7 Best All-Purpose Cleaners in 2024

You might be surprised to know that the average American uses around 40 different cleaning products in their home, many of which can be replaced with a single, versatile all-purpose cleaner. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a gentle, eco-friendly option or a powerful disinfectant, there’s an all-purpose cleaner out there that’s perfect for you. But which ones are truly the best? Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders that can simplify your cleaning routine and get the job done.

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

If you’re looking for a gentle, effective, and eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner that’s suitable for households with allergies, the Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day All-Purpose Cleaner Spray in Lemon Verbena is an excellent choice.

This 16 fl. oz spray is garden-fresh, cruelty-free, and biodegradable, making it a great option for those who prioritize the environment and their health.

You’ll love its light, invigoratingly mild citrus scent, which is gentle and non-irritating.

The spray is safe to use on non-porous surfaces, including hardwood floors, tile, countertops, walls, and more.

It quickly and easily removes stuck-on dirt and odors, leaving surfaces clean and shiny.

Plus, it’s affordable and worth the investment for safer cleaning.

Best For: Households with allergies, environmentally conscious consumers, and those seeking a gentle and effective all-purpose cleaner.

Pros:

• Gentle and non-irritating formula suitable for households with allergies
• Effective in removing stuck-on dirt and odors, leaving surfaces clean and shiny
• Affordable and worth the investment for safer cleaning

Cons:

• Some users find the scent to be strong, so caution is advised for those sensitive to fragrances
• No specific mentions of disinfecting properties or efficacy against germs and bacteria
• No additional features or benefits beyond its core cleaning functionality

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Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner

For those seeking a reliable disinfectant that can tackle tough germs and grime, Lysol Multi-Surface Cleaner is an excellent choice, effectively killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19.

You can count on this versatile cleaner to eliminate 99.9% of germs, cut through grease and grime, and even deodorize while leaving a fresh lemon breeze scent.

Not only is it effective, but it’s also a great value for the price. You’ll appreciate its ability to work well on greasy areas and floors, and its pleasant lemon scent is a bonus.

As a versatile cleaner, you can use it to disinfect and sanitize hard surfaces, including sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and floors, making it a great addition to your cleaning arsenal.

Best For: Those seeking a reliable and versatile disinfectant for their homes, especially for high-touch areas and greasy surfaces.

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
• Pleasant lemon scent and great value for the price

Cons:

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

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Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser

Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser is the best all-purpose cleaner for those who need a bleach-free product that can tackle tough stains, rust, and mineral deposits on a variety of surfaces.

This powdered cleanser is ideal for cleaning stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, copper alloys, fiberglass, Corian, brass, bronze, chrome, and aluminum surfaces.

It’s effective in removing rust, tarnish, and tough stains, making it a great choice for kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor cleaning tasks.

From cleaning sinks and cookware to removing grease and oil from stove tops, this powdered cleanser is a versatile and reliable cleaning solution.

And, as an added bonus, it’s affordable and widely available in grocery stores.

Best For: Those who need a versatile, bleach-free cleaner for various surfaces, including stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, and more.

Pros:

• Effective in removing rust, tarnish, 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, which may be a concern for some users
• May not be suitable for coated or brushed stainless metal surfaces
• May require some elbow grease to remove tough stains

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

Those seeking a powerful and effective all-purpose cleaner that can tackle tough kitchen and bath stains, grease, and dirt on contact, killing over 99% of germs, will find Clorox Clean-Up Bleach Cleaner Spray Value 24 Fl Oz (Pack of 3) an excellent choice.

You’ll appreciate its versatility in cleaning multiple hard, nonporous surfaces, including kitchen sinks, counters, and appliances, as well as 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.

With its strong and penetrating cleaning power, you’ll be able to remove tough stains, mildew, and alkaline detritus with ease.

Just remember to use it carefully in well-ventilated areas and avoid using it on colored fabrics.

Best For: Those seeking a powerful and effective all-purpose cleaner for tackling tough kitchen and bath stains, grease, and dirt.

Pros:

• Effective in cleaning and removing stains, mildew, and alkaline detritus from various surfaces.
• Can be used on multiple hard, nonporous surfaces, including kitchen sinks, counters, 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:

• Delivery issues, including packages being left in lockers and being hard to retrieve.
• Leaking refillable bottles and difficulties with getting the top back on.
• Nozzle may not fit on the bottle, and tubes may be missing.

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

What makes The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste stand out as a top all-purpose cleaner is its unparalleled versatility, effectively tackling tough stains and grime on a wide range of surfaces, from kitchen floors to jewelry and car wheels.

You’ll be amazed at how easily it removes stains, grease, or grime from surfaces, leaving a sparkling, streak-free shine.

This gentle, non-abrasive, and non-toxic paste is suitable for various cleaning tasks, making it a valuable addition to your cleaning arsenal.

With its pleasant scent and ease of use, it’s no wonder users rave about its effectiveness and versatility.

