April 12, 2024

10 Must-Have Hypoallergenic Cleaning Products

Imagine this: you’ve finally conquered that spring cleaning list, your home gleams, and a fresh scent fills the air, but instead of feeling accomplished, you find yourself battling itchy eyes, a runny nose, and a scratchy throat. Believe it or not, the culprit could be your cleaning products! Over 100 million Americans experience allergy symptoms, and for many, harsh chemicals in cleaning solutions can be a hidden trigger.

Don’t resign yourself to a home filled with allergens or sacrifice cleanliness for comfort. There’s a better way! We’re here to share our favorite hypoallergenic products we use in our green cleaning service in New York and the best allergy-friendly cleaning practices that are gentle on you but tough on dirt.

What Does “Hypoallergenic” Mean?

We’ve all seen the “hypoallergenic” label, often assuming it guarantees a complete absence of allergens, but hold on – the truth is a little more nuanced!

Here’s the inside scoop: hypoallergenic cleaning products are formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. They prioritize gentle, non-irritating ingredients, making them ideal for sensitive skin, allergies, and respiratory issues.

While manufacturers strive to minimize allergens, there’s always a chance you might encounter an unexpected trigger. FYI: the FDA does not have any strict regulation of the “hypoallergenic” term.  

Benefits of Switching to Hypoallergenic Cleaning Products

• Reduced allergy risk. Hypoallergenic formulas ditch synthetic fragrances, bleach, SLS, formaldehyde, phosphates, parabens, and other irritants that trigger allergies, skin rashes, and respiratory issues.
• Sensitive skin savior. Gentle ingredients help protect the most delicate skin from redness, itching, and discomfort that harsh cleaners can cause.
• Asthma ally. Hypoallergenic cleaners are usually fragrance-free and emit fewer VOCs, creating a more breathable environment.
• Eco-friendly edge. Most hypoallergenic products are formulated with natural, biodegradable ingredients.
• Less is more. Such products pack a punch with fewer chemicals, meaning less exposure for you and your family.

10 Must-Have Hypoallergenic Products Picked by Cleaning Pros

While natural ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar are anti-allergy cleaning powerhouses, sometimes a quicker clean is essential. Here, we will explore some of the best hypoallergenic cleaning products that combine effectiveness with gentle, allergy-friendly formulas.

1) Washable Microfiber Cloth

When it comes to hypoallergenic cleaning, microfiber cloths are our favorites. They’re a game-changer, especially for allergy sufferers and people with sensitive skin because they easily clean glass, tiles, and counters with just water, minimizing exposure to harsh chemicals and leaving no streaks. Unlike paper towels or random rags, a microfiber cloth attracts dust like a magnet, meaning less dust swirling in the air and irritating allergies. Plus, it is incredibly durable – a good set can last for years! Just dampen your microfiber cloths before using them for maximum dust-grabbing power.  

2) Unscented All-Purpose Cleaner

For allergy sufferers or anyone sensitive to strong smells, scented sprays can be a nightmare. As a healthy alternative, you can prepare a homemade cleaner by mixing vinegar, water, and some dish soap, if you tolerate the vinegar’s smell or buy an unscented all-purpose cleaner such as Seventh Generation All Purpose Cleaner. Its non-toxic, fragrance-free formula is perfect for cleaning a variety of surfaces, from granite countertops to bathroom tiles. We also find it particularly useful for kitchen and bathroom cleaning, leaving surfaces sparkling clean and residue-free.

3) Unscented Laundry Detergent

When it comes to laundry for allergy sufferers or those with sensitive skin, fragrance-free detergents are a must. Dropps Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent Pods are a great option we recommend to our clients. These pre-measured pods are free of enzymes, dyes, and perfumes, making them gentle on even the most delicate skin. They might not have all the bells and whistles of some laundry detergents, but they get the job done without irritating skin or triggering allergies. Plus, the convenient pods are easy to use and ensure you’re not overdosing on detergent, which can leave residue on your clothes.

