What you should know when choosing non-toxic disinfectants 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.
The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Our Methodology and Ratings

Find Non-Toxic Disinfectant

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.

Disinfecting Wipes, Lemongrass Citrus - Seventh Generation

Disinfecting Wipes, Lemongrass Citrus - Seventh Generation
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/6963-SeventhGenerationDisinfectingWipesLemongrassCitrus/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/seventh-generation/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$20.61

Product Details

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  • Convenient disinfectant wipes for daily touch-ups and tough cleaning jobs.
  • Clean and disinfect in one easy step.
  • Kills 99.99% of bacteria and viruses on hard, non-porous surfaces.
  • No rinse required, even on food contact surfaces and children's toys.
  • Formulated with Thymol, an active ingredient derived from Thyme Oil.
  • Lemongrass Citrus Scent made with essential oils and botanical extracts.
  • Environmentally conscious product designed for use around kids and pets.
  • EPA registered disinfectant suitable for multiple surfaces including doorknobs, gym equipment, and bathroom surfaces.
  • Part of the Seventh Generation’s range of environmentally conscious cleaning products.
  • Manufactured in partnership with the CleanWell Company.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Natural
  • Safe

Cons Mentioned

  • Smell

Ingredients

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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: Thymol, Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate (Bluestone), Citric Acid, Sodium Sulfate, Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil, Rayon, Polyester

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.

Disinfecting Spray, Eucalyptus & Thyme - Seventh Generation

Disinfecting Spray, Eucalyptus & Thyme - Seventh Generation
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/6966-SeventhGenerationDisinfectantSprayEucalyptusSpearmintThyme/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/seventh-generation/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$6.49

Product Details

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  • Disinfecting ingredients kill 99.99% of bacteria and viruses without harsh solvents.
  • Gentle formula does not require rinsing, even on food contact surfaces.
  • Contains odor eliminators to ensure rooms smell freshly cleaned.
  • Utilizes bag-on-valve technology with a nonflammable, compressed air propellant for environmental safety.
  • Suitable for use in offices, daycare centers, restaurants, schools, and more.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Natural
  • Refreshing

Cons Mentioned

  • Pricey

Ingredients

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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: Thymol, Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate (Bluestone), Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Citrus Sinensis (Orange) Fruit, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Mentha Arvensis (Mint) Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Compressed Air

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.

Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner, Lemongrass Citrus - Seventh Generation

Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner, Lemongrass Citrus - Seventh Generation
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.85
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/1517-SeventhGenerationDisinfectingBathroomCleanerLemongrassCitrusScent/?formulation=7726" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/seventh-generation/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GREAT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the middle third of the best products.
Est. Price
$11.99

Product Details

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  • Professional-strength formula incorporates essential oils to ensure safety during use.
  • Cleans, disinfects, and deodorizes surfaces effectively.
  • Does not require rinsing or wiping after application.
  • Kills 99.99% of bacteria and viruses on hard, nonporous surfaces.
  • Features a lemongrass citrus scent for a pleasant aroma.

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Ingredients

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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: Thymol, Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate (Bluestone), Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Origanum Vulgare Oil, Cymbopogon Nardus Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus 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 Cleaner, Disinfectant & Deodorizer, Unscented - Force Of Nature

Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Disinfectant & Deodorizer, Unscented - Force Of Nature
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.85
/5
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Certifications

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<p>The Green Seal certification signifies that a product has been rigorously evaluated against strict environmental and health standards, ensuring it meets high benchmarks for sustainability and safety. <a href="https://certified.greenseal.org/product/force-of-nature-multi-purpose-cleaner-disinfectant-hci-cleaning-products-force-of-nature" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The EPA Registered certification confirms that a pesticide, including disinfectants, has undergone rigorous evaluation and meets stringent federal standards for safety and effectiveness. <a href="https://ordspub.epa.gov/ords/pesticides/f?p=PPLS:8:::::P8_PUID,P8_RINUM:524191,93040-1" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The CarbonNeutral certification confirms that a business has achieved true carbon neutrality.</p>
<p>The Leaping Bunny certification assures that products are genuinely cruelty-free, verified through rigorous audits and a comprehensive Supplier Monitoring System. <a href="https://www.leapingbunny.org/brand/force-nature-2" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$79.50

Product Details

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  • 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

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Easy
  • Safe

Cons Mentioned

  • Leaky

Ingredients

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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.

