Cleaning & Laundry
Clever cleaning and laundry essentials that do their bit for the planet. From refillable detergents to sturdy laundry baskets, this collection is full of well-made, practical choices that hold up to daily life. Less waste, less fuss – just dependable tools for keeping home clean without overbuying or overthinking.
Cleaning & Laundry FAQs
What cleaning products should never be mixed together?
Certain cleaning products can cause nasty chemical reactions if mixed. Never combine bleach with vinegar or ammonia – it creates toxic gases that can harm your lungs and eyes. Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar shouldn't go together either, as they form irritating peracetic acid. Stick to one cleaner at a time or go for multi-purpose options with gentle, long-lasting ingredients. Always check the label and keep products stored separately (and safely).
How can I safely dispose of unwanted cleaning products?
To safely dispose of cleaning products, start by checking your local council’s hazardous waste rules. Don’t chuck them down the sink or toilet unless specifically directed on the label. Unopened bottles might be gratefully received by a local shelter or reuse centre. Even if a product’s eco-friendly, it still deserves thoughtful disposal – biodegradable doesn’t mean bin-it-without-a-care.
What are the best sustainable cleaning products for everyday use?
The best sustainable cleaning products combine non-toxic ingredients with smart packaging choices. Think washing-up liquid in refill pouches, biodegradable surface sprays, and laundry detergent sheets with no plastic in sight. Brushes with wooden handles and cloths you can wash again and again are solid picks. Some brands even offer refill schemes or packaging you post back – a win for both you and the planet. Learn more in our guide to how we find the most durable Buy It For Life products.
Which cleaning and laundry products are truly buy-it-for-life?
The best buy-it-for-life cleaning and laundry products are made from sturdy, repairable materials like stainless steel, wood or natural fibres. Think rust-free metal pegs, brushes with replacement heads, and hefty baskets designed to survive years of sorting socks. Browse our cleaning collection to find tools built to go the distance.
How long do eco-friendly cleaning products last once opened?
Eco-friendly cleaning products typically stay usable for 1–2 years after opening, though it depends on what’s inside. If they’re made without synthetic preservatives, you’ll likely need to use them up sooner. Look out for expiry dates or PAO symbols (that’s Period After Opening). Store them somewhere cool and dry, and if the contents start to whiff or separate – time to bid them goodbye.
How do I care for and maintain sturdy laundry tools like baskets or brushes?
To keep sturdy laundry tools going strong, give them a regular once-over. Rinse out brushes, let everything dry properly, and avoid leaving things in damp corners. Wooden parts appreciate the odd wipe with natural oils to stop them cracking. As for natural fibre laundry baskets, no one likes mouldy socks – so keep them dry. Visit our Product Care and Repair hub for more tips.
Are natural or homemade cleaners as effective as shop-bought ones?
Natural or homemade cleaners can hold their own against shop-bought ones for everyday cleaning. A mix of vinegar, bicarb, and lemon works wonders on glass, sinks and surfaces. But for tougher jobs like disinfecting or deep stain removal, commercial products often do more heavy lifting. Always test homemade solutions on hidden spots first – just in case they take the shine off.
