7 Best All-Purpose Cleaners in 2024

You might think that all-purpose cleaners are a one-size-fits-all solution, but the reality is that different cleaners cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a gentle, non-irritating formula or a powerful virus-killer, there’s an all-purpose cleaner out there that’s right for you. From eco-friendly designs to innovative features, the best all-purpose cleaners offer a range of benefits that can make a significant difference in keeping your living space clean and healthy. But which ones are truly worth your time and money? Let’s take a closer look at the top picks that made our list.

MRS. MEYERS CLEAN DAY All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, Lemon Verbena, 16 fl. oz

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If you’re seeking a gentle yet effective all-purpose cleaner that’s safe for households with allergies, the MRS. MEYERS CLEAN DAY All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, Lemon Verbena, 16 fl. oz is an excellent choice, cutting through grime on surfaces without irritating sensitive skin.

This 16 fl. oz spray is perfect for quick cleanups, leaving surfaces clean and shiny.

You’ll appreciate its gentle, non-irritating formula that quickly removes stuck-on dirt and odors, making it ideal for households with allergies.

Plus, its invigorating Lemon Verbena scent is a nice bonus!

As a cruelty-free and biodegradable product, you can feel good about using it on your non-porous surfaces, including hardwood floors, tile, countertops, and more.

Best For: Households with allergies, people who prioritize gentle and non-irritating cleaning products, and those who appreciate a cruelty-free and biodegradable formula.

Pros:

• Gentle and non-irritating formula, making it suitable for households with allergies
• Effective at removing stuck-on dirt and odors, leaving surfaces clean and shiny
• Cruelty-free, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly, aligning with values of eco-conscious consumers

Cons:

• Some users may find the Lemon Verbena scent too strong, so caution is advised for those sensitive to fragrances
• No specific information is provided about the product’s effectiveness on porous surfaces
• Limited availability of information about the product’s long-term durability and performance

Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner

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When you need a reliable and effective cleaner that can tackle tough grease and grime while also killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19, Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner is the best choice for you.

This versatile cleaner not only eliminates 99.9% of germs but also cuts through tough grease and grime, making it perfect for cleaning sink, toilets, bath tub, and floors.

You’ll appreciate its deodorizing properties, leaving a fresh lemon breeze scent.

As a customer, you’ll find it’s a great value for the price, and its effectiveness in cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas makes it a must-have for a healthier home.

With a 40 Fl Oz bottle size and EPA Reg #777-89, you can trust Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner to get the job done.

Best For: Individuals and families seeking a reliable and effective multi-surface cleaner for their homes, especially those concerned about germs and viruses.

Pros:

• Effective in killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19
• Versatile use on multiple surfaces, including kitchen, bathroom, and other areas of the home
• Leaves a fresh lemon breeze scent and deodorizes, making it a pleasant cleaning experience

Cons:

• No specific cons mentioned in the product description
• No specific cons mentioned in the product description
• No specific cons mentioned in the product description

Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser

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For those seeking a reliable, bleach-free solution to tackle tough stains and rust on various surfaces, Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser is an ideal choice.

This powdered cleanser is a powerhouse when it comes to removing rust, tarnish, mineral deposits, and tough stains from surfaces like stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, and more.

You can use it to clean kitchen surfaces like sinks, cookware, and countertops, as well as bathroom surfaces like sinks, bathtubs, and showers.

It’s also effective for outdoor cleaning tasks, such as removing rust stains and grime from vehicles, boats, and siding.

With its versatility and effectiveness, Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser is a must-have for anyone looking for a reliable all-purpose cleaner.

Best For: Homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and cleaning professionals looking for a reliable, bleach-free all-purpose cleaner for various surfaces.

Pros:

• Effective in removing rust, tarnish, mineral deposits, and tough stains from various surfaces
• Suitable for cleaning kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor surfaces
• Affordable and widely available in grocery stores

Cons:

• Contains oxalic acid, a wood bleach, which may be a concern for some users
• May not be suitable for coated or brushed metal surfaces
• No specific instructions for use on specific surfaces, may require some trial and error

Clorox Clean-Up Bleach Cleaner Spray Value 24 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)

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Reach for the Clorox Clean-Up Bleach Cleaner Spray Value 24 Fl Oz (Pack of 3) when tackling tough kitchen and bath stains, grease, and dirt, as it quickly and effectively cleans, disinfects, and deodorizes various surfaces indoors and outdoors.

