The Short Answer
Yes, Bona is safe. Unlike many conventional cleaners that use harsh solvents or acidic vinegar that can strip your floor's finish, Bona uses a pH-neutral, water-based formula.
It is EPA Safer Choice certified, meaning every ingredient has been reviewed by the EPA for human and environmental safety. It also holds GREENGUARD Gold certification, ensuring it releases very low levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into your home's air.
However, if you have babies or pets who spend a lot of time on the floor, we strongly recommend the "Free & Simple" version. It skips the dyes and synthetic preservatives found in some standard formulations, making it the hypoallergenic gold standard.
Why This Matters
Most floor cleaners are too harsh for hardwood. Products like pine cleaners or DIY vinegar solutions are acidic and can dull polyurethane finishes over time. On the flip side, "oil soaps" leave a sticky residue that traps dirt. Bona's pH-neutral chemistry solves both problems.
Air quality is another massive factor. Indoor air can be 2-5x more polluted than outdoor air, largely due to cleaning products. Because Bona is GREENGUARD Gold certified, it is proven to have low chemical emissions, which is critical when you are cleaning large surface areas like a living room floor.
What's Actually In Bona
Bona's formula is simple and transparent. Here is the breakdown of the key ingredients in the standard hardwood cleaner:
- Water ā The base solvent.
- Isopropylideneglycerol ā A solvent derived from glycerin (often plant-based) that helps dissolve dirt.
- Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside ā A gentle, biodegradable surfactant (soap) derived from sugars and fatty acids. Chemicals In Cleaners
- Sodium Decylglucoside Hydroxypropylsulfonate ā Another mild, plant-derived cleaning agent.
- Hydrogen Peroxide ā Found in their "PowerPlus" deep clean formulas to lift stains. Is Hydrogen Peroxide Disinfectant
- Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) ā A preservative used in some standard and commercial versions to prevent bacteria growth. Note: This is a known allergen for some people. The "Free & Simple" version is free of MIT.
What to Look For
Green Flags:
- EPA Safer Choice Label ā The gold standard for ingredient safety reviews.
- "Free & Simple" Label ā Indicates the product is free of dyes, scents, and harsh preservatives.
- pH Balanced / Neutral ā Essential for protecting wood floor finishes.
Red Flags:
- "Commercial" or "Pro" Series ā These stronger formulas often contain higher concentrations of preservatives like benzisothiazolinone that aren't necessary for residential use.
- Colored Liquid ā The standard blue dye is unnecessary. Clear formulas are always better.
The Best Options
If you are buying Bona, reach for the hypoallergenic version first.
| Brand | Product | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bona | Free & Simple Hardwood Floor Cleaner | ā | No dyes, no scents, no MIT preservatives. |
| Bona | Standard Hardwood Cleaner | ā ļø | Safe, but contains dyes and potential allergens. |
| Bona | PowerPlus Deep Cleaner | ā ļø | Good for occasional deep cleans, but stronger ingredients. |
The Bottom Line
1. Buy the "Free & Simple" version. It cleans just as well as the standard blue liquid but removes unnecessary chemicals.
2. Ditch the vinegar. Vinegar is acidic and will dull your hardwood finish over time. Bona is safer for your investment.
3. Use a microfiber mop. Bona works best when misted and wiped. Don't soak your floors with water, which causes warping. Is Swiffer Safe
FAQ
Is Bona safe for pets?
Yes. The formula is non-toxic and pH-neutral. However, always wait for the floor to dry completely before letting pets walk on it to prevent them from licking wet cleaner off their paws.
Does Bona contain PFAS?
No. Bona formulas are water-based and biodegradable. They do not rely on "forever chemicals" (PFAS) for stain resistance or cleaning power.
Can I use Bona on vinyl or tile?
Use the right formula. Bona makes a specific "Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner" for tile, stone, and vinyl. While the hardwood cleaner likely won't hurt tile, the hard-surface formula is optimized to clean stone without leaving streaks. Safest Floor Cleaner
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