Cruelty free cleaning

When I first started to change to cruelty free products, I concentrated on make up and toiletries , and then I started to think about cleaning products too. Through my research I've found that everything from dishwasher tablets to pet food could possibly be tested on animals for safety :(

All is not lost however! I've now found alternatives that I love. The first is the more expensive, yet greener option. Method are an American brand that focus on simple and eco friendly cleaning. Their products are easily available in supermarkets or online. They aren't the cheapest but the bottles are quite generous and they contain fewer nasty chemicals than most.

The washing up liquid is amazing. It comes in a lovely bottle and you can buy refills which work out cheaper. I currently have the tangerine scent but I'd like to get the cucumber for summer :) I also use the multi surface cleaner in pink grapefruit, the bathroom cleaner which smells of mint, the shower cleaner which is ylang ylang, the lemon verbena floor cleaner and the laundry liquid. I also have two more specialised cleaners for stainless steel and wood surfaces. They also do bathroom wipes which aren't the best from a waste point of view, but very handy for quick cleaning. I really would recommend this line!

A cheaper option is Astonish products. These are BUAV approved! These are slightly harder to get hold off as not all places carry a full range but you can order online. The oven and cookware paste is brilliant. It's like a cruelty free version of Cif cream! Gets rid of stains on cups, burnt food and cleans sinks. I also have the fabric freshener (like Febreeze) , fabric stain remover, oven cleaner , carpet cleaner and anti bacterial spray. These are an absolute bargain! with most available for 99p or £1. The 99p stores here have the best selection of products. They also make harder to find cruelty free items such as descaler and windscreen wash for the car!

I do also have a few products from Marks and Spencer, again all their own brand is BUAV approved. As they are more expensive than Astonish and not Eco friendly like Method, I generally only buy things like air freshener (not earth friendly I know but I live with boys ;) and they also do a nice range of BUAV approved scented candles and oils. I also buy the biological washing liquid as the Method isn't quite heavy duty enough for Marcus' work clothes!

You can also buy BUAV approved cleaning products from The Co-op supermarkets. These are reasonably priced and they do a pretty good range. I have the rinse aid and furniture polish which both do the job well.

Over time I would like to cut down the amount of products I use in general, but sometimes needs must. When you have children and pets you do need something for those unexpected spills and accidents!

I guess I couldn't do a post on cleaning products without mentioning Ecover. This company actually owns Method, but I personally don't like their products as much. The toilet cleaner and washing up liquid are good options if you cannot find anything else "green" where you are though.

So, there are plenty of cruelty free options available for all budgets! No excuses xx