As spring turns to summer, most Minnesotans are ready to spend more time outside. Whether it’s grilling, relaxing on the patio or hosting friends – it all starts with a clean space. This year, try using soy-based cleaning products to get everything ready. Made from U.S-grown soybeans, these non-toxic and eco-friendly cleaners are showing up in items like grill sprays and patio washes. They’re a simple and natural way to clean up without using strong chemicals. 

“When we talk about soy-based products, we often focus on the exciting innovations like biodiesel, roof rejuvenators or even new products like SoyFoam,” said Mike Youngerberg, senior director of product development and commercialization with the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC). “But there are also great everyday options for consumers, like grill and patio cleaners, that bring the benefits of soy into the home.” 

Soy-based cleaners are proving that you don’t need harsh chemicals to get the job done. The SoyGreen Stainless Steel Cleaner from Soy Technologies is tough on grease and buildup, which makes it a solid choice for cleaning stainless steel, aluminum and copper on outdoor cooking areas. It comes ready-to-use or can be diluted. The Hard Surface Cleaner, made with 84 percent biobased content, is a good pick for wood, granite, marble and tile surfaces. It leaves a high gloss finish that minimizes fingerprint marks and keeps your hard surfaces looking new.  

Natural Soy Products offers a BBQ Grill Cleaner that’s just as effective as traditional brands. A safe way to remove grease and char from smokers to ovens. Natural Soy also carries a Driveway Cleaner that’s tough on dirt without the harsh chemical fumes. This multi-use product can be used on a variety of surfaces such as your driveway, patio and concrete floors.

“Soy is used in many industries and there are more than 1,000 different soy-based products consumers can find available on the market today, including hand cleaners, janitorial products and industrial cleaners and degreasers,” says United Soybean Board Director Gene Stoel, who’s retiring from MSR&PC in 2025 after nearly 20 years. “Soy-based cleaners are often biodegradable, low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and considered safer for people and the environment. Giving consumers an environmentally friendly option from sustainably grown and produced biobased products is a win-win for consumers and soybean farmers. In fact, according to a recent USDA biobased products industry report, the biobased products industry supports 3.9 million American jobs, contributes $489 billion to the U.S. economy and displaces about 9.4 million barrels of oil a year.” 

Choosing soy-based products is an easy way to clean smarter and feel good about what you’re using. Whether wiping down your patio or scrubbing the grill, soy-based products offer an environmentally friendly way to clean. You can find options from companies like Natural Soy Products and Soy Technologies or explore more through soybiobased.org. Next time you’re shopping for cleaners, check the label. A small switch can make a big difference for your outdoor space and the environment.