Meyers vs Seventh Generation: Which Brand Cleans Best?
Tired of endless cleaning product options? The quest for a sparkling home often leads us down a rabbit hole of choices. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison: Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day versus Seventh Generation.
Both brands have carved out a significant space in the eco-friendly cleaning market, promising effective cleaning power with a focus on natural ingredients. But which one truly reigns supreme? We’ll examine everything from ingredient lists to scent profiles and overall cleaning performance.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Mrs. Meyer’s or a loyal Seventh Generation user, or simply curious about which brand aligns best with your cleaning needs, this comparison will provide valuable insights. Get ready to discover which brand will become your new cleaning companion.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Meyers | Seventh Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredients | Plant-derived | Plant-derived |
| Scent Variety | Wide | Moderate |
| Availability | Widely Available | Widely Available |
| Certifications | Some Products | EPA Safer Choice |
| Packaging | Recyclable Bottles | Recyclable Bottles |
| Animal Testing | No | No |
| Concentrated Formulas | Yes | Yes |
| Specific Product Lines | Household Cleaners, Hand Soaps | Dish Soap, Laundry Detergent |
| pH Balanced | Yes | Yes |
| Biodegradable | Yes | Yes |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | Some Products | Some Products |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Scent Options
- Meyers: Offers a wide variety of garden-inspired scents, often using essential oils. The scents are generally strong and can linger. However, some users find the scents overpowering or artificial.
- Seventh Generation: Focuses on more subtle, plant-derived scents, with options like free & clear for those sensitive to fragrances. The scent profiles are generally milder and less likely to cause irritation, but may not appeal to those who prefer stronger fragrances.
- Winner: seventh generation
Ingredient Transparency
- Meyers: Provides ingredient lists, but some formulations may include less transparent ingredients. They often use proprietary blends for scent. The degree of “natural” can vary.
- Seventh Generation: Known for its commitment to transparency, clearly listing all ingredients and avoiding dyes, synthetic fragrances, and chlorine bleach. Ingredients are primarily plant-derived.
- Winner: seventh generation
Environmental Impact
- Meyers: Uses some plant-derived ingredients and offers refill options. However, some packaging might not be fully recyclable, and the overall environmental impact can vary depending on the specific product.
- Seventh Generation: Emphasizes its commitment to sustainable practices, including using plant-based ingredients, recyclable packaging, and avoiding ingredients harmful to aquatic life.
- Winner: seventh generation
Cleaning Performance
- Meyers: Generally effective for everyday cleaning tasks, with varying performance depending on the product and surface. Some users report good results, while others find it less effective on tough stains.
- Seventh Generation: Designed for effective cleaning with plant-derived ingredients. Performance varies based on the product, but generally considered effective for common household messes.
- Winner: Tie
Price Point
- Meyers: Generally priced in the mid-range, often slightly higher than conventional cleaning products. Pricing can vary based on the product and retailer.
- Seventh Generation: Usually priced similarly to Meyers, also falling in the mid-range. The cost is often considered competitive compared to other eco-friendly brands.
- Winner: Tie
Availability
- Meyers: Widely available in most major retailers, including grocery stores, drugstores, and online. Easy to find in most locations.
- Seventh Generation: Also widely available in most major retailers and online, making it accessible to a broad consumer base.
- Winner: Tie
Packaging
- Meyers: Packaging can vary, with some being recyclable and some not. The packaging design is often aesthetically pleasing.
- Seventh Generation: Focuses on recyclable packaging, including bottles made from recycled plastic. Packaging design is functional and emphasizes its eco-friendly approach.
- Winner: seventh generation
Sensitivity & Allergies
- Meyers: While they offer some products for sensitive skin, the strong scents can be problematic for some. Some ingredients could trigger allergies.
- Seventh Generation: Offers a “free & clear” line specifically designed for sensitive skin and those with allergies. Their products generally use fewer potential allergens.
- Winner: seventh generation
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Scent Variety | Meyers |
| EPA Safer Choice Certification | Seventh Generation |
| Product Line Focus | Tie |
| Ingredient Transparency | Tie |
| Availability | Tie |
| Environmental Impact | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Plant-Derived Ingredients: Both Meyers and Seventh Generation prioritize using plant-derived ingredients in their formulas. This focus aims to reduce the use of harsh chemicals and offer more environmentally friendly cleaning options.
- Biodegradable Formulas: Both brands emphasize the use of biodegradable formulas. This means that their products break down naturally, minimizing their impact on the environment and reducing potential pollution.
- No Animal Testing: Both Meyers and Seventh Generation are committed to cruelty-free practices, and neither brand tests their products on animals. This is a common value for eco-conscious brands.
- Recyclable Packaging: Both brands use recyclable packaging for their products, contributing to waste reduction efforts. This packaging helps reduce the overall environmental footprint of the products.
- Focus on Sustainability: Both brands aim to provide sustainable cleaning solutions. This includes ingredient sourcing, manufacturing, and packaging practices.
Meyers Vs Seventh Generation Buying Guide
Cleaning Performance
Both Meyer’s and Seventh Generation offer effective cleaning solutions, but they approach it differently. Meyer’s often uses plant-derived ingredients with a focus on fragrance, which can sometimes impact cleaning power, particularly on tougher stains. Seventh Generation is known for its strong cleaning capabilities, even with its commitment to plant-based ingredients and a focus on removing dirt and grime. Seventh Generation tends to score higher in independent tests for overall cleaning performance, but the difference may not be noticeable for everyday cleaning tasks.
