaning your tiles and laminate floors, plus some amazing non-toxic wood floor cleaner picks for hardwood surfaces.
P.S. To find even more natural cleaning solutions, check out the 11 Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets and the 15 Best Non-Toxic, Natural & Organic Laundry Detergents!
The Safest Non-Toxic Floor Cleaners for Wood and Tiles!
You’ve probably noticed that we’re talking about non-toxic cleaning solutions A LOT on SKL.
We try to find the best possible alternatives for everything. The list includes natural oven cleaners, toilet cleaners, and dozens more eco-friendly cleaning products for the entire house.
We even created a guide chock full of DIY zero-waste cleaning swaps for those who prefer to be in charge of every single ingredient in their routine.
And, now, we’re adding non-toxic floor cleaners to the list.
Why bother doing all that? It’s painfully simple – home cleaning products are one of the most toxic products in your home.
“In my work, I spend a LOT of time talking to people about how they can reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals that are interrupting how their hormones work – and a BIG part of this is household cleaning!! Quite simply we just don’t need ‘hospital grade’ disinfectants in our homes.” Lucy Lines, Embryologist, Fertility Educator, and IVF Patient Advocate told SKL.
Several chemicals used in floor cleaning products, including phthalates, triclosan, bisphenol A (BPA), and perchloroethylene (PERC), are known for their potential endocrine-disrupting properties.
Can’t we just check the labels to see if a “non-toxic wood floor cleaner” is safe or not?
Sadly, no. It’s not that simple.
“In Australia companies that produce products for household cleaning are not required to tell us what’s in them. When they DO tell us what’s in them, they largely list what’s NOT in them with claims of being ‘free from’ one thing or another.” Lines mentioned. So, we did a little digging to see if this is also true for the United States too. Shockingly, it is!
C.L. Mike Schmidt, who has over 2 decades of experience with product liability cases, told us that “Manufacturers are not required to disclose the specific ingredients used in these blends, and that lack of transparency can be problematic.”
It blows my mind! Companies are not required to disclose this information to customers upon request in any manner either.
So, what’s the best way to ensure that our trusted non-toxic floor cleaners are as safe as the brands claim to be?
Opt for vetted and certified formulas ONLY! If the ingredients are EWG-Verified, EcoCert certified, USDA BioPreferred, Green Seal Certified, or MADE SAFE certified, it means that your woold cleaner, non-toxic tile floor cleaner, or laminate cleaner is, in fact, safe and healthy for you and your pets.
The SKL team reviewed dozens of options to create a list of the most trusted cleaning formulas for the floor. Read on to find a solution for every type of flooring.
What toxic chemicals are hiding in most floor cleaners?
It’s no secret that many conventional floor cleaners contain a cocktail of toxic chemicals that may pose risks to human health.
Chlorine
One of the most well-known offenders is chlorine, often found in the form of sodium hypochlorite. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant and bleach widely used for its antimicrobial properties.
While effective in eliminating bacteria and viruses, prolonged exposure to chlorine fumes or residues can lead to respiratory issues, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and, in extreme cases, exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Ammonia
Another commonly found chemical is ammonia, utilized for its degreasing and cleaning properties. Ammonia can be harsh on the respiratory system, irritating the eyes, nose, and throat. It can also aggravate conditions such as asthma.
Plus, it’s important to know that, when mixed with certain other cleaning agents, ammonia can produce toxic fumes, further increasing health risks.
Phthalates
Phthalates are often present in synthetic fragrances used to impart a pleasant scent to floor cleaners. These chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, can interfere with hormonal balance in the body.
Studies have suggested a link between phthalate exposure and various health issues, including developmental and reproductive complications.
Triclosan
Triclosan, an antimicrobial agent added to some floor cleaners for its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, is another harmful worrisome chemical. It has been associated with hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance.
It’s been proven that prolonged exposure may contribute to the development of resistant strains of bacteria, making it less effective in fighting infections.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, can be present in certain floor cleaners as a preservative. Although it’s effective at preventing bacterial growth, inhalation of formaldehyde vapors can cause respiratory irritation and has been linked to long-term health issues, including an increased risk of certain cancers.
The Best Non-Toxic Floor Cleaners You Can Trust:
1. Attitude
From amazing eco-friendly dishwasher tablets and antibacterial hand soap to non-toxic wood floor cleaner options that work great on tiles as well, Attitude has all our needs covered.
