Chemical-Free Cleaning, Part II: Specialty Cleaners for a Healthier Home
- Stefani Stein
- Nov 14
- 12 min read
A healthy home calls for more than just the daily essentials. In Part I of this series, I shared my favorite chemical-free basics—everyday products like dish soap, laundry detergent, and all-purpose sprays that shape daily rituals. This follow-up turns to the specialists: the products designed for specific jobs like polishing stainless steel, lifting stubborn stains, tackling bathroom buildup, or giving cookware a thorough refresh.
Each one has been vetted for ingredient integrity, safety certifications, and real-world performance. I look for plant-based formulas, biodegradable ingredients, and meaningful designations such as EWG Verified, Leaping Bunny, or EU Ecolabel. They may not come out every day, but when they do, they deliver results without compromising health, materials, or the environment.
Specialty Cleaning Products For Marble & Other Countertops
For daily use, I keep it simple. The best way to extend the life of your countertop sealant is with a dilution of dish soap and warm water, applied with a soft, lint-free cloth. It lifts residue without dulling the finish and avoids introducing anything acidic that could etch natural stone over time.
That said, there are moments when something stronger is needed — a bit of grease near the cooktop, or a sticky spot that dish soap alone won’t address. When that happens, this is the cleaner I reach for. I use it selectively and only on sealed surfaces, but I’ve found it cuts through messes effectively without damaging the finish or leaving a residue behind.
Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner – Lemongrass Citrus
This plant-based disinfecting spray is EWG A-Rated, meaning it meets strict criteria for ingredient safety and transparency. It uses thymol, derived from thyme oil, as the active disinfecting agent, and is free from synthetic fragrance, bleach, ammonia, and harsh preservatives.
While I have found it to be safe for sealed stone surfaces like marble and quartzite, I always recommend testing it in an inconspicuous spot first. Apply it with care using a soft cloth, never let it pool, and buff it dry immediately.
The scent is naturally derived but strong. It leans herbal with lemongrass and thyme notes and may be too bold for those who are scent-sensitive. I do not use it for day-to-day cleaning, but keep it on hand for moments when I want a more complete surface reset.
EWG Rating: A-Rated
Active ingredient: Thymol (plant-derived disinfectant)
Scent: Lemongrass and thyme (essential oils)
Free from: Synthetic fragrance, chlorine, ammonia, dyes
Certifications: EWG Verified, Leaping Bunny
Best for: Sealed countertops, ceramic tile, toilets, sink fixtures, tubs, and other high-contact surfaces
Not for: Unsealed marble or other porous surfaces that have not been properly sealed
While I generally try to keep disinfectant use to a minimum, this is one of the few disinfectants I feel comfortable using on a sealed marble surface when needed. I still lean on warm water and mild soap for most tasks, but this is what I reach for when I want a more thorough clean without compromising my materials or air quality.
Frosch Kitchen Cleaner – Grapefruit
This German-made cleaner holds several respected European certifications, including EU Ecolabel, Cradle to Cradle, and ISO 14001. It is plant-based and designed with sustainability in mind, which makes it a more responsible choice than most conventional degreasers.
However, in the interest of transparency, it’s worth noting that it does contain perfume and a mild preservative, which give it a D rating on EWG’s scale. That rating reflects the inclusion of synthetic fragrance and an ingredient not permitted under stricter standards like EWG Verified.
For the occasional need to clean up cooking residue or deeper buildup, I find it to be effective, pleasantly scented, and far less toxic than most mainstream options. I never use it on unsealed stone and avoid it entirely for routine maintenance, but I do keep a bottle in the cabinet for specific moments when something more substantial is needed.
EWG Rating: D
Contains: Parfum and a mild preservative
Certifications: EU Ecolabel, Cradle to Cradle, ISO 14001
Best for: Sealed countertops, tile backsplashes, and non-porous kitchen surfaces
Not for: Marble that is unsealed or in need of resealing, or any wooden surfaces
I’m always looking for cleaner alternatives, though, and will update this post if I find one that cuts through the grease without etching my marble.
Bathroom Cleaners That Actually Work (Without Harsh Chemicals)
Bathrooms tend to be the place where even “natural” cleaning products get a little murky. Many conventional sprays rely on bleach or synthetic fragrance to cover up what they cannot quite remove. Over time, I’ve narrowed things down to a small set of products that clean well without relying on harsh ingredients. These three work well on their own, but are even better when paired with the Oxygen Boost. Perfect for when you need to reset the space without compromising your air quality or your surfaces.
