Method All Purpose Cleaner
Method All-Purpose Cleaner works well on everyday grime, but formulas vary by scent and may contain fragrance allergens. Professional review by The Cleaning Lady.
Product Brand: Method All Purpose Cleaner
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 4.59
Product In-Stock: InStock
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Introduction
Short answer: Method All-Purpose Cleaner works very well on everyday messes, especially bathroom grime, but I would not describe every formula as completely non-toxic. Formulas vary by scent and can contain fragrance allergens. Based on its cleaning performance, current labeling and ingredients, my rating remains 3 out of 5.
I have used Method cleaning products in clients’ homes for years. The All-Purpose Cleaner is one of the brand’s most popular products, but cleaning performance and “green” claims are two different questions. Here is what I found.
History of the company
Method was launched in 2001 by childhood friends Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry in San Francisco. In 2002, Target tested Method cleaning sprays and dish soaps in 90 stores; seven months later, the products expanded to Target stores nationwide. The company built its reputation by combining effective formulas, environmentally conscious choices and packaging people did not want to hide under the sink.
Does Method All Purpose Cleaner Work?
I have used many Method cleaning products, and I genuinely like how they perform. The regular All-Purpose Cleaner removes grease and everyday grime, but it is a cleaner—not a disinfectant. Method sells a separate Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner; its current directions say to leave the surface wet for 10 minutes to disinfect or five minutes to sanitize non-food-contact surfaces.
It is especially effective on toilets. In my professional experience, it loosens dried fecal spots from porcelain faster than many general-purpose cleaners, which means less scrubbing.
It also works well on dried pet messes on sealed floors. I spray the spot, let it sit for about five minutes, wipe it up and then follow the surface-care directions on the label. Keep pets away from the area until it is clean and dry.
Is Method All-Purpose Cleaner safe and eco-friendly?
Current formulas vary by scent. The current Pink Grapefruit formula, for example, uses cleaning agents and builders such as decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, sodium gluconate, sodium carbonate, citric acid and potassium hydroxide, plus fragrance and colorants.
Method says its current All-Purpose Cleaner is made without parabens, phthalates, sulfates or phosphates and that the bottle, excluding the trigger, is made from 100% collected and recycled plastic. Some scents identify fragrance allergens such as limonene. Plant- or mineral-derived does not automatically mean fragrance-free or non-irritating, so check the ingredient list and safety data sheet for the exact scent you buy.
My verdict: it is an effective everyday cleaner with better packaging choices than many conventional products, but the regular formula is not a substitute for a disinfectant.
About the Method lawsuit
Method’s former “non-toxic” labeling was challenged in class action litigation. A settlement covered certain Method products purchased from May 14, 2016 through May 13, 2021. SC Johnson admitted no wrongdoing in resolving the case.
The practical takeaway is to read the current ingredient list and label directions rather than rely on broad marketing language. Current Method product pages emphasize specific formulation and packaging claims instead of a blanket promise that every ingredient is harmless for every person.
Alternatives to Method All Purpose Cleaner
Even when a cleaner is marketed as natural, plant-based or non-toxic, compare the current label with your household’s needs. Two refillable alternatives I have personally tested are Blueland Cleaning Products and JAWS Cleaning Products.
If fragrance sensitivity or a shorter ingredient list is your priority, review the product label and safety data sheet before buying. The EWG Guide to Healthy Cleaning can be one research tool, but it should be considered alongside the manufacturer’s current disclosure and your own sensitivities.
My picks for natural all-purpose cleaner
Here are a few of my favorite natural all-purpose cleaners with straightforward uses and established ingredient information:
- Bon Ami Powder Cleaner–Bon Ami has been around for a long time and has a short list of simple ingredients like baking soda and feldspar mineral powder. You can use it on most surfaces of your house and is even an effective stainless steel and brass cleaner. Shop Bon Ami on Amazon
- Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castille Soap– I love all of Dr. Bronner’s products! They are plant and essential oil based and you can clean your whole house with them as well as yourself. They are vegan and non-GMO. See here for tips on how to clean your whole house with Dr. Bronner’s. NOTE: I am referring to the line of Castille Soaps and not Sal Suds, which does contain sodium lauryl sulfate which may be an issue for people with allergies. Shop Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castille Liquid Soap on Amazon
But the only way to truly know what is in your cleaning supplies is to make your own. I’ve created an extensive guide on how to make your own cleaning supplies here.
Conclusion
Method All-Purpose Cleaner earns 3 out of 5 stars from me. I recommend it for everyday grease, grime and bathroom messes because it works and is easy to use. I would not treat the regular formula as a disinfectant, and fragrance-sensitive households should check the exact scent’s ingredient list. If you need germ-killing performance, use the antibacterial version exactly as its label directs.