Whether you have laminate, wooden, tile, ceramic, or marble floors, this plant- and mineral-based formula can do all the heavy work for you.
It’s packed with EWG VERIFIED, vegan, cruelty-free plant- and mineral-based ingredients, including saponin.
This fantastic natural cleansing agent can easily lift grease, dirt, and grime, leaving your floors sparkling clean.
It effortlessly moistens, disperses, and emulsifies dirt, revealing the natural beauty of your floors.
The best part? No need to rinse after washing!
Price: From $7.45+
Best For: Tile, laminate, marble, ceramic
Free From: Parabens | Sulfates | Chlorine Bleach | Synthetic fragrances | Preservatives | Palm Oil | Harsh chemicals
Ethics: EWG-Verified™, PETA Vegan Approved, 94% naturally derived ingredients, recyclable bottle
Location/Shipping: United States
2. Truly Free
As the name suggests, Truly Free offers refillable, non-toxic tile floor cleaner formulas that can also be used on hardwood, laminate, and marble flooring.
The company wants to help you ditch those nasty chemicals lurking in store-bought cleaners with a truly natural plant-based cleaner that’s safe for your entire family, including your furry friends!
This chemical-free floor cleaner can effectively break down dirt, food, grease, and grime buildup, leaving your floors clean, streak-free, and fresh-smelling.
With this refill system, you’ll automatically receive a container with your first order, and afterward, simply enjoy hassle-free refills.
Plus, with Truly Free’s customizable box options, you can add your cleaning essentials and even score-free products by building a bigger box!
You can easily adjust, manage, or even pause, skip, or cancel your auto-ship whenever you need.
Price: $16.95 (2 Pack)
Best For: Tile, laminate, sealed hardwood, marble
Free From: Phosphates | Sulfates | Ammonium | Triclosan | SLES | SLS
Ethics: Plant-based, eco-friendly, cruelty-free, recyclable plastic
Location/Shipping: United States
3. Better Life
You know how much we love Better Life’s natural non-toxic body wash and their high-performing oven and toilet cleaners.
But, today, we’ll focus on another cult-favorite formula: The non-toxic laminate floor cleaner.
No worries, this refillable product can also make all hardwoods, ale, marble, bamboo, vinyl, laminate, and other sealed floors regain their shine as well.
The citrus mint scent is super refreshing – no nasties here either, and all essential oils and ingredients are plant-based and pet-friendly.
Price: $13.99
Best For: Tile, laminate, hardwood, marble, bamboo, vinyl, & other sealed floors
Free From: Parabens | Dyes | Alcohol | Petroleum solvents | SLS | SLES
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, plant-derived cleaning agents, made in the USA
Location/Shipping: United States
4. Grove Collaborative
Known as one of the best eco friendly alternatives to Amazon for ethical shopping, Grove Collaborative offers amazing plastic-free and non-toxic floor cleaners that should last you multiple months.
This refillable, concentrated cleaner effortlessly removes common stains like dirt, coffee, and grape juice, leaving your floors sparkling clean and streak-free.
We only want the healthiest options for our kids and pets, and with a 96% plant-based formula, these options tick all our boxes.
You won’t find any triclosan, parabens, phthalates, phosphates, dyes, ammonia, chlorine bleach, or synthetic fragrance.
What’s more, the cleaner concentrates come in infinitely recyclable glass bottles and are packaged in fully recyclable, plastic-free materials.
From orange & rosemary to lavender blossom & thyme, lemon & eucalyptus, free & clear, and wild grass & neroli, all you have to do is choose a scent that suits your preferences.
Price: $7.99
Best For: Title, laminate, finished hardwood, not recommended for unfinished wood floors
Free From: Parabens | Phosphates | Phthalates | Chlorine Bleach | Synthetic fragrances | Ammonia | Dyes | Triclosan
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, USDA BioPreferred, 96% plant-based formula, Leaping Bunny Certified, FSC Certified paper packaging, recyclable packaging
Location/Shipping: United States
5. Aspen
Aspen’s non toxic dish soap liquid is one of the best cleaning formulas we’ve ever tried.
So, it only makes sense to give their non-toxic floor cleaner for pets a chance too.
This EWG and EcoCert-certified, biodegradable solution can tackle every task!
Whether it’s dirt, grease, or scuff marks, their natural floor cleaner is up for the challenge.
Suitable for a variety of floors, including hardwood, laminate, stone, and ceramic (excluding unfinished, unsealed, or waxed wood).
