Householders should purchase natural cleaning products rather than their chemical-filled alternatives because they are better for the environment, experts have urged.

Randy Boyer and Andrea Donsky, writing for the Baltimore Sun, expressed their opinion that natural cleaning products are just as effective as other household cleaners but are made from simpler, more ecological ingredients.

The pair recommended that consumers should buy organic products that are biodegradable, packaged responsibly and contain all-natural ingredients.

For example, Ecover offers a range of natural cleaning products made from material which will biodegrade and have as little effect on the environment as possible.

The Belgian company's All Purpose Cleaner, made at Ecover's ecological factory, is designed to work on all surfaces and is based on plant and mineral ingredients.

"Consciously purchasing these natural cleaning products will support companies that help minimise the impact of hazardous chemicals on health and the environment," Donsky and Boyer explained.