In early 2023, one of the most widely used household cleaning brands, Fabuloso, issued a surprise recall that affected millions of bottles across the U.S. For many, this raised an important question: Can we trust the safety of the cleaning products we use every day?
Let’s break down what happened during the Fabuloso recall, what caused it, and how consumers can stay informed and safer going forward.
What Happened in the Fabuloso Recall?
In February 2023, Colgate-Palmolive voluntarily recalled approximately 4.9 million bottles of its popular Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner due to potential bacterial contamination. The affected products were manufactured between December 14, 2022, and January 23, 2023.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that certain batches were produced without sufficient preservatives, allowing dangerous bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens to grow.
These bacteria can pose a risk of infection, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems or those with chronic lung conditions.
How to Identify Recalled Bottles
Recalled bottles included various scents and sizes. You could identify affected bottles by checking the lot code printed near the bottle’s neck or on the label and comparing it to the list published on Fabuloso.com/recall or CPSC.gov.
Affected consumers were advised to stop using the products immediately and request a refund or replacement.
Fabuloso Wasn’t Alone: Other Cleaning Product Recalls
Fabuloso’s recall wasn’t the first — and certainly won’t be the last — cleaning product pulled from the shelves. Here are a few notable examples:
- Pine-Sol (2022) – Recalled due to contamination with the same Pseudomonas bacteria.
- Method Antibacterial Spray (2020) – Temporarily removed due to incorrect labeling.
- Lysol Disinfectant Spray (2017) – Recall issued due to defective spray valves.
These cases remind us that even trusted, big-name products can be vulnerable to manufacturing or quality control issues.
Why This Matters: The Hidden Risks in Cleaning Products
Most households use cleaners with little thought about the ingredients inside. However, the Fabuloso recall served as a warning that:
- Preservative failure in water-based products can lead to bacterial growth.
- Lack of transparency in ingredients and manufacturing makes it hard for consumers to assess risk.
- Over-reliance on name brands may result in false confidence in product safety.
Learn more about the risks of harsh chemicals in common household products in our full guide.
Safer Cleaning Alternatives to Consider
To reduce the risk of contamination or chemical exposure, consider using natural cleaning alternatives, such as:
- White vinegar (disinfects and deodorizes)
- Baking soda (abrasive and deodorizing)
- Castile soap (gentle all-purpose cleaner)
- Hydrogen peroxide (disinfectant)
- Essential oils (fragrance + antimicrobial properties)
Store your mixes in amber spray bottles to protect the integrity of the ingredients and prolong shelf life.
💡 Related post: DIY Cleaning Supplies for a Safer Home
You can also explore effective commercial alternatives that combine natural formulas with scrubbing power, like Scrub Mommy + Power Paste.
How to Stay Informed on Future Recalls
- Subscribe to CPSC alerts at CPSC.gov
- Register your cleaning products when possible
- Follow manufacturers on social media or sign up for email updates
- Check blogs like ours that monitor cleaning product safety regularly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What caused the 2023 Fabuloso recall?
The 2023 Fabuloso recall was caused by a manufacturing error that resulted in insufficient preservative levels, allowing harmful bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens to grow in certain batches.
Which Fabuloso products were affected by the recall?
The recall affected specific bottles of Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner manufactured between December 2022 and January 2023. Consumers were advised to check their lot numbers and UPC codes to confirm if their product was impacted.
Is it still necessary to return or report recalled Fabuloso products today?
Since the recall occurred in early 