This post is not a post sponsored by Target. Simply facts based on research.
I don’t know about you, but Target is one of my weekly stops in stocking my pantry, cleaning cabinet and replacing overused items at home. When I first began my journey towards creating a healthier home I made many of my cleaners and products. However, as life has gotten busier and busier for me, I opt to purchase them and just do my research first. This is where the Target Everspring Line caught my attention.
I actually purchase many completely safe and healthy laundry products and cleaning products from the Target aisles, and I couldn’t be happier. I know what I like and I buy what I know. It makes shopping quick and simple and I’m in and out quickly. Until last week that is.
Last week as I searched for my trusty Seventh Generation Tub & Tile (an A rating from ewg.org and the best cleaner I’ve found), the shelf where it normally is stared back at me: EMPTY. I continued shopping and figured I’d order it online. Until I came across a display of Target Everspring cleaning and home products.
I had heard of Everspring as Target’s new line of products that are more eco-friendly and mostly plant based, but I assumed this launch was a ways out. But there it was, pretty packaging and all. I was skeptical at first, thinking it couldn’t really be all that great, right? But as I talked about last week, I’m attempting to be more open minded and more willing to do the research and try new things. So, instead of writing it off, I chose to do my research and share it with you all about the EverSpring Brand.
You know, as a born and raised Minnesotan, Target will always have a place in my heart. This information isn’t meant to sway you one way or the other about their new line, but just give you my slightly opinionated facts.
The Good in the Target Everspring Line
Let’s talk ingredients, shall we? The ingredients in the Target Everspring line are 90ish percent all natural and plant based. This is a good base and starting off point. The one thing that really stands out to me as a mom and healthy house advocate is that their products boast all natural sources for fragrance.
If you don’t spend your days researching the harmful effects of synthetic fragrances on our bodies and home environments, you may not know, but many products (even the ones you might think) use harmful, synthetic fragrances in many of their products. Check out the Think Dirty App and put in your favorite cleaner to see if it uses natural or synthetic fragrances. You’ll be surprised.
The other great thing about this brand is MOST of the ingredients are derived from plants and are biodegradable. Not only is this good for us, but it’s a positive change for our earth too.
Another positive thing? Kudos to Target for listing out their ingredients right on the bottle. Concealing the ingredients in a product is something that drives me absolutely bonkers as a consumer. If I’m paying for it, I definitely want to know what’s in it. If it’s going on my surfaces, then I want to know where it came from in the first place. The fact that the Target EverSpring line has the ingredients in each formula listed right on their bottle shows a level of transparency that most brands don’t offer.
Now, just because the ingredients are listed does not mean they’re easy to understand. The ingredients don’t necessarily explain what each item in the formula is, which can be confusing. I’ve gone through many of these ingredients for you and below I’m sharing what they do and if they’re healthy.
EVERSPRING CLEANING SPRAY
The cleaning sprays look to be pretty squeaky clean themselves. Here are some of the main ingredients within the cleaning sprays:
Lactic Acid: Used as a natural anti-bacterial agent in disinfecting products. This ingredient gets an A for toxicity and environmental hazards from EWG.org.
Sodium Gluconate: A sodium salt and gluconic acid used to be a conditioning agent. Has a low risk of toxicity and is generally safe for the environment.
Caprylyl Glucoside and Myristyl Glucoside: Is a surfactant used in cleaning agents that is derived from a plant and has a low hazard of health concerns. It is derived from palm kernel oil, corn sugar or coconut. It breaks the surface tension, allowing a surface to get clean. Typically this is not a skin irritant.
Citric Acid: Kills mold, bacteria and mildew and generally disinfects. Citric acid is naturally found in our food and water, and is biodegradable. There can be some discomfort to respiratory systems, eyes and skin if prolonged contact occurs.
If I wasn’t stuck on my Thieves and totally head-over heels in love with it, I’d probably stock up on this cleaner.
Grey Areas of the Target Everspring Line
Okay, so not every product is perfect, and it’s pretty hard to find something out there that has 100% natural products. One of the reasons is that we need products to have a certain level of preservatives so that the products don’t grow mold or bacteria. This is just the world we live in and the amount of time products sit on shelves and the amount of time it takes to go from production to our homes plays a huge role.