4) Fragrance-Free Dishwashing Detergent

Regular dishwashing detergents can leave behind not only an allergy-triggering, overpowering smell but also a residue on dishes, even after rinsing. This residue can contain fragrance chemicals that transfer to food or drinks, causing allergic reactions. As professional cleaners, we recommend checking out BLUELAND Dishwasher Detergent tablets. These plastic-free tablets are fragrance and phthalates-free and made with plant-based ingredients, so no harsh chemicals to trigger sniffles or skin reactions. And the best part: they pack a powerful punch against grime and easily tackle even 24-hour baked-on messes.

5) Hypoallergenic Bathroom Cleaner

Bathroom requires special attention if you have an allergy sufferer at home. Firstly, keep moisture to a minimum and ensure a good airflow to prevent mold from building up. And secondly, use a hypoallergenic bathroom cleaner that doesn’t aggravate the issue. We recommend Aunt Fannie’s All Purpose Bathroom Cleaner Vinegar Spray for cleaning everything from bathroom counters and tiles to sinks and fixtures. This vinegar-based spray uses plant power to tackle grime and soap scum without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. While it does have a slight vinegar scent, it fades quickly and doesn’t leave behind any heavy perfumes.

6) Bamboo Towels

For people with sensitive skin, traditional towels can be a source of irritation. That’s why we recommend checking out bamboo towels. These are a great alternative made with a blend of cotton and viscose from bamboo. The big advantage here is that bamboo is processed without harsh chemicals, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Plus, studies show they retain germ-fighting properties even after multiple washes. While they might not be the thickest towels on the market, they’re incredibly soft, absorbent, and dry quickly – a big plus for odor prevention.

7) Steam Cleaner

A reliable steam cleaner is a must for families with allergies!  These machines use super-heated steam that blasts away up to 99.9% of germs, bacteria, and dust mites – major allergy triggers. It cleans with just pure water, so, unlike harsh chemicals, steam cleans without leaving behind irritating residues. We like Bissell SteamShot Hard Surface Steam Cleaner for its versatile attachments and ease of use. Tackle floors, countertops, upholstery – even fabrics like curtains. It heats up quickly, so you can get cleaning fast.

8) Air Purifier

Air purifiers trap tiny allergy triggers like dust mites, pet dander, and even pollen floating in the air. These aren’t magic wands, but they can be a game-changer. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. Look for a purifier with a HEPA filter, which is best for trapping allergens. You will have to replace filters from time to time, but improved indoor air quality and reduced allergy symptoms are worth the investment. The EPA’s Energy Star rating helps you choose an energy-efficient model. Remember, every purifier has a coverage area, so choose one sized for your room. For example, this voice-controlled LG PuriCare 360-Degree Single Air Purifier is a perfect choice for a 300 sq. ft living room.  

9) HEPA-Filtered Vacuum

Tired of allergy season lingering in your home year-round? Probably you should reconsider your vacuuming both method and equipment-wise. Look for a vacuum with a HEPA filter – that stands for “High-Efficiency Particulate Air.”  It snags dust mites, pet dander, and other allergy triggers as small as a fraction of a human hair. There’s another thing to look for in a vacuum – its emptying method because emptying some vacuums can be like releasing a puff of allergy dust back into the air. But there are options! Consider a bagged vacuum that traps dust neatly inside or high-tech self-emptying models that keep dust contained for weeks. The EUREKA E10s Robot Vacuum is a great example – it has a superhero HEPA filter and a self-emptying station that keeps dust at bay for up to 45 days.  

10) Latex-Free Gloves

It’s a good practice to wear gloves while cleaning to prevent contact with chemicals but latex gloves make the situation worse for people with sensitive skin. That’s why I recommend latex-free options like these Heavy Duty Nitrile Gloves. They are tough enough for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, yet comfortable and breathable to wear. The best part? They’re made with 100% biodegradable nitrile, so you can clean with a green conscience.

How to Clean to Keep Allergies at Bay

Creating an allergy-free haven at home doesn’t require drastic changes. By decluttering to minimize dust traps, dusting regularly with a damp cloth or collector, and maintaining cool, dry conditions with proper ventilation, you can significantly reduce allergens. Regular pet care, plant maintenance, and combating moisture buildup in the kitchen and bathroom are also key. Finally, masking up while cleaning prevents you from inhaling airborne particles. With these simple steps, you can transform your home into a breath-of-fresh-air sanctuary.