Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for Your Move-Out: Sustainable Options That Work

Moving out often means a deep cleanup, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn't still be mindful of the environment. Traditional cleaning products are typically formulated with harsh chemicals that can harm ecosystems and pollute water sources. Fortunately, we have eco-friendly products to turn to.

Whether you need to remove stains or refresh surfaces, sustainable products are effective without impacting the safety of your home or the planet. Many of these alternatives are free from toxic fumes and irritants and are ideal for households with children or pets. Learn about environment-friendly cleaning options to make your move-out both spotless and sustainable.

Why opt for eco-friendly cleaning products?

Protect the environment

Traditional cleaning products are often made with toxic chemicals that pollute water, harm wildlife, and alter ecosystems when disposed of improperly. On the other hand, eco-friendly options are made with natural ingredients, are biodegradable, and lower your environmental footprint. By using them, you contribute to cleaner waterways and a healthier planet.

Safeguard your health

Numerous conventional cleaners contain ammonia, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances that cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and various health problems. Such toxins aren’t used in eco-friendly products, so they are safer for you and your family during and after the cleaning.

Preserve the property’s condition

Harsh chemicals wear down finishes, damage surfaces, and discolour fixtures, which can jeopardize your chances of a full deposit refund. Since eco-friendly cleaners are gentler, they preserve the integrity of the property while ensuring a deep clean.

Improve indoor air quality

Chemical-based cleaners may produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can linger in the air and affect air quality. Due to their formulas, eco-friendly products don’t release harmful fumes and don’t compromise indoor air quality.

Support sustainability

Using eco-friendly products means you support companies that prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, and environmentally conscious procedures. Even if it’s a small way to support greener innovations, every little gesture counts!

What are the essential eco-friendly cleaning supplies to have?

All-Purpose Cleaners

• White vinegar solution (1:1 with water)
• Castile soap
• Baking soda paste
• Citrus enzyme cleaner (natural orange or lemon extract)

Bathroom cleaners

• Vinegar and tea tree oil mixture for mould/mildew
• Baking soda paste for toilet and tub
• Hydrogen peroxide (3%) for difficult stains
• Natural pumice stone for hard water marks

Kitchen degreasers

• Liquid castile soap with essential oils
• Baking soda and vinegar paste
• Natural citrus degreaser
• Salt and lemon to clean cutting boards/wooden surfaces

Floor cleaners

• Hot water and castile soap for tiles
• Wood-specific natural cleaner (vinegar-free)
• Natural enzyme cleaner for carpets
• Reusable microfiber mop pads

Glass/mirror Solutions

• Water and white vinegar mixture
• Natural alcohol-based cleaner
• Newspaper or microfiber cloths (lint-free)

Tools

• Reusable microfiber cloths
• Natural fibre scrub brushes
• Bamboo cleaning brushes
• Glass spray bottles for solutions

Additional supplies

• Essential oils (tea tree, lavender, lemon) for natural fragrance
• Spray bottles for mixing solutions
• Natural sponges
• Biodegradable scrubbers

You can make your natural cleaning products, but how?

All-purpose cleaner

What you need:

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 1 cup water
• 10-15 drops essential oil (e.g., lemon, lavender, or tea tree)

How to make it:

1. In a spray bottle, mix the vinegar and water.
2. For fragrance and additional cleaning effect, add essential oils.
3. Shake well before use.

You may use this all-purpose cleaner for tables, sinks, counters, and any non-porous surface.

Bathroom cleaner

What you need:

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 1/4 cup water
• 10 drops of tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil (optional)

How to make it:

1. In a bowl, mix baking soda, castile soap, and water.
2. For antibacterial properties, add essential oils.
3. Use a sponge or brush to apply the paste to tiles, tubs, or sinks.

This mixture is efficient at removing mould, soap scum, and mildew in bathrooms.

Glass cleaner

What you need:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

How to use:

1. In a spray bottle, combine all ingredients and shake well.
2. Using a microfiber cloth or newspaper, spray onto glass surfaces and wipe clean.

The solution leaves streak-free mirrors, windows, and other glass surfaces.

