Kid-safe cleaning supplies for a healthier home and happy kids

Emily Johnson

Written by Emily Johnson — a seasoned home cleaning expert helping families in Buffalo, Tonawanda, and Amherst keep their homes spotless and stress-free.

Emily Johnson

Written by Emily Johnson — a seasoned home cleaning expert helping families in Buffalo, Tonawanda, and Amherst keep their homes spotless and stress-free.

May 20, 2025

7 min

The best cleaning supplies for families with kids: a complete guide

Let me tell you something about keeping a house clean with little ones running around – it’s like trying to brush your teeth while eating Oreos. Nearly impossible, often hilarious, and sometimes just plain messy. But here’s the kicker: those conventional cleaning products with their skull-and-crossbones warnings? They might get the job done, but at what cost to your family’s health?

As a parent, you’re caught in the ultimate catch-22: you want a clean home for your kids, but you don’t want to expose them to toxic chemicals that could harm them. It’s like choosing between letting them play in dirt or bathing them in liquid that could make their skin peel off. Not exactly a win-win.

But I’ve got good news. You don’t have to choose between a clean home and a safe one. Let’s dive into the world of kid-safe cleaning products and family-friendly supplies that’ll transform your cleaning routine without putting your little ones at risk.

Understanding the dangers of traditional cleaning products

Before we get to the good stuff, let’s talk about why conventional cleaning products deserve the side-eye when you’ve got kids in the house.

Traditional mainstream cleaning products often contain toxic chemicals that can cause everything from minor skin irritations to serious respiratory problems. In fact, a Norwegian study suggested that exposure to these cleaning products has the same effect on the lungs as smoking 20 cigarettes a day. That’s right – TWENTY cigarettes.

Children are particularly vulnerable to chemical exposure for two main reasons:

They have smaller body mass.
Their bodies are still developing.

Plus, we all know kids have that charming habit of putting everything in their mouths. Poisonous cleaning products can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and even more serious health issues if ingested. Not exactly what you signed up for when you were dreaming about parenthood, huh?

Kid-safe all-purpose cleaners

Branch Basics all-purpose cleaner

When it comes to cleaning around babies and children of all ages, Branch Basics all-purpose cleaner tops the list. It’s economical and simple to make by combining their concentrate with water.

This human-safe, all-natural cleaner is excellent for:

Removing germs
Cleaning baby toys
Wiping down surfaces
Removing stains on clothing
Cleaning the floor
Washing produce
Cleaning baby bottles
Hand-washing dishes
Wiping down high chairs
Cleaning car seats

It’s important to note that Branch Basics is designed to remove germs but is not a disinfectant – and that’s intentional. The company focuses on creating human-safe cleaning products that effectively clean without harsh chemicals.

DIY vinegar & water solution

Natural mamas everywhere swear by vinegar, and for good reason. Its natural acetic acid acts as a gentle yet effective non-toxic cleaner for removing dirt and grime while eliminating certain germs like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes.

To make your own DIY all-purpose cleaner with vinegar:

Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar with water in a squeeze bottle.
Squeeze or pour onto surfaces to clean and kill germs.

Important safety note: Since vinegar contains acetic acid (a lung irritant when sprayed), it’s recommended to pour or squeeze it rather than spray it around your baby’s developing lungs. Never spray vinegar in the presence of babies, children, older people, or those with lung or chronic health conditions.

Kid-safe cleaning spray

Want something your kids can safely use to help with cleaning? Try this simple mixture:

1 cup water
1/4 cup white vinegar
20 drops essential oils (a kid-favorite mix is 10 drops of lemon and 10 drops of orange)

This spray is perfect for getting little ones involved in age-appropriate cleaning tasks without worrying about harmful chemical exposure.

Eco-friendly brand options

Seventh Generation all-purpose cleaner

Seventh Generation is a trusted name in the eco-friendly cleaning space. Their products never use bleach, ammonia, parabens, or phthalates, keeping your home free from toxicity.

Mrs. Meyer’s tub and tile cleaner

Mrs. Meyer’s products are another excellent option for families looking for effective yet safer cleaning solutions. Their tub and tile cleaner handles bathroom messes without the harsh chemical fumes of traditional bathroom cleaners.

Dapple products

Created by two moms dedicated to finding healthy cleaning products for those unique baby messes, Dapple products are made without parabens, synthetic dyes, or formaldehyde. Their cleaning wipes are particularly great for toys or to wipe away those grimy fingerprints from countertops or high chairs. They use plant-based ingredients and undergo clinical evaluation to ensure they’re safe for a baby’s sensitive skin.