This powerful cleaner can be used on multiple hard, nonporous surfaces, including kitchen sinks, counters, refrigerators, appliances, tubs, toilets, fiberglass, floors, showers, and tiles.

The Smart Tube technology bottle guarantees you get every last drop, and the easy-to-use trigger reaches corners and hard-to-reach places.

While some customers have reported issues with delivery and packaging, many rave about its effectiveness in removing stains and mildew.

Just remember to use it in well-ventilated areas, avoid using it on colored fabrics, and wear protective gear when using.

Best For: People who need a powerful and effective cleaner for tough kitchen and bath stains, grease, and dirt on various hard, nonporous surfaces.

Pros:

• Effective in cleaning and removing stains, grease, and dirt on various surfaces
• Can be used on multiple hard, nonporous surfaces, including kitchen sinks, counters, refrigerators, appliances, tubs, toilets, fiberglass, floors, showers, and tiles
• Smart Tube technology bottle ensures every last drop is sprayed, and the easy-to-use trigger reaches corners and hard-to-reach places

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with delivery and packaging, such as leaking refillable bottles and nozzles that don’t fit
• Requires use in well-ventilated areas due to strong fumes
• Must avoid using on colored fabrics and wear protective gear when using

Stardrops – The Pink Stuff – The Miracle All Purpose Cleaning Paste

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If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful cleaning solution that can tackle tough stains and grime on various surfaces, The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste is an excellent choice.

This non-abrasive, non-toxic, and eco-friendly paste is gentle on surfaces yet tough on stains, leaving a sparkling, streak-free shine.

You can use it on a wide range of surfaces, including stoves, kitchen floors, metal, ceramics, porcelain, marble, wood, silverware, jewelry, glass shower doors, fiberglass doors, glass stove tops, countertops, toilet, sinks, bathtub, car wheels, and stainless steel.

With its pleasant, mild scent and ease of application and removal, you’ll find it’s an indispensable part of your cleaning routine.

Best For: Those who need a versatile and powerful cleaning solution for various surfaces, including stoves, kitchen floors, metal, ceramics, porcelain, marble, wood, silverware, jewelry, glass shower doors, fiberglass doors, glass stove tops, countertops, toilet, sinks, bathtub, car wheels, and stainless steel.

Pros:

• Gentle on surfaces yet tough on stains, leaving a sparkling, streak-free shine
• Non-abrasive, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, making it a responsible choice for a cleaner home
• Pleasant, mild scent and ease of application and removal, making it an indispensable part of your cleaning routine

Cons:

• No cons mentioned in the provided text

Mr. Clean All Purpose Cleaner

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Those seeking a reliable and eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner will appreciate Mr. Clean All Purpose Cleaner’s innovative features, such as its reusable nozzle and aerosol-free design.

You’ll love how easy it’s to use, with continuous bursts of spray from any angle, and the option to pair it with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Sheets, a damp/dry cloth, or paper towel.

This cleaner is a powerhouse, cutting through dirt and grime quickly and easily on various surfaces, including stainless steel, kitchen appliances, and bathroom surfaces.

With its long-lasting spray that takes about 10 seconds to discharge all product, you’ll get the job done efficiently.

Plus, it smells great and isn’t too strong.

Best For: Those seeking a reliable and eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner for their kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Pros:

• Effective at cutting through dirt and grime quickly and easily on various surfaces
• Easy to use with continuous bursts of spray from any angle and can be paired with different cleaning tools
• Eco-friendly design with a reusable nozzle and aerosol-free formula

Cons:

• A little pricey compared to other all-purpose cleaners on the market
• Only available in a 3-count package with limited scent options
• No specific mention of being environmentally certified or non-toxic

Dr. Bronners Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner

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Opting for an eco-friendly and versatile cleaning solution, stop your search with Dr. Bronners Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, a concentrated and gentle all-purpose cleaner perfect for individuals prioritizing the health of both their home and the environment.

You’ll love its plant-based surfactants that effectively cut through grease and dirt, while being gentle on your skin.

Plus, it’s mildly scented with fir and spruce essential oils, making it a pleasure to use.