Aunt Fannie’s Bathroom Cleaner
It has an A rating from EWG and is Leaping Bunny Certified, and free from synthetic fragrance, dyes, and ammonia. I keep it in the rotation for weekly wipe-downs and light resets when I want something clean and effective without the intensity of more astringent formulas. The vinegar scent can be a bit potent, but the citrus oils help, and the vinegar tends to dissipate quickly.
EWG Rating: A-Rated
Certification: Leaping Bunny Certified
Scent: Vinegar + Citrus essential oils
Free from: Synthetic fragrance, dyes, sulfates, ammonia
Best for: Showers, countertops, toilet exteriors, mirrors
Not for: Natural stone such as marble or limestone
Biokleen Bathroom Cleaner
This is a citrus-forward spray that relies on natural enzymes and plant-based surfactants to break down residue and grime. It is free from synthetic fragrance and artificial preservatives, and the scent comes from lavender, orange and lime essential oils rather than parfum. While it is not currently EWG Verified, it does have a B-Rating and a long-standing reputation for transparency and safer formulations.
I use this one most often on tile, sinks, tubs, and toilet exteriors, especially when I want a slightly more substantial cleaning effect. It performs well on soap scum and has a light, fresh scent that fades quickly. It is not suitable for marble or other acid-sensitive stone, but on non-porous surfaces, it is one of the better options available.
EWG Rating: B
Scent: Citrus & lavender (essential oil based)
Free from: Ammonia, synthetic fragrance, chlorine, artificial preservatives
Best for: Bathroom tile, ceramic sinks, tubs, and toilets
Not for: Natural stone surfaces, including marble and travertine
Branch Basics Oxygen Boost
This powder is not a cleaner on its own but serves as the perfect add-on for deeper bathroom cleaning. I sprinkle it into the tub or shower pan, then spray over it with an all-purpose cleaner like Aunt Fannie’s or Biokleen. The natural bubbling helps lift buildup and soap scum without relying on bleach or chlorine.
How I use it: Sprinkle, spray, wait a few minutes, then scrub lightly and rinse.
It is EWG Verified, fragrance-free, and made from just two ingredients: sodium percarbonate and baking soda. It is ideal for grout lines, corners, and anywhere you might otherwise be tempted to use something more aggressive.
EWG Rating: Verified
Scent: Unscented
Free from: Fragrance, bleach, chlorine, SLS, ammonia
Best for: Grout, tub floors, tile seams, stubborn residue
Bowl Cleaners: Yes, We’re Going There
It’s not the most glamorous category, but it’s a necessary one. We all have toilets, and we all want them clean. That doesn’t mean we have to reach for products filled with bleach, chlorine, or mystery preservatives. In fact, it’s one of the places I’m most mindful of keeping things non-toxic. These are the gentler options I’ve found that get the job done without overwhelming the space or the senses.
For a long time, my go-to toilet bowl cleaner was Frosch WC Zitronen. It’s packaged in a classic angled squeeze bottle, has a fresh citrus scent, and carries several respected European environmental certifications — including EU Ecolabel, Cradle to Cradle, and ISO 14001. In terms of performance and sustainability, it’s a standout. However, it still had an F-Rating from EGW.
In recent years, a few newer options have emerged with simpler formulations and fewer preservatives, offering a cleaner alternative without giving up functionality.
Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner – Fresh Mint
This formula uses plant-based surfactants and essential oils for fragrance. It’s biodegradable and packaged in a squeeze-style gel bottle — just like Frosch — but skips synthetic fragrance blends. While this specific “Mint” version hasn’t been rated by EWG, the brand’s Cypress & Fir scent received an “A” rating, and the core ingredients remain similar. For me, the Cypress & Fir scent is a headache waiting to happen, so I’m winging it with Fresh Mint and hoping that the EWG rating stays the same.
EWG: Not yet rated (but a similar product by Seventh Generation has an A rating)
Scent: Peppermint and essential oils (moderately strong)
Pros: No synthetic fragrance, biodegradable formula, familiar packaging
Cons: Fragrance is still present and may feel bold to those who prefer subtler scents
Verdict: A cleaner alternative in terms of preservatives and transparency, though not entirely scent-free
Aunt Fannie’s Toilet Bowl Cleaner – Eucalyptus
Toilet cleaners are one of the trickier categories when it comes to ingredient transparency. Many conventional options rely on bleach or synthetic fragrances, and even some “natural” alternatives still contain preservatives I try to avoid. This cleaner from Aunt Fannie’s was my go-to for quite a while, and it’s still one of the more ingredient-conscious options available.
