Page 2 | NOW CLOSED: Ecover product testers review thread

heliumballoon · 25/01/2012 22:48

Bathroom pack.

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

I hadn't used them before, or if I had not for ages. I had a kitchen spray from the Sainsburys green range a while back, probably just because it was on offer. I didn't expect the Ecover products to work very well TBH, especially in the bathroom because that is the hardest room to clean. My overall impression of the products I tried was positive.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

The overall results were good. I was particularly surprised by the limescale remover. Usually I use Viakel - fierce!- and even that takes quite some scrubbing. I wanted to try something a bit more environmentally friendly as I am about to have a new baby and will bathe her in the big bath, also DD has a habit of lapping up bath water (yuk). The limescale came off the glass shower screen well. The other bathroom cleaner did the job too. I didn't especially like the smell of either but it wasn't massively offensive, maybe I am just used to nice lemony Cif smells (but they are fake of course!!). The smell didn't linger- that is a good thing. They were better than I expected.

I am not sure about the cream cleanser, I wasn't sure where to use it that I wouldn't use the spray. It says to use on hobs but I get on fine with an e-cloth on my hob, and I don't have a shiny kitchen sink and I had just used the limescale remover on the taps. So I wouldn't really normally have a use for this product normally. I tried it out for science though and no complaints but nothing much to get excited about.

I haven't tried the washing powder yet but I did try the washing up liquid. I thought it worked well and the smell was not overpowering- that's a good thing, who wants strongly smelling plates? My brother complained that it didn't lather enough but I don't think this matters because bubbles aren't actually DOING anything are they? it's the cleaning that counts, and it was fine on that. The fabric softener was pretty indistinguishable from other fabric softeners I use.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

I like the packaging, I am not embarassed to have it lurking in the corner of the bathroom, it is not too shouty and I like that. I like particularly the colour coded tops- red for limescale remover, blue for bathroom cleaner etc. It was was nice to have a set! The GHI logo is of interest to me, less fussed about any sensitive skin logo.

I didn't immediately notice about the sugar cane plastic. Is this actually more environmentally friendly than regular plastic? (I read once about the destruction of Madagascar due to sugar plantations and I like lemurs!) Can I put it in the recycling? Can I buy replacements with the squirty top missing which would be a bit cheaper when I run out of the product? That would be good.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

I don't get that fussed to be honest. No one in the family has sensitive skin and I don't wear rubber gloves to clean.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

I would make Ecover easier to buy. I had no idea that all of these products existed. When I looked in my local supermarket they had only a few of them, even the local health food shop didn't seem to have the lot and it was pretty random what was refillable and what not.

I would sell them as effective. Everyone expects them to be a bit crap so you'll have to spend longer scrubbing- no-one wants to do this!

Some environmentally friendly products like Method are really taking the piss with their prices. I think some of this rubs off on Ecover. We all expect a big premium for the environmentally friendly aspect. People do look for discounts and then stock up. Does Ecover discount much? I don't know.

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

Yes I will definitely buy the limescale remover and bathroom cleaner in the future. But I might wait till they were on special offer and then stock up. (That is my normal habit anyway- I don't have much brand loyalty). I wouldn't have much of a use for the cream cleaner. I would recommend to a friend but I would probably do that carefully as a lot of people are scrimping at the moment so it wouldn't go down well to suggest that they use something expensive.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

Overall I am positive about Ecover. It is more effective than I realised and there are more products as well. It will be good to have more natural stuff around the house when the small one comes.

Thank you very much MNHQ and Ecover for the product test.

