In our modern world, it’s easy to grab a brightly colored bottle of cleaner from the store shelf and trust that it will get the job done. But many conventional cleaning products are loaded with harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and unnecessary fillers that can be harmful to your health and the environment. The good news? Natural alternatives can be just as effective—sometimes more so—without the toxic load.

If you’re looking to detox your cleaning routine, here are the top 5 cleaning products you should swap out for natural alternatives—and what we recommend instead.

1. All-Purpose Cleaner ➡️ Switch to: Thieves Household Cleaner

Why switch: Conventional all-purpose cleaners often contain ammonia, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances. These ingredients can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs—and they aren’t always safe around pets or children.

Natural alternative: Thieves Household Cleaner is a plant-based concentrate infused with essential oils like clove, lemon, and rosemary. It cuts through grease and grime and leaves behind a subtle, spicy scent. One bottle goes a long way and can be diluted for virtually every surface in your home.

2. Glass Cleaner ➡️ Switch to: Fish Scale Cloths + Water

Why switch: Many glass cleaners include isopropyl alcohol and synthetic dyes, which can leave behind streaks and residue—not to mention they’re not environmentally friendly.

Natural alternative: For a crystal-clear shine, skip the chemicals and grab a fish scale microfiber cloth dampened with water. These specialized cloths lift grime and polish glass surfaces to a streak-free finish—no spray needed.

3. Scouring Powder ➡️ Switch to: Bon Ami

Why switch: Traditional scouring powders can be harsh, abrasive, and filled with bleach or synthetic perfumes that linger on surfaces.

Natural alternative: Bon Ami is a classic cleaner that’s been around since 1886—for good reason. Made with simple ingredients like feldspar and baking soda, it gently scrubs sinks, tubs, and stovetops without scratching. No bleach, no fragrance—just clean.

4. Magic Erasers ➡️ Keep Using: Melamine Sponges (Responsibly)

Why switch—or not: While not “natural,” melamine sponges (commonly known as Magic Erasers) are incredibly effective at removing scuffs, marks, and grime with just water. The key is to use them mindfully, as they do wear down with use and should be disposed of responsibly.

Pro tip: Pair melamine sponges with a spritz of Thieves Cleaner or a few drops of lemongrass essential oil for extra degreasing power.

5. Hard Water Stain Remover ➡️ Switch to: Bioclean Hard Water Stain Remover

Why switch: Most hard water removers rely on acidic or caustic chemicals that are harsh on surfaces and your health.

Natural alternative: Bioclean Hard Water Stain Remover uses a biodegradable formula that cuts through mineral deposits without scratching or strong fumes. It’s especially great on shower doors, faucets, and toilet bowls—and it's septic-safe too.

Salsuds: A concentrated soap made by Dr. Bronner’s, great for heavy-duty degreasing and general cleaning.

Microfiber & Waffle Cloths: Reusable, eco-friendly, and highly effective for absorbing spills and lifting dirt without the need for cleaners.

Lemongrass Essential Oil: Naturally antimicrobial and smells incredible—add a few drops to mop water or cleaning cloths.

Cleaning Screens & Brushes: Excellent for scrubbing stuck-on grime in grout or corners, paired with natural products for a complete clean.

Switching to natural cleaning products doesn’t mean sacrificing results. With the right tools and ingredients, you can create a sparkling clean home that’s safer for your family and the environment. Whether you're ready to go all-in or just want to start with one product at a time, these swaps are a great place to begin.

What natural cleaning products have you tried and loved?