Ammonia, a colorless glass with a distinct pungent and harsh odor is a powerful cleaning agent in many cleaning products. Many, from commercial cleaning companies to household cleaners take advantage of it being able to effectively cut through dirt, grime, soap scum, wall stains, grease, and more.
However, you’re probably reading this because you want to find out what exactly are the cleaning products that don’t contain ammonia. Why? Because despite its effectiveness, it’s not the best for your health.
The New York State Department warns of the dangers of ammonia, in that exposure to higher concentrations of this substance can lead to “burning of the nose, throat, and respiratory tract”. In extreme cases, they warn that it will even lead to respiratory failure.
That’s a mouthful. No wonder you’re here! Luckily, we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of some of the most popular ammonia-containing cleaning products to avoid and what to use instead.
| Product Name | View Product / Active Ingredients |
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Windex Original Glass Cleaner |
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Austin’s Lemon Scented Ammonia |
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Armaly Brands Brillo Lemon Parson Ammonia |
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AmmoSorb Natural Ammonia Odor Elimination Deodorizer Granules |
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Sprayway Ammoniated Glass Cleaner |
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Bird Brand Household Ammonia |
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Brillo Basics Shower Cleaner With Ammonia |
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Lysol Kitchen Pro Spray Cleaner and Degreaser |
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Sparkle Plenty Chandelier Cleaner |
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LA's Totally Awesome Window Clean Glass & Surface Cleaner |
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Clean Shower™ Daily Shower Cleaner |
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Zep Streak-Free Glass Cleaner |
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Member's Mark Commercial Sanitizer |
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Quaternary Sanitizing Tablets (Steramine®) |
20 Cleaning Alternatives Without Ammonia
Ammonia may be a potent cleaner but it’s not always the right choice for every cleaning task.
If you’re sensitive to harsh and pungent fumes, or have young children or pets at home, or simply want to steer clear of harsh chemicals, here are some effective alternatives:
| Product Name | Link To Buy / Product Information |
|---|---|
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Sprayway Ammonia-Free Glass Cleaner |
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Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Mirror & Window Cleaner |
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Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner |
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SC Johnson Professional Windex Ammonia-Free |
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Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner |
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Method All-Purpose Cleaner |
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Better Life Natural All-Purpose Cleaner |
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Puracy Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner |
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ECOS All-Purpose Cleaner |
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Branch Basics Concentrate |
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Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner |
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Bon Ami Powder Cleanser |
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Windex Ammonia-Free Glass Cleaner |
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Clorox Free & Clear Multi-Surface Cleaner |
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Green Works All-Purpose Cleaner |
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Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner: |
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Aunt Fannie's Vinegar Wash Floor Cleaner |
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Biokleen Bac-Out Stain + Odor Remover |
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Method Squirt + Mop Hard Floor Cleaner |
More FAQs About Cleaning With Ammonia
Here are other questions you may be curious to know when cleaning with any product that contains ammonia.
How to tell if something has ammonia?
The easiest way is to read the product label or look up for the product ingredients online. Remember, most labels do not label ammonia as “ammonia” per se. Instead it will be indicated as ammonium hydroxide.
Is vinegar ammonia?
No. Ammonia is in gas form, while vinegar is acetic acid. They are not the same.
Is ammonia safe for cleaning?
When all safety procedures and product instructions are followed, it can be safe to clean with ammonia.
Other precautions you should adhere to when dealing with ammonia-based cleaning products is to wear gloves, protective goggles, and a facemask.
Open windows or ensure proper ventilation in the space you’re cleaning to prevent the fumes from sitting in one area.
Key Takeaway
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ammonia exposure leads to chronic irritation of the respiratory tract, with cough, asthma, and lung fibrosis among the most reported symptoms.
This stark reminder emphasizes why you should carefully consider the cleaning products you bring into your home or facility.
Sometimes, the risk of possible health complications may far outweigh a person’s decision to clean with ammonia, despite its effectiveness.
We’re not saying you should never use ammonia-based products for cleaning.
But it’s crucial to be aware of their potential hazards and follow safety procedures when cleaning with this chemical.