Cleaning the Safe and Smart Way

Cleaning Supplies

By Milena Damjanov from Health.com

Got a mess? Get your place in shape fast with these great finds.

Naturally Clean

Instead of harsh phosphates, Method Lil' Bowl Blu Eucalyptus Mint Toilet Bowl Cleaner ($6) uses eco-friendly lactic acid to make your loo gleam and your bathroom smell great.

Power scrub
Bon Ami Cleaning Powder ($1.49) has been around since 1886! It contains natural feldspar abrasive and has no detergent, bleach, or dye -- meaning it's gentle on you and the planet.

Soak It Up

These easy-grip Polka-Dot Sponges ($3 each) are so darn cute, cleaning almost won't feel like a chore. (Just remember to disinfect sponges twice a week by soaking them, then putting them in the microwave on high for two minutes; let cool before removing.)

Make your own
Cleaning solution, that is. On the side of the Do-It-Yourself Cleaner Contour Spray Bottle ($6.99), you'll find instructions for mixing up simple, nontoxic cleaners using natural ingredients like baking soda and tea tree oil. Bonus: You'll save a few bucks.

Clutter-Buster

Collapsible (for easy storage) and water-resistant, the Scout Junque Trunk from Bungalow (shown in Nottingham Stripe, $40) is roomy enough to hold shoes and boots, kids' toys, or old magazines.

Sort it out
No need to have two separate trash bins sucking up floor space in your kitchen: the stainless steel Simplehuman Rectangular Recycler ($180) is a sleek twofer. We like that the tight lid keeps in icky odors.