Tigerbomb · 26/01/2012 02:09

Kitchen Pack

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?
Prior to trying them, I thought Ecover was an overpriced, probably useless product paying on peoples "green" conscious. I never bothered trying them because of those reasons. My overall impression is WOW, how wrong was I.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?
I love the smell of the Pomegranate washing up liquid and it really seems to degrease just as effectively as my normal fairy BUT it seems that I have to use a lot more than I would normally. Is there a concentrated version? The multi action spray is wonderful and far better than any other cleaning spray I have used especially when wiping down the black tiles in my kitchen - there are no smears, and it smells great. I don't need to use a lot at all and I will be buying this again. Sod the cost. The all purpose cleaner did a great job on my hob but didn't seem to be owt special.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?
The packaging is very bland, I actually went looking for Ecover products in my local supermarket today and it took me ages to find (not that there was a huge range of Ecover in Morrisons) The GHI/Sensitive skin logo is important as I have psoriasis and it was nice not to have to worry about my hands for a change. I hadn't noticed the renewable sugar cane packaging blurb, now that I know my only concern is can I recycle it?

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?
As above, I have psoriasis, I usually have to wear gloves but I decided to use the products without. I am pleasantly surprised that there is no itching or cracking of my hands

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?
Make the products stand out. The bland packaging gives a subtle message of mild or natural/good for the environment but it also makes it invisible and gave me personally the message that Ecover was for tree huggers and was also ineffective.

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?
I will definitely buy the Multi spray again (if I can find it) and will probably buy the washing up liquid if it was on offer. I have already recommended the spray to my mom as she has dermatitis.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?
I am a convert and not just because of the spray, I will try some of the other products in the range to see if they are as good. I was concerned about the amount of chemicals I was chucking around my home when cleaning and feel I have improved my green "credentials" slightly.

Yani · 26/01/2012 11:57

Laundry Pack

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them?
Like the idea of using products that are not harming the environment.
Had you used any before? dishwasher tablets, general purpose spray & washing up liquid
What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried? Expensive! Washing up liquid not particularly effective once the water becomes cooler. Happy with dishwasher tablets and general purpose spray.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Very pleased overall. Was it what you expected? I didn't really know what to expect., but I'm very pleased and glad I tried it. Did the product 'do the job'? The stain remover did the trick on my daughter's white school blouse after she had spent the day doing splatter painting. However it did struggle to remove blood stains from a cotton sheet.
Do you like the smell or the feel of the product? I really like the smell of the laundry liquid. For me it is just the right balance of clean fresh smelling with a subtle pleasing fragrance. I felt fresh wearing the clothes and confident that as I swooshed past people my smell would be pleasing! However the fabric conditioner I found quite over-powering. I use less than is recommended by ecover for two reasons. Firstly I distrust that this will not cause an outbreak of angry red eczema, secondly I am mindful of the household budget, so use about a third to half less then suggested. Despite this the bedding wash that I used fabric conditioner in was very strong. We do don't have a tumble-dryer, so the sheets etc were hanging from bedroom doors to dry for a couple of days. The whole top of the house stank of the fabric conditioner. I think if the fragrance could be diluted by at least 50% it would be far nicer, and I would definitely be tempted to use it again, as after a few days it became less noticeable. I would try again in the summer when I can hang things on the line to dry outside.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? I like the opaque bottles, but a clear panel running top to bottom would be handy so one could see at a glance how much is left, rather than by holding up to light or judging by weight. There is not information on how the products actually work, which natural ingredients are used, WHY they are eco friendly or sustainable? HOW is it powered by nature? WHICH natural products are used?
Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Nothing surprising, equally nothing informative.
Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? I'm sceptical of claims that products are 'approved by' or 'validated by' actually means anything. Have a recollection of British Heart Foundation logo on high sugar cereals, margarine etc being proved in a consumer documentary type programme that actually the companies simply pay BHF to use the logo. The actual health benefits were negligible. I have never heard of vincotte, and would never bother to look up their website!
The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? No, definitely not Is this important to you? Not important, but interesting and adds credibility to the Eco claim. Although then begs the question of airmiles and possible exploitation of low-paid workers.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Extremely. Considering a new product is rarely done as I have used my current washing powder for over 20 years. Hence claims of skin-friendliness are not taken too seriously. I rely completely on word of mouth, from trusted friends family who suffer similar skin conditions.

Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? I suffer from atopic eczema, my partner suffers from psoriasis. Both my children suffer from dry cracked skin.
If so, how did you find using the Ecover products? Yes, it was great. No worsening of skin sensitivities.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers? I think the profile should be raised by visual images. Use modern media. Perhaps Youtube. The packaging tells me nothing about the history of the company. Although I remember using Ecover when I worked in a hotel 20 years ago. There are many many eco brands on the market now. Whey is ecover the best? Why is ecover the most trusted in eco terms and performance? I need to feel that by purchasing your products and using them that I am contributing to growing lemon orchards for fragrance which supports the butterfly/insect population. What projects do you run in this country? Are there lavender fields in the UK that you use? What about the declining bee population? Do any of your products promote habitat of British species that are vulnerable? I am more interested in environmental protection in this country (I know, not very pc) than a sun-drenched land that I cannot relate to. I know that TV advertising is extremely expensive, but I feel that, perhaps 6 different adverts shown at different times of day would be informative, educational and beneficial. However, please don't use the draconian formula of a mother doing the household chores or shopping. Nothing infuriates me more that then the stereo-typical demeaning advertising commonly used. How about a bunch of students washing up? How about a young professional (seemingly single) male washing his sweaty sports stuff? Family party cleaning up after a BBQ? It's not just mothers that do the household chores!
When was the company established? What was the motivation?
HOW is it powered by nature? It's not a car!
Would you consider a range of cleaning cloths, sponges or scourers?
Sorry to say, but I think this questionnaire isn't well written. The questions will provide you with lots of qualitative data, but this will be very hard to analyse and condense into something succinct.
Forced choice questions would have provided you with something quantifiable and easier to use results i.e. 78% of testers felt that the packaging was pleasing.
Closed Questions not useful i.e. ?Have you used any before?? This gives you either yes or no. Not which products if yes or why not if no.
Some of the questions are very similar i.e. ?overall results of using? and ?how did you find using? and ?did the job?
The order of questions was not logical. Initially you asked about the use of the products, THEN the packaging. Surely if you wanted to know just about the packaging that should have been asked first. When you took the products out of the box, what were your first impressions? Perhaps one's views on the packaging will have been clouded by the results of the use of the product?

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? Yes. However the price is an issue. Supermarket own brands are far more competitively priced. If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Yes Why? Pleased with results. If not, why?

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? I would like to know more about the eco / sustainable credentials and where the product ingredients are sourced from. Are the producers treated in an ethical manner? Is the sugar cane packaging damaging rainforests or sensitive habitats through intensive farming Etc. Has it changed your perception of the brand? I didn't really have a perception, but I have been pleasantly surprised by the laundry liquid. If so, how?

Bibbob · 26/01/2012 13:25

Hello. I received the kitchen pack.
Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?
I always knew they were the green option. I had used ecover washingup liquid before and used to get the bottles refilled. I loved the products I was given.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?
I thought the products results were really impressive. I did expect them to work well (a cleaning firm I used to use only ever used Ecover). I thought the multi action spray fulfilled it's brief the best. Especially for cleaning the kids' tea table with not too much of a perfumed after-whiff! I normally use method for this. The all purpose cLeaner was a great degreaser on my (needing a new coat of sealant) kitchen floor, the water in my bucket was significantly dirtier more quickly (I normally use method cleaner for this). The washing up liquid performed well although the bubbles didn't last as long as fairy clean and care. I loved that I got a scent From the product but, in the kitchen, it didn't linger too long. Method's scent does hang around a bit and I am not sure I like that in the kitchen (I do in the bathroom).

