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Best Non-Toxic Couch Upholstery Cleaner 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 couch upholstery cleaner 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 Couch Upholstery Cleaner
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.
Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Pine - Dr. Bronner's
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.69
Product Details
- Versatile all-purpose cleaner suitable for cleaning floors, laundry, dishes, furniture, and cars, without irritating skin.
- Effective in both hard and soft water, rinses freely in hot or cold water and rapidly biodegrades.
- Formulated with plant-based surfactants that cut grease and dirt, producing copious suds.
- Mildly scented with pure fir and spruce essential oils, free from synthetic dyes, fragrances, or preservatives, phthalates, and ammonium compounds.
- Product ingredients are never tested on animals and bear the Leaping Bunny logo for cruelty-free certification.
- Contains the purest organic and fair trade ingredients, promoting regenerative organic farming practices to enrich soil and increase biodiversity.
- Certifications include USDA Certified Organic, Fair For Life, Certified Vegan, Certified Leaping Bunny, and B Corp, ensuring ethical standards and environmental responsibility.
- Supports various causes like regenerative agriculture, fair trade, wage equality, and animal welfare.
- Emphasizes sustainability with a commitment to using renewable energy and post-consumer recycled plastic in product packaging.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Versatile
- Concentrated
- Effective
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, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Coco-Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Abies Siberica (Siberian Fir) Needle Oil, Picea Glauca (Spruce) Leaf Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Hydroxide
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 Multi-Surface Cleaner, Green Tea & Lime - Puracy
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.99
Product Details
- Recognized as "The Best All-Purpose Cleaner" by The New York Times
- Effectively formulated to clean any hard surface without causing streaks
- Developed and tested by PhDs, this plant-based formula addresses a wide range of household stains and residues including food, soda, grease, and more
- Usable on multiple surfaces such as kitchen countertops, electronics, hardwood floors, jewelry, and various metals and stones
- Designed to reduce plastic usage by 90% and comes concentrated enough to create one gallon of cleaner
- Safe for children, pets, and all household surfaces; hypoallergenic, vegan, and gluten-free
- Ensures sparkling, residue-free results on diverse surfaces
- Biodegradable and cruelty-free, never tested on animals
- Produced in the USA
- Infused with a scent of freshly steeped green tea leaves and lime with a touch of herbs
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Efficient
- Natural
- Versatile
Cons Mentioned
- Sticky
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: Purified Water, Decyl Glucoside (Sugar-Based Cleanser), C6-C12 Alcohol Ethoxylate (Sugar-Based Cleanser), C12-C15 Alcohol Ethoxylate (Plant-Based Cleanser), C9-C11 Alcohol Ethoxylate (Plant-Based Cleanser), Citric Acid (Plant-Based pH Neutralizer), Sodium Citrate (Plant-Based pH Neutralizer), Natural Green Tea & Lime Botanical Extracts, Benzisothiazolinone (Biodegradable Preservative)
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.
Oxo-Brite Color-Safe Whitener & Brightener, Unscented - ECOS
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$31.97
Product Details
- Fragrance-free
- Removes mold and mildew stains
- Works on a variety of materials, excluding wool, silk, and leather
- Made of replenishable/sustainable ingredients
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Non-toxic
- Versatile
Cons Mentioned
- Packaging
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
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.
Chateau Spill Red Wine Stain Remover, Unscented - The Hate Stains Co.
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Reviewed by Wired Magazine as the best red wine stain remover.
- Instantly removes wine stains from clothing, carpets, and furniture upholstery.
- Can be used immediately on the spot as well as for pretreatment before laundry.
- Contains no peroxide, chlorine, phosphates, sulphates, or parabens.
- pH neutral formula is tough on stains but gentle on fabrics.
- Easy to use: just spray, blot, rinse, and watch stains disappear.
- Portable design allows for on-the-go use, ideal for immediate stain removal.