The formula is vinegar-based and made with essential oils, including eucalyptus for scent. It is Leaping Bunny Certified, which means it has not been tested on animals, and it is free from synthetic fragrance, dyes, and chlorine. While it is not EWG Verified, its ingredient list is shorter and more straightforward than most toilet bowl cleaners on the market.
The scent leans medicinal, which is not my personal favorite, but the product itself works well. The consistency is thinner than a gel, but it dispenses easily from a squeeze bottle and coats the bowl well enough for everyday cleaning. It’s exceptionally well suited to households avoiding harsh chemicals or synthetic scent.
EWG Rating: Not rated
Certifications: Leaping Bunny
Scent: Eucalyptus essential oil
Free from: Synthetic fragrance, chlorine, dyes, harsh preservatives
Best for: Sensitive households, low-tox routines, everyday maintenance
Not ideal for: Those who are sensitive to strong herbal scents or prefer a thicker gel
How I Handle Stains (and Why I Use Several Cleaning Products)
Stain removers tend to fall into one of two camps. Either they are overly aggressive, filled with harsh solvents and preservatives, or they lean too gentle and leave behind the evidence. I try to strike a balance. I want something that works, but not something that brings unnecessary ingredients into regular use.
Molly’s Suds Stain Remover
For everyday laundry, I rely on Molly’s Suds Stain Remover. While EWG does not currently rate this specific product, the brand has earned consistent high marks across its core line. It is fragrance-free, gentle, and well-suited for routine stains like food, dirt, and everyday spills.
It is gentle enough for regular use without harsh chemicals, making it suitable for fabrics that come in contact with sensitive skin.
According to their site, Molly’s Suds Stain Remover Spray does not contain: Harmful Fragrances, Dyes, Cancer-Causing Contaminants like Formaldehyde & 1,4-Dioxane, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Optical Brighteners, Synthetic Nonylphenol Ethoxylates, Petrochemicals, Phosphates, Chlorine, Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Phthalates, Parabens, Methylisothiazolinone, Cocamide DEA
EWG Rating: Not currently rated
Scent: Light, natural citrus (from essential oils)
Free from: Synthetic fragrance, dyes, phosphates, chlorine, optical brighteners
Best for: Everyday stains on clothing, linens, and upholstery
Formula: Plant-based with natural surfactants and enzymes
Root & Splendor Stain Remover
While I haven’t had the chance to try this one myself, it came highly recommended by a fellow interior designer whose standards for clean products match my own.
The formula is EWG Verified, which means it meets some of the strictest criteria for ingredient safety and transparency. It’s plant-based, free from synthetic fragrance, dyes, and harsh chemicals, and designed to work on a range of everyday stains.
Given the EWG rating and trusted recommendation, it’s high on my list to test next — especially for use on items where I want confidence in both effectiveness and ingredient integrity.
EWG Rating: Verified
Scent: Light and natural (essential oil–based)
Free from: Synthetic fragrance, dyes, optical brighteners, phosphates
Best for: Clothing, linens, upholstery, and other washable fabrics
Puracy Stain Remover
When I need something more targeted, particularly for oil-based stains, I reach for Puracy Natural Stain Remover. It is enzyme-based and highly effective on grease, collar buildup, and anything that has already set in.
However, it's important to note that it contains a few ingredients that EWG has flagged for further research, including sodium borate.
As a result, this product holds a D-rating from EWG, which is not ideal for regular use. I still keep it on hand, but use it selectively and only when the stain calls for something stronger.
SHOP
EWG Rating: D
Scent: None
Certifications: ETA‑Certified Vegan and Cruelty‑Free, no animal testing
Free from: Fragrance, dyes, phosphates, chlorine, optical brighteners
Best for: Oil-based stains, stubborn set-in spots
Formula: Plant-based enzymes designed to break down proteins, oils, and tannins
Hypoallergenic: It’s formulated to avoid common allergens like fragrance, nickel, lanolin, talc, parabens, and gluten, meeting a 91% top allergen‑free standard.