Essentials Disinfecting Wipes, Lemon Orchard - Arm & Hammer

Essentials Disinfecting Wipes, Lemon Orchard - Arm & Hammer
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-B are generally safe and offer good ingredient transparency, even if they have a few moderate-concern components. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/7819-ArmHammerEssentialsDisinfectingWipesLemonOrchard/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$23.64

Product Details

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  • Kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria on hard surfaces.
  • Meets the EPA’s criteria for use against virus and bacteria.
  • Uses citrus-based disinfection without harsh chemicals like Quats, bleach, or ammonia.
  • Suitable for multiple surfaces including kitchens, bathrooms, classrooms, pet areas, gyms, car interiors, and dorms.
  • Efficient against MRSA, Strep, Staph, E. Coli, and Salmonella.
  • Safe for use on stainless steel, sealed granite, finished hardwood, tubs and shower walls, toilet exteriors, and hard nonporous surfaces of car interiors.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Fresh-smelling
  • Convenient

Cons Mentioned

  • Sticky

Ingredients

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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: Deionized Water, Alcohols C12-16 Ethoxylated, Sodium Octyl Sulfate, Citric Acid, Isopropyl Alcohol, Fragrance, Limonene, Caprylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Bicarbonate

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.

24 Hour Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Fresh - Microban

24 Hour Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Fresh - Microban
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-B are generally safe and offer good ingredient transparency, even if they have a few moderate-concern components. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/7001-Microban24HourMultiPurposeCleanerFreshScent/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$14.99

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Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Pleasant-scented
  • Convenient

Cons Mentioned

  • Visible

Ingredients

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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: Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride, Octyl Decyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride, Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride, Dioctyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride

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.

Disinfectant Cleaner, Fresh Lemon - Boulder Clean

Disinfectant Cleaner, Fresh Lemon - Boulder Clean
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.65
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-B are generally safe and offer good ingredient transparency, even if they have a few moderate-concern components. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/7815-BoulderCleanDisinfectantCleanerFreshLemon/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards.</p>
<p>The Leaping Bunny certification assures that products are genuinely cruelty-free, verified through rigorous audits and a comprehensive Supplier Monitoring System.</p>
<p>The 1% for the Planet certification confirms that a business donates at least 1% of its annual sales to environmental causes.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$9.00

Product Details

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  • Ready-to-use formula cleans, deodorizes, and disinfects in one easy step.
  • No rinsing required, even on food contact surfaces and children's toys.
  • Free from triclosan, bleach, dyes, and phthalates.
  • Safe to use around children and pets with a plant-powered, lemon scent.
  • Suitable for use on stainless steel, chrome, metal, mirrors, glass, glazed porcelain, plastic, vinyl, glazed tile, and sealed granite.
  • Not suitable for use on unpainted wood or brass.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Safe
  • Non-soapy

Cons Mentioned

  • Smell

Ingredients

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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, Thymol, Citric Acid, Pelargonic Acid, Tea-lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium C6-10-alkyl Polyoxyethylene Sulfate, Hexylene Glycol, Isopropanol, Lemon Fragrance

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 Disinfectant Antibacterial Spray, Fragrance Free - Clean Republic

Multi-Purpose Disinfectant Antibacterial Spray, Fragrance Free - Clean Republic
Welpr Rating
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4.45
/5
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$16.60

Product Details

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  • Eliminates 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, tested and EPA approved.
  • Contains naturally-derived ingredients with Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) formulated from salt, water, and electricity.
  • Free from preservatives, bleach, fragrances, and synthetics.
  • Gentle and safe for use around kids and pets, suitable for disinfecting high-contact surfaces like highchairs, car seats, and toys.
  • Ideal for both home and commercial environments including schools, gyms, offices, and restaurants.
  • Effective in eliminating odors and freshening the air in various spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Easy
  • Safe
  • Fresh

Cons Mentioned

  • Misleading

Ingredients

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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: Hypochlorous Acid 0.025%, Other Ingredients 99.975%

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.

Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes, Pacific Breeze & Coconut - Clorox

Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes, Pacific Breeze & Coconut - Clorox
Welpr Rating
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4.4
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/7158-CloroxScentivaDisinfectingWipesPacificBreezeCoconut/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$16.42

Product Details

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  • Combines Clorox cleaning and disinfection power with the scent of Pacific Breeze & Coconut.
  • Bleach-free and suitable for multi-purpose use.
  • Effective on tough grease and grime.
  • Applicable for use on a variety of surfaces including garbage cans, kitchen countertops, sinks, bathroom surfaces, appliances, and car interiors.
  • Safe to use around pet areas.
  • Eliminates 99.9% of germs.
  • Designed to leave behind a long-lasting, uplifting scent.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Scented
  • Durable
  • Cleans

Cons Mentioned

  • Residue

Ingredients

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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: N-Alkyl (C14, 60%; C16, 30%; C12, 5%; C18, 5%) Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride, N-Alkyl (C12, 68%; C14, 32%) Dimethyl Ethylbenzyl Ammonium Chloride, Wipe

Our Product Rating System

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

The Welpr Rating takes into account 3 things:

  1. Product Safety
  2. Consumer Satisfaction
  3. Ethics & Environment
Product safety

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.

Consumer satisfaction

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).

Ethics & Environment

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 Disinfectant

Chemical Name

Why it’s harmful

Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite is a clear liquid with a strong chlorine odor, predominantly used as bleaching agents or disinfectants in commercial cleaning solutions and water purification systems. Sodium hypochlorite is often used in a dissolved state. It is corrosive to skin and can cause pulmonary edema from high inhalation exposure. Its ingestion can lead to methemoglobinemia, and a 3% to 5% solution causes burnings of the mouth and throat. The anhydrous form of this compound is highly explosive.

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: 
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.

Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate

Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate is toxic upon ingestion and act as a strong oxidizer, posing a fire hazard when exposed to organic materials. It may react violently with combustible substances and decompose due to heat or water, releasing toxic gases such as chlorine. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract, and prolonged exposure can result in corrosive skin burns. Inhalation of high concentrations can lead to acute pulmonary edema. It may also explode from shock, friction, or other ignition sources, and can cause fires upon contact with combustible materials.

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.

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released by many cleaning products, as revealed by a study in Chemosphere which analyzed 30 such items. Of the 530 distinct VOCs identified, 193 were considered hazardous, linked to health issues like respiratory system damage and cancer. Indoor air contamination from VOCs is significantly higher than outdoor, with up to 10 times more pollutants. However, products labeled as green, particularly those without fragrances, exhibited fewer hazardous VOC emissions. Exposure to VOCs has critical health implications, especially for cleaning industry workers and children, and these compounds also contribute to outdoor air pollution.

Benzyldimethyl(tridecyl)ammonium chloride

Benzyldimethyl(tridecyl)ammonium chloride is a mixture recognized for its bactericidal properties. It is used topically in medicaments, deodorants, mouthwashes, and as surgical antiseptics, and also function as preservatives and emulsifiers in drugs and cosmetics. However, the EPA's assessment based on industry data suggests that this substance presents a significant risk to human health. Moreover, a peer-reviewed study has indicated that some quaternary ammonium compounds can lead to reproductive toxicity in animals.

