6 Alternatives to Bleach Products That Actually Work

By: Tom | February 18, 2024
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cleaning counter with bleach

Health Risks of Using Bleach

Bleach has been a go to household cleaner & disinfectant for generations. Its usage stems from a well meaning attempt to create a safe, germ free living environment. After all, bleach is a powerful and effective way to sanitize. It cleans countertops, kills mold and mildew, whitens linens, and much more. Yet, chlorine bleach can irritate the skin, eyes and lungs. It can also worsen existing asthma conditions.

Extreme Danger to Children

When using bleach solution spray bottles, droplets in the air can be inhaled into the lungs. These airborne toxins can cause anyone problems, but children are most at risk. Prolonged bleach exposure presents a real danger to young developing lungs. This is especially concerning considering how often daycare centers use bleach to clean.

Finding Safe Bleach Alternatives  

Finding safe and effective bleach alternatives can be quite challenging. This is due to lack of product content regulation. Cleaners and disinfectants are not required by law to disclose all ingredients. Some manufacturers take advantage by using misleading product names. Phrases like eco, natural or green create a false sense of security. This type of misrepresentation is commonly referred to as greenwashing. Sadly, it's an all too common practice in today's marketplace.

Choosing a Safer Option

We've listed six safe, effective bleach alternatives cleaners and disinfectants to consider. All of these brands disclose all ingredients in their products. But, keep in mind, what is not in a cleaner is equally as important. These manufacturers never use ingredients like chlorine, chemical fragrances or dangerous whitening agents. Rest assured, our recommended products adhere to the highest quality, safety and ethical standards.
shopping for bleach alternative
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Shop Bleach Alternative Surface Disinfectants 

Sanera

EPA certified disinfectant
sanera bleach alternative
  • EPA Certified Disinfectant: This product meets US Environmental Protection Agency standards.
  • Non-toxic & Hypoallergenic: Product is designed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions
  • Eco-friendly Packaging:  This product uses 100% recycled bottle and boxes
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Botanical Decon 30 

No harsh chemicals
botanical decon 30
  • Plant-Based Formula: Made from 100% plant-based botanical active ingredients
  • Kills 99.9% of Germs & Bacteria: Kills bacteria and germs in just 30 seconds.
  • Deodorizing and Prevents Mold:  Eliminates odors caused by fungi, bacteria, and other organisms.
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Briotech

Sanitizer + Disinfectant
briotech sanitizer disinfectant
  • OMRI Certified: This means Briotech products adhere to strict organic standards.
  • Kills 99.9% of Bacteria & Viruses:
    This includes Salmonella, E. coli & MRSA.
  • Safe for Food Contact Surfaces: Suitable for kitchens, restaurants, and nurseries.
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Shop Bleach Alternatives Laundry Detergents 

Grab Green

Bleach Alternative Pods
grab green natural bleach alternative pods
  • Biodegradable: This product is made from plant and mineral-based ingredients.
  • Non-Toxic Materials: No chlorine, optical brighteners, dyes, phosphates or fragrances.
  • Tackles Tough Stains: Cleans and whitens while removing stubborn odors.
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Biokleen 

Laundry Oxygen Bleach Plus
biokleen laundry oxygen bleach plus
  • Safer Choice Certified: EPA verifies product performance, packaging sustainability.
  • Plant-Based Material: No chlorine, optical brighteners, dyes, phosphate or fragrances.
  • Versatility: Also cleans stains on carpets, grout, decking and upholstery.
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Seventh Generation

EasyDose Laundry Detergent
seventh generation easydose laundry detergent
  • No Harsh Chemicals : No chlorine, optical brighteners, dyes or phosphates.
  • Deep Cleans Safely : Natural enzyme formula deep cleans stubborn stains. 
  • Natural Non-toxic Fragrance: Made from 100% essential oils & botanical ingredients.
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Growing Concerns Over Bleach Exposure

Since the onset of the COVID pandemic, bleach usage has increased dramatically. Reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirm this to be true. In 2020, poison centers saw a 20% increase in cleaner and disinfectant exposure calls. Many of these issues were directly related to the effects of excessive bleach exposure. If you must use bleach, take maximum precautions to avoid injury or illness. Even when used properly, bleach can negatively impact your health over time.

Make the Switch to Safe Bleach Alternatives

Cleaning and disinfecting with bleach presents clear and undeniable dangers. But, eliminating the risk does not mean you have to sacrifice a clean, sanitary home. Safe, effective alternatives exist and now you know where to find them. Make the choice to switch to eco-friendly bleach alternatives today!
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