NOW CLOSED: Ecover product testers review thread

[AnnMumsnet]

This thread is for the 75 Mumsnetters who are trying out the range of Ecover products.

By way of background Ecover say: - "We have over 30 products for the home, laundry and dishes. Many of the products are dermatologically tested and approved, which is good news for those that have allergies or sensitive skin. Many products are GHI approved and all of the bottles are made out of Plant-astic, a renewable and sustainable plastic made from Sugar Cane"

MN testers are trying one of the following three packs:

Kitchen
All Purpose Cleaner
Pomegranate Washing Up Liquid
Multi Action Spray

Bathroom
Bathroom Cleaner
Limescale Remover
Cream Cleaner

Laundry
Stain Remover
Concentrated Laundry Liquid Non Bio
Amongst the Flowers Fabric Conditioner

If you are a tester please state which pack you have tried. Please give your responses to the questions below - but feel free to add any other comments too.

Everyone who takes part will be entered into a prize draw, where one winner will win £250 of John Lewis vouchers!

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

Thank you for taking part and good luck with the prize draw!
MNHQ

Can I do tge questions later, tis hard replying on a phone.

Anyway just popped in tge say the washing up liquid worked brilliant on tge roasting pan from yesterday's roast pork! Not a drop of grease so well done!

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 knew Ecover as an environmentally-friendly (insofaras cleaning products can be environmentally friendly that is) brand with decent results. I had used their washing liquid for handwash items, the washing up liquid and the bathroom cream cleaner before. I thought they were all fine but I felt that traditional products did the job better - it was about making a compromise between environmentally friendly vs outstanding results.

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 impressed with the action of the limescale spray. I didn't like the smell much but it wasn't awful or chemical like other such products. The bathroom cleaner was foamier than I expected and did a great job at cleaning bath basin and surfaces, including getting some stains out of the grouting. It smelt nice too. The cream cleaner said it was for "ovens enamel and fridges" and I wasn't sure what else to do with it as I don't have an enamel bath and the spray had done everything well. I tried it out on some stubborn bits around plug holes / overflow, it smelt fine and did a good job.

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?

I thought the bathroom cleaner should have had the same safety cap as the limescale spray (so you have to turn it on to use it). I thought the packaging looked fine but not terribly interesting. I love Method products and think they have their "look" spot on - unless you read all the details on the packages, which I admit I don't. So I had no idea the packaging was made from sugar cane, which is surprising. If I or my family had sensitive skin then I think I would be more aware of looking for the logos in question, but I didn't notice this.

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?

No one in my house shas sensitive skin or allergies, so this isn't something I look for in particular. Though if I bought a product that had a very strong chemical smell I wouldn't use it again.

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

I would be more outspoken as an eco-champion, providing tips about helping the environment from within the household and trying to demonstrate that you can have good cleaning without bleach / chemicals etc.

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 might buy if on offer but tbh I'm not that likely to notice the products on the shelf as they're not very vibrant (I get that this is in line with a pared down eco-look, but see my thoughts on Method above)

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 think the products are better than I remember from using them previously. I like the brand for wanting to improve and for asking for opinions.

I can't decide if I'm either the most perfect person to test drive cleaning products or the worst as I should confess that I HATE cleaning. Its not just that I hate it but I'm also really bad at it. I try, but everything always looks a bit scummy round the edges. I'd like to think that the hard hard water in my area is mostly to blame.

I usually use washing up liquid or hardcore bleach in some areas of the house (not together) or bicarb and soda and vinegar mixes to deal with the limescale that seems to encrust itself wherever there is water. The vinegar, used neat and left to soak on taps and showers does work, but doesn't half reek. Its the bathrooms were I have most trouble so I tested the bathroom collection of Ecover goodies and was really really surprised that they actually worked, particularly the limescale spray. It genuinely was GREAT - didn't have to leave to soak in for too long, smelt nice and did the job. VERY happy with that one.

Also really happy with the general bathroom spray and cream cleanser, the latter in particular which didn't leave any nasty white residue and smelt good.

There were also a few other bits of washing up liquid and washing powder and softener, which were lovely and i've used them before so knew what to expect.

Was very impressed by the packaging and recyclable quality and of what they were made from - I'm a bit of a cheap skate generally but do try to err towards things that are eco-friendly if possible so would happily pay a few more pennies for that.