Butoxydiglycol

Diethylene glycol ethers is a chemical that has been found to have hematologic, liver, and kidney effects. Exposure to large amounts, about 250 mg/kg/day, can lead to central nervous system depression and other organ damage in rats and may decrease red blood cell counts. It does not show genotoxic, mutagenic, liver, kidney, blood, or reproductive toxicity in animals or humans, but it is classified as an exceptional allergen. The material can be absorbed through the skin and is identified as a mild skin irritant and a severe eye irritant. Notably, its toxicity is lower than that of ethylene glycol ethers.

Denatonium Benzoate

Denatonium Benzoate causes somnolence, tremor, and ataxia in rabbits and rats according to oral lethal-dose studies and is harmful by ingestion. It is one of the most bitterly known substances, with a 1980 case report linking it to urticaria and asthma. The European Union classifies it as highly toxic by inhalation and a potential cause of serious eye injury. Lastly, it is a strong eye irritant and skin irritant according to the Sigma-Aldrich Material Safety Data Sheet.

Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether

Diethylene glycol ethers is a chemical that has been found to have hematologic, liver, and kidney effects. Exposure to large amounts, about 250 mg/kg/day, can lead to central nervous system depression and other organ damage in rats and may decrease red blood cell counts. It does not show genotoxic, mutagenic, liver, kidney, blood, or reproductive toxicity in animals or humans, but it is classified as an exceptional allergen. The material can be absorbed through the skin and is identified as a mild skin irritant and a severe eye irritant. Notably, its toxicity is lower than that of ethylene glycol ethers.

Galaxolide

Galaxolide is recognized as an established contact allergen in humans, according to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety's 2011 report on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products. This compound has been identified as a reproductive effector and acts as a moderate skin irritant, as documented in The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS).

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic Acid is corrosive to the skin and eyes, with 70% technical solutions causing severe burns. It also irritates the respiratory tract and may lead to kidney failures. The chemical can cause burns when inhaled, leading to possible injuries to the upper respiratory tract and lungs. It is also harmful if ingested.

Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda or lye, is an odorless white crystalline solid that absorbs moisture from the air. It generates significant heat when dissolved in water or neutralized with acid which may ignite combustible materials. It is highly corrosive and is typically used as a solid or in a 50% solution. Sodium hydroxide is used to manufacture a variety of products including soaps, rayon, paper, explosives, dyestuffs, and petroleum products. Exposure to this substance may cause severe burns, necrosis, and pulmonary edema, depending on the concentration and exposure method.

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.

Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine appears to cause occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis in machinists and photographers, as well as liver and kidney damage in animals with high-dose feeding. It's noted to be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, with potential to cause skin sensitization, though the rate of skin sensitization in humans is low. Triethanolamine has low acute toxicity, with median oral LD50 values of 4,190-11,260 mg/kg in rats and 5,300-8,000 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and a median dermal LD50 greater than 2,000 mg/kg in rabbits. Triethanolamine is not carcinogenic, developmental toxicant, or toxic to the reproductive system. However, chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.

Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric acid, in liquid or solid form, can cause second-degree burns upon contact within minutes. It's usually shipped as a solid or an 85% solution and is corrosive to skin when the concentration is over 70%. This acid is also an irritant to the eyes, skin, and upper respiratory tract, however, the risk of pulmonary edema is minimal.

Benzalkonium Chloride

Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is an organic salt known for its robust antimicrobial properties, effective against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is frequently employed in healthcare settings like hospitals for disinfecting instruments and surfaces. Additionally, BAC is present in many consumer items, including hand sanitizers, wipes, eye solutions, nasal sprays, and personal care products such as soaps and shampoos. Although typically safe when used as instructed, BAC can lead to skin and eye irritation, particularly at elevated concentrations.

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About The Author

Camille May

Hey, I’m Camille, co-creator of Welpr and your clean living guide. After selling my last company in the health food space, I went non-toxic to heal an autoimmune condition. It did wonders for my health, but navigating which products to buy wasn’t easy. We created Welpr to make that journey feel a little bit easier. When I’m not working on Welpr, you can find me at the farmers market or unwinding in the sauna, always in bed at 9pm with a good book. I live in my hometown of Austin, TX with my pit bull, Romeo.