This multi-tasking cleaner can tackle a wide range of tasks, from general household cleaning to laundry, floors, and even cars.

With its highly concentrated formula, a little goes a long way, and you can dilute it to make your own DIY recipes.

Best For: Individuals prioritizing eco-friendliness and versatility in their cleaning products, seeking a gentle yet effective all-purpose cleaner for various household and personal uses.

Pros:

• Gentle on skin and the environment, with plant-based surfactants that biodegrade quickly and fully
• Highly concentrated formula allows for dilution and creation of DIY recipes, making it a cost-effective and versatile cleaning solution
• Mildly scented with fir and spruce essential oils, making it a pleasure to use

Cons:

• No specific drawbacks or negative aspects of the product are mentioned in the provided information
• No specific drawbacks or negative aspects of the product are mentioned in the provided information
• No specific drawbacks or negative aspects of the product are mentioned in the provided information

Factors to Consider When Choosing All-Purpose Cleaners

When selecting an all-purpose cleaner, you’ll want to weigh several key factors.

You’re looking for a product that effectively tackles dirt and grime, is safe to use on various surfaces, and aligns with your eco-friendly values.

Effective Ingredients

Choosing an all-purpose cleaner that packs a punch comes down to understanding the effective ingredients that make them work.

When you’re selecting a cleaner, you’ll want to look for surfactants, which reduce the surface tension of water, allowing the cleaner to penetrate and lift dirt and grime more easily.

If you’re dealing with organic stains and odors, enzyme-based cleaners with proteases, amylases, and lipases can break down protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

For tough stains, oxygen-based bleach like sodium percarbonate is a gentler alternative to chlorine bleach.

If you prefer a more natural approach, plant-based cleaners might incorporate essential oils like tea tree oil, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Remember to check the concentration of active ingredients and the pH level of the cleaner, as some may require dilution to avoid damaging surfaces.

Surface Compatibility

You’ll also want to consider the surfaces you’ll be cleaning, as not all all-purpose cleaners are created equal when it comes to compatibility with different materials. Some cleaners may be too harsh for certain surfaces like wood, fabric, or natural stone, so it’s crucial to select a cleaner that’s suitable for the specific surfaces you need to clean.

Look for cleaners that are specifically designed for use on multiple surfaces, such as countertops, sinks, faucets, and mirrors. Always check the label or manufacturer’s instructions to verify the cleaner is safe for use on unsealed natural stone, waxed or oiled wood, or unglazed ceramic.

If you have delicate or sensitive surfaces, consider a gentle or non-abrasive cleaner to avoid damaging or scratching them.

Remember to always spot test a new all-purpose cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface you plan to clean. This will confirm the cleaner won’t cause any damage or discoloration. By taking into account the surfaces you’ll be cleaning, you can choose an all-purpose cleaner that’s effective and safe for your specific cleaning needs.

Eco-Friendliness Matters

As you navigate the vast market of all-purpose cleaners, eco-friendliness increasingly becomes a crucial factor in deciding, especially for environmentally conscious consumers.

You’re likely looking for a cleaner that’s gentle on the planet, not just your surfaces. Opting for eco-friendly cleaners is a great place to start.

These cleaners are biodegradable, breaking down naturally in the environment without causing harm. Look for certifications like EPA Safer Choice or Leaping Bunny, which guarantee rigorous environmental and animal welfare standards.

Some eco-friendly cleaners even use plant-based surfactants, which are gentler on skin and the environment.

When shopping, consider concentrated or refillable cleaners to reduce waste and minimize packaging’s environmental impact.

Be cautious, though – some cleaners may claim to be eco-friendly but still contain harsh chemicals or dyes. Always read labels carefully and seek transparency from manufacturers about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.

Gentle on Hands

When it comes to cleaning, your hands are on the front lines, so you need to select an all-purpose cleaner that’s gentle on your skin.

You don’t want a harsh formula drying out or irritating your hands, making them uncomfortable and even painful.

To avoid this, look for cleaners with natural ingredients and essential oils like aloe vera or coconut oil, which are known for their moisturizing properties.

These ingredients will keep your hands hydrated and soft.

Opt for a fragrance-free or lightly scented cleaner to minimize the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.

