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Best Non-Toxic Bleach Alternatives in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic bleach alternatives on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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Find Non-Toxic Bleach Alternatives
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Bleach Alternative Pods, Fragrance Free - Grab Green
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$16.79
Product Details
- Contains 60 fragrance-free bleach alternative pods with velcro closure for ease of use.
- Formulated to tackle difficult stains, enhance dingy colors and whites, and neutralize tough odors.
- Free from chlorine, phosphates, phthalates, toxins, dyes, and masking agents.
- Effective in all water temperatures and safe for use on colored garments.
- Hypoallergenic pods suitable for individuals with fragrance sensitivities.
- Made from naturally derived plant and mineral-based ingredients.
- Produced in the USA by a female and mother-owned company.
- Environmentally responsible and cruelty-free, never tested on animals.
- Transparent ingredient listing provided on every package.
- Designed with safety in mind, pods are compact and not candy-like to reduce ingestion risk.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Convenient
- Safe
Cons Mentioned
- Smelly
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Sodium Carbonate Peroxide, Sodium Carbonate, Polyvinyl Alcohol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Disinfectant & Deodorizer, Unscented - Force Of Nature
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$79.50
Product Details
- Kills 99.9% of germs, viruses, and bacteria using electrolyzed water comprised of tap water and a capsule containing salt, water, and vinegar.
- Approved by the federal Environmental Protection Agency as a disinfectant and sanitizer with registration number 93040-1.
- Replaces multiple cleaners including those for kitchens, bathrooms, and glass, functioning as a disinfectant and deodorizer as effective as bleach on numerous surfaces.
- Utilizes non-toxic chemicals, free from added fragrances, dyes, preservatives, surfactants, or irritants; safe to use without gloves and does not require rinsing on baby or pet toys.
- Environmentally friendly, designed to reduce plastic waste by using recyclable activator capsules that lower plastic waste by 97%.
- Product set includes a 12 oz Electrolyzer Appliance, Power Cord, 5 Activator Capsules, a 12 oz Reusable Spray Bottle, a Quick Start Guide, and a User Manual.
- Effective for hard non-porous surfaces against pathogens like Staph, MRSA, Salmonella, Norovirus, Listeria, Influenza A, and Pseudomonas when used as directed.
- Recommended to use cleaner within 2 weeks of production for maximum potency.
- Suitable for use in a variety of establishments including hospitals, schools, restaurants, and homes.
- Tips for homes with hard water: Use of a water softener or reverse osmosis filtered water is suggested to prevent mineral interference and prolong appliance life.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Easy
- Safe
Cons Mentioned
- Leaky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Salt, Vinegar
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Versatile Stain Remover, Unscented - OxiClean
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$8.99
Product Details
- Contains over 101 uses for laundry and home cleaning.
- Oxygen-powered and water-activated powder effectively removes dirt, grime, and tough set-in stains.
- Usable as a presoak or an in-wash laundry booster when combined with regular laundry detergent.
- Can be mixed with water to create cleaning solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, and floors.
- Suitable for use on various surfaces, both hard and soft.
- Color-safe, chlorine-free, and septic tank-safe, ensuring it’s gentle on various fabric types while being environmentally considerate.
- Also available in variations such as Versatile Stain Remover Free and Baby.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Versatile
- Powerful
Cons Mentioned
- Harsh
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Sodium Percarbonate, Sodium Carbonate
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Non-Chlorine Bleach, Unscented - Ecover
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.36
Product Details
- Unscented and chlorine-free, suitable for color-safe bleaching and deodorizing.
- Biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact and safe for aquatic life.
- Not tested on animals, supporting cruelty-free practices.
- Suitable for septic tanks, ensuring compatibility with various waste management systems.
- Composed of recyclable polyethylene cap and polypropylene bottle, promoting sustainability.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Eco-friendly
- Convenient
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Hydrogen Peroxide
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Chlorine-Free Bleach, Free & Clear - Seventh Generation
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.85
Product Details
- Chlorine-free formulation
- Free from dyes and fragrances
- Comes in a pack of two
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Eco-friendly
- Effective
- Non-toxic
Cons Mentioned
- Overpriced
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Hydrogen Peroxide
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Natural Oxygen Brightener Stain Remover, Unscented - Clean People
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Powerful, chlorine-free whitener formulated with earth and plant-derived ingredients.
- Effectively eliminates yellowing from whites and greying from colored fabrics, restoring garment brilliance.
- Suitable for whitening whites and brightening colors on all types of fabrics including mixed colors.
- Works as an effective stain treatment across all colors, especially effective on light-colored clothing and linens.
- Can be used for removing oil, wine, baby stains, and makeup from clothes.
- Vegan and cruelty-free; does not test on animals.
- For every 96 pack sold, a tree is planted in the customer's name.
- Usage involves soaking stained items in hot water with 2 scoops of Oxygen Brightener for up to 2 hours or applying a paste directly to stains until dry, then brushing off and laundering as usual.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Easy
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Resealable
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Sodium Percarbonate, Sodium Carbonate, Citric Acid, Organic Lemon Essential Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Multi Purpose Stain Remover Concentrate, Fresh - Alevai
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.00
Product Details
- Eco-friendly and made from natural, biodegradable ingredients that are safe for the environment.
