When it comes to green cleaning products, two brands stand out from the crowd: Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove. Both offer plant-based, non-toxic cleaners made without harsh chemicals.
But how do you decide which is right for your home?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove on ingredients, effectiveness, price, sustainability, and more. Read on to discover the pros and cons of each green cleaning line and determine which is the best fit for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Branch Basics | Mrs. Grove |
| Ingredients | 100% natural, plant-based | Mostly natural with some synthetics |
| Price | $$ Premium | $ Budget-friendly |
| Sustainability | Highly sustainable practices | Moderate sustainability efforts |
| Product Range | Streamlined 3-product system | Wide assortment for specific jobs |
| Availability | Website, Target, small retailers | Grove Collaborative website only |
| Performance | Rave reviews on cleaning power | Mostly positive reviews, some mixed |
| Ease of Use | Simple dilutions | Pre-mixed or pod formulas are easy |
| Safety | Hypoallergenic and non-toxic | Moderate safety profile |
| Reputation | Beloved brand with devoted following | Largely favorable with some criticism |
Overview of Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove
Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove are leading brands in the green cleaning space.
Here’s a quick rundown of each:
Branch Basics offers a line of concentrated, multi-purpose cleaners derived from plants and minerals.
Their best-selling products include the All-Purpose Cleaner, Glass Cleaner, and Oxygen Boost Powder.
Branch Basics aims to provide safe, effective cleaners free of toxins.
Mrs. Grove creates plant-based cleaning products sold through the Grove Collaborative online marketplace.
Their offerings range from laundry detergent to dish soap to cleaning sprays. Mrs. Grove strives to avoid synthetic ingredients and reduce plastic waste.
Key Differences Between Branch Basics And Mrs. Grove Cleaning Essentials
Now let’s dig deeper into how these two brands compare across several factors:
- Ingredients
When it comes to green cleaning, ingredients matter. You want products made from natural plant extracts, essential oils, and other non-toxic compounds. Here’s how Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove ingredients stack up:
Branch Basics products contain only natural ingredients like plants, salts, minerals and essential oils. Some key ingredients include coconut-based surfactants, vegetable glycerin, sodium citrate, vinegar and essential oils like lemon and orange. They avoid synthetic compounds, phosphates, sulfates, dyes and more.
Mrs. Grove also uses plant-derived ingredients like coconut oil, essential oils, citric acid and glycerin in their formulations. However, some products include synthetic compounds like alcohol ethoxylate.
Mrs. Grove states that they avoid unsafe ingredients, but do use some synthetics for performance.
The takeaway?
Branch Basics adheres to an all-natural ingredient list, while Mrs. Grove supplements some plant extracts with synthetic additives. For purists seeking totally non-toxic products, Branch Basics has an edge. But Mrs. Grove offers a balance of natural ingredients and lab-developed compounds.
- Effectiveness
Cleaning power means nothing if a product can’t effectively remove dirt, grease, and grime. So which brand offers better cleaning efficacy?
Branch Basics receives rave reviews for effectiveness. Their enzyme-powered formulas break down residue on multiple surfaces. Customers report their products tackle tough cleaning jobs like removing grease, eliminating odors, and banishing shower soap scum.
While potent, Branch Basics cleaners are gentle enough for finished wood and other delicate materials.
Mrs. Grove products also score well when it comes to cleaning performance. Fans praise their dish soap for busting through grease, their laundry detergent for lifting stains, and their spray cleaners for cutting through messes on counters and floors.
The plant-based formulations seem to remove dirt and residue without an overload of detergents and surfactants.
The takeaway?
Both Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove offer excellent cleaning power, according to customer reviews. Those seeking maximum stain-fighting strength may prefer Branch Basics, but most users find both brands highly effective.
- Price
Affordability and value are key factors for most shoppers. Here’s how Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove compare on price:
Branch Basics products lean towards the premium end of the green cleaning market.
Their prices are on par with brands like Blueland and Cleancult.
The All-Purpose Cleaner concentrate costs $18 for 16 oz.
The Glass Cleaner runs $22 per 16 oz. While not cheap, fans feel Branch Basics offers good value for the non-toxic formula and cleaning performance.
Mrs. Grove prices are more budget-friendly, with most products costing $5-10. For example, their popular dish soap sells for $8 per 16 oz bottle. Laundry detergent runs $12 for 32 loads.
