Are Dye-Free and Preservative-Free Cleaners Always the Best Choice?

Question: Are Dye-Free and Preservative-Free Cleaners Always the Best Choice?

If we're looking for the healthiest options out there, then should we always look for dye-free and preservative-free cleaners? What could be the possible benefits of cleaners with dyes and preservatives?

Answer: Natural cleaners are great and for many families they are a great choice. There are people out there who have an intolerance for common dyes used in cleaners, foods, and other common products. So it would seem that there would be no purpose for dyes, but that just isn't so.

Not just borne of a desire for aesthetic appeal, there is a practical reason to examine for dyes. Dyes in cleaners can help distinguish potentially harmful liquids from plain water, helping to limit the likelihood of accidental exposure. Dyes also can help when you are cleaning, allowing you to know which parts of a surface have been covered and cleaned.

As for preservatives in cleaners, these additions help make sure that your cleaning supplies don't go bad and become happy homes for microbes and germs. Preservatives extend and protect the life of your cleaning supplies.

Bottom Line: Families get to make their own choice on what type of cleaner they prefer to use, but arguments can be made in favor of dyes and preservatives in our cleaners.