So, I finally made the switch to Branch Basics after years of hearing about it.
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s worth the hype, consider this my honest Branch Basics review after one month of use.
The first time it was recommended to me was actually through my son’s Tiny Health results as a way to support his eczema healing journey. Branch Basics products are often considered more microbiome-friendly than many conventional cleaning products, and reducing exposure to unnecessary chemicals was one of the suggestions.
Later, my sister started using Branch Basics and couldn’t stop talking about how much she liked it, which made me even more curious.
What Finally Made Me Switch?
Years ago, I swapped conventional cleaners for plant-based products like Method. At the time, that felt like a huge improvement.
But now that I have kids and spend a lot more time cleaning up everyday messes, I started noticing just how strong some of those fragrances were. The scents lingered long after I finished cleaning, and I often found myself holding my breath while spraying.
After putting it off for far too long, I finally ordered the Branch Basics Starter Kit and have been using it for the past month.
Here’s my honest Branch Basics review, including what I liked, what surprised me, and whether I think it’s actually worth the cost.
My First Impressions of the Branch Basics Starter Kit
I ordered the Cleaning Essentials Kit, which included bottles for all-purpose cleaner, bathroom cleaner, and streak-free cleaner, along with the Branch Basics concentrate.
The setup couldn’t have been easier.
Each bottle has fill lines printed directly on it. You simply add water to the first line, add concentrate to the second line, then top it off with a little more water. The whole process takes less than a minute.
One thing that surprised me is that the same concentrate is used for every product. The only difference is how much concentrate you add depending on what you’re making.
The bottles are clearly labeled, and the instructions are very straightforward.
What I Like About Branch Basics
One of the biggest benefits has been simplifying my cleaning routine.
Before switching, I was using a separate granite cleaner in my kitchen. Since trying Branch Basics, I’ve stopped buying that product and have been using the all-purpose cleaner instead.
I love having the concentrate under my sink that I can use to quickly make refills whenever I run out.
I’m still learning all of the different ways you can use the products, but that’s actually been one of the surprises. The more I use them, the more I’m finding additional uses around the house.
The Ingredients Align With My Wellness Goals
Over the years, I’ve become much more intentional about the products I bring into my home.
I’ve made changes to the food I eat, the skincare products I use, and now the cleaning products I use around my family.
One of my favorite things about Branch Basics is that it’s completely fragrance-free.
Even many plant-based cleaners still contain fragrance, which was one of my biggest frustrations with some of the products I used previously.
Branch Basics is formulated without:
- Synthetic fragrances
- Dyes
- Ammonia
- Bleach
- Phthalates
For me, cleaning without strong scents has made a noticeable difference.
It Actually Cleans Well
I’ll be honest—I wasn’t sure what to expect.
Sometimes products marketed as “cleaner” or “safer” alternatives don’t perform as well.
That hasn’t been my experience with Branch Basics. No extra scrubbing or elbow grease required.
I recently used the all-purpose cleaner on an oven door covered in baked-on grease. I sprayed it down, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then used an oven scraper to remove the buildup.
The combination worked surprisingly well.
With two young boys in the house, my cleaners get tested daily, and so far Branch Basics has kept up.
What I Don’t Love About Branch Basics
The biggest downside is the upfront cost.
Initially, the starter kit felt expensive compared to grabbing a bottle of cleaner at Target. But once I realized how long the concentrate lasts and how many refills I could make from a single bottle, the cost felt much more reasonable.
One of my spray bottles also arrived slightly damaged. It was still usable, so I didn’t bother requesting a replacement, but it’s worth mentioning.
Next time, I may upgrade to the glass bottles for something a little more durable.
Branch Basics Review: Is it Worth It?
For me, yes.
The concentrate lasts much longer than I expected, which means I’m not constantly replacing cleaning products.
I also like that I can make refills at home in less than a minute instead of adding another item to my Amazon cart or making a trip to Target.
So far, I’ve been able to eliminate my granite cleaner and replace it with the all-purpose cleaner. I’m still figuring out all of the other ways I can use the products, but it’s already helping simplify my routine.
Most importantly, I feel better about the products I’m using around my kids and dog.
If you’re interested in trying, here’s 15% off your first order.
Who I Think Branch Basics Is Best For
I think Branch Basics makes the most sense for people who are already trying to be more intentional about the products they use at home.
If you’re sensitive to strong fragrances, looking to simplify your cleaning routine, or trying to reduce unnecessary chemicals in your home, I can see why so many people love it.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for the cheapest cleaning products available or prefer traditional disinfecting cleaners, it may not be the right fit for you.
For me, the biggest selling point isn’t that it’s a miracle cleaner. It’s that it cleans well, doesn’t leave behind strong scents, and helps me feel better about the products I’m using around my family.
It May Not Be For You If:
That said, I don’t think Branch Basics is for everyone.
If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest cleaning products available, the upfront cost may be hard to justify. And if you prefer traditional disinfecting cleaners like Clorox, you may find yourself reaching for other products in certain situations.
You’ll also need to be willing to mix the concentrate yourself, although I found the process incredibly simple and it takes less than a minute.
How Branch Basics Fits Into My Life
I purchased Branch Basics and haven’t looked back.
One of my favorite things is not smelling harsh fragrances while I clean. I have two kids and a dog, so being more mindful about the products I use in my home is important to me.
It’s also cutting down on how often I need to restock cleaning products. When I run out, I can simply refill the bottle with concentrate and water in less than a minute.
The process is simple, and so far it’s made cleaning feel a little less complicated.
Would I Buy Branch Basics Again?
Absolutely.
I’ve only tried the all-purpose cleaner, bathroom cleaner, and streak-free cleaner so far, but I’ve been happy with all three.
The biggest surprise has been how much I enjoy cleaning without fragrance. It sounds like a small thing, but it has made the experience much more pleasant.
I’m also excited to continue experimenting with different uses for the concentrate as I learn more about the products.
Final Thoughts: Branch Basics Review
After finally making the switch, I can understand why Branch Basics has such a loyal following.
It has helped me simplify my cleaning routine, reduce the number of products I’m buying, and feel better about the products I’m using in my home.
If you’re looking for fragrance-free, non-toxic cleaning products and don’t mind a slightly higher upfront cost, I think the Branch Basics Starter Kit is worth considering. Plus, you can get 15% off your first order to test it out for yourself.