- Non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.
- Effective at removing tough stains such as coffee, wine, grease, pet stains, and grass with over 500 uses.
- Versatile, suitable for a wide variety of surfaces and fabrics including carpets, upholstery, clothing, and more.
- Plant-based formula eliminates the need for multiple cleaning products, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness.
- Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan certified, and SLS-Free.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Versatile
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Strong
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Bleach Alternatives
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Ethanolamine
Ethanolamine is a liquid that can cause first-degree burns on short exposure. It is known to be a skin irritant and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Occupational exposure, notably among hairdressers, has been linked to asthma. Inhalation of ethanolamine in high concentrations can lead to Central Nervous System (CNS) depression and can be toxic to the liver, as shown in subchronic inhalation studies in animals. It is also a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, with the potential to sensitize the skin.
Triclosan
Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.
Sources:
Triclosan Exposure, Transformation, and Human Health Effects, Are antibacterial products with triclosan fueling bacterial resistance?, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, The Effects of Triclosan on Puberty and Thyroid Hormones in Male Wistar Rats, Triclosan is a potent inhibitor of estradiol and estrone sulfonation in sheep placenta, The in Vitro estrogenic activities of triclosan and triclocarban, Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water, Environmental Exposure of Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota to Triclosan and Triclocarban, Triclosan: Environmental Fate and Effects, Chemical Profile: Triclosan / Triclocarban, 5 Things to Know About Triclosan, Underarm Harm? Whats So Bad About Antiperspirants?, Some flame retardants and the antimicrobials triclosan and triclocarban enhance the androgenic activity in vitro, Triclocarban Enhances Testosterone Action: A New Type of Endocrine Disruptor?, Triclosan, a commonly used bactericide found in human milk and in the aquatic environment in Sweden
Methylisothiazolinone
Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.
Sources:
Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Methylisothiazolinone toxicity and inhibition of wound healing and regeneration in planaria, Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products, Isothiazolinone Biocides: Chemistry, Biological, and Toxicity Profiles, Methylisothiazolinone and isothiazolinone allergy, Analysis of isothiazolinones in environmental waters by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, Methylisothiazolinone induces apoptotic cell death via matrix metalloproteinase activation in human bronchial epithelial cells, EU REGULATIONS , Methylisothiazolinone contact allergy: a review, Effects of methylisothiazolinone and octylisothiazolinone on development and thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae, Two Cases of Chloromethylisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone-associated Toxic Lung Injury, An update of the risk assessment for methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) with focus on rinse-off products, Effects of a mixture of chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone on peripheral airway dysfunction in children, Isothiazolinone preservative: cause of a continuing epidemic of cosmetic dermatitis, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.
Sources:
The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, 15 Toxic Trespassers, SKIP PRODUCTS MADE WITH SLES (AND SLS, TOO!), Campaign for Safe Costmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, WHAT IS SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, A new formula for a mild body cleanser: sodium laureth sulphate supplemented with sodium laureth carboxylate and lauryl glucoside,
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas with a pungent smell that's naturally produced in small quantities in human bodies and is also known as methanal amongst other names. It's used in the production of various items such as fertilizers, paper, plywood, and urea-formaldehyde resins as well as in some foods and household products like antiseptics, medicines, and cosmetics. Exposure to formaldehyde, which can occur through breathing contaminated indoor air, tobacco smoke, or ambient urban air can lead to respiratory symptoms, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and has been linked to lung and nasopharyngeal cancer as well as leukemia. The EPA considers formaldehyde a probable human carcinogen (Group B1) and inhaling it can cause bronchospasm and pulmonary edema. Commercially, it's sold as formalin in solutions of 37%, 44%, or 50% and long-term exposure can cause first-degree burns, skin sensitization, squamous cell nasal cancer, and chronic pulmonary obstruction.
Sources:
Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk, Cleaning Products & Indoor Air Quality, No More Toxic Tub, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Preservatives, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Formaldehyde And Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives, Formaldehyde may be found in cosmetic products even when unlabelled, Formaldehyde Found in Popular American Beauty Products, Hair Salons - Formaldehyde in Your Products, Formaldehyde in cosmetic products
Monoethanolamine
2-Aminoethanol is a colorless, viscous liquid that, despite not being registered for pesticide use in the U.S, holds vast potential in a variety of applications. It can be used in cutting fluids, production of soaps, surfactants, salts, corrosion control inhibitors, pharmaceuticals, and even in protective topical solutions against chemical warfare agents. Used as a pharmaceutical adjuvant, 2-Aminoethanol is effective as a solvent for fats and oils and in creating emulsion formulas like lotions and creams. However, it poses health risks, as a 5.9% concentration can irritate human skin and inhalation may cause allergic reactions, liver damage, and liver symptoms.
Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid, a clear and highly corrosive liquid, is employed in the creation of fertilizers, other acids, and glue, and is used in petroleum purification, metal pickling, and lead-acid batteries. It can cause severe burns, is a potential human carcinogen, can trigger pulmonary edema, and may erode tooth enamel.
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