You can also rest assured knowing that the formula is septic tank safe, 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and expertly made in Canada.
Heck, even the packaging is 100% recycled plastic.
Price: $11.99
Best For: All types of floors including laminate, hardwood, stone & ceramic
Free From: Parabens | Phosphates | Sulfates | Synthetic fragrances | Petroleum | Carcinogens
Ethics: EWG-Verified™, EcoCert® certified, 100% natural, created with organic essential oils, biodegradable, plant-derived ingredients, 100% vegan & no animal testing, 100% recycled bottles
Location/Shipping: Canada, ships to the United States
6. Aunt Fannie’s Vinegar Wash Floor Cleaner
If you need professional-grade effectiveness without all the nasty chemicals that come with it, Aunt Fannie’s vinegar-based, non-toxic tile floor cleaner is a great solution.
Made in the USA with plant-based, safe materials, this concentrated, vegan solution for tiles, linoleum, and sealed hardwood is gentle on your home and loved ones.
All you have to do is measure out 1/2 cup of cleaner, mix it with two gallons of water, and let the bright lemon, lime mint, or eucalyptus scent infuse your space with the freshness it deserves.
Price: $11.99
Best For: Tile, sealed hardwood, concrete, linoleum
Free From: Parabens | Phosphates | Sulfates | Chlorine Bleach | Synthetic fragrances
Ethics: EWG A-rated, Leaping Bunny Certified, dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, manufactured in the USA
Location/Shipping: United States
7. Aunt Fannie’s Hardwood Floor Cleaner
Not a fan of vinegar-based cleaners, Aunt Fannie’s non-toxic hardwood floor cleaner is a great alternative.
This no-wax formula leaves your hardwood floors gleaming effortlessly, infusing your space with the invigorating scent of bright lemon, all thanks to 100% essential oils.
According to dozens of reviews, it works wonders, breaking down dirt, food, grease, and grime without leaving any bothersome residue
Plus, you can use it on all hardwood floors – solid, engineered, bamboo, and even manufactured and laminated floors.
Of course, it’s a safe choice for homes with both kiddos and fur babies.
Price: $11.99
Best For: All types of hardwood floors including solid, laminated, engineered & bamboo
Free From: Parabens | Phosphates | Sulfates | Chlorine Bleach | Synthetic fragrances
Ethics: EWG A-rated, Leaping Bunny Certified, crafted with 100% essential oils, dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, manufactured in the USA
Location/Shipping: United States
8. Eco-Me
Eco-Me non-toxic floor cleaner deserves a place in your arsenal.
The chemical-free cleaning solution is infused with natural plant extracts and essential botanicals that promise to break down dirt, food, grease, and grime.
To top it all off, in addition to being greywater-safe, the formula is also vegan, cruelty-free, and safe to use around your family and your pets.
Price: $7.99
Best For: Tile, laminate, stone, sealed wood, vinyl, linoleum, & other sealed surfaces
Free From: Phosphates | Phthalates | Sulfates | Chlorine Bleach | Synthetic fragrances Ammonia | Dyes
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, food-grade & plant-based ingredients, vegan
Location/Shipping: United States
9. Biokleen
Biokleen is the mecca of healthy cleaning solutions.
It can work wonders on any surface, including wood, tile, vinyl, laminate, and any other water-safe floors.
What’s the secret? Bac-Out is a bio-enzymatic that effortlessly tackles oils, grease, and food particles, without leaving behind any sticky residue or harsh fumes.
In fact, Bac-Out not only cleans but also shines and deodorizes high-traffic floors.
The biodegradable ingredients are never tested on animals. Plus, this non-toxic floor cleaner is responsibly manufactured in the USA.
Price: $12.99
Best For: All sealed & water-safe floors
Free From: Phosphates | Chlorine Bleach | Synthetic fragrances | Ammonia
Ethics: Green Seal Certified, biodegradable ingredients, cruelty-free, manufactured in the USA
Location/Shipping: United States
10. ECOVER
Next up is another fruity non-toxic floor cleaner for pets that works great on all porous surfaces such as natural stone and tiles too.
The ECOVER orange and lemon floor soap is vegan, cruelty-free, and suitable for folks with sensitive skin like me.
Of course, the formula is made with the purest, plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and absolutely no harmful chemicals.
What I love the most about it is that it’s made in ECOVER’s certified zero-waste factory from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic.