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

I loved the packaging. It's seemed compact (less transport, less landfill). I would have liked to know if I could have used the all purpose cleaner and spray safely on enamel or marble. I noticed the bottles were plant based packaging and you could feel that from the texture of the bottles too! I liked the GHI recommendation. Sensitive skin is not too important although I noticed a better result with the washing up liquid than with my oil of Olay added fairy washing up liquid! The message on the packaging was clear (could maybe be a bit larger) and this is one of the reasons I will be buying these products again.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

Not too bothered for washing up kitchen products as only I use them :) however I love these products for the areas the kids come into contact with. I buy method products to clean the bathroom where the kids have the most exposure (spend ages in the bath) but I may well swap to Ecover there too.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

I would make a big thing of the plant based packaging, I would try to get more refill stations set up (maybe in the co-op?) I would emphathise the benefits of not exposing your children to potentially harmful chemicals.

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

Yes I am definitely changing over. And yes I would recommend them, especially the multi spray.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

I stopped using them when the refilling service stopped and moved to a mixture method products and supermarket own brands. But now I am going to change over as I like the fact it is made of Eco friendly " plastic" and the products seem to work much better than I remember. I think the brand is worth paying a little extra now as it seems to have added value and it delivers on its claims.

cornflakegirl · 26/01/2012 13:29

@ Wailywailywaily - they do do dishwasher tablets, and they seem to work well.

HMTheQueen · 26/01/2012 15:25

Marking my place for when I have some time.

heliumballoon · 26/01/2012 15:34

I just answered my own question about whether Ecover discounts much by looking on the Ocado website and noticing that all Ecover is 25% off! The slogan is about feeling good. I am not sure that is quite right. It doesn't really mean anything. It would be better to plug that Ecover is the best of both worlds- effective AND green.

gazzalw · 26/01/2012 16:22

Just to flag up that finally the products for using in the bathroom have arrived but it will probably be next week before DW has done enough cleaning in the bathroom to give comprehensive feedback

PeskyPiskie · 26/01/2012 17:04

Bathroom Pack

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried? I did know of the brand before using them, and agreed with the general ethos of the company. However, I was reluctant to try anything other than the washing up liquid due to the overall uncleanliness of my house and family. I had used the washing up liquid before and loved it. I stopped using the washing up liquid when I moved to the depths of the Fens and was unable to buy any so reverted to Fairy. Overall I have been very impressed with the products.
Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product? I, like many a working mother, look for products that will do the job the first time and do it well. I tend to clean my bathroom whilst I am having a shower (waiting for the conditioner to work) so was keen to see how the products worked with me standing in the midst of it all. Usually I use Viakal which means I end up standing in quite strong chemicals on a regular basis. It was with great anticipation that I tried the Ecover products. I was very surprised and releaved to see that the products removed all the limescale (which is significant in my area) and cleaned the bathroom as well as my previous products. They smelt great and felt just as good on my skin!
Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you? To be honest I didn't look at the packaging. I don't generally because I don't have to worry about having an enamel bath etc. Fortunately, no-one in my household have any allegies or concerns about sensitive skin so again this did not interest me. I was interested to learn that the product is made from renewable sugar cane, so will have to think about how to recycle the bottle when it is empty.
Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products? As I stated above this is not important to me, so I don't consider it in my purchases. However, I don't think it is a bad thing not to have too many chemicals in the house.
Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers? I would love to have a loo cleaner too. I think, to a certain extent, the packaging makes the products look rather "insipid" and therefore it could be that consumers may not realise how effective they are. Unfortunately, we have all been indoctrinated into believing that vivid blue will clean better than anything else!
Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why? I will buy the limescale remover and bathroom cleaner in the future, but probably not the cream cleaner. It is not a product I use very often and therefore probably won't even be replaced when it runs out. I will recommend the products to my friends and colleagues.
Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how? I don't think it has changed my perception of the brand but it has opened my eyes to the effectiveness of the products. Due to having participated in this trial I will probably try some of the other products.

