With concerns over chemicals in cleaning products, many people wonder if popular ‘green’ brand Mrs. Meyers really lives up to its claims of being non-toxic and environmentally-friendly. This comprehensive guide will examine Mrs. Meyers’ ingredients, certifications, and reputation to help you decide if its products are right for your home.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: Mrs. Meyers cleaning products do use plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and avoid many harsh chemicals found in mainstream cleaners. However, some specific products contain controversial preservatives and other man-made ingredients. Overall, Mrs. Meyers is a greener option but not 100% non-toxic.
Overview of Mrs. Meyers’ Brand Claims
Mrs. Meyers is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of cleaning products. One of the key claims made by the brand is that their products are non-toxic and safe to use. In this article, we will take a closer look at the brand’s claims and explore the factors that contribute to their reputation for producing non-toxic cleaning products.
Plant-Derived Ingredients
One of the reasons why Mrs. Meyers cleaning products are considered non-toxic is due to their use of plant-derived ingredients. These ingredients are sourced from renewable resources, such as essential oils and botanical extracts. By using natural ingredients, Mrs. Meyers aims to provide cleaning solutions that are effective while minimizing the use of harmful chemicals.
The brand prides itself on using ingredients that are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. By opting for Mrs. Meyers cleaning products, you can feel confident that you are making a positive choice for both your home and the environment.
Certifications and Regulations
In addition to using plant-derived ingredients, Mrs. Meyers cleaning products also adhere to various certifications and regulations. For example, many of their products are certified by the EPA’s Safer Choice program, which ensures that the ingredients used are safer for human health and the environment.
Furthermore, the brand is transparent about their ingredient lists and provides detailed information about the safety and efficacy of each product. This level of transparency allows consumers to make informed decisions about the products they choose to bring into their homes.
Fragrance and Essential Oils
One aspect that sets Mrs. Meyers cleaning products apart is their delightful fragrances. The brand uses essential oils to provide a pleasant scent experience while cleaning. These essential oils are derived from plants and contribute to the non-toxic nature of the products.
It’s worth noting that fragrance can be a sensitive topic for some individuals, as certain synthetic fragrances can cause allergies or sensitivities. However, Mrs. Meyers takes a careful approach by using natural fragrances from essential oils, which are generally well-tolerated by most people.
Examining Specific Mrs. Meyers Product Ingredients
Multi-Surface Cleaners
Mrs. Meyers offers a range of multi-surface cleaners that are designed to effectively clean various surfaces in your home. These cleaners are made with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, which provide a pleasant and natural scent. Some key ingredients found in Mrs. Meyers multi-surface cleaners include:
- Lemon Verbena: Known for its refreshing and uplifting scent, lemon verbena is often used in cleaning products for its antimicrobial properties.
- Lavender: With its calming and soothing properties, lavender is a popular ingredient in cleaning products and is known for its antibacterial effects.
- Basil: Basil has natural antibacterial properties and adds a fresh, herbaceous scent to the cleaners.
These ingredients, along with others, work together to provide effective cleaning power while being non-toxic and safe for use around your family and pets.
Laundry Detergent
When it comes to Mrs. Meyers laundry detergent, you can be confident that it is free from harsh chemicals and is safe for your clothes and your skin. The ingredients used in Mrs. Meyers laundry detergent are plant-derived and biodegradable. They are designed to effectively clean your clothes without leaving any residue or causing irritation.
Some key ingredients found in Mrs. Meyers laundry detergent include:
- Geranium: Known for its pleasant floral scent, geranium oil is also used for its natural cleaning and deodorizing properties.
- Lavender: Lavender oil not only adds a soothing scent to your laundry but also helps to eliminate bacteria and odors.
- Lemon: Lemon oil is a natural stain remover and adds a fresh citrus scent to your laundry.
With Mrs. Meyers laundry detergent, you can enjoy clean and fresh-smelling clothes while knowing that you are using a non-toxic and eco-friendly product.
Dish Soap
Mrs. Meyers dish soap is formulated to effectively cut through grease and grime on your dishes while being gentle on your hands. The ingredients used in Mrs. Meyers dish soap are plant-derived and biodegradable, making it a safe choice for your kitchen.
Some key ingredients found in Mrs. Meyers dish soap include:
- Basil: Basil oil has natural antibacterial properties and adds a fresh scent to your dishes.
- Lemon Verbena: Lemon verbena oil is known for its powerful degreasing properties and provides a refreshing citrus scent.
- Geranium: Geranium oil adds a floral note to the dish soap and also helps to eliminate odors.
With Mrs. Meyers dish soap, you can tackle tough food residue while keeping your dishes and hands free from harsh chemicals.
