Use less product
The most effective eco-friendly habit is simply using the right amount. Most of us overuse cleaning products, which wastes money and leaves residue that attracts more dirt. Follow the dosage on the label, especially for concentrated products, laundry detergents and floor cleaners.
Cut plastic and waste
Packaging is one of the biggest sources of waste from cleaning:
- Buy concentrates and refills rather than new spray bottles
- Use refill stations where available
- Choose reusable microfibre cloths instead of disposable wipes
- Wash cloths regularly so they last longer
- Never flush wet wipes, even those labelled as flushable – they can contribute to blockages
Microfibre: a mixed picture
Good-quality microfibre cloths clean very effectively with just water for many tasks, which means less product. They can shed microfibres when washed, so wash them in a full load at a moderate temperature and avoid fabric softener, which also reduces their effectiveness. Using them for years is far better than throwing away wipes.
Simple ingredients
A few basic ingredients handle many jobs: washing-up liquid diluted in warm water for general cleaning, bicarbonate of soda as a gentle abrasive and deodoriser, and white vinegar or citric acid for limescale. They're cheap and familiar, but not suitable for every surface – acids damage natural stone, for example. See how to remove limescale.
Spotting greenwashing
Words like 'natural', 'eco' and 'green' aren't regulated in the same way as safety labels. Look for specific claims – refillable packaging, recycled plastic, concentrated formulas – and recognised independent certifications, rather than vague promises. 'Natural' doesn't automatically mean safer: some plant-based ingredients and essential oils can irritate skin or be harmful to pets.
Get quotes from local cleaners
Water and energy
Washing laundry at lower temperatures saves energy, and modern detergents are designed for it – just run a hot maintenance wash occasionally (see how to clean a washing machine). Full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine save water and energy.
Small swaps that add up
You don't have to change everything at once:
- Refill spray bottles from concentrates or refill pouches
- Use washable cloths and mop pads instead of disposable ones
- Choose solid washing-up bars or concentrated liquids
- Buy larger sizes of products you use often
- Wash at lower temperatures and full loads
- Fix dripping taps – less water wasted, less limescale
Disposing of cleaning products properly
Don't pour large amounts of unwanted cleaning products down the sink or drain, and never mix leftovers together. Use them up as intended where possible, or check your council's guidance – many household waste and recycling centres accept household chemicals.
Rinse empty bottles and recycle them where your council accepts them. Trigger sprays often can't be recycled, which is another reason to keep reusing them with refills.
Eco-friendly cleaners
Some cleaners and companies offer eco-friendly cleaning using greener products and reusable cloths. If it matters to you, ask when you request quotes, or supply your own preferred products – see should cleaners bring their own products?.