- Features a unique wine bottle design, making it a practical gift for wine lovers.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Fast-acting
- Versatile
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: Ethoxylated Alcohol C12-C15, Glycerin, Sodium Sulphite, Ethanol, Citric Acid, Wood Pulp, Lyocell
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.
Stain + Odor Remover, Lemon - ECOS
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.90
Product Details
- Made from natural plant materials enhanced with enzymes for stronger stain removal.
- Effective on a variety of stains including wine, coffee, grass, and juice.
- Suitable for use on laundry, carpets, rugs, upholstery, and fabrics.
- Can also be used to clean pet accidents and odors, including the inside of litter boxes.
- Biodegradable and non-toxic formula, promoting environmental sustainability.
- Does not require rinsing after application.
- Plant-based, recycled, and animal-friendly materials used in production.
- Recommended to let the product sit on old stains for an extended period for better results.
- Keep out of reach of children as a safety precaution.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Pleasant-smelling
Cons Mentioned
- Ineffective
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, Alcohol Denat., Caprylyl/Myristyl Glucoside, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Enzymatic Blend, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel 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.
Household Stain & Odor Remover, Fresh Citrus - Begley's
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$12.98
Product Details
- Utilizes enzyme action to eliminate stains and odors from organic proteins
- Effective on various odors including spilled milk, tobacco, food, and garbage
- Suitable for use on multiple surfaces such as carpets, drapes, tile, wood, and upholstery
- Safe for use in different areas including kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and living spaces
- Plant-based formula that is biodegradable and environmentally friendly
- Comes in a recyclable non-aerosol bottle
- Free from alcohol, making it safe around pets and people
- Product is made in the USA
- Developed in collaboration with eco-industry leader Lab Clean Inc.
- Supports a safer home environment without harmful chemicals
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Non-toxic
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Defective
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, Proprietary Enzyme Blend, Natural Fragrance Blend, Phenoxyethanol
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.
Emergency Stain Remover Spray, Unscented - The Hate Stains Co.
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Fast-acting and powerful commercial-grade formula, safe for use around kids and pets.
- Effective on both fresh and set-in stains, suitable for most fabric types.
- Free from perfumes or dyes, environmentally friendly with a pH neutral formula.
- Removes a wide range of stains including grass, mud, ketchup, coffee, chocolate, baby formula, pet stains, grease, and blood.
- Easy to use by simply spraying, blotting, rinsing, and watching the stains disappear.
- Applicable for use on clothing, upholstery, carpets, and more.
- Stain remover is Safer Choice certified, indicating it meets U.S. EPA safer product standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Versatile
- Convenient
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
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: Ethoxylated Alcohol C12-C15, Glycerin, Sodium Sulphite, Ethanol, Citric Acid
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.
Little Green Pro Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, Unscented - Bissell
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$124.79
Product Details
- Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation's mission to help save homeless pets with every purchase.
- Designed for powerful spot and stain cleaning on carpets, stairs, upholstery, and auto interiors.
- Includes superior suction and scrubbing action for effective removal of stubborn stains and embedded dirt.
- Comes with a Deep Stain Tool and 3" Tough Stain Tool for tackling different types of stains.
- Includes two 8 oz. trial-size bottles of PRO MAX Clean + Protect and Deep Clean formulas.
- Portable design makes it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Features a 5-foot hose and a carry handle for added convenience.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Compact
- Powerful
Cons Mentioned
- Loud
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 Pet Stain and Odor Remover Eliminator, Natural - Trinova
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.94
Product Details
- Made with 100% natural and organic ingredients.
- Features a blend of natural enzymes that effectively tackle stains and neutralize odors.
- Safe for use around children and pets, ensuring no harmful chemicals or toxins.
- Applicable on various surfaces including bedding, mattresses, cages, kennels, and laundry.
- Comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee for refunds if not satisfied.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Pleasant
- Safe
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
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: Natural Bacteria, Natural Digestive Enzymes, Water, Bamboo Extract, Mint 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 Couch Upholstery Cleaner
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Tetrachloroethylene
Tetrachloroethylene is a manufactured chemical primarily used for dry cleaning and metal-degreasing, and also serves as an ingredient in other chemicals and consumer products. It can cause central nervous system depression, liver and kidney damage, and induce anesthesia when inhaled in high concentrations. Tetrachloroethylene is also associated with causing skeletal abnormalities in mice and increased spontaneous abortion rates in women exposed to it occupationally in Finland. Despite its potential harmful effects, a study found no clear link between occupational exposure and subsequent cancer incidence. Remedial measures like ventilating affected areas and donning protective clothing are recommended for handling spills; its containers should be kept away from fire to prevent production of poisonous phosgene gas.
Sources:
The perchloroethylene-induced toxicity in dry cleaning workers lymphocytes through induction of oxidative stress, Toxicity of Perchloroethylene, Trichloroethylene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, and Methylene Chloride to Fathead Minnows, Perchloroethylene and Dry Cleaning: Its Time to Move the Industry to Safer Alternatives, Human Health Effects of Tetrachloroethylene: Key Findings and Scientific Issues, NIOSH: Tetrachloroethylene, Neurobehavioural effects of developmental toxicity, Long-term Neurotoxic Effects of Early-life Exposure to Tetrachloroethylene-contaminated Drinking Water
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.
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium hydroxide is a corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. High concentrations, either through inhalation or prolonged exposure, can lead to significant respiratory issues, including inflammation, pneumonia, and pulmonary edema. It is used in various industries such as fertilizers, dyes, explosives, plastics, and cleansing agents, among others. Due to its intense pungency and potential to cause extreme irritation and even life-threatening conditions, precautions such as wearing protective clothing and immediate cleansing of affected areas are recommended. It should be stored away from combustibles and heavy metals, in well-ventilated areas and in specified containers. Disposal guidelines also need to be referred from environmental regulatory agencies due to the hazardous nature of the substance.
Sources:
The Facts About Ammonia, Chemical Safety Facts: Ammonia, ATSDR Chemical Profile, EPA: Ammonia, Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater, EPA Chemical Profile, Mass Casualties from Acute Inhalation of Chloramine Gas, Ventilatory disorders associated with occupational inhalation exposure to ammonia, Ecological and toxicological effects of inorganic nitrogen pollution in aquatic ecosystems: A global assessment, TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE FOR AMMONIA ,
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (CMI) is a compound frequently used as a preservative in cosmetics, hygiene products, and other industrial applications such as hydraulic fracturing fluids. It can also be deployed as a pesticide in the U.S, pending regulatory approval. CMI, which is often used in combination with 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (MI), can cause contact dermatitis in humans. Various animal studies have shown that a high exposure to a CMIT/MIT mixture can cause alterations in rats' liver function. The production and use of CMI in a range of products mean it can be release into the environment, with some susceptibility to degradation through photolysis in sunlight. Its mobility in soil is high but volatilization from soil or water surfaces is not expected to be significant. Occupational and general exposure to CMI can occur especially through inhalation and dermal contact with CMI-containing products.
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
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
Naphthalene
Naphthalene is a white solid, also known as white tar and tar camphor, found in substances like petroleum, coal, tobacco, and wood. It vaporizes easily and has a strong but not unpleasant odor. Major uses for naphthalene include the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics, moth repellents, toilet deodorant blocks, and other chemicals such as dyes and resins. Acute exposure to naphthalene can trigger hemolytic anemia, liver damage, and neurological conditions, with chronic exposure potentially leading to cataracts and retina damage. The substance is considered a possible human carcinogen and high doses have lethal potential, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions.
Sources:
Naphthalene - Hazardous Substance Fact Sheet, Polychlorinated naphthalene concentrations and temporal trends in serum from the general Chinese adult population and effects of polychlorinated naphthalenes on thyroid function, Naphthalene, Campaign For Safe Cosmetics: Coal Tar, A Critical Review of Naphthalene Sources and Exposures Relevant to Indoor and Outdoor Air
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