Today, finding “green” cleaning products has never been easier — but not all brands live up to the eco-friendly promises printed on their labels. Many use clever marketing rather than real transparency, leaving eco-conscious shoppers guessing.
That’s why brands like Better Life stand out. Created by two dads — one a chemist — Better Life was built on a mission to make safe, plant-based cleaners that actually work. Their viral moment on Shark Tank only strengthened their reputation, but the real proof lies in their formulas: no sulfates, synthetic fragrances, or harsh chemicals — just simple, effective ingredients you can trust.
In this brand review, we’ll explore Better Life’s story, their commitment to sustainability, what makes their products different, and whether they’re a smart choice for your eco-conscious home.
The Story Behind Better Life
When Better Life launched in 2007, it wasn’t born in a corporate boardroom — it was born in a kitchen, between two friends who wanted safer spaces for their families. Tim Barklage and Kevin Tibbs, a father and a chemist, realized that most conventional cleaning products were packed with toxic chemicals they didn’t want near their kids or pets.
Determined to create a better option, they started formulating their own cleaners using plant-derived ingredients. Their goal wasn’t just to cut out harmful chemicals — it was to build products that were safe, effective, and genuinely better for people and the planet.
Better Life’s big break came when they appeared on Shark Tank. In one unforgettable moment, Tibbs sprayed their all-purpose cleaner into his mouth to show how safe it was. The move wasn’t just a PR stunt — it embodied the brand’s no-compromise philosophy: if you wouldn’t put it on your skin or near your kids, why put it in your home?
Since then, Better Life has expanded into a full range of household cleaners, staying true to their founding promise: no harsh chemicals, no greenwashing — just honest, plant-powered cleaning.
Better Life’s Approach to Sustainability
Better Life’s commitment to sustainability runs deeper than just avoiding harsh chemicals — it’s embedded in every step of their process.
Ingredient Integrity
All Better Life products start with plants. Their cleaners are free from sulfates, parabens, petroleum-based solvents, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. Instead, they use naturally derived ingredients like coconut oil, corn-based alcohols, and essential oils to create effective, safer formulas. Every ingredient is listed clearly, making it easy for eco-conscious consumers to know exactly what they’re bringing into their homes.
Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
Better Life also emphasizes green manufacturing practices. Their production facilities reduce waste wherever possible, and the company prioritizes water-based solutions that minimize environmental runoff. Their focus on cleaner production methods shows a genuine understanding that sustainability isn’t just about the product — it’s about the entire lifecycle.
Sustainable Packaging
Recognizing that packaging waste is a major environmental issue, Better Life uses bottles made from recycled materials and encourages recycling after use. They also design their packaging to minimize excess plastic without compromising product durability.
Cruelty-Free Standards
Better Life never tests on animals and maintains cruelty-free certifications. Their formulas are safe not just for your family, but for the planet’s other inhabitants too.
In short, Better Life doesn’t just promise a greener clean — they build it into their brand DNA, from the first ingredient to the final bottle.
What Sets Better Life Apart
In a world overflowing with “green” marketing claims, Better Life genuinely stands out — not because of flashy packaging or buzzwords, but because of the way they build their products from the ground up.
Truly Plant-Powered Formulas
Many brands use a handful of natural ingredients and fill the rest with synthetic fillers. Better Life takes a different approach. Their products are predominantly plant-based, using ingredients like coconut surfactants and corn-derived alcohols to create cleaners that are tough on dirt but gentle on the environment — and your skin.
Family- and Pet-Safe Design
Better Life was created with real families in mind. Their products avoid toxic chemicals, artificial dyes, and overpowering fragrances, making them an ideal choice for homes with young children, pets, or allergy-sensitive individuals. Cleaning your home shouldn’t come with a safety warning, and Better Life ensures it doesn’t have to.
Performance Without Compromise
There’s a lingering myth that natural cleaners don’t work as well as conventional ones. Better Life challenges that head-on. Whether it’s removing soap scum, polishing stainless steel, or tackling laundry stains, their products are designed to deliver real, noticeable results — without relying on harsh chemicals.