MNHQ

TheOtherHelenMumsnet · 26/01/2012 17:33

Hi all - Ecover really appreciate all your feedback so far and have asked us to post this response to your queries:

"Thanks for all your comments and questions ? We just wanted to answer a few of the points raised:

· Sorry if you can?t find Ecover near you ? this link will help you to find your local stockist. Alternatively you can buy the entire range on www.ecoverdirect.com

· All our Plant-astic bottles can be recycled with your normal plastic recycling, and the production of these from sugar cane doesn?t damage the eco system in Brazil, or affect the food chain - if you would like to know more about it please click here

· We know our washing up liquid doesn?t have many bubbles and that?s because we choose not to include foam boosters in our products. It?s the plant based surfactants that do all the hard work and the extra bubbles don?t add to the cleaning power of our products. We know that everyone likes some suds but you do get used to not having loads!"

CoffeeGoneColdAgain · 26/01/2012 17:56

For those who had the bathroom pack...
Did the Limescale remover really remove like it should? I have seen somewhere that you can use white vinegar wrapped around the taps with cotton wool but hate the smell it leaves behind, Am doing a big shop tomorrow so will get some if its well recommended, :o

OracleInaCoracle · 26/01/2012 18:04

I tried the Laundry kit, I wash everything at 40 and have washed whites, lights, coloureds, darks and wool so far.

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

I have used Ecover kitchen all purpose cleaner in the past, and loved it, but have always been pretty reluctant to try any laundry stuff beyond persil/surf/comfort. However, I loved it. The stain remover in particular was great and has actually CLEANED ds's school shirts.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

Everything did exactly what it should. the fabric softener smells lovely and made my towels nice and soft. And, as I said up there, the stain remover was just brilliant.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

I like the feel of the packaging, and it does look nice. the whole recycling thing isnt THAT important to me (I know, I know) but I did feel a little smug.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

none of us have particularly sensitive skin, but then we dont really change our products that often. I do have psoriosis though, and I suppose that I should take that into consideration more.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

I would push the "space saving" aspect (they take up less room than my usual brand in my cupboard)

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

Definitely. I have a young son, and a husband who plays football, so it is nice to only have to wash things once.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

I see it as less of a "poncey/lentil-weavery" brand now. and less faddy.

whomovedmychocolate · 26/01/2012 18:14

Coffeegonecold - when you do the white vinegar thing, have you tried sticking a plastic sandwich bag over it overnight. The lack of oxygen stops the smell and makes it work better.

CoffeeGoneColdAgain · 26/01/2012 18:43

Ah WMMC maybe thats where I went wrong, No I didn't, and i didn't leave it on over night either, I left it for a few hours, it did shift from the cold bath tap but no so much from the hot tap, Is it to do with how hard the water is?
So the trick is to wrap the cotton wool around the tap and then the sandwich bag over the cotton wool yes?

SciFiFan · 26/01/2012 19:20

Thanks TheOtherHelen. I didn't realise that about the bubbles in the washing up liquid. I will try using less and see if it's still as good at the actual cleaning.