These products are definitely better than most of the products out there. They’re also a positive change if you’ve been using a cleaning product with harsher chemicals or synthetic fragrances. But again, most cleaners just can’t be 100% perfect, unless you’re making your own.
I’m a proponent of do what works for your family, so there’s no shame in choosing a product that’s MOSTLY healthy. It’s the same concept as eating a 100% clean diet. Sorry, not in that camp. I have learned it’s healthier to stress less than to worry about that appetizer we had when we were out to dinner.
Back to these cleaning products though. My point was that you don’t have to stress over every single ingredient. Do your research and then make your best choice. If you spend time worrying about it, you’re doing more harm than good in making a final decision. This is experience talking, you guys.
TARGET EVERSPRING DISH SOAP
+++I should note that you DEFINITELY want to choose the Free & Clear option of the Target EverSpring Dish Soap. The scented options for the dishsoap get a big NO from me for synthetic fragrances+++
Most of the ingredients are great and I support them 100%. There is one that I’m not 100% sold on though, and it’s listed at the end.
Lauramine Oxide: A surfactant and cleaning agent. It can also boost foam production – low health concerns.
Alkyl Polyglucosides: Another surfactant that reduces the motion of resistance and increases the viscosity of the product: low concern for health concerns and environmental concerns. Usually biodegradable and derived from plant sugars.
Magnesium Sulfate: Is used to increase the volume of a product and has no health concerns to humans. It is the mineral that is often referred to as Epsom Salt
Citric Acid: Kills mold, bacteria and mildew and generally disinfects. Citric acid is naturally found in our food and water, and is biodegradable. There can be some discomfort to respiratory systems, eyes and skin if prolonged contact occurs.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone: Are preservatives in cleaning products to prevent bacteria, fungi and cold to form. This is a highly corrosive chemical that is toxic when ingested in large amounts. Obviously there is a large amount of dilution that occurs when it is in cleaning products we use. However, it has been shown to cause allergic reactions at a certain concentration in home products. Unfortunately this product is also toxic to freshwater and marine organisms. The EPA has deemed it a possible neurotoxin.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: Surfactant that is in cleaning products. The basics are you are mixing lauryl alcohol with sulfuric acid and then adding sodium carbonate. This creates a highly corrosive detergent or cleaning agent to remove oil and grease.
It helps products “foam” by lowering the surface tension of the water. This allows the other ingredients to mix properly.
Even if it says derived from plants, likely the only thing being taken from a natural source is the lauryl alcohol. The lauryl alcohol can come from petroleum oil or coconut oil or corn oil. But the remainder of the chemical is often just that, derived from synthetic and chemical sources.
There is a carcinogenic byproduct produced during the manufacturing process that can not only contaminate the plant the oil is coming from but the ingredient itself.
If all this research is leaving you confused and frustrated, I get it! I’ve been in the same boat. Check out these two posts that will shed light on some really amazing products you can trust. Plus, you can purchase them right from Target or Amazon.
Not My Favorite Parts of the Target Everspring Line
As with anything, we know that products are certainly not perfect. There are a few things about the Target EverSpring brand that that I just didn’t love. However, this doesn’t mean that I would write off the new line all together. Quite the contrary! I would definitely try some of the products I listed above as well as some of their paper products. If you’re a true zero-waster I’m sure you’re shaking your head at me, but we are just not at zero-waste yet as a family and still use toilet paper, napkins and paper towels. I don’t know that we will ever change these things, but for now using a more recycled option is a positive change.
One of the products that EverSpring has offered are flushable wipes. As a home inspector and someone who has grown up in the plumbing industry. I can safely tell you there is no such thing as a truly flushable wipe. We use wipes sometimes when we’re at a park or on a hike, but we NEVER flush them down the toilet. So, if you’re using them to wash off hands in a pinch, go for it. If you’re using them in the bathroom, try to avoid it.
Speaking of wipes, in terms of waste, the disposable wipes to clean surfaces are not my favorite choice. The plastic container and wipe itself are very “one-time-use” and to be honest, it’s a convenience thing. I try to avoid using products like this, but again, this is just a preference of my family.
Finally, the one product I personally would try to avoid is the laundry detergent. I’ve found only two laundry detergents that I feel are safe and healthy for my family, and this one doesn’t make the list unfortunately.