Overall, Mrs. Grove offers an accessible entry point into green cleaning for shoppers watching their wallet.
The takeaway?
Mrs. Grove provides lower-priced plant-based cleaners, while Branch Basics commands a premium for their all-natural, high-performance formulas. Budget-conscious buyers may prefer Mrs. Grove, but Branch Basics offers value for those willing to pay more.
- Sustainability
Eco-friendly practices matter to green cleaner shoppers. So how do Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove stack up on sustainability?
Branch Basics has made sustainable processes a core company value. Their containers use post-consumer recycled plastic. Concentrated formulas reduce packaging and chemical waste.
Branch Basics products are made in the US using solar power and sustainable manufacturing practices. The company aims for zero waste and carbon neutrality.
Mrs. Grove also prioritizes sustainability, though some of their practices are less robust. Their plastic bottles feature 25-50% recycled content. They participate in carbon offsetting programs to reduce environmental impact.
While not as comprehensive as Branch Basics, Mrs. Grove does make ethical and eco-conscious choices.
The takeaway?
For the greenest business practices, Branch Basics comes out ahead. But both companies demonstrate a commitment to sustainability lacking in mainstream cleaning brands.
- Product Range
Consumers prefer green cleaning brands that can cover all their household needs. How do the product selections of Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove compare?
Branch Basics offers a concise line of three core cleaners: the All-Purpose Cleaner, Glass Cleaner, and Oxygen Boost Powder. The multipurpose formulas allow you to tackle most cleaning tasks with just these three bottles.
While the selection is streamlined, some shoppers may desire more specialized solutions.
Mrs. Grove provides a wider range of plant-based products beyond the basics. Their choices include dish soap, dishwasher pods, bathroom cleaners, laundry detergent, hand soap, and more.
Those seeking more variety and cleaning-specific formulations may prefer Mrs. Grove. But others may find the assortment overwhelming.
The takeaway?
Branch Basics offers a simple system for whole-home cleaning. Mrs. Grove provides more products tailored to specific jobs. Needs and preferences vary, so choose the range that’s right for your habits.
- Availability
How easy is it to purchase these green cleaning brands? Here are the purchasing options:
Branch Basics – Products are available directly from the company’s website, and they ship internationally. Branch Basics recently partnered with Target, greatly expanding their retail presence. You can now find select cleaners on Target store shelves and online.
Mrs. Grove – This brand takes a different distribution approach by selling exclusively through Grove Collaborative online. Mrs. Grove products are only available for purchase on Grove’s website. This makes the brand less convenient for in-store shoppers.
The takeaway?
Branch Basics offers easier purchasing access through their website, Target, and other small retailers. Mrs. Grove products require purchasing through Grove Collaborative online only.
- Performance as Promised?
Do these plant-based cleaners deliver on their claims? Here’s what users report about living up to expectations:
Branch Basics garners rave reviews from fans who feel the products meet and exceed performance promises. Users love the cleaning power on par with conventional brands. Many report that Branch Basics replaces their whole cleaning arsenal. Results seem to match the brand’s claims.
Mrs. Grove also largely satisfies customer expectations, though some products get mixed reviews. Most report their cleaners work as advertised, but some feel formulas are weaker or watered down compared to conventional counterparts. While many products deliver, some fall slightly short on performance claims.
The takeaway?
Users indicate Branch Basics fully delivers on promised cleaning power and effectiveness. Mrs. Grove receives positive yet more mixed reviews on meeting expectations.
- Ease of Use
Complex cleaning routines won’t catch on in most households. So how easy are these green cleaners to use?
Branch Basics – The concentrations and dilutions are simple – 1/2 teaspoon per 16 oz spray bottle for all-purpose cleaning.Measurements for other applications like mopping are equally straightforward. Reviewers report the products prove fuss-free to use day to day.
Mrs. Grove – Pre-mixed spray cleaners only require a spritz and wipe approach. Laundry detergent pods and dishwasher packs skip measurements. While some products like dish soap require ratios, most are simple to employ out of the package.
The takeaway?
Both Branch Basics and Mrs. Grove formulate products for no-fuss, everyday use. As long as dilutions are followed as directed, users find application nearly effortless.
- Safety
Non-toxic ingredients make green cleaners safer for homes with children and pets.
But which brand offers the best safety profile?
Branch Basics – Their rigorous ingredient standards result in gentle, non-irritating formulas safe for kids, pets and sensitive adults.