dumbelina · 26/01/2012 20:07

Bathroom Pack
Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried? I have tried Ecover products in the past some years ago and my overwhelming impression then was that they didn?t work very well, and that the loo cleaner in particular had a really horrid scent. I liked the idea of environmentally friendly cleaning products, but was disappointed with the performance.
Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product? I asked for the bathroom pack because I really like to have a nice clean shiny bathroom, and I find that this is the one room where e-cloths and water really don?t cut it. I was very impressed with the general bathroom cleaner and the limescale remover. I really liked the foaming action which meant the limescale remover clung to the tiles and actually did something, in fact a couple of minutes after I sprayed it on to a fairly scaled patch, the tiles were shiny and smooth. I wasn?t sure about the smell to start with, but the best thing about it is that it doesn?t linger. I have a couple of bleach based cleaners and the smell seems to hang around for days. Having used the cleaner a couple of times, I?m quite happy with the smell. I haven?t used the cream cleaner as it?s not something I use regularly, and never in the bathroom. I was a little disappointed not to be able to test a loo cleaner, as I would like to know if it?s any better than in the past.
Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you? I saw the GHI logo and was quite pleased by that, although I don?t really know why. Sensitive skin isn?t an issue for me, so I didn?t particularly notice that aspect of it. I didn?t see the thing about the sugar cane, but I?ve checked and it?s on my pack ? very interesting, and it?s good to know it can go in my normal recycling.
Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products? This wasn?t particularly relevant to me.
Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers? Somehow you have to get across to people like me that the products might not have been all that effective in the past, but they really work now. I think most people who are interested are aware of your environmental credentials, so it?s really about selling the actual cleaning power.
Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why? I would definitely buy the bathroom cleaner and limescale remover again, and I have already recommended them to my MIL, so yes I would recommend them.
Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how? It has made me realise that sometimes brands and products move on and improve, and it may be worth giving them another go. I?m not sure I would have considered buying Ecover again without this test. I?m pretty sure I will now. I was pretty impressed by the way the little sample pack of washing powder got the mud out of my son?s jeans at 40 degrees, so that might be next on my shopping list.

whomovedmychocolate · 26/01/2012 22:47

Coffeegonecold yes definitely leave it overnight. It's actually really good because if you use the ziplock bags, you can reuse both the bag and the vinegar (though I have to say I use citric acid which works even better and does not taste or smell - get it on ebay). V good for shower heads. Also incredibly funny when your spouse does not notice the bagged up shower head and suddenly gets two litres of water dumped on his head! (Less so with the vinegar in the eye but comedy requires sacrifice ).

suzannened · 27/01/2012 10:23

I just found Ecover products in our local farm shop that were cheaper than the supermarket's usual price (however Tesco are doing a deal at the moment so might stock up)

QED · 27/01/2012 12:12

i had the kitchen pack plus the samples.

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

Think I used them years ago but had thought they were too expensive

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

I found the kitchen spray was fine and I preferred its fragrance to my normal ones. Haven't used the cleaning liquid - possibly should try cleaning the floor? Found the washing up liquid produces less foam and needs more to clean the dishes. I usually use supermarket own and find the ecover one isn't as good. Smells quite nice though. The washing powder was all right although didn't get stains out of white polo shirts.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

Have to admit I didn't really look that hard at the packaging . Thought it looked OK.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

N/A

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

Make the washing up liquid more foamy and work better

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

Probably won#t use them - am presuming they cost more than those I usually use and perform either worse or as well and so might as well stick with what I've got.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

Not really changed my perception.

QED · 27/01/2012 12:36

Have just read Ecover's response on bubbles in washing up liquid . I don't mind it not bubbling but it wasn't getting dishes as clean.

MillontheFloss · 27/01/2012 13:16

Kitchen pack

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

I think so but it was a long time ago so can?t remember details. I think it was the washing up liquid.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

Had to use a lot of washing up liquid per load of washing up. This is my experience of a lot of ecological products- they don?t foam as well so you use more. Did the job well though and didn?t dry my hands as much as other brands. The multi action spray cleaner was great, as good as premium brands I usually use and I used the all purpose cleaner on my kitchen floor- again, no difference to other brands. They smell much nicer than other cleaning products- especially the washing up liquid.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

Attractive packaging and pleased that it is suitable for sensitive skin. It wasn?t made clear that the packaging was made of renewable sugar cane- more could be made of that. The packaging portrays the brand well and has more muted shades than other cleaning brands.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

Very important as I have sensitive skin. As mentioned above, the washing up liquid was much less drying than other brands and didn?t irritate. I use similar products to Ecover for laundry and their suitability for sensitive skin is a key factor.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

Focus on their cleaning abilities as a lot of people are put off eco products as they don?t think they will clean as well as harsh chemicals! Me too, sometimes!

