Disinfect Naturally: Seventh Generation's Surface Cleaner

When it comes to cleaning products, we usually stick to simple, non-toxic solutions like baking soda and vinegar and avoid harsh chemicals and synthetics.

However, we do admit to wanting a little extra protection during cold and flu season. So we were interested to discover Seventh Generation's Multi-Surface Cleaner, the first natural disinfectant approved by the EPA.

According to Seventh Generation, their Multi-Surface Cleaner kills over 99.99% of household germs on hard, non-porous surfaces, specifically Inﬂuenza A, H1N1, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. Thymol, a component of thyme oil, tops the fairly simple list of ingredients, which have been approved as "food grade" by the EPA.

We like the natural lemongrass and thyme fragrance, and though we can't speak to its effectiveness from a chemistry standpoint, the cleaner does at least satisfy our psychological desire for something a little stronger.

Have you used Seventh Generation's Multi-Surface Cleaner? What do you think?

• For more information, visit Seventh Generation

(Image: Seventh Generation)

Comments (3)

I almost never use a disinfectant for anything. I tend to rely on the soap and water method. However, on occasion, I feel like I really need something like this.

For instance, we're looking for a house to buy and a lot of the places we've seen would need this stuff sprayed on every surface. :)

Tea tree essential oil is a powerful antibacterial and anti-fungus. I think cinnamon has similar properties. I add a couple of drops of tea tree oil to my multi-purpose cleaner (vinegar, baking soda, water) and feel confident that it kills enough nasty things.

Hey, it's definitely better than using something like Lysol but this is just marketing, if you ask me. Sloutre and Mniche are right. Soap, vinegar & tea tree oil will all do the trick.