All products are hypoallergenic and contain no asthmagens. Branch Basics offers certified cruelty-free and vegan products.
Mrs. Grove – While they avoid the harshest chemicals, some ingredients like alcohol ethoxylate may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Grove Collaborative does test on animals, so their products are not Leaping Bunny certified. Overall, Mrs. Grove products have a moderate safety profile.
The takeaway?
For the highest safety rating, Branch Basics is the clear winner. Their non-toxic formulations prove gentle for all household members. Mrs. Grove products are safer than conventional cleaners but come with some caveats.
- Brand Reputation and Values
What are customers saying about these brands? Do their missions and values resonate?
Branch Basics receives overwhelmingly positive reviews across retailer and review sites. Fans rave about product performance and appreciate the company’s steadfast commitment to natural ingredients and ethical practices. The brand has built a devoted following who share theirvalues.
Mrs. Grove also earns largely favorable feedback from shoppers who like their product range and pricing. Some consumers express concerns about transparency and shifting away from the company’s original values-driven mission. Mrs. Grove has a generally good reputation but faces some criticism as well.
The takeaway?
Branch Basics garners near-universal acclaim for their products and stands behind a meaningful ethos. Mrs. Grove satisfies most shoppers but has a mixed reputation surrounding company practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Branch Basics is widely considered one of the cleanest brands in green cleaning. Their products contain only plant-based, naturally-derived ingredients like vinegar, salts and essential oils. You won’t find any harsh synthetics, dyes, phosphates or sulfates in Branch Basics’ formulations. The company’s rigorous standards and ethical values make them a top choice for non-toxic cleaning.
Both Branch Basics and Force of Nature offer excellent plant-based cleaning products. However, Branch Basics is generally regarded as the superior brand. Reasons include:
1. Branch Basics formulas use only natural, safe ingredients while Force of Nature includes some lab-synthesized compounds
2. Branch Basics adheres to stricter sustainability practices like recycled packaging and renewably powered facilities
3. Branch Basics earns better reviews from users for cleaning effectiveness across multiple surface types
4. Branch Basics provides more concentrated, economical products that stretch farther
Overall, while Force of Nature is a good green cleaning option, most reviews give Branch Basics the edge.
Blueland and Branch Basics are leading all-natural cleaning brands. In terms of quality, reputation and results, the two are nearly on par. However, here are some key differences:
1. Blueland offers reusable bottle systems to reduce plastic waste, while Branch Basics uses recycled bottles
2. Branch Basics cleaning efficacy scores slightly higher for tough stains and grease
3. Branch Basics tests as safer for children and pets with no disclosed asthmagens
4. Branch Basics is certified cruelty-free, while Blueland is not Leaping Bunny verified
While Blueland deserves acclaim for their sustainability, Branch Basics gets a slight advantage when it comes to safety and performance. But both are excellent non-toxic cleaner choices.
Yes, Branch Basics cleaners are considered among the healthiest options on the market. Reasons they can be classified as healthy choices include:
1. Formulas use only plant-derived, naturally cleansing ingredients like coconut and essential oils
2. Products contain no asthmagens, VOCs, phthalates or other hazardous compounds
3. Allergens like gluten and chlorine are avoided in formulations
4. Products are non-toxic, hypoallergenic and safe for use around children and pets
5. Manufacturing facilities run on 100% renewable energy
With their pure, eco-friendly ingredients and rigorous safety testing, Branch Basics products offer a truly healthy cleaning solution for homes.
Final Verdict
So when considering all factors – ingredients, price, sustainability, safety, and performance – which green cleaner comes out on top?
For an all-natural cleaning product line with proven results and rave reviews, Branch Basics is the winner. While pricier than Mrs. Grove, Branch Basics delivers potent cleaning power from plant-based components. Their stellar reputation and commitment to values seals the deal.
However, Mrs. Grove offers a solid runner-up option. Shoppers on a budget will appreciate their affordable, plant-based formulations. Just note that Mrs. Grove includes some synthetic additives and scores lower on sustainability.
Still, their wide range and Grove Collaborative platform appeal to many green cleaner fans.
No matter which brand you choose, you can feel confident switching to non-toxic cleaners free of risky chemicals. Green cleaning proves you don’t have to compromise performance for peace of mind.
The growing category offers accessibly priced options to meet any household’s needs and values.