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

Yes definitely. I am impressed by the cleaning power and I don?t mind paying a few more pence to be eco friendly. We do it with food (organic, fair trade etc) so why not cleaning stuff.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

Yes, I see the brand as a serious contender and an accessible range. I don?t see it as a premium brand anymore as perceptions have shifted and eco friendly products are becoming more mainstream. I may try the laundry products when my current one runs out.

KWL51 · 27/01/2012 13:53

Laundry pack
Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?
I had used ecover in the past but stopped using them as found they werent very effective, so was keen to give them another go. the products were really good, clothes clean and soft and natural smelling which is great as have been really put off by the chemical smelling comfort, lenor etc. I havent had occassion to use the stain remover yet though

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?
Overall results were great, very impressed. White school shirts come up clean, and sweaty teenage sons tops no left over body odour smell. I really like the natural almost essential oil smells rather than chemically smelling bigger brands.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?
having packaging that can be recycled is important to me, as I like to recycle as much as I can. Was very surprised to find out packaging made from sugar cane, genius!

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?
My youngest son suffers quite badly from dermatitis, so I am really careful about only using non bio on his clothes and had been finding that even the so called gentle fabric conditioners were making his skin itch and become scaly, we have had no problems using the ecover fabric conditioner. We used both the pink flower one that was the full size product test and the smaller sample sized yellow one.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?
I think for those that are concerned about enviromental issues and recycling will already be aware of the brand. I'm trying to think of something clever ot sya about marketing to new customers but my mind is drawing a blank. I think perhaps special offers to encourage shoppers who shop the offers could influence someones decision to buy the brand when not on offer.

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?
Yes i will be buying them in the future. As I said I was a previous customer who stopped buying because the brand was underperforming in terms of results, but as that issue appears to have been resolved and as the products do not irritate my sons skin, I will be purchasing them regularly. I have already recommended them to a friend whos child has exczema

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?
Overall thoughts are that the product works well, smells great without being overpowering. Gentle on fabrics and skin. I'm glad the comapny cared enough about the customers to reformulate the products so that they work. I ordered some of the cleaning products on my food shop this week, so willing to give the brand a full trial.

HMTheQueen · 27/01/2012 14:07

Bathroom Pack
Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

I have used Ecover on and off for the last few years. I've always found them very good - effective and worthwhile.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

I asked for the bathroom pack because I live in London with very hard water. I was very impressed with the general bathroom cleaner and the limescale remover. I liked the foamy-ness and the fact that they 'clung' to the walls and glass shower door. I wouldn't say I 'like' the smell, but I don't hate it as much as I do for other more abrasive clearners.

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

I didn't really notice the packaging (except that it had changed from the old style). I'm very lucky that we don't have to worry about sensitive skin in my family, so it really made no impact on me. I do like the fact that the packaging is more eco-friendly than regular palstics.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

This isn't relevant to me or my family.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

I think the marketing needs to be more about their usefulness as cleaners, as well as the Eco-ness of them - but more emphasis on the cleaning - and that they actually work! Although I prefer to use eco-friendly products, I'll only do that if they actually serve a purpose (which these do, but I don't know if other people are aware of that).

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

I will definitely buy the bathroom cleaner and limescale remover again, and I have in the past recommended them to friends. I will continue to do so in the future, as they actually work (although I don't routinely discuss cleaning products with my friends TBH!)

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

No real change in my perception of the brand - I've always liked it. But I am more impressed with the products themselves, in that I didn't feel like I had to work as hard as I did when using the same products a few years ago.

(Apols for any typos - rushing to get this done quickly!! )

stickyLFDTfingers · 27/01/2012 14:25

I have the laundry pack

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

I had used them before, but thought they were too expensive. Once the supermarkets started doing their own environmentally friendly brands I used them instead.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

It's pretty good. The first couple of washes were "challenging" - my youngest daughter had been ill and got the bed sheets pretty mucky. They needed two washes to get properly clean. I and DP also exercise nearly daily and create lots of whiffy kit! That it did seem to cut through effectively. The smell is nice, quite subtle and not overly "girly" (DP not wanting to smell too much of spring flowers).