Hand Soaps
Keeping your hands clean is more important than ever, and Mrs. Meyers hand soaps are a great choice for achieving that. These hand soaps are made with plant-derived ingredients that effectively cleanse your hands without drying them out.
Some key ingredients found in Mrs. Meyers hand soaps include:
- Lemon Verbena: Lemon verbena oil provides a fresh and invigorating scent while also having natural antibacterial properties.
- Lavender: Lavender oil soothes and moisturizes the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for hand soaps.
- Basil: Basil oil adds a refreshing scent and has natural antimicrobial properties.
With Mrs. Meyers hand soaps, you can enjoy clean and soft hands while knowing that you are using a non-toxic and environmentally-friendly product.
Controversies and Criticisms of Mrs. Meyers
Use of Preservatives
One of the main controversies surrounding Mrs. Meyers cleaning products is the use of preservatives. Some critics argue that these preservatives may contain harmful chemicals that can have adverse effects on human health. While Mrs. Meyers does disclose the use of preservatives in their products, they state that they are used in very small amounts and are necessary to ensure the longevity and stability of their formulas. It is important to note that the preservatives used in Mrs. Meyers products are approved by regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Harsh Ingredient Allegations
Another criticism of Mrs. Meyers cleaning products is the allegation that they contain harsh ingredients. Some individuals have claimed that certain ingredients in these products can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. It is worth mentioning that Mrs. Meyers uses plant-derived ingredients in their formulations, which are generally considered to be safer alternatives to synthetic chemicals. However, it is always recommended to check the ingredient list and test a small patch of skin before using any product, especially if you have sensitive skin or known allergies.
Lack of Third-Party Testing
The lack of third-party testing is another concern raised by critics of Mrs. Meyers. While the company claims to conduct extensive testing to ensure the safety and effectiveness of their products, some consumers believe that independent verification is necessary to validate these claims. It is important to note that Mrs. Meyers is not required by law to undergo third-party testing, but they do follow strict internal testing protocols. However, if you are someone who prefers products that have been independently tested, you may want to consider alternatives that have obtained certifications from trusted organizations such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) or the Green Seal.
Safer Alternatives to Mrs. Meyers
If you are concerned about the toxicity of cleaning products and are looking for safer alternatives to Mrs. Meyers, there are a few options you can consider. These alternatives are not only effective in cleaning but also prioritize the use of non-toxic ingredients, making them a great choice for those who prioritize the health and well-being of their family and the environment.
Plant-Based Brands
One of the best alternatives to Mrs. Meyers is to opt for plant-based cleaning brands. These brands use natural ingredients derived from plants, such as essential oils, to create effective and non-toxic cleaning products. They are free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes, making them a safer option for your home.
Some popular plant-based cleaning brands include:
- Seventh Generation: This brand offers a wide range of plant-based cleaning products that are free from synthetic fragrances and dyes. They are also cruelty-free and environmentally friendly.
- Method: Method is known for its stylish packaging and effective plant-based cleaning formulas. Their products are biodegradable and come in refreshing scents.
- Puracy: Puracy offers a range of natural and non-toxic cleaning products that are safe for your family and the environment. Their products are also hypoallergenic, making them suitable for individuals with sensitivities.
By choosing these plant-based brands, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are using cleaning products that are safe for your family and the planet.
DIY Cleaning Solutions
If you prefer a more hands-on approach and want to have complete control over the ingredients used in your cleaning products, DIY solutions are a great option. Making your own cleaning products allows you to use simple and natural ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Plus, it can be a fun and cost-effective way to clean your home!
Here are a few DIY cleaning solutions you can easily make at home:
- Vinegar and water: Mix equal parts of distilled white vinegar and water to create a multipurpose cleaning solution. This mixture is effective in removing dirt, grime, and mildew.
- Baking soda and lemon: Sprinkle baking soda on surfaces and scrub with a lemon cut in half. This combination works well to remove stains and odors.
- Castile soap and water: Mix a few drops of castile soap with water to create a gentle and effective cleaning solution. This mixture can be used for various cleaning tasks, including washing dishes and wiping countertops.
DIY cleaning solutions are not only non-toxic but also cost-effective and customizable. You can experiment with different ingredients and scents to find the perfect cleaning solution for your needs.
Remember, whether you choose plant-based brands or DIY solutions, it’s important to always follow proper usage instructions and exercise caution when handling cleaning products. Cleaning can be both safe and effective with the right alternatives to Mrs. Meyers!
Conclusion
To conclude, while Mrs. Meyers utilizes more natural, non-toxic ingredients than typical cleaners, some products still contain questionable additives. Consumers seeking the most natural options may want to explore alternative green brands or make their own DIY cleaners. Overall, Mrs. Meyers offers a nice midpoint between mainstream and 100% non-toxic products for those seeking a greener compromise.