I can't say I actually enjoyed the cleaning anymore, but it certainly smelt a lot nicer than usual, didn't take that too much scrubbing and rinsing and I felt my eco-halo was shining almost as much as my faux chrome taps. Lovely. Thanks Ecover.

ooh - last point - I don't really see the difference between a multi-spray and a bathroom spray, surely they are pretty much the same thing with different names? Not sure they need two different products.

Apologies for the lateness of this - had a death of a close family member. Here goes...I had 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 thought they were worthy but not really worth the extra expense as I thought they wouldn't smell so great and also wouldn't really do the best job. I was pleasantly suprised 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?

The washing up liquid wasn't very thick and actually quite watery but smelt divine! I agree with others that you need to use more. The multipurpose cleaner did get my floor clean - on a par with my usual floor cleaner. The kitchen spray was excellent and I was surprised at the results. They all did the job really well. Smells were great but didn't seem to last.

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?

Although they have gone for the 'green' lokkk I though the packaging was rather bland and maybe should have slightly brighter colours which would have made it more eye-catching. The logos are, to be honest, not really important to me. As long as they are of a decent price and do the job. If they are enviromentally friendly, it makes me feel a little better!

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?

We no have allergies in the family, but my daughter has slightly sensitive skin, but this really wouldn't make a difference to her.

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

I would definitely make the products stand out a lot more and have a bigger marketing campaign. Communicate to the consumer that although they are environmentally friendly, they also work really well! This doesn't really come across that clearly to the masses.

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 buy the multipurpose cleaner as it was a good product and worked well. I wouldn't buy the washing up liquid or floor cleaner. Price is a huge factor as well as performance. I don't think they work fantastically well, but on a similar level to supermarket own brands. I think I would actually recommend them to a friend as I thought they were pretty good products.

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

My perceptions of the brand have definitely changed. I always though green products would be slightly sub-standard and they really aren't. They are just as good as others, and it makes you feel less guilty when you use them!

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 like the ethos of Ecover. I have used them in the past when we had a septic tank and more disposable income. I still use the washing up liquid but stopped using the laundry products when our income dropped and we moved away from the farm shop where I got the bottles refilled. Our local supermarket (Tesco) used to stock a big range but now they don't so the products are not so easy to buy. I enjoyed using the products as they seemed effective and didn't have a strong smell.

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 all three products reasonably effective. I was slightly disappointed with the Limescale remover. It was very good on taps but didn't remove all the limescale from the glass walls of the shower. I enjoyed using them as I hate cleaning products with a strong smell so I liked the subtle fragrance.

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 liked the packaging. It seemed to 'fit' well with the product. The GHI logo would make me more likely to buy it as I would otherwise assume 'green' products would be less effective. I didn't know the plastic was from sugar cane. I try to avoid plastic packaging as much as possible (ie - have milk in glass bottles, refill if possible) so this is important to 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?

Luckily, no one in my family has especially sensitive skin or allergies so it is not important to me.

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

I would try to emphasis that the products worked effectively as well as being ethical.

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 buy the products in the future and would recommend them. Unfortunately, they do seem to be more expensive, which is why I stopped buying the laundry washing liquid as we get through so much of it. Spending more on bathroom cleaner etc is ok as it is replaced much less frequently.

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?

My perception of the brand hasn't really changed, but I wasn't aware that it was good for sensitive skin or about the packaging. I will probably start buying the laundry liquid again now that I am reminded that the products work/don't have a strong smell.

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 heard of the brand but suspected that it may put environmentally friendliness above performance and also assumed to to be expensive so had not tried it. The environment was not a concern for me when choosing products but this has changed since I had my baby.

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 tested the laundry pack. I liked the smell of the products. They washed as well as my usual washing liquid and fabric softener. The stain remover was as effective as my usual stain remover, perhaps even better on some things although some of the tomato-ey and carroty- stains on my babys clothes took more than one wash. This was better than I expected.

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 nice but does not stand out to me in the supermarket - I looked for it when i went shopping this week and it took me a while to spot it, thought maybe this is due to the presentation in my local supermarket. The logos are not important to me. The environmentally friendliness of the packaging is importnat to me thought this fact did not massively stand out on the pack. To be truthful I wouldnt normally spend a lot of time reading the pack though!

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 very importnat to me as some family members have sensitive skin (psoriasis) The ecover products have not been a problem for this though we have only used for one week.