Whether you’re cleaning bathroom tiles, kitchen surfaces, or outdoor furniture, The Pink Stuff is the perfect solution for a cleaner home.

Best For: All individuals seeking a versatile and effective all-purpose cleaner for various surfaces, including kitchen, bathroom, outdoor furniture, and more.

Pros:

• Effective in removing tough stains and grime from various surfaces
• Gentle, non-abrasive, and non-toxic, making it suitable for multiple cleaning tasks
• Pleasant scent and ease of use, with a little going a long way, making it a cost-effective option

Cons:

• No specific drawbacks or disadvantages mentioned in the provided text
• No specific drawbacks or disadvantages mentioned in the provided text
• No specific drawbacks or disadvantages mentioned in the provided text

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Mr. Clean All Purpose Cleaner

Anyone seeking an effective multi-surface cleaner for kitchen and bathroom cleaning will appreciate the Mr. Clean All Purpose Cleaner, which offers a unique combination of power and convenience.

You’ll love its aerosol-free reusable nozzle that reduces waste and the innovative cleaning mist that activates on contact to cut through dirt.

With 3x the cleaning power of leading all-purpose cleaners with bleach spray on kitchen grease, you can trust this product to get the job done.

You can use it with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Sheets, a damp/dry cloth, or paper towel, and its continuous bursts of spray from any angle make it easy to use.

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

Best For: Those seeking an effective multi-surface cleaner for kitchen and bathroom cleaning.

Pros:

• Effective at cutting through dirt and grime on various surfaces
• Easy to use with continuous bursts of spray from any angle
• Has a pleasant smell that is not too strong

Cons:

• A little pricey compared to other cleaners on the market
• No specific details on the ingredients used in the cleaner
• Not suitable for all surfaces, so users need to check before use

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Dr. Bronners Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner

Dr. Bronners Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a versatile and eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner that’s gentle on skin and the environment.

It offers a concentrated and plant-based formula that cuts through grease and dirt with ease.

You can use it for a variety of tasks, from general household cleaning to laundry, floors, dishes, furniture, and even cars.

The mild scent of fir and spruce essential oils is a pleasant bonus.

As a highly concentrated formula, a little goes a long way – you can dilute it to make DIY recipes or use it straight up for tough cleaning jobs.

With its eco-friendly and cruelty-free credentials, it’s no wonder customers rave about this product’s effectiveness and value for money.

Best For: Those looking for a versatile, eco-friendly, and gentle all-purpose cleaner for various household and personal cleaning tasks.

Pros:

• Concentrated and gentle on skin, making it a great value for the price
• Can be used for a wide range of cleaning tasks, from laundry to cars to countertops
• Eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and biodegradable, making it a great choice for those who care about the environment and animal welfare

Cons:

• May require dilution for some tasks, which can be inconvenient for some users
• Some users may not prefer the scent of fir and spruce essential oils
• No specific information is provided about the product’s effectiveness on tough stains or grout

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Factors to Consider When Choosing All-Purpose Cleaners

When you’re in the market for an all-purpose cleaner, you’re faced with numerous options, each with its unique characteristics.

You’ll want to ponder a few key factors to verify you choose the best one for your needs.

You’ll need to reflect on the surfaces you’ll be cleaning, the product’s concentration, its eco-friendliness, the scent and fragrance, and whether it can be used on multiple surfaces.

Surface Compatibility

You need to take into account the types of surfaces you’ll be cleaning, as not all all-purpose cleaners are created equal and some may be too harsh for certain materials.

Always check the product label for specific surface compatibility, as some cleaners may be designed for specific surfaces like countertops, sinks, or toilets.

If you have natural stone surfaces, make sure to select a product that’s safe for use on these surfaces, as some all-purpose cleaners may not be suitable.

If you have a lot of delicate or antique items, think about a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner that won’t scratch or damage surfaces.

It’s also important to keep in mind the porosity of the surface, as some cleaners may seep into porous materials like concrete or wood, causing damage over time.

By bearing in mind the surfaces you’ll be cleaning, you can choose an all-purpose cleaner that’s effective and gentle on your belongings.

Product Concentration

When evaluating a cleaner’s concentration, consider the trade-offs between cost-effectiveness, cleaning power, and safety. Highly concentrated cleaners might be more cost-effective in the long run, but they require more effort to dilute and mix correctly.

On the other hand, more concentrated formulas often provide better cleaning power, but they also pose a greater risk of skin and eye irritation.

When opting for a concentrated all-purpose cleaner, it’s essential to follow the instructions for dilution carefully to avoid damaging surfaces or causing harm to people and the environment.

Alternatively, you can choose a ready-to-use formula, which eliminates the need for dilution but may be less cost-effective and have a larger environmental impact due to packaging.

The concentration of a cleaner also influences its environmental impact, with more concentrated formulas often requiring less packaging and transportation, resulting in a reduced carbon footprint.

