7 Target Cleaning Products That Are Actually Pregnancy Safe

Decoding the Ingredient List

Before we dive into specific products, let’s build your confidence as a label-reader. During pregnancy, your body is working overtime, and it’s wise to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals that can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Here’s a quick guide:

Chemicals and Ingredients to Avoid:

• Phthalates: Often hidden in synthetic “fragrances,” these are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormones. If you see “fragrance” on a label without a mention of it being from essential oils, it’s best to skip it. Opt for “fragrance-free” or naturally scented products.
• Parabens: These preservatives also mimic estrogen and are best avoided during pregnancy.
• Ammonia: Commonly found in glass cleaners, its fumes can be harsh and may cause nausea and breathing difficulties, especially with a heightened sense of smell during pregnancy.
• Bleach (Chlorine): The fumes are potent and can be irritating to the respiratory system. Mixing bleach with other cleaners (especially ammonia) can create toxic chloramine gas.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids, found in many air fresheners, aerosol sprays, and harsh cleaners. They can contribute to poor indoor air quality.

What to Look For (The Good Stuff):

• Plant-Based Ingredients: Look for cleaners derived from coconuts, corn, or other natural sources.
• “Free & Clear”: This label usually indicates the product is free of dyes and perfumes, which is a great starting point.
• Third-Party Certifications: Seals like the EPA Safer Choice logo mean the product has been reviewed by the Environmental Protection Agency and is safer for human health and the environment.
• Simple Ingredients: Often, the best cleaners have the shortest ingredient lists. Things like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils (used cautiously) can be powerful cleaners.

Remember, your well-being is paramount. If a smell is too strong or makes you feel nauseous, trust your body and step away. Your heightened senses during pregnancy are a natural protective mechanism.

We walked the virtual and physical aisles of Target to find the best options that are both effective and mindful of your health. Here are seven fantastic products to add to your cart.

1. Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner, Free & Clear

This is a workhorse for your cleaning caddy. It cuts through grease and grime on a multitude of surfaces, from countertops to high chairs, without any harsh solvents or synthetic fragrances.

• Pros: Fragrance-free, plant-based ingredients, EPA Safer Choice certified, widely available.
• Cons: May require a bit more scrubbing on very tough, stuck-on messes compared to conventional cleaners.

2. Everspring Ammonia-Free Glass Cleaner, Lemon & Mint

Get streak-free shine on mirrors and windows without the overpowering smell of ammonia. Everspring is Target’s own brand, focusing on natural ingredients. The light, natural scent is refreshing rather than overwhelming.

• Pros: 91% biobased ingredients, pleasant natural scent, effective on glass and stainless steel.
• Cons: Some users prefer a completely unscented option for glass.

3. Method Antibac Bathroom Cleaner, Spearmint

Tackling the bathroom can feel like a daunting task, but this cleaner makes it easier. It uses citric acid to disinfect, killing 99.9% of household germs without bleach or other harsh chemicals. The spearmint scent is invigorating and can help combat pregnancy-related nausea.

• Pros: Disinfects without harsh chemicals, pleasant scent, effective against soap scum.
• Cons: The scent, while natural, might be too strong for those with extreme scent sensitivities.

4. All Liquid Laundry Detergent, Free Clear for Sensitive Skin

Your skin can become more sensitive during pregnancy, and you’ll soon be washing tiny, delicate baby clothes. This detergent is a fantastic choice for the whole family. It’s tough on stains but gentle on skin, as it’s 100% free of perfumes and dyes.

• Pros: Recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians, highly effective stain remover, economical.
• Cons: Lacks the “clean laundry” smell some people are used to from scented detergents.

5. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap, Lemon Verbena

You’ll be washing a lot of bottles, pump parts, and dishes. This dish soap is made with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, making it tough on grease but gentle on your hands. The scents are derived from flowers and herbs, not harsh chemicals.

• Pros: Biodegradable formula, cuts through grease effectively, wonderful scents.
• Cons: While naturally derived, those with extreme sensitivities may still prefer a fragrance-free option.

6. Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner

If you have hardwood floors, this is the gold standard. It’s a water-based, biodegradable, and pH-neutral formula that is incredibly safe for crawling babies and pregnant mamas. It cleans effectively without leaving a dulling residue.

• Pros: GREENGUARD GOLD certified for low VOC emissions, dries fast, no residue.
• Cons: Specifically for hardwood, so it’s not an all-in-one floor solution.

7. Lemi Shine Disinfecting Wipes

Sometimes you just need the convenience of a wipe. These are a fantastic alternative to traditional disinfecting wipes that use harsh chemicals. Powered by citric acid, they kill over 99.9% of bacteria and viruses without bleach or quaternary ammonium compounds (quats).

• Pros: EPA Safer Choice certified, bleach-free disinfection, convenient for quick cleanups.
• Cons: Can leave a slight residue that may require a follow-up wipe with a damp cloth on some surfaces.

Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a simple table to help you decide which products are right for your nesting needs. Screenshot this for your next Target trip!

If you want to go even more natural or find yourself out of a specific cleaner, your pantry likely holds the ingredients for powerful, safe cleaning solutions. Here are a couple of simple recipes:

All-Purpose Vinegar Cleaner

1. In a clean spray bottle, mix one part white vinegar and one part water.
2. If you like, add the peel of a lemon or a few sprigs of rosemary and let it infuse for a few days for a nicer scent.
3. Shake well before each use. It’s perfect for countertops, sinks, and even some floors. (Note: Avoid using vinegar on natural stone like granite or marble as it can etch the surface).

Baking Soda Scrubber

1. Create a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water.
2. Apply the paste to sinks, tubs, or even inside the oven.
3. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then gently scrub with a sponge and rinse thoroughly. It’s a fantastic, fume-free alternative to harsh abrasive cleaners.

Beyond choosing the right products, how you clean matters. Your body is working hard, so it’s important to support it and take extra precautions.

• Ventilate, Ventilate, Ventilate: Always open windows or turn on a fan before you start cleaning, even when using natural products. Good air circulation is your best friend.
• Wear Gloves: Protect the skin on your hands by wearing rubber or latex-free gloves. This simple step minimizes skin absorption of any ingredients.
• Read All Labels: Even with safe products, it’s a good habit to read the instructions and safety information before use.
• Never Mix Cleaning Products: This is a crucial rule for everyone, but especially during pregnancy. Mixing cleaners can create dangerous chemical reactions and toxic fumes.
• Listen to Your Body: Pregnancy can bring on fatigue and dizziness. Don’t push yourself. If you feel tired, lightheaded, or nauseous, take a break. The cleaning can wait.
• Ask for Help: Bending, scrubbing, and reaching can become more difficult and uncomfortable as your belly grows. Don’t hesitate to ask your partner, a friend, or a family member to help with more strenuous tasks like mopping floors or scrubbing the tub. You’re growing a human—you deserve the support!