That makes it widely recyclable and refillable. The brand has many refill stations across Europe.
Price: £3.60
Best For: Tile, natural stone
Free From: Parabens | Phosphates | Sulfates | Chlorine bleach | Synthetic fragrances
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, plant-based ingredients, vegan, bottle made of 100% PCR
Location/Shipping: Europe
11. Koala Eco AUD
Packaged in recyclable 100% post-consumer recycled bottles, this non-toxic laminate floor cleaner by Koala Eco comes straight from Australia where is manufactured.
Don’t be fooled by its natural origins, this floor cleaner is a powerhouse that easily cuts through grime and dirt.
It’s MADE-SAFE and vegan certified, so no toxic chemicals will come in contact with your family or furry friends – that’s a promise.
Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the refreshing scents of mandarin and peppermint which is quite an uncommon blend for floor cleaners.
When you run out of product, you can always reuse the bottle by refiling it with Koala Eco’s concentrated refills.
Price: AUD $14.95
Best For: All types of floors
Free From: Parabens | Phosphates | | Sulfates | Chlorine bleach | Synthetic fragrances
Ethics: MADESAFE, biodegradable & eco-friendly plant-based formula, 1% for the planet, Vegan Australian Certified, recycled, recyclable & reusable packaging, gives back
Location/Shipping: Australia
Are non-toxic floor cleaners effective against stains and grime?
Yes, non-toxic wood floor cleaner options can easily tackle tough stains and grime.
That’s because many cleaners harvest the power of plant-based ingredients that are just as effective, if not more so, than their toxic counterparts.
For example, ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, citric acid, and plant-based surfactants are adept at breaking down and lifting away dirt, grease, and stains.
Are non-toxic floor cleaners safe for kids and pets?
Absolutely, most non-toxic tile floor cleaners and wool cleaners are perfectly safe for children and pets.
Instead of chemicals, these solutions are made from plant-based ingredients, such as natural surfactants, vinegar, essential oils, and enzymes, to clean effectively without introducing harmful substances.
So, non-toxic cleaners reduce the risk of skin irritation, respiratory issues, or allergic reactions.
What certs should I look for in non-toxic household cleaners?
When choosing a non-toxic floor cleaner, it’s extremely important to have a great understanding of the product’s safety, environmental sustainability, and ethical standards.
My best advice is to never opt for a formula that doesn’t carry at least 1 or 2 of these certifications:
Ecocert: Ecocert certification guarantees that a cleaning formula meets stringent environmental and ethical standards. It verifies the use of natural and organic ingredients, the absence of synthetic chemicals, and adherence to sustainable manufacturing practices.
USDA Organic: The USDA Organic seal indicates that a product is made with at least 95% organic ingredients, free from synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This certification guarantees the product’s organic integrity and environmental sustainability.
Green Seal: Products certified by Green Seal undergo rigorous testing to verify their environmental performance and safety. Green Seal certification ensures that the product meets strict criteria for reduced toxicity, biodegradability, and minimal environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.
Leaping Bunny: The Leaping Bunny certification is awarded to products that are cruelty-free and not tested on animals. This certification provides assurance that the product and its ingredients have not been subjected to animal testing, aligning with ethical and compassionate principles.
EWG Verified: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) verifies products that meet its strict criteria for ingredient transparency, safety, and environmental responsibility. EWG Verified certification indicates that the product has undergone a thorough evaluation and is free from potentially harmful chemicals.
This was your full guide to safe floor cleaners!
We hope this guide helped you find a new favorite non-toxic floor cleaner for your home. Unlike its chemical-packed counterparts, chemical-free floor cleaners eliminate the risk of harmful chemical fumes which means that you, your fur babies, and your family breathe cleaner air indoors.
There’s no need to worry about harsh residues or toxic substances ever again! Plus, because the plant-based ingredients are always biodegradable, your cleaning routine will have a minimal impact on ecosystems.
I’d highly suggest opting for a non-toxic hardwood floor cleaner, a tile cleaner, or a laminate floor cleaner that comes in refillable packaging. This way, you can reuse the bottle time and time again which saves many natural resources.
If you enjoyed this article, check out these other community favorites below!
- 15 Natural & Non Toxic Dish Soap Liquids, Tablets & Bars
- The Safest Eco Friendly Cleaning Products For A Non Toxic Home
- 11 Safest Non Toxic Toilet Cleaner For Grime, Lime & Rust
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