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

I have not seen these products advertised anywhere. I think other laundry products are heavily advertised in magazines and on the TV, maybe ecover could do more of this?

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 do plan to buy the laundry products again, particularly the fabric softener and stain remover. I would recommend to a friend and actually passed on one of the extra free samples to a friend to try!

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?

My overall feelings are positive towards the brand and I see that they are not only focused on the environment but on supplying a quality product too.

Thank you very much for the chance to try the products.

I have the kitchen pack.

Q1. I had not tried Ecover products before. I was sceptical about how well they would work and thought they might be expensive for how well they worked.

Q2. I love the spray cleaner and use it for wiping down surfaces every day. Smells fab and does a good job. Not had as much call to use the other cleaner as I do not have any solid floors. Tried it on my hob though -was ok on 'normal' grime but struggled with the tougher/greasier stuff. Washing up liquid works well and again, a lovely smell (pomegranate makes a welcome change to lemon and apple!)

Q3. Had not realised what the packaging was made off and was pleasantly surprised. The GHI endorsement is reassuring. I like the fact that it is ok for sensitive skin even though no one in the family has allergies.

Q4. No one in the family has allergies but I do appreciate having products which are kind to skin.

Q5. I was surprised that not all products were in my local supermarket so availability is an issue. I would market the products emphasising their effectiveness and that they do not smell of chemicals like some others.

Q6. I would definitely buy from the range and recommend them to others.

Q7. I am a convert. I like using the products and will be buying them

briefly as i have children clamouring for food
Bathroom pack - the multi surface cleaner seems good - whizzed through the scum of fil's shaving cream and general dirt from 3 children.nice smell

Limescale cleaner - brilliant - the shower doors are really cler and sparkling

Bio -washing powder - useless . gave it a hard test of whites with small children - food stains still present, pen marks and general dirt on tights still there, blood stain still there so no improvement . Shame really.

will post more soon

oh dear lord, I typed my reply out and then forgot I wasn't logged in.
Logged in and the feedback has gone! sob
Just about to go to work, so I'll do it tomorrow. Sorry.

Evening all, apologies for the delay in posting feedback. Wanted to use it for a fair few washes to give proper feedback.

I had 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 a little knowledge of the Ecover products as my Mum had a thing about using them when she had cancer (yeah cheery I know-sorry). She felt better using as few toxins as possible. I kind of agree with that ethos and also, having a son with autism, I was keen to try out Ecover products as I have recently read that an overload of toxins in the environment can overload a child with ASD.

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 did an ok job but not as effective as the usual non-bio brand I use. I didn't really know what to expect. I was disappointed in the smell of the fabric softener though. I did like the smell of the small bottle of fabric conditioner. Maybe same smell could be used for both? It made me realise I am so used to heavily perfumed laundry products that low scented things = not properly clean in my head. Silly I know!

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 fact that renewable sugar cane is used. I also didn't know about the butterflies and this has played on my conscience a bit. I am divided as I love scented fabric softeners but those poor butterflies.....

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?

It is really important to my family that products are kind to sensitive skin. None of us had a reaction to ecover. DH has previously had a reaction to Fairy Washing powder

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

As per my previous post, I would make the products a bit more scented but not enough to harm butterflies!

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 use the fabric softener-not totally sold on the washing powder, sorry liquid. Actually, another thing-I don't like liquid detergent so I wouldn't buy that. I would only ever use a powder. I have a trial size of the powder still to use. I will make my decision after using it on my sons white school polo shirts (with the stain remover)

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 a more conscious consumer if you know what I mean. I would love to use ecover all the time and already intend to buy the washing up liquid to try. It hasn't really changed my perception of the brand per se but has raised awareness with me and made me want to try out different ecover products.
Finally, thanks for choosing me to be an ecover product tester! I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Hi there,
I am not an official tester, but I was spurred on to try the product after seeing this testing panel, so went and bought Ecover laundry detergent. I usually use Surcare, which I am very satisfied with. Ecover is the only powder detergent I have come across that stays in the detergent compartment as a messy foam, rather than being rinsed down into the wash. It is most annoying. I have to clean the powder drawer between every wash, before adding more detergent. I wont be buying it again. Sorry.

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 didn't have any preconceptions about the brand to be honest. I have obviously seen them in the marketplace and knew where they fitted in but that's about it!