Eco-Friendliness Factor

As you navigate the world of all-purpose cleaners, consider the eco-friendliness factor, which plays a vital role in minimizing harm to the environment and human health.

When choosing an all-purpose cleaner, opting for biodegradable products like Dr. Bronners Sal Suds, which break down naturally in the environment, reducing harm to aquatic life and preventing long-term pollution, is paramount.

Look for eco-friendly cleaners that use plant-based surfactants, which are gentler on skin and the environment, making them a safer choice for households with pets or children.

Additionally, check for certifications like EPA Safer Choice, which verifies the product meets rigorous standards for environmental sustainability and human safety.

Opting for concentrated cleaners can also reduce waste and packaging, as they often require less water and energy to manufacture and transport.

Always check the ingredients and labels, as some ‘eco-friendly’ products may still contain harsh chemicals or dyes that can harm the environment or human health.

Scent and Fragrance

When selecting an all-purpose cleaner, the scent and fragrance can be a crucial factor, particularly for individuals with sensitivities or allergies.

You may need to opt for a fragrance-free or mild-scented option to avoid any potential irritation or reactions. Some all-purpose cleaners come in various scents, such as lemon, lavender, or citrus, which can be a matter of personal preference.

However, if you have pets or allergies, choosing a cleaner with a mild or no fragrance is necessary to avoid any potential issues.

Be aware that some all-purpose cleaners may have a strong or overpowering scent, which can be unpleasant or even trigger headaches or nausea in some individuals.

When evaluating the scent and fragrance of an all-purpose cleaner, read reviews and product descriptions carefully to confirm the product meets your specific needs and preferences.

Multi-Surface Use

Choose an all-purpose cleaner that can tackle multiple surfaces, from countertops and sinks to faucets and floors, to streamline your cleaning routine and reduce clutter in your cleaning supply cabinet.

This will make your life easier and save you time. When selecting a multi-surface cleaner, consider one that’s gentle on surfaces yet tough on dirt and grime. It should leave no streaks or residues behind, guaranteeing a clean and safe environment.

Look for a product that’s suitable for both daily cleaning and deep cleaning tasks, and can remove tough stains and grout.

You’ll want a cleaner that’s easy to use, with convenient packaging and application methods, such as a spray bottle or wipes. This will make cleaning faster and more convenient for you.

Don’t forget to read product labels and look for certifications like EPA Safer Choice to confirm the cleaner is safe for you, your pets, and the environment.

Gentle on Hands

You’ll want to select an all-purpose cleaner that’s gentle on your hands, taking into account formulas that are free of harsh chemicals and toxins to prevent skin irritation and dryness.

When you’re shopping for a cleaner, look for gentle-on-hands formulas that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for cleaners with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E, which help to nourish and protect your skin.

It’s also essential to bear in mind the pH level of the cleaner. All-purpose cleaners with pH levels close to the natural pH of the skin (around 5.5) are generally gentler on hands than those with high or low pH levels.

If you have sensitive skin, think about cleaners labeled as ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘fragrance-free’ to reduce the risk of skin reactions. Always read the product label and follow instructions for use to minimize skin exposure and potential irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can All-Purpose Cleaners Be Used on Electronics?

When cleaning electronics, you shouldn’t use just any all-purpose cleaner, as they can damage screens or harm internal components. Instead, you’ll want to opt for a gentle, electronics-specific cleaning solution to avoid damaging your devices.

Are All-Purpose Cleaners Safe for People With Allergies?

When you’re dealing with allergies, it’s essential to choose cleaners wisely. You should opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products to minimize reactions. Always read labels carefully, and if unsure, consult a doctor or allergist for personalized advice.

Can I Use All-Purpose Cleaners on Unsealed Natural Stone?

You’re probably thinking, “I can just grab any all-purpose cleaner and get to work on that unsealed natural stone, right?” Wrong! Most all-purpose cleaners can etch or damage natural stone, so you’ll need to opt for a gentle, stone-safe cleaner instead.

Do All-Purpose Cleaners Expire or Go Bad?

You’re wondering if all-purpose cleaners expire or go bad? Typically, they don’t spoil, but their effectiveness decreases over time due to degradation of surfactants. Check the label for a “period-after-opening” symbol, which indicates a 12- to 24-month shelf life.

Can All-Purpose Cleaners Be Used as Disinfectants?

“Ah, thou seekest answers in this modern era! Can you use all-purpose cleaners as disinfectants? Alas, no, you can’t. They lack the EPA-registered disinfectant claims, and their active ingredients aren’t designed to kill germs and bacteria like true disinfectants do.”

Conclusion

You’ve navigated the maze of all-purpose cleaners, and now you hold the map to a sparkling clean kingdom.

Remember, each cleaner is a key that accesses a specific door: gentle skin compatibility, eco-friendliness, or powerful stain removal.

Choose wisely, and your domain will shine like a beacon, free from dirt and grime.

The right cleaner isn’t just a tool, but a trusted ally in your never-ending quest for cleanliness.