Kitchen degreaser

What you need:

• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 10 drops citrus essential oil (lemon or orange)

How to do it:

1. In a spray bottle, mix vinegar, water, and baking soda.
2. To break down grease, add some citrus essential oil.
3. Shake well and spray on stovetops, counters, oven hoods, and all greasy kitchen surfaces.

This powerful degreaser is effective at breaking down kitchen grease without harsh chemicals.

Floor cleaner

What you need:

• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 bucket of warm water
• 10 drops essential oil (e.g., tea tree or lavender)

How to do it:

1. In a bucket, mix the vinegar and warm water.
2. For a pleasant smell, you may add a few drops of essential oil.
3. Wring out the mop to avoid excess water and mop floors as usual.

The solution is safe to use on most hard floors like tile, vinyl, and wood. However, test on a small, hidden area first for wood floors.

Carpet freshener

What you need:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 10-15 drops essential oil (e.g., lavender or lemon)

How to do it:

1. In a small jar or container, mix the baking soda and essential oil.
2. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over your carpets and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove the baking soda by vacuuming the carpet.

This natural carpet freshener neutralizes unpleasant smells and refreshes the fabrics.

Disinfectant spray

what you need:

• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol (optional)
• 10 drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil

How to do it:

1. In a spray bottle, combine all ingredients.
2. Shake well before use and spray onto surfaces to disinfect.

This is ideal for disinfecting handles, doorknobs, light switches, and other high-touch areas.

How to store homemade cleaning products

When you make your natural cleaning products, correct storage will maintain their efficiency and shelf life. Here are some tips to extend the lifespan of your homemade cleaners:

Store in airtight containers

• Use glass spray bottles or airtight containers to store your homemade cleaning solutions. Glass preserves the integrity of the ingredients, especially essential oils—they degrade in plastic over time.
• Powders (such as baking soda cleaners) should be stored in tightly sealed jars or containers to stop moisture from altering their textures and abilities.

Keep in a cool, dry place

• Store your homemade cleaners in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. This way the ingredients don’t break down nor lose their effects.
• Don’t store cleaners in bathrooms or humid areas, as moisture can affect the cleaner’s efficiency.

Label and date your products

• Clearly label your cleaning products with the ingredients and the date you made them. This way you track their freshness and make sure you use them within an adequate time frame.

Monitor regularly

• Some natural ingredients may separate over time (e.g., essential oils or vinegar-based cleaners). Before you use them, remix the ingredients by shaking the container.
• If you notice an unusual odour or signs of mould or separation that doesn’t remix, throw away the cleaner and make a fresh batch.

What’s the shelf life for homemade cleaners?

Most homemade cleaners made with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can last for 3 to 6 months, though some may last longer if stored properly. Products made with natural oils (dish soap) and cleaners with coconut oil will last 2 to 3 months, due to the risk of rancidity or spoilage.

How expensive are homemade cleaners?

When you make your cleaning product, the cost per batch is much lower in the long run. Here is a breakdown of typical ingredients:

• Baking soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)--1 kg box is around £1 - £2. You can use a box to make several batches of all-purpose cleaners or bathroom scrubs.
• White vinegar--5-litre bottle is around £3 - £5 and you can use it for numerous cleaning tasks.
• Castile soap-- 500 ml bottle is around £7 - £10 (depending on the brand) and you can dilute it for several cleaning uses.
• Essential oils-- 15 ml bottle is £5 - £10 (depending on the oil, e.g., lavender, tea tree, or lemon). It can be used for several tasks as you only need a few drops per batch.

Examples of homemade cleaner costs:

• All-Purpose Cleaner (Vinegar + Water + Essential Oils): A 500ml bottle will cost you about £1 - £1.50 to make.
• Bathroom Cleaner (Baking Soda + Castile Soap): A batch for a typical-sized bathroom will cost you around £1.50 - £2.

What about store-bought eco-friendly cleaners?

Eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products from well-known brands are priced higher than conventional cleaners:

• Method All-Purpose Cleaner--828 ml bottle: £3 - £4.
• Seventh Generation Bathroom Cleaner--500 ml bottle: £2.50 - £3.
• Ecover Toilet Cleaner--750 ml bottle: £2.50 - £3.50.
• Ecosia Glass Cleaner--500 ml bottle: £3 - £4.
• MRS. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Cleaner--354 ml bottle: £3 - £5.

Which are the most effective store-bought eco-friendly brands?

Method

Method is one of the most reputed eco-friendly cleaning brands in the UK. Using biodegradable ingredients, cruelty-free testing, and recyclable packaging, Method offers a generous range of efficient cleaning solutions. Method cleaners are appreciated for their excellent results in difficult cleaning jobs such as removing grease, grime, and soap scum, without harming the environment.

Some of its most popular products are: Method All-Purpose Cleaner, Method Anti-Bac Bathroom Cleaner, and Method Glass Cleaner. The price range is £3 - £5 and you can find Method products in most supermarkets and online retailers.

Ecover

Known for its plant-based ingredients and commitment to using refill stations and recyclable plastic, Ecover has cruelty-free products and safe for septic tanks. Ecover is effective against grease, stains, and grime and leaves a fresh, natural smell. Its results in kitchens and bathrooms are impressive.

Ecover All-Purpose Cleaner, Ecover Toilet Cleaner, and Ecover Dishwashing Liquid are some of its most popular products. You can find Ecover products in Tesco, Waitrose and online stores like Amazon, for prices ranging from £2.50 - £4.

Seventh Generation

Seventh Generation is renowned for its commitment to sustainable sourcing and transparency. The company uses plant-based ingredients and is free of synthetic fragrances and dyes. If you want a completely natural cleaner, go with Seventh Generation.

Its products tackle difficult jobs in bathrooms and kitchens and some of the most popular products are: Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner, Seventh Generation Bathroom Cleaner, and Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes. The price range is £2.50 - £4 and you can buy their products at Available at Tesco, Sainsbury's, and online stores.

Opt for versatile products that clean various surfaces so you lower the number of products you use.

What are the best cleaning methods for various surfaces?

Hardwood floors

Cleaning methods

• Dry dusting--Use a microfiber mop or broom to remove dust and dirt as microfiber traps dirt without scratching surfaces.
• Damp mopping--Use a damp mop with a gentle, eco-friendly floor cleaner and don’t use excessive water as you risk damaging the wood.

Best products

For a natural clean, make a solution out of 1/4 cup vinegar in 1 litre of water or use wood-safe cleaner from eco-friendly brands like Ecover or Method. Clean weekly.

Tile floors (ceramic or porcelain)

Cleaning methods

• Sweeping--Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove dirt and debris.
• Mopping--Use a damp mop an all-purpose cleaner and a paste of baking soda and water to scrub the grout.

Best products

Vinegar and water solutions and eco-friendly all-purpose cleaners are excellent. To remove difficult grout stains, you may use the paste made from baking soda and water.

Clean tile floors weekly and deep clean grout every few months.

Granite and marble countertops

Cleaning methods

• Dusting--Use a microfiber cloth or a soft cloth to eliminate dust and crumbs.
• Wiping--Use a pH-balanced cleaner or a diluted solution of mild dish soap and water and don’t use acidic cleaners.

Polishing

Use a stone-safe polish for extra shine.

Best products

Make a soap solution of 1 tsp mild dish soap in 1-litre water, or use a store-bought product like Method Granite and Marble Cleaner or Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner. Clean after every use and polish monthly.

Stainless steel surfaces

Cleaning methods

• Dusting—use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down and remove dust and fingerprints
• Wiping—clean with a soft cloth dampened with soapy water and follow the grain of steel to avoid streaks.
• Polishing—polish with a few drops of olive oil for a streak-free shine.

Best products

Use Method Steel for Steel Cleaner or e-Cloth for streak-free results. Clean every few days.

Glass and mirrors

Cleaning method

• Dusting—use a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust
• Wiping—use an eco-friendly glass cleaner or a solution of water and vinegar and spray on a microfiber cloth.
• Polishing—for a streak-free finish, wipe in a circular motion

Best products

Method Glass Cleaner or e-Cloth are excellent eco-friendly options. A simple DIY solution of 50% water and 50% vinegar is also efficient. Clean weekly or whenever necessary.