TARGET EVERSPRING HAND SOAP
The ingredients within the hand soap are mostly that of the foaming hand soap listed above, however it also has Sodium Benzoate, which is a synthetic ingredient. It is still seen as a minimum health risk and there is a purpose for it in this soap.
Sodium Benzoate is a preservative and also has antifungal properties. Generally regarded as safe and a minimum risk by the EPA. However if ingested there are health concerns. It is a synthetic preservative and not derived from a plant.
Synthetic Fragrances: I wish it weren’t so, but Target has chosen to add synthetic fragrances to their line of hand soaps. This is one of the EASIEST things to avoid when you’re starting out with a healthy house journey, and I’m super disappointed that they added them. As I mentioned above, there are a plethora of health concerns with synthetic fragrances ranging from allergy-type reactions to disruption in hormone production and even being possibly carcinogenic. (STUDY)
+++If you opt for the free & clear, I give it a grey area rating, but adding the synthetic fragrance for me makes it a product I’d avoid.+++
WANT A BETTER HAND SOAP OPTION?
THE TARGET EVERSPRING FOAMING HAND SOAP
This is another product that gets a mostly thumbs up. It’s better than other options, but also has SLS, or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate as an ingredient. As I mentioned above, even though it says derived from a plant, the chemical process in which it is made is far from natural.
Most of the other ingredients are completely natural, aside from the Potassium Sorbate, which is synthetic and has potential for concern.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (see the information in the above section)
Propanediol: Some concern for skin allergies and irritation. It is used as a skin conditioning agent, moisturizer and fragrance ingredient. It also reduces the viscosity of a product.
Decyl Glucoside: Is a mild surfactant derived from plants and is biodegradable. It is used to create foam and lather while preventing skin dryness.
Coco-Glucoside: Derived from raw materials such as coconut oil, corn or fruits. It is completely biodegradable. It is used to create foam, condition the skin and increase viscosity in the product.
Sorbitan Oleate: Has low health concerns. Used as an emulsifying agent that helps combine oil and water. Generally low risk in diluted concentrations.
Potassium Sorbate (synthetic): Preservative that has mild concerns when it comes to allergies and immunotoxicity. It can be a mild skin or eye irritant, but at low concentrations, it appears to be fine. Some studies have found that this chemical can cause DNA damage. (STUDY)
Synthetic Fragrances: Fragrances created from man-made chemicals and products often contain problematic components that affect the human immune system, our endocrine system and our respiratory system. These fragrances are not required to be disclosed in their entirety due to Trade Secret laws. (EWG Fragrance Page)
TARGET EVERSPRING LAUNDRY DETERGENT:
Some of the ingredients in the laundry detergent are synthetic and have been linked to various health concerns.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: (see above for info)
Phenoxyethanol: A preservative that stabilizes soaps and perfumes.
Can be naturally found in Green Tea. As a preservative it fights bacteria and because so many products are water based, it is added to prevent bacteria or fungi that can be dangerous to your health.
There’s a lot of controversy around this toxin, but there’s not substantial evidence that shows its effects.
It also depends on the amount of this product that is used. In small amounts, (under 1%), it can be less harmful than being exposed to larger amounts of this. Many companies use just .5% concentration in their products as an alternative to keeping their formulas free of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
Research on Phenoxyethanol:
Iodopropynyl Buylcarboamate (IPBC) is another preservatives that prevents bacteria, mold or other germs from getting into and spreading through your products. There is also controversial research on this chemical, as it has differing research.
IPBC is used to replace other preservatives, such as parabens, but this alternative is still showing an increased risk of contact allergies. Even in small doses, it’s been shown to irritate the skin (0.5% or more). The European Union limits the maximum concentration to 0.02% in any product that you rinse off. (Skin Deep Research)
I commend Target on so many levels for this line and the work they have done to make an impact on the products we use. The best thing is these products are insanely affordable. You really don’t have to do hours of research to hunt down the ingredients either. I can’t say enough how positive I think it is for Target to add their ingredients right to their labels.
Have you used the Target EverSpring line? What are your thoughts?
I’m not going to lie, I really don’t stress out about ingredients in cleaning products. I know a lot of people that do, but I just can’t be bothered. I will certainly try “healthier” products when I see them, but I always tend to go back to the more harsh stuff, just because it’s “tried and true”. Probably terrible of me, but ehhhhh!
