Once we clean up our act and recognize the violations of the rights of animals by becoming vegan, we are left with a few new challenges. We know it means no eating of animals or their secretions and no wearing them, either. It means respecting the lives of animals and not commodifying them in any way. Yet it takes a while to find out what products that are accessible to us are safe to use, contain no animal ingredients, and are not contributing to the exploitation of animals. Household vegan products are now becoming more easily accessible, more economical, and of superior quality.
Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day products are available in many local grocers as well as at Whole Foods Market and Marshall's outlets. According to their website: Mrs. Meyers uses plant-based ingredients and does not test on animals. Their commitment to avoid animals testing and toxic ingredients makes them environmentally friendly and shows an ethical concern for animals. They offer a wide array of products including dishwashing soap, soap for electric dishwashers, washing machines, countertop cleaners, and even baby care products.
Planet products are carried in local stores such as Target Stores and include dishsoap, soap for electric dishwashers, and laundry products. Their products are said to be:
- Certified 100% Biodegradable
- Not Tested On Animals
- Free From Animal Ingredients
- Unscented And Uncolored
- Packaged In Recycled Content Containers
- Non-Toxic To Aquatic Life
Seventh Generation is another product that is becoming more widely available in the DFW Metroplex area and offers an alternative for vegan dishwashing and vegan laundry needs. Their website states: Seventh Generation offers a line of products that are vegan and animal-free.* Our focus is to inspire thoughtful consideration of each purchase—from the immediate impact of the products you buy (Is it safe? Is it gentle on the earth? Does it work?), to the broader impact throughout their lifecycle. (Note that their Dish Packs may use tallow on the assembly line and should be avoided.)
Feel like getting that boat ready for the lake? Try Whip-It, an online product that is known in the boating community and removes set in stains and mildew, too. Whip-It is listed as Cruelty Free and Vegan.
For excellent all around cleaning, there is Dr. Bronner's Magic All-One Soap. Available in liquid form, these excellent products may be used for personal cleaning and shampoo; diluted for mouthwash, dental cleaning and retainers; put on laundry spots for a cleaner wash; and used as dish soap or for mopping floors and countertops. A little goes a long way, so do not be put off by the initial cost. The company is also fair trade and follows ethical management practices.
Need a clean smelling kitchen or bath? Try Pure Ayre, an all-botanical vegan product that is available online. Safe for use around animals, it is also effective in eradicating their scents - even skunks, according to their website.
There are many more cleaning product lines available online. For more information, please check out The Vegans Directory.
Local retail outlets:
Whole Foods Markets
- 801 East Lamar Blvd., Arlington, TX
- 2118 Abrams Road, Dallas, TX
- 4100 Lomo Alto Drive, Highland Park, TX
- 11700 Preston Road, Dallas TX
Target Stores
- 2417 North Haskell Avenue, Dallas
- 6419 Skillman Street, Dallas
- 9440 Marsh Lane, Dallas
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