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 products work. But (and this is a biggy for me) I don't like the smell of the liquid. It smells really artificial to me which I think goes against the whole ethos of the brand.
Reading the letter which accompanied the products I took on board the information regarding enzymes and the detrimental effect they have on skin etc so was surprised to be told to use the stain remover on stubborn stains (all stains are stubborn in this house ) which has enzymes in it!
I have had to use it in all washes and would probably get through a bottle a week. Also the time it takes to go through the washing and apply the remover really annoys me.

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 ok. Doesn't stand out for me at all though. Personally I think they need some rebranding to make more of the benefits of using it.
Recycling is important as we are on fortnightly landfill collections so anything which doesn't go into that bin is good, but our council are very highly strung about what they will collect and what they won't. So as soon as I finish the bottles I will attempt to recycle!

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?

We are fortunate in that we don't have any sensitive skin/allergies in this house so I don't have to worry about it. However if we did then I would obviously factor this into the purchasing of the washing powder etc.

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

Definitely needs to stand out more (as said above). More marketing, special offers etc. If people will buy the ridiculous new products which claim to kill bugs on clothes, then a company like Ecover should be able to corner the market quite nicely if they shout loud enough!

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 won't be buying the product in the future but not because it doesn't work, purely based on a money perspective.
Ecover laundry liquid is selling in Asda for £5.63 for 28 washes.
I normally use Asda smart price washing powder which is £3.60 (ish) for 60 washes. We are a family of 5 plus a dog. Unfortunately in this current ecomonic climate I have to make the decision based on price and performance.

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?

My perception of the brand has changed in that I know the products work etc. Really I would say if I win the lottery then I would make sure my housekeeper buys Ecover!
Sorry Ecover, you are simply too expensive for me at the moment.

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 had used them before but had stopped using them as had started using own brand products instead. On the whole I like them. We have Ecover toilet cleaner in our loo already.
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?
Pretty happy with it. I really like the washing up liquid. The smell is fresh and clean and smells a bit like something you'd eat which is nicer then for instance "spring meadow" however i think that it quite liquidy so it comes out rather quickly. The Multi action spray has a weird smell. It's sort of powery smell it smells quite chemically not a fan of the smell but it works quite well.
Like the all purpose cleaner used it on the floor and it smell fine.

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?
Didn't realise that about the sugar cane. The most important thing to me about bottles ect is if they are easy to recycle! I'm not sure about these bottles as I haven't finished.
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?
DS has eczema so I am looking out for things. Also with all the washing ect you do with a small child i like things that are soft on my hands. I've found them quite good.
Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?
Gosh I don't know about this one. I guess it's that the products work as well as other stuff or are cost effective. I am more like to spend a bit more if a product is value for money.
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 think i might buy the washing up liquid again and the all purpose cleaner. I don't tend to make recommendations but if it was brought up in conversation i'd say what i was using.
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 had only really stopped using them because I was trying some cheaper ones. I think i might go back to the all purpose cleaner but not the spray. We might also start using the washing up liquid as it does smell nice.

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? Didn't really have much views on them really

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 impressed, they had a lovely smell, The stain remover is one of the best I have used

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 actually didn't take any notice, I just presumed that it would be able to be recycled

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 to me, I suffer from psorsis, it hasn't got better but I have had not irratation

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 the packing stand out more, they are very plain

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? maybe, it would depend on price I think. I would definately buy the stain remover

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 was impressed with them, and will look for them in the shops when I am due to buy more

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 very little knowledge of Ecover products, but had used bio stuff when we lived abroad. My overall impression of the stuff I tried was relatively good, but not fantastic.
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?
Thinking about the laundry pack, I didn't like the powder, it clogged up in the dispensing drawer and I'm not sure all of it went into the machine. I was impressed at how clean my DDs uniform came out, especially as it wasn't a bio powder. The softener smelled nice but, I didn't feel it left her stuff as soft as the Lenor I normally 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 thought the packaging was very much like a baby care range. I didn't know the packing was made of sugar cane. TBH, it doesn't really matter to me. All our bottles go into the recycling bin.
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 is not something that concerns us. Nobody in the family is sensitive to anything, but for those who do have skin problems, I imagine it is good.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 the packaging bolder, more colours. They are a bit wishywashy at the moment. I'd improve the washing powder by making it more soluble.
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?
If they were on special offer, I would consider them. The chances of cleaning products coming up in conversation with anybody I know is remote. If it does, I'd be happy to chat about my experience.
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 changed my perceptions a bit. They are more effective than I thought they would be and I do like the pomegranite W/U/L. It is effective and smells nice.