Scent Philosophy
Instead of masking odors with synthetic perfumes, Better Life uses subtle essential oil blends. Scents like lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus provide a light, fresh finish — never overwhelming your senses or your living space.
Transparency You Can Trust
From the ingredient list to their production methods, Better Life keeps everything out in the open. There are no hidden chemicals, no mystery additives — just clear, honest information about what goes into every bottle.
Are There Any Downsides to Better Life?
No brand is perfect — and Better Life is no exception. While their commitment to natural ingredients and non-toxic formulas is admirable, a few aspects might not suit everyone.
Requires a Bit More Elbow Grease
Compared to harsh chemical cleaners, Better Life products sometimes take a little more time and effort to get the job done. For instance, cutting through grime or soap scum might need an extra scrub or longer soak. It’s the trade-off for avoiding bleach, ammonia, and other aggressive ingredients.
Scent Sensitivity is Subjective
While many users appreciate the light, essential-oil-based fragrances, scent is a personal thing. Some find the natural blends too subtle, while others may not enjoy specific combinations like lavender and chamomile. Thankfully, Better Life often offers unscented versions as well.
Not Always the Easiest to Find In Stores
Although widely available online through Amazon and other marketplaces, Better Life products aren’t always stocked at local grocery or convenience stores. For some shoppers, that means relying on online ordering — which might limit impulse purchases or quick restocks.
Packaging Can Feel Basic
Their packaging prioritizes recyclability and simplicity over visual flair. While that’s a plus environmentally, consumers used to sleek, designer-style bottles might find Better Life’s branding a little understated.
Who Should Consider Better Life Products?
Better Life cleaning products aren’t for everyone — and that’s okay. But if your priorities lean toward health, sustainability, and ingredient transparency, this brand checks a lot of boxes.
Parents and Pet Owners
If you’ve got little hands crawling across floors or curious paws sniffing kitchen counters, you probably think twice about what’s in your cleaners. Better Life’s non-toxic, fragrance-free, and baby-safe formulas are designed with the whole family in mind.
Allergy- and Fragrance-Sensitive Households
Many conventional cleaners are loaded with synthetic fragrances and irritants. Better Life offers several unscented options and uses essential oils instead of harsh chemicals — a game changer for anyone sensitive to smells or skin reactions.
Eco-Conscious Shoppers
If you recycle, compost, and check product labels before you buy — Better Life’s focus on biodegradable formulas and recyclable packaging fits right in with your low-impact lifestyle.
People Seeking a Safer Switch
Maybe you’re trying to ditch bleach, reduce plastic, or just make better choices for your home. Better Life offers a simple starting point — effective cleaning without the chemical overload.
Newcomers to Green Cleaning
You don’t need to overhaul your life to start making eco-friendly changes. Better Life offers familiar household staples in cleaner, safer versions — no learning curve required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Better Life cleaners disinfect, and they do it using natural ingredients that are derived from plants. In fact, many of their products have been shown to kill MORE germs than conventional name brand cleaners.
Yes, Better Life products are safe for you, your children, and your pets. They don’t produce harsh fumes or toxic chemicals, so they’re good for you if you’ve got small children or breathing problems.
Better Life cleaning products are made with natural plant-based ingredients such as soap bark extract, citric acid, essential oils, and more. They don’t contain any harsh chemicals, bleaches, synthetic fragrances, dyes, sulfates, parabens, or anything nasty.
Better Life products are made in the USA. When you buy their products, you’re helping support the US economy and American jobs while also supporting the planet.
Should You Buy Better Life Cleaning Products?
From dish soap to window cleaner, Better Life has a lot of great cleaning products that are well… better for life.
However, after my review, one product stands above the rest for me — their Better Life Laundry Detergent Unscented.
This natural laundry detergent was able to clean both my clothes and my baby’s without causing sensitivities or allergic reactions for either of us. I love how concentrated it is too because I was able to wash several loads of laundry from just a single bottle.
Whether you’re looking for an all-purpose cleaner or steel polish, I can say that their products are definitely worth checking out.