I used to do that too, but eventually made a healthier switch 🙂
Sadly, I’ve never been to Target – and I feel a bit left out! I do try and buy natural, eco-friendly products generally, although I haven’t really thought about natural, eco-friendly cleaning products if I’m honest…
I made the switch a few years ago and it’s been a really easy, positive change for us. I’m glad there are so many products out there that we can use now!
I never shop at Target, so hadn’t heard of these before now. I don’t like disposable items, either, so not sure how I would feel about a few. But, if you are looking for something convenient, these seem like they are at least a decent option.
My feelings exactly!
Ooooo this is the first time I have heard of this line!!! I do love all things plant based, so I will have to give the line a try
Plant based is the way to go!
I really feel like I get so many things by reading great posts like yours. Now, if I never use eco-friendly products, after reading this it’s time to make a healthier switch.
Oh, thank you so much, Marjie!
I love Target! Now I don’t buy too much in groceries, but I do grab laundry, cleaning and pet products as well as home decor and such. I have seen the Evergreen around, just hadn’t thought to purchase! I may have to grab the hand soap for I am always washing my hands to try first.
It felt so convenient to have a great line right at Target since I’m there all the time too 🙂
Oh I will check this out! WE have been really trying to switch to cleaner products!
It might be worth a try then! 🙂
I love finding new cleaning products to try…but I’ll admit I’m pretty much in love with my go-to products!!
Me too — once I find something I pretty much stick to it 🙂
I appreciate your honest review of this line. I’m in Target a lot and would totally try out the cleaning spray you mentioned!
Thank you, Elaine!
I can understand not liking everything about a product. Like I love magic erasers but they do tend to dry out too quickly if you don’t use them right away. And they lose their power. I will have to try out the everspring line myself and see what I think. We do love Target and they usually put out solid products.
You’re right – Usually Target does a pretty top-notch job!
Sometimes, I forget to check about product ingredients due to my busy schedule but I think these are great points to remember!
I have to do the research before I go, and it honestly feels like a full time job sometimes!
That was a very informative breakdown – thank you! Everything we purchase represents some kind of compromise, right? We’re trading in some ideals for the convenience of the purchase. We do this even with produce – it would be great to produce all our own but, since most of us don’t, we do the best we can.
I’m a prayerful person, so we pray over every product we bring into our home. I throw that out there for anyone who is prayerful or mindful of energy. Either way, we all make the best decisions we can!
Huh, I haven’t stopped in to a Target in quite a while so I wasn’t aware of all this! Great info though! I love that you break down all the ingredients! Soooooo helpful! You’re a saint! 🙂
Wow! So much detail! Thanks for sharing all of that. Like you, I have my go-to cleaners and I tend to be very loyal once I find something that meets my high standards, so I don’t shop at Target too often anymore.
I haven’t tried this brand, as I generally make my cleaning products, but I love what you said about not stressing out about every little ingredient. This is how I am with food as well. I like to think of it as a continuum. Sure, you can be 100% clean, but if the time and effort it requires stresses you out to much, you will do more harm to your health than good. Finding the right balance for yourself and your family is definitely where it’s at!! 🙂
This was so informative! Thank you! With an autoimmune illness, I e been reading more and more about how what we out on and in are bodies can affect so many things. We’ve been trying to go more clean and natural. You said you wouldn’t use this laundry soap. What laundry soap do you feel is clean?
Is this ok to clean with around my birds?
I’m not sure if this is safe for birds or not. I would read through the ingredients and check with your vet.
Being Ever Spring wipes are plant based .. can I presume they are not animal tested? There is no indication on the product/ thx.
Hi Natalie! I searched Target’s website using the “cruelty free” ftet and the wipes didn’t appear in the search. So I guess I’m unsure if they test on animals or not. Some of the Everspring line did show up under “cruelty free”, just not the wipes.
I have sensitive skin and allergies, so I switched to fragrance-free products many years ago. I was using Target’s Method liquid and foaming hand soaps, and always bought the large refill size. However, late last year they became impossible to find. Recently I saw the Ever Spring product and tried the foaming soap. I love it, but my three dispensers are all low. I am totally disappointed in Target because they don’t make a refill! That makes these foaming-top dispensers single-use plastic that lasts a month or two at most. I’m willing to buy a product with a small percentage of questionable chemicals more than I am willing to throw out perfectly good containers.
I’ve learned few things and you’ve summarized the topic sharply