Method all-purpose cleaner

Method’s products are made from natural ingredients that are safe for your family and pets. The company was founded on the principle of creating products that eliminate dirt without using harsh chemicals that make you hold your breath.

Their all-purpose cleaner uses biodegradable cleaners like coconut and corn to break down dirt and grease around your home.

Attitude products

Attitude’s products are certified by various eco-labels, making them a popular choice for environmentally-conscious families. They focus on creating high-quality cleaning products that are safe for everyone in the household.

Professional cleaning service in Buffalo, Amherst and Tonawanda

If you’re looking for a trusted and high-quality cleaning service in Buffalo, Tonawanda, or Amherst —

get a free quote online.
You can also call us at 716-289-1966.

DIY cleaning solutions for specific needs

Toy cleaner

Keeping toys clean is absolutely essential, especially since babies often put them directly in their mouths. Here’s a simple and effective DIY toy cleaner:

Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
Add a few drops of tea tree oil, known for its potent antibacterial properties.

This natural toy cleaner can be sprayed directly onto toys and wiped clean with a soft cloth, leaving them fresh and sanitized without any harmful residues.

Natural cleaning hacks

Another great approach is to utilize natural cleaning hacks with ingredients like:

Lemon
White vinegar
Essential oils
Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)

These ingredients can be combined in various ways to tackle different cleaning challenges around your home without introducing toxic chemicals.

Cleaning tools and techniques

Microfiber mops

Use a microfiber mop to pick up dust from wood and tile floors. A slightly damp mop that doesn’t leave water behind can do a great job of cleaning without the need for harsh chemicals.

Kid-friendly cleaning caddy

Want to get the kids involved in cleaning? Create a special cleaning caddy just for them with safe supplies they can use to help around the house. Include items like:

Kid-safe cleaning spray
Microfiber cloths
Small dust pan and brush
Child-sized gloves (if desired)

This not only keeps dangerous products out of little hands but also teaches responsibility and life skills.

Why choose child-friendly cleaning products?

Beyond the immediate safety concerns, there are compelling reasons to make the switch to kid-safe cleaning products.

Health benefits

Child-friendly cleaning products are typically non-toxic and made with safe ingredients. They help avoid the range of health problems associated with traditional cleaning products, from minor skin irritations to serious respiratory issues.

Environmental impact

Kid-safe cleaning products are also typically better for the environment. Traditional cleaning products can contribute to air pollution, plastic pollution, and water pollution, but child-safe cleaning products are often made with natural, biodegradable ingredients.

Peace of mind

Perhaps the most valuable benefit is simply knowing that your clean home isn’t harboring invisible dangers for your curious little explorers. You can relax knowing that if your toddler licks the coffee table (and let’s be honest, they will), they won’t be ingesting toxic residue.

Creating a safe cleaning routine with kids

Involve kids safely

Getting kids involved in age-appropriate cleaning tasks helps teach responsibility while keeping your home tidy. Using kid-safe products means you don’t have to worry about chemical exposure during these teaching moments.

Some age-appropriate tasks might include:

Toddlers: Wiping surfaces with a damp cloth.
Preschoolers: Helping spray and wipe with kid-safe cleaners.
School-age children: More independent cleaning with safe products.

Storage solutions

Even with kid-safe products, proper storage is important. Create a dedicated space for all cleaning supplies, preferably up high or in secured cabinets for the more potent options.

Consider using clear labels so older children know which products they can use independently and which require adult supervision.

The bottom line: clean doesn’t have to mean toxic

The days when “clean” meant “chemical smell” are behind us. Today’s parents have more options than ever for keeping their homes spotless without compromising their children’s health.

Whether you choose ready-made eco-friendly products or go the DIY route with simple ingredients from your pantry, you can create a cleaning routine that works for your family without introducing harmful chemicals into your home.

Remember, the goal isn’t just a clean house – it’s a healthy home where your kids can thrive. And that doesn’t require skull-and-crossbones warning labels on your cleaning supplies.

So next time you’re tackling those sticky fingerprints on every surface (how do they even reach that high?), reach for something that cleans effectively without putting your family at risk. Your kids’ developing bodies – and your peace of mind – will thank you.

Detailed and affordable home cleaning services for busy families in Amherst, Tonawanda, and Buffalo

If keeping your home clean while caring for kids feels overwhelming, you’re not alone! Families in Buffalo often struggle with the constant messes, making it vital to use safe, effective cleaning supplies. In Tonawanda, many busy parents find peace of mind in using eco-friendly products that are kid-safe while still getting the job done. Amherst residents appreciate that a clean house should not come at the expense of their children’s health. If you need assistance in maintaining a clean, safe home, just get a free quote online or give us a call at 716-289-1966.