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

I must admit I haven't studied it in detail! So wasn't surprised. The sensitive skin thing is important to us. I hadn't picked up the renewable sugar cane angle, but yes that is good to know, I don't like adding to all the oil use.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

Yes, we all have sensitive-ish skin, DD2 is particularly so. She is not reacting to it, I have a little bit (but I tend to react to change).

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

I think the environmental angle is increasingly important to consumers, not just the loonies any more. Therefore this is a good marketing angle, but I think it needs to be clear that the products really work before people will stump up extra for them.

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

It would come down to cost. I would recommend the products in a "yeah they're fine, especially if you want an environmentally friendly product", perhaps not raving about their overall effectiveness.

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

Not really, I think I would go back to the supermarket versions if it wasn't shown that Ecover was (a) more effective or (b) a similar price or (c) in fact much more environmental than the supermarket version.

But I am very grateful for the free products, and the little washing up liquid will be very handy on holiday, thank you :)

celebmum · 27/01/2012 14:37

Kitchen Pack

Q1. What were your thoughts and feelings about Ecover products prior to trying them? Had you used any before? What was your overall impression of the Ecover products you tried?

Nope neve used any Ecover product before. Have picked them up before in supermarket but then replaced them with cheaper more well known brands.

Q2. Thinking about the pack you tried for MN, what did you think of the overall results of the products? Was it what you expected? Did the product 'do the job'? Do you like the smell or the feel of the product?

I was very pleasantly surprised with the washing u liquid. i have a dishwasher but some baked on stuff still ants doing by hand, so i need a good liquid that can do this. Ecover washing up liquid was good, really does cut through the grease and but you really do need more than one squeeze! the pomegranate & lime smells nice too! The floor cleaner is effective, easy instuctions and again smelt lovely in the bottle but did not last long after the floorrs had been washed. loads in a bottle too so cost effective imo. The kitchen spray tho is my fave, works brilliantly on worktop, stainless steel, granite top and halogen hob so no need for lots of different sprays. not a cheap squirty nozzle either so a good spray is achieved every time!

Q3. What did you think of the product?s packaging? Did you read anything surprising on the packaging? Are the GHI/sensitive skin logos important to you? The plastic is made from renewable sugar cane, was this made clear on the pack? Is this important to you?

I like the look and fell of the packaging, its both appealing and asthetically pleasing even though the design is a little bland. im impressed with the good housekeeping recommendation and i like the facebook link on the back.im pleased that its all made from renewable sources as a busy working mum anything that helps me and my family do our bit is a winner for me.

Q4. How important is it too you that products are kind to sensitive skin and/or allergy sufferers when making a purchase decision? Do you or anyone in your family have sensitive skin and/or allergies? If so, how did you find using the Ecover products?

I tend to always purchase the sensitive options whatever product i am buying, so again this is another brownie point for Ecover in my book. i dont like the idea of using harsh chemicals on my skin.

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?

I like the products as they are, but i would focus on raising brand awareness, maybe an sdvertising campaign? i think that because the design is quite bland the Ecover products get swallowed up in the sea of products available on supermarket shelves.

Q6. Do you think you would buy the products in the future? If it came up in conversation, do you think you would recommend them to a friend? Why? If not, why?

I will and I already have! I have recommended the washing up liquid already to a friend, as i genuinly believe that it is the best ive ever used!

Q7 And having tried them, what are your overall thoughts and feelings about the products now? Has it changed your perception of the brand? If so, how?

In all honsety yes, I would be more than likely to pick up Ecover poducts and put them in my trolley in the future. I'll admit that before using them i probably did think that they would be 'wishy washy' products that were more focused on saving the planet than actually 'doing what it says on the tin'. im pleased to say that my perceptions were wrong and that i am happy to now be an ecover convert!