Dirty Labs Enzyme Booster
For an extra boost in the wash cycle, especially with odor-prone laundry or athletic wear, I often add Dirty Labs Enzyme Booster. While EWG does not currently rate this specific product, the brand has earned consistent high marks across its core line. It is fragrance-free and preservative-free. I find it especially useful for workout gear, bedding, and anything that needs a deeper refresh without relying on synthetic fragrance, optical brighteners, or harsh chemicals. It is not a replacement for spot treatment, but it works well in tandem with either of the above.
EWG Rating: Not rated
Scent: None
Free from: Fragrance, preservatives, phosphates, dyes, chlorine
Best for: Odor-prone items, workout gear, deeply soiled laundry
Formula: Fragrance-free, preservative-free, biodegradable enzyme blend
Certifications: USDA Certified Biobased Product, EPA Safer Choice Certified, Leaping Bunny Certified, and Green Seal Certified.
What I Use and When
Molly’s Suds Stain Remover for frequent and everyday spot treatment.
Puracy Natural Stain Remover for oil-based or stubborn stains, used sparingly.
Dirty Labs Enzyme Booster for deep cleaning and deodorizing in the wash cycle.
Root & Splendor Stain Remover is a newcomer that I'm definitely testing for myself soon!
Each serves a different role. Together, they give me options while minimizing ingredients I would rather avoid.
All Around Cleaner: A Closer Look at Force of Nature
If you want a truly non-toxic, multipurpose cleaner that is gentle enough for marble yet tough enough to tackle bathroom grime, Force of Nature deserves a spot on your radar. It has been on the market since 2016, but it only recently found its way into my cleaning routine. While it is technically a disinfectant, it is free from all the harsh chemicals found in your typical options.
Force of Nature - A Chemical-Free Cleaning System
This system uses a small countertop appliance to transform salt, water, and vinegar into hypochlorous acid, a hospital-grade disinfectant that’s naturally found in the human body. The result is a gentle, fragrance-free cleaner that’s surprisingly effective — without the synthetic chemicals found in most conventional products.
SHOP
What makes it stand out is its versatility. Unlike many natural products that can’t be used on stone surfaces, Force of Nature is pH-neutral, which means it’s safe for marble, limestone, and other calcium-based materials. It also works on sealed wood, stainless steel, plastic, glass, and tile. From kitchen messes and cutting boards to highchairs and pet accidents, it’s one of the few cleaners that can truly do it all — without compromise.
Unfortunately, this technology is not EWG-Rated at this time, but I do appreciate the company’s transparency.
From the Force of Nature Site
We attempted to get Force of Nature evaluated & rated by EWG, but EWG stated that their “scoring system is not equipped to fully capture ingredients that would be generated as a result of electrolytic processes within the device. They currently do not have devices rated in the cleaning category. Given the newness of our system it is understandable.” Our Safety Data Sheet is here which has in depth product safety information. We always recommend that families do their own research. Electrolyzed water has been independently evaluated by numerous sources because it has been used in the industrial space for so many years. You can readily find links to this research by searching on electrolyzed water or hypochlorous acid, or starting here.
Certifications + Safety
EPA Registered Disinfectant: kills 99.9% of germs and viruses, including Salmonella, MRSA, and COVID-19
EWG: Not rated
Scent: No added scent, but a natural salt smell.
Certifications: Green Seal Certified, Leaping Bunny Certified.
Free from: fragrance, preservatives, or known irritants
Hypoallergenic and biodegradable
Things to Know
You’ll need the Force of Nature starter kit, which includes the appliance and reusable spray bottle.
Activator capsules are used to create fresh batches, which remain effective for up to two weeks.
The formula has a mild, slightly salty scent. While not unpleasant, it's not scented in the traditional sense.
The upfront cost is higher than that of a typical cleaner, but refill costs are low, and the system reduces plastic waste.
Bottom line
If you want a single cleaner that works almost everywhere—and meets the highest standards of ingredient safety—Force of Nature is one of the few options that checks every box. It’s especially appealing for households trying to simplify their routines without sacrificing effectiveness or surface compatibility.
Wrapping Up the Specialty Cleaning Edit
The products in this part of the series may not be the ones you use every single day, but they are the ones that make the difference when a job calls for more than a quick wipe-down. From cutting through bathroom buildup to restoring shine to stainless steel, each cleaner here earns its place for performance, safety, and thoughtful formulation.
Choosing specialty cleaners that align with your health and environmental values means you can tackle even the toughest jobs without compromise. With these trusted options in your cabinet, the deep cleans feel less like a chore and more like an investment in a healthier home.
For online shopping with ease, both Amazon and Thrive Market offer convenient shopping options.
