Cleaning House the Vegan Way

By Sayward Rebhal, Networx

Many people think the word “vegan” describes a diet, but veganism is about much more than just food. Veganism is a lifestyle – a lifestyle which seeks to minimize harm in whatever ways possible. Thus, vegans eschew cosmetics that were tested on animals, clothing made from fur or feathers or skin, and any other products that may be harboring sneaky animal parts.

But these days, it’s not just the vegans who are searching for cruelty-free consumer choices. In this world of endless options, in an age where it’s often easy to find an earth-friendly, animal-friendly alternative, more and more mindful folks are asking themselves – well why not? I mean, who wants a chemical cleanser that was tested on innocent critters? What’s the purpose of choosing a soap made with tallow? The plant-based suds work just as well, and without supporting an environmental nightmare of an industry!

Lucky for us, it’s easier than ever to clean with a conscience. From Method’s all-vegan line – now available nationwide at Target – to the popular Seventh Generation and Planet products, which are widely distributed as well. Co-ops and health food stores will carry the super-green smaller brands, such as Biokleen or Dr. Bronner’s. And the Internet is well-stocked with vegan supply shops like FoodFight!, Vegan Essentials, and Pangea. Finally, there’s always Amazon in a pinch!

The key players:

Dishwasher: Method Smarty Dish Dishwasher Tabs, Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid and Automatic Dishwasher Detergent, Seventh Generation Automatic Dishwasher Powder and Automatic Dishwasher Gel, DIY Liquid Dishwasher Detergent (from my blog, Bonzai Aphrodite), Seventh Generation Rinse Aid.

Dish Soap: Method Dish Pump, Biokleen Dish Demon, Dishmate Dish Soap, Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid, DIY dish soap.

Laundry: On The Spot Organic Stain Remover Pen, Method Laundry Detergent, Biokleen Ultra-Kleen, Planet Ultra Laundry Detergent and 2X Ultra Laundry Detergent HE, ECOS Liquid Laundry Detergent, Seventh Generation Natural Laundry Detergent and Natural Concentrated Laundry Liquid, DIY Laundry Detergent, Method Fabric Softener and “Squeaky Clean” Dryer Cloths, Seventh Generation Liquid Fabric Softener and Fabric Softener Sheets, Static Eliminator Re-Usable Dryer Sheet System.

All-Purpose: Method All-Purpose Cleaner and All-Purpose Cleaning and Disinfecting Wipes, Biokleen “Pauline’s Pride” Citrus, Planet All-Purpose Spray Cleaner, Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner, Bio Green Clean, Orange Plus, Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Castile Soap.

Floors and Glass: Method Floor Plus Surface Cleaner, Biokleen Carpet Kleen and Carpet Pre-Spotter, Method Glass Plus Surface Cleaner, Biokleen Glass Kleen and Mirror Image, Seventh Generation Glass & Surface Cleaner.

Bleach: Biokleen Oxibrite, Natural Choices Oxy-Boost, Seventh Generation Chlorine Free Bleach..

Bathroom: Method Antibacterial Bathroom Cleaner, Seventh Generation Shower Cleaner and Tub & Tile Cleaner, Natural Choices Oxy-Scrub, Bio-Pac Automatic Bowl Cleaner, Method Lil’ Bowl Blu, Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner.

Drains: Earthworm® Family-Safe Drain Cleaner, or DIY Drain-o.

So no matter where you are, you can rest easy knowing that there’s a cruelty-free cleaning solution for you and your eco-fabulous home. Happy scrubbing!

Image: Chaya Kurtz/Networx

Related:
9 Surprising Items with Animal Ingredients
7 Common Animal-Derived Ingredients to Avoid