Ecover Toilet Cleaner, 750 ml (Pack of 1)

Product Information

The stronger and more direct the product, the more likely it is to remove dirt and calcification with minimal scrubbing. However, some build-ups and stains can be incredibly stubborn and might even resist a strong cleaner and some intense scrubbing. If this sounds familiar, our top tip is to leave a product to sit overnight and then scrub down the bowl with (and we’re aware this may sound odd) a pumice stone.

The effectiveness of these ingredients can’t be put into question, but most shop-bought toilet cleaners do come with environmental costs, as well as safety issues. What are the environmental and health effects of these chemicals? Hydrochloric acid is used for dealing with the most stubborn stains and limescale, as it’s perfect for breaking down all residues. Eco toilet cleaners contain natural active ingredients designed to kill bacteria and clean your toilet in the same way that traditional cleaners work. These handy bombs are made of 100% natural ingredients, including citric acid, bicarbonate of soda, and either tea tree or lemongrass oil.Some of the brands we reviewed are completely palm oil free across all products. They were: Greenscents and Planet Detox.

But the real ethical issue centres around manufacture. Bleach is from the organochlorine family of chemicals, compounds rarely found in nature and which can take centuries to decompose. Greenpeace has called for a complete end to organochlorine production. Greenscents – bulk sizes, which can be returned to them for reuse, and refill stations. Standard size bottles made from biopolymer, from waste sugar cane Many other companies included in this guide also offered bulk sizes (2 litres to 20 litres) to consumers so they can 'refill at home': ATTITUDE, Bio-D, ecoleaf, Eco-max, Ecover, Greenscents, and Sonett. Although the plastic impact of bulk purchasing is lower than buying individual bottles, only Greenscents containers can be returned for reuse. Attitude – Standard bottles are recycled plastic. 2L eco-refill boxes are plastic bag in a box which can be put in recycling Even though there’s no set formula used by all toilet care brands, you’re likely to see many of the same ingredients when looking at a toilet cleaner’s label.Refill stations are also becoming a more popular way to top up your toilet cleaner. This is great as the option to refill dramatically decreases the use of single-use plastic.

Prolonged exposure to hydrochloric acid has been found to cause eye and nose irritation and even respiratory tract inflammation. With everyone trying to do their bit by being a little greener, environmentally friendly cleaning products have become increasingly popular in recent years. Eco-conscious companies tend to make products that use less harsh chemicals – for toilet cleaners, look out for products that are certified as less damaging to marine creatures, as all that flushed water can eventually end up in the ocean. It’s also possible to buy concentrated eco versions of toilet cleaner. The reason this is an eco option is because the main ingredient in traditional toilet cleaners is water. This is a similar story to eco friendly laundry detergent sheets, which do away with adding water during manufacturing. Ecozone toilet cleaner is completely plant-based with no petrochemicals, artificial preservatives or synthetic fragrances. I’ve also used the Ecozone eco washing up liquid before and that was brilliant. Bio D – bulk sizes and refill stations. Majority of single bottles and bulk sizes are 100% Recycled plastic, apart from 20 litre bulk refill containers.As you can see, there are many ways you can keep your toilet clean and germ-free without using toxic chemicals that could put your health and the health of the planet on the line. Astonish, ATTITUDE, Bentley Organic, Bio-D, ecoleaf ( Suma), Fill Refill, Greenscents, Miniml, and SESI. SESI, Fill Refill and Miniml have wide networks of refill stations, and Fill Refill and Miniml sell directly to consumers too. Splosh send concentrated refill pouches (which you can return to them for recycling) in the post. All of these companies were awarded a positive Company Ethos mark for their focus on refills. Bulk-buying I’ve personally tried Serious Tissues, Naked Sprout and Who Gives A Crap. I must say, our families favourite was from locally made Serious Tissues. The reason why bleach is still one of the most popular ingredients for toilet cleaners, despite its harshness, comes down to its antibacterial power.

Chlorine bleach (aka sodium hypochlorite) is a corrosive chemical, toxic if ingested, an eye and respiratory irritant, can irritate the lungs and eyes, and in waterways can become toxic organochlorines, compounds rarely found in nature and which can take centuries to decompose. The industry says that chlorine bleach traces are present at such low concentrations in waste waters, that there is no real possibility of the formation of trace toxic by-products.

Animal testing and cruelty-free toilet cleaners

Greenscents was certified as palm oil free by the International Palm Oil Free Certification Trademark POFCAP. We have rated all the companies for their toxic chemicals policies. The companies which received a best rating had a policy because they had banned the use of parabens, phthalates and triclosan (see our feature on toxic chemicals for why we have chosen these chemicals) were: Toilet cleaners usually contain chlorine bleach to kill off bacteria and microbes. Many mainstream toilet cleaner makers portray the toilet bowl as one of the dirtiest places in the house and we need to use these deadly chemicals to keep ourselves safe. Both hydrochloric acid and bleach are known for contributing to air pollution. Issues like acid rain and chemical fog, as well as producing airborne particles, leading to health concerns for both humans and pets.