Multipurpose Spray Cleaner

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Which one should you buy?

Method All-Purpose is a brilliant everyday spray that cleans without streaks, but it's a cleaner, not a germ killer, so keep an antibacterial spray handy for after raw meat.

Most kitchen mess is everyday mess. A splash of tomato sauce, a sticky ring from the honey jar, a dusting of flour after making pastry. You don't need a cupboard full of bottles for that. One good spray and a clean cloth will see you right.

But there's one thing an everyday spray can't do on its own, and it's the thing that matters most when you cook: deal with the germs from raw chicken and meat. That's where a lot of people go wrong, so let's sort it out.

Cleaning versus sanitising

These sound like the same thing. They're not.

• Cleaning removes dirt, grease and crumbs. That's what an all-purpose spray like Method is for.

• Sanitising kills the bacteria left behind. That needs a product with a germ-killing ingredient, used the way the label says.

You need both, in that order. Sanitiser can't do its job through a layer of grease, so clean first, then sanitise. Method All-Purpose has no germ-killing ingredient, which is fine for wiping up after toast and jam, but not enough on its own after raw poultry.

method All-Purpose at a glance

What to look for in a spray cleaner

• Cleans without streaks. If you have to wipe twice to get rid of smears, it's not saving you time.

• A comfortable trigger that sprays evenly and doesn't drip.

• A scent you like. You'll be smelling it every day.

• Know what it is. Read the label: does it only clean, or does it sanitise too? If it sanitises, follow the contact time it gives.

• Safe for your surfaces. Check the label before using any cleaner on marble, unsealed stone or unsealed wood.

Method's all-purpose spray does the everyday cleaning beautifully. Pair it with an antibacterial spray and your kitchen is covered.

Who it suits, and who should skip it

Good for you if

• You want one spray for counters, the stovetop, the fridge door and the table

• You can't stand streaks

• You like a lavender scent

Skip it as your only cleaner if

• You often handle raw chicken, meat or fish. Add a sanitising step

• Your counters are marble or unsealed stone and the label doesn't cover them

How to get the best from it

Everyday wipe-down

Clear the crumbs first. Spray, wait a moment for it to loosen the mess, then wipe with a clean cloth. Use a fresh cloth on the counters where you prepare food.

After raw chicken or meat

Wipe up any juices with a paper towel and bin it. Clean the area with your spray or hot soapy water. Then sanitise: use an antibacterial spray, following its label, or make a weak bleach solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach in 1 gallon of water. Wipe it on, let it air dry, and mix a fresh batch each time.

Test a hidden spot

New spray, new counter? Try it somewhere out of sight first.

Cleaning and safety

• Never mix bleach with ammonia (found in some glass cleaners) or with acids like vinegar or some toilet cleaners. The mix gives off toxic gas.

• Don't mix bleach with other sprays either. Use one product, rinse or wipe, then the next.

• Open a window when using bleach.

• Wash your cloths often, in hot water. A dirty cloth spreads germs.

• Store cleaners out of reach of children and pets.

The one rule

Clean, then sanitise, and never mix bleach with anything but water. If you do breathe in fumes from a mix-up, get to fresh air and, in the US, call Poison Help on 1-800-222-1222.

Questions people ask

Does all-purpose cleaner kill germs?

Not this one. Method All-Purpose is a cleaner, not a disinfectant. For germs, use an antibacterial spray or a weak bleach solution after cleaning.

What should I clean my counter with after raw chicken?

Clean first with spray or soapy water, then sanitise with an antibacterial spray or 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach in a gallon of water, and let it air dry.

Is Method All-Purpose safe on granite?

It works well on sealed granite. If your stone isn't sealed, or it's marble, check the label and try a hidden spot first.

Can I mix cleaners to make them stronger?

No, never. Bleach mixed with ammonia or with acids like vinegar releases toxic gas.

Do I need to rinse food-prep surfaces after spraying?

Check the label on your bottle. If it says to rinse surfaces that touch food, give them a wipe with clean water.

Use it with

For burnt-on marks in pans, use my Powder Cleanser. For appliance fronts, use a Stainless Steel Cleaner.

Updated October 2026. Prices change often, so check before you buy.