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 products before but not the bathroom ones. I had used the washing up liquid and the dishwasher tablets (which are fab). I liked the idea of Ecover products but wasn't sure that the bathroom products would be as effective as other 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?

Yes, they did the job surprisingly well. Not sure the limescale remover could tackle serious built up limescale but it got my tiles and taps nice and shiny. The cream cleaner and bathroom cleaner cleaned and rinsed as well as any other products I've used. I love love love the fact that they don't smell chemically and will probably buy them again for this reason alone!

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?

Packaging is easy to pick out on supermarket shelf and makes it clear it is an eco-friendly brand. Didn't notice about the cane sugar (although assumed it was recyclable). Sensitive skin logos important to me as both sons have mild eczema.

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?

Important - both sons have mild eczema and I always worry that the residue of normal bathroom cleaner will irritate. I found the products less drying on my hands than other products I've used (note to self - wear rubber gloves when cleaning the bathroom).

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

I think most people worry that Ecover products won't be as effective as others on the market so some sort of marketing campaign comparing them to other products (assuming Ecover come out well!)

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 and yes - particularly because of the lack of chemical smell and the fact they are kinder to sensitive skin. Although I wouldn't buy the laundry powder again (I had a trial size) as I wasn't keen on the smell.

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 was surprised by how effective the products were so yes, it has changed my perception for the better.

I had the bathroom products.

Q1. I felt good about Ecover products and had tried some of them before. My overall impression was that they were good for the environment but that some of them were less effective than others.

Q2. I was impressed with the bathroom pack and thought that the results were better than I had expected. I liked the smells of all the products because they are less chemical-smelling than other brands. The products did the jobs well.

Q3. I like the packaging and think that it is easy to pick out on a shelf - recognisable. The sensitive skin logos are important as we are expecting a baby and my husband has eczema. It is more important to me to know if the product is recyclable than what it is made of.

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?

Q5. I would expand the range and try to bring down the prices. I would make it much cheaper to use the refill option and I would aim to get the refills in more shops. I would also market Ecover more aggressively and try to get more shelf room in shops and supermarkets. Perhaps get connected with environmental charities?

Q6. I would definitely recommend Ecover products and will continue to use them in the future. I think it is important to use products that don't fill the house with chemically smells - I think we breathe in enough rubbish on a daily basis.

Q7 My perception of the brand has changed in that there are more Ecover products in the range than I realised, and the bathroom products are more effective than I expected.

We tried the kitchen pack.

1. I have used Ecover laundry products before and washing up liquid - my overall impression is that they are kind to skin and environmentally friendly, but a bit expensive.

1. The smell of the pomegranate washing up liquid was wonderful, really fresh and fruity. All the products seem to do a good job, I was pleasantly surprised by the all purpose cleaner which seems to get things clean without having to use very much.

1. The packaging of Ecover products always looks a bit 1970s to me, something about the plant pictures somehow. It does make the environmental credentials clear, and the skin friendliness; I didn't immediately spot the renewable plastic but our LA recycles all plastic so I pay limited attention to that sort of info.

1. I have eczema and sensitive skin and my son also has sensitive skin so it is very important to us to use skin friendly products. I've always used sensitive skin products for laundry but as I am now at home all the time with a new baby, I'm thinking more about the need to use skin friendly products in the kitchen and bathroom as well.

1. If I were in charge of Ecover i would review the packaging and try to go for something more modern, which also stresses the products are effective - there is something almost apologetic about the way they are presented as green products which are reasonably effective, as opposed to really effective green products.

1. I would buy the products in future and recommend them, but I would look out for special offers as I think the prices are a bit high.

Bathroom pack

1- I thought that the products were expensive and because they were environmentally focused they wouldn't be any good so never even bother to buy them.

2- I was really pleasantly surprised by tge smell and feel. In particular tge washing up liquid was fantastic. It not only smelt lovely but also really dealt with the grease of a Sunday roast.

3- to be honest price is more important to me currently than anything else. If it can also do the job then that is the next one because that also leads into price and how much product will be used.

4- no-one with sensitive skin however do have a baby with dry skin so it might become more important.

5- I would make more of tge price and quality of tge product rather than tge Eco/sensitive benefits.