If you have sensitive skin, choose a cleaner specifically labeled as ‘gentle on hands’ or ‘hypoallergenic’ to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

Remember to always follow the instructions for dilution if you’re using a concentrated cleaner, as undiluted chemicals can be harsh on your skin.

Multi-Surface Use

To streamline your cleaning routine and reduce clutter, opt for an all-purpose cleaner that can tackle a variety of surfaces, from countertops and sinks to toilets and floors.

This will simplify your cleaning routine and reduce the number of cleaning products you need to buy.

When choosing a multi-surface cleaner, look for one that’s specifically designed for use on various surfaces, such as stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, and glass.

It should be gentle on these surfaces yet tough on dirt and grime, making it suitable for daily cleaning tasks and heavy-duty cleaning projects.

You’ll also want a cleaner that’s easy to use, requiring minimal effort and elbow grease to achieve a clean and shiny finish.

Consider a cleaner that’s also suitable for outdoor surfaces, such as patio furniture, grills, and siding, to expand its versatility and usefulness.

Concentrated Formula

You’ll get more bang for your buck with a concentrated formula in your all-purpose cleaner, which means a small amount can tackle a large mess, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.

This cost-effective option also allows you to customize the solution to your specific cleaning needs by diluting it with water.

Plus, concentrated formulas often result in reduced packaging and transportation needs, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

Just remember to follow the recommended dilution ratio to guarantee effective cleaning and avoid damaging surfaces.

One of the best things about concentrated formulas is their versatility – you can use them to create DIY cleaning solutions for various tasks, such as laundry detergent or carpet cleaners.

This flexibility makes them an excellent addition to your cleaning arsenal.

Scents and Fragrances

How important is scent to you when it comes to choosing an all-purpose cleaner, and are you willing to compromise on effectiveness for a pleasant aroma?

When selecting a cleaner, you’ll find that some products come in various scents, such as lemon, lavender, or fir, which can be appealing to those who prefer a specific fragrance.

However, strong scents can be overwhelming for people with sensitivities or allergies, so vital is fragrance intensity when making your choice.

Fragrances can be a personal preference, and you may prefer fragrance-free or hypoallergenic cleaners to minimize potential skin or respiratory irritation.

On the other hand, certain fragrances, such as citrus or mint, can have natural deodorizing properties that enhance the cleaning experience.

When choosing an all-purpose cleaner, think about your personal tolerance for fragrances and opt for a product that suits your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can All-Purpose Cleaners Be Used on Natural Stone Surfaces?

When cleaning natural stone surfaces, you shouldn’t assume all-purpose cleaners are safe to use. You’ll want to check the product label, as many can etch or damage certain types of stone, so you must choose a gentle, stone-specific cleaner.

Are All-Purpose Cleaners Safe to Use Around Pets and Children?

When you’re cleaning, you’re not just thinking about sparkling floors, you’re also worried about your furry friends and little ones’ safety. Thankfully, most all-purpose cleaners are pet- and kid-friendly, but always double-check the labels to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

Can I Mix All-Purpose Cleaners With Other Cleaning Products?

When you mix all-purpose cleaners with other products, you risk creating toxic fumes or damaging surfaces. Don’t mix without checking the labels, and even then, exercise caution to avoid unwanted reactions or harmful consequences.

Do All-Purpose Cleaners Expire or Have a Shelf Life?

You’re wondering if all-purpose cleaners go bad? Yes, you’ll typically find an expiration date or shelf life on the label, usually 1-3 years from manufacture, depending on the ingredients and storage conditions.

Are All-Purpose Cleaners Environmentally Friendly and Eco-Friendly?

You’re wondering if all-purpose cleaners are eco-friendly? Well, investigate this: many popular brands contain harsh chemicals, but some eco-conscious options do exist, using natural ingredients and biodegradable packaging, so you can clean with a clear conscience.

Conclusion

You’ve got the cleaning power in your hands now!

With these 7 best all-purpose cleaners, your living space will shine like a beacon of cleanliness.

From gentle to germ-killing, eco-friendly to innovative, there’s a perfect fit for you.

Your home, a haven of health and happiness, awaits.

As you wipe away dirt and grime, imagine the weight of worry lifting, like a soothing breeze on a summer day, leaving your space sparkling like new.