Trader Joe's Cedarwood and Sage Multi-Purpose Cleaner review

Trader Joe's Cedarwood and Sage Multi-Purpose Cleaner
  • 1,128 reads
  • 8 helpful votes
  • Last updated: 01/11/2010

This Cedarwood & Sage Cleaner is great for light jobs.

Overall
Rated 4 out of 5

I have allergies, asthma, and three parrots who are sensitive to strong fumes.  When I'm shopping for cleaning products, I like to find items that aren't tested on animals, biodegradable, and mild enough to not irritate the respiratory systems of the birds or myself.  During a recent trip to Trader Joe's, I picked up a bottle of their Cedarwood & Sage Multi-purpose Cleaner.  I really like it!

As the name implies, this product is a no streak multi-purpose cleaner that can be used on any washable surface including glass, mirrors, countertops, stainless steel, refrigerators, walls, tile, linoleum, sinks, etc.  The ingredients include water, cedarwood and clary sage essential oils, grain alcohol, natural surfactants, and color, though the label makes a point of stating that it contains less than 0.00005% DC or FD&C colors. 

I've used Trader Joe's Cedarwood & Sage Multi-Purpose Cleaner on my counters, refrigerator (outside and shelves inside), cabinets, kitchen table, bathroom sink, stovetop, and for spot cleaning on the hardwood floors.  It does a nice job of removing light marks, stains, and the grime that accumulates day after day.  The streak-free claim has held up thus far.  The only negative comment I have about the performance is that it doesn't seem to be powerful enough to remove big messes like dried tomato sauce, burnt food, etc.  Sure, you can clean them up with this item, the scouring side of a sponge, and lots of muscle, but I usually don't bother.  If I know I need to clean up something bigger than dust, a bit of dirt, or light stains, I usually use a different product.

I also really like the light fragrance that this cleaner has.  Although the name is "Cedarwood & Sage", to me it smells only like cedar--a scent that I love.  You notice it as you spray and wipe it, but the scent is subtle and not something that lingers after use.  Obviously, such a light fragrance is ideal for the residents (human and avian) of this house.

I paid about $8 for my large 34 fluid ounce bottle of Trader Joe's Cedarwood & Sage Multi-Purpose Cleaner.  It's about the same price that I spend on my beloved Caldrea counter sprays and a bit more than smaller bottles of method's stuff.  Some people may find it too pricey, but I don't mind spending the extra money because it doesn't irritate my asthma and I can feel safe using it around the birds.  This bottle of cleaner is going to last me for a long time, but you can bet I'll be buying another one when I run out!