1. Yes I would, some of them have really surprised me with how good they are.

7- it's made me think that I shouldn't judge so harshly on first impressions and that sensitive/Eco products can actually do the job.

Opps pressed post!

Thanks for letting me test have never enjoyed cleaning do much

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 was aware that Ecover is a brand that is very environmentally conscious and made from natural ingredients instead of containing lots of chemicals. I like the ethos behind Ecover.
My overall impression is that Ecover is effective in removing stains. Just like the ad campaign, I felt good using it as I knew I wouldn't be breathing in loads of chemicals!

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 tried the bathroom pack and it was effective in removing limescale and I didn't have to scrub away at it. The bathroom cleaner also rinsed away thoroughly. There were no strong chemical odours which I was very happy with. It was what I expected. I also loved the smell of the washing up liquid.

Q3. What did you think of the products 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 liked the products packaging as it is simple and easy to read without too much blurb. I was aware of the ethos behind Ecover. I wasn't aware about the sugar cane until I had a look on the website. I like that it biodegrades quickly as I try and recycle everything.

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?
No-one in my family has allergies but I still try and buy products that are less harsh on the skin. I imagine these products would be perfect for those with allergies or sensitive skin

Q5. If you were in charge of Ecover what, if any, improvements would you make? How would you 'sell' them to consumers?
I liked the advert and if I remember correctly it was also shown at the cinema so I think most people are aware of Ecover. Maybe more emphasis should be given on it being a chemical-free brand and made of natural products so it is great for families and those with allergies etc.

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 them if they were on special offer as they are slightly more expensive. Yes I would recommend to anyone if it was discussed as Ecover is a great brand and I love the ethos behind it. And most importantly the products I tried did do the job

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 feel lucky to have had the chance to try them so I now know they are an effective cleaning brand even without all the nasty chemicals that other leading products are filled with. My feelings towards Ecover haven't changed, I still believe they are a great brand. I didn't however realise how many Ecover products there are, such as washing powder and floor soap.

Thank you!

sorry for the late review, I've been busy doing my washing

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've always assumed Ecover was out of my budget as I tended to buy what ever was on offer but now we have DD3 and her sensitive skin to think about I have started looking at specific detergent

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 definatly "does the job" and I love the clean, fresh smell. I put a pile of clean, dry washing on my bed and my room smelt lovely for hours

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 really like the packaging, it looks clean. All logos are clear and reassuring.

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?

Again I have been impressed and my DD hasn't had any reaction to trying this product

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

I don't feel any improvements on the product is needed. I would sell the product as a fresh smelling, sensitive but powerful laundry product

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 be buying Ecover from now on and have also purchased the bathroom cleaner since doing the trial, I have also recommended to my group of friends

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 feel positive about Ecover and will now be a regular customer

The stain remover is also great and worked well on pre-school clothes.
Very impressed

I tested 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 thought of them primarily as green products. I had tried several Ecover products before as I wanted to keep use of chemicals in the house to a minimum with young children/babies. I found on the whole that they were less effetive than non-green products and felt I was paying more and accepting poorer performance simply in order to be green. It was also hard to find stockists.

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 pleasantly surprised. The products did the job. I tried the stain remover on DS1's school shirts. It worked well on food stains but did not touch the ground in dirt on his cuffs (didn't really expect it too though).

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 liked the packaging. More mainstream and less hard core green. Didn't really read it in depth. Looking again I was impressed by the Good Housekeeping Institute rating. Skin logos not that important but nice to know as I have a young baby and young children. Sugar cane was clear on looking again at the pack. I had not noticed it before. Too busy trying the products to read the packaging!

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?

Prefer products kind to sensitive skin due to young children/babies but no allergies in family.

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

The more effective you can make them the better, particularly the stain remover. A good green stain remover is like the holy grail! Would be good if they can compete on price and performance with a USP of being green rather than green first and performance/price second. Performance and price does matter. If you have to pay a premium to be green and the product is not so good anyway that will put a lot of people off.

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. Depending on price. They do seem now to be competitive on performance. Particularly loved the smell of the fabric conditioner and will continue to test the stain remover to see what it can and can't cope with.

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?

Will definitely give Ecover products generally another go now. My perception is now of a more mainstream brand with eco/green credentials rather than a niche brand for hardcore greens only.

Bloody hell. I think I am the only 1 who doesn't like the smell if the laundry liquid! sorry Ecover.