An Immaculate Concept

We hear from lots of customers that they love shopping at Sprouts, but still need to go to the "regular" grocery store for cleaning products.

Is it really the case that you need a bottle of impossibly blue liquid or a dishwashing powder made out of unpronounceable granules to get the job done? Is the alternative simply so much elbow grease, scrubbing, bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, squatting that you won't need the gym?

The fact is that the natural products industry has come a long way in the world of household cleansers. There are now quite a few viable brands and products that do the trick while still remaining earth-friendly. And Sprouts has a pretty good lineup of them.

Biokleen: With a tagline like "Tough on Dirt, Gentle on the Earth" you know they're doing something good. All Biokleen products are made with the safest ingredients available, and are free from synthetic fragrances and dyes. They are biodegradable and do not break down into harmful compounds. They are non-corrosive, non-reactive and non-flammable. From drain cleaner and dish soap to laundry soap and fabric freshener, Biokleen can meet all your cleaning needs.

Citra Solv & Citra Dish: In this eco-friendly line, you'll find dishwashing liquids in several different scents, dishwasher powder, as well as multi-purpose cleaning sprays and produce washes. The company is dedicated to the idea that people should enjoy high-quality cleaning products without sacrificing performance or the environment. A noble idea, indeed.

Seventh Generation: Protecting Planet Home. For 20 years, the Folks at Seventh Generation have made it their mission to protect your home and world with safe and effective household products. Check out their website for tips and how-to's when it comes to cleaning.

In addition to the lines above, Sprouts also carries a line of Sprouts brand household products, including laundry detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, and dishwashing agents. All are made with renewable, biodegradable resources and are petroleum-free. Sprouts cleaning products are never tested on animals.

And if there's no time to run to Sprouts to pick up your spring cleaning needs, make your own!

All Purpose Cleaner
Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle. Great for cleaning bathroom and kitchen surfaces.

Gentle Surface Scrub
Mix three parts baking soda with one part water in a glass jar to form a paste. Spread on surface and wipe with a wet sponge or cloth. For stubborn stains, let paste stand for 10-15 minutes before sponging off.

Drain Cleaner
Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and let stand for 15 minutes, then pour one gallon of hot water down the drain.

Furniture Polish
Mix one cup of olive oil with 1/2 cup of lemon juice in a glass jar. Rub sparingly and gently on hardwood furniture surfaces. Do not use on hardwood floors as the oil may be too slippery.