Kitchen counters (granite, quartz, and laminate)

Cleaning methods

• Wiping—remove food and stains with a gentle cleaner
• Disinfecting—use an eco-friendly disinfectant for extra sanitation.

Best products

Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner or Ecover Kitchen Cleaner and clean after you prepare food. Disinfect periodically.

Wooden furniture

Cleaning method

• Dusting—use a microfiber cloth to regularly dust and avoid dirt build-up
• Polishing--Apply a wood-safe furniture polish or a mix of olive oil and lemon juice (3:1 ratio) for extra shine.

Best products

Method Wood For Good Cleaner or Ecover Furniture Polish are excellent choices. Dust furniture weekly and polish every month.

Carpets and upholstery

Cleaning method

• Vacuuming—vacuum regularly to stop dirt from settling in the fibres.
• Deep cleaning—use a carpet or spot cleaner specially made for the material of your carpets or upholstery.
• Odour control—sprinkle baking soda before vacuuming to eliminate odours.

Best products

For upholstery, use Astonish Upholstery Cleaner or a DIY solution of water, white vinegar, and a small amount of dish soap. Vacuum upholstery weekly and spot clean whenever necessary. Ecover Carpet Cleaner or Astonish Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner are great for carpets and you should use them for deep cleaning every 3-6 months. Vacuum carpets twice a week.

Can you get your deposit back and stay staying eco-friendly?

Landlord expectations vs. eco-friendly solutions

Landlord expectations

• General cleanliness: Surfaces should be immaculate (countertops, floors, windows, etc.), and kitchens and bathrooms require extra attention.
• Odour removal: The unpleasant smell should be gone, especially in areas like the fridge, carpets, and upholstery.
• Maintenance of appliances: Clean the inside of the oven, fridge, and microwave.
• Minor repairs: If possible, address any small holes in walls, dents in the floor, or scratches on furniture.

Eco-friendly solutions

• Clean the kitchen counters and bathroom surfaces with biodegradable all-purpose cleaners or homemade vinegar and baking soda solutions.
• To remove odour, sprinkle baking soda on carpets, or use natural air fresheners (essential oils or activated charcoal).
• Fix holes in wooden surfaces with a natural wood filler or an eco-friendly spackling paste for walls.

Document the cleaning process

• Take photos of each room to state existing damages and stains
• Keep a list of the eco-friendly products you have used
• Take final photos of the spotless property, focusing on kitchen appliances, bathrooms, and floors.

Areas requiring special attention

Kitchen

Use natural ingredients to clean the oven stove, fridge, and cabinets.

Bathrooms

Vinegar with or with water solutions are solutions to clean showers, tubs, toilets, mirrors and glass.

Floors

Using safe and efficient eco-friendly solutions, clean wood floors, carpets, and tiles.

Walls

Use eco-friendly, low-VOC paints to touch up small scratches or stains.

Professional eco-friendly cleaning services

Professional cleaners know how to leave properties immaculate while using non-toxic cleaning agents. They employ procedures to minimize water usage and waste and hiring them saves you time and lets you focus on other aspects of the move. When you look for a professional cleaning company, see if they have positive reviews and reliability and ask them for a list of products they use.

RESOURCES

www.ziroclean.co.uk/post/create-your-own-natural-cleaning-solutions-for-an-eco-friendly-move-out

www.cleaningallstars.com/how-clean-my-old-new-house-eco-friendly/

www.maidluxe.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-eco-friendly-cleaning-products/

www.sunflowermaids.com/what-green-cleaning-tips-eco-friendly-move-out-cleaning/

www.thegoodtrade.com/features/natural-nontoxic-cleaning-products/

www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/1d4bqyt/what_cleaning_products_can_i_stock_up_on_before/

www.handycleaners.com/blog/versatile-ecofriendly-cleaners-for-moving-out/

www.scrublv.com/blog/green-cleaning-tips-for-a-more-eco-friendly-move-out-clean