Ingredient Transparency and Safety
Both brands prioritize ingredient transparency, but there are nuances. Seventh Generation is very clear about its ingredients and strives to avoid harsh chemicals, making it a good choice for those concerned about sensitivities. Meyer’s also lists its ingredients but may use some fragrance components that could be irritating to some individuals. Seventh Generation often provides more detailed information on its ingredient sourcing and environmental impact, which can be a key factor for eco-conscious consumers.
Environmental Impact
Both brands aim for a reduced environmental footprint, but their approaches vary. Seventh Generation emphasizes biodegradable formulas and sustainable sourcing, making it a leader in environmental responsibility. Meyer’s also uses plant-derived ingredients and offers refill options, but its overall environmental impact might be slightly lower due to its focus on fragrance and potential use of certain fragrance components that are not always eco-friendly. Choosing between them depends on your specific environmental priorities.
Fragrance and Scent Options
Meyer’s is renowned for its diverse range of pleasant, natural-smelling fragrances, offering a more sensory experience during cleaning. Seventh Generation also provides scented products, but its focus is less on complex fragrances and more on gentle, natural scents. Meyer’s fragrances can be a major selling point for those who enjoy a heavily scented cleaning experience. Seventh Generation is a better choice if you prefer more subtle, unscented, or fragrance-free options for sensitive individuals.
Price and Availability
Both brands are widely available in various stores and online. The pricing is comparable, though this can vary depending on the product type and retailer. Meyer’s may sometimes offer slightly lower prices, especially for their most basic products. Consider your location and the availability of sales and promotions when comparing prices. Be sure to compare the prices per unit to ensure you are getting the best value, and consider the size of the product.
Product Variety and Uses
Both Meyer’s and Seventh Generation provide a wide range of cleaning products for various household tasks. Meyer’s often has a broader selection of scented products, including candles, air fresheners, and hand soaps, which creates a more cohesive brand experience. Seventh Generation is known for its laundry detergents, dish soaps, and other products that are very effective. Consider which products are most essential to your cleaning routine when choosing between them.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Meyers If…
- You prefer a wider variety of scents and fragrances.
- You enjoy products with aesthetically pleasing packaging.
- You are looking for household cleaning products and hand soaps.
- You value products that are widely available in various retail locations.
Buy Seventh Generation If…
- You prioritize products with the EPA Safer Choice certification.
- You are looking for dish soap and laundry detergent options.
- You prefer products with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
- You want products with clearly labeled ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand is better for sensitive skin?
Seventh Generation is generally considered better for sensitive skin due to its focus on hypoallergenic formulas and avoiding harsh chemicals, dyes, and artificial fragrances. They are often dermatologist-tested and formulated to minimize irritation. Meyer’s products, while using natural ingredients, may contain fragrances that could trigger sensitivities in some individuals. Always test a small area first.
Are Meyer’s and Seventh Generation environmentally friendly?
Both brands strive to be environmentally friendly. Seventh Generation emphasizes biodegradable formulas, sustainable sourcing, and reduced packaging. Meyer’s uses plant-derived ingredients and offers refill options. However, Seventh Generation’s commitment to avoiding certain chemicals and its transparency about sourcing may give it a slight edge in terms of overall environmental impact. Look for certifications.
Where can I buy Meyer’s and Seventh Generation products?
Both brands are widely available in major grocery stores, supermarkets, drugstores, and online retailers like Amazon and Target. Availability may vary by location. Check the websites of your preferred retailers to confirm product availability and compare prices. Online retailers often offer subscription services and bulk purchasing options, which can be convenient.
Do Meyer’s and Seventh Generation test on animals?
Both Meyer’s and Seventh Generation are committed to cruelty-free practices and do not test their products on animals. Both brands are certified by organizations like Leaping Bunny, which ensures that their products and ingredients are not tested on animals. This is a significant factor for consumers who prioritize ethical and humane practices in their purchases.
What are the key ingredients in Meyer’s cleaning products?
Meyer’s uses a blend of plant-derived ingredients, including essential oils for fragrance, and other cleaning agents. They focus on natural ingredients, but the exact composition varies by product. Review the ingredient list carefully if you have any sensitivities. The ingredient lists are typically available on product packaging and online for added transparency.
What certifications do Seventh Generation products have?
Seventh Generation products often carry certifications like USDA Certified Biobased Product, Leaping Bunny (cruelty-free), and EPA Safer Choice. These certifications indicate their commitment to using sustainable practices, ingredients, and ensuring consumer safety. These certifications provide consumers with confidence in the brand’s environmental and ethical responsibility.
Which brand has the stronger cleaning power?
Seventh Generation is generally considered to have slightly stronger cleaning power due to the inclusion of effective cleaning agents. Meyer’s cleaning products work well but emphasize fragrance, which can sometimes affect cleaning performance, especially on stubborn stains. Seventh Generation products are formulated to tackle tough messes while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Final Verdict
Both Meyer’s and Seventh Generation offer high-quality, plant-based cleaning solutions, but they cater to different priorities. Seventh Generation excels in cleaning performance and environmental friendliness, while Meyer’s appeals to those who prioritize fragrance. Choosing between the two depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your sensitivity to fragrances, the importance of deep cleaning, and your environmental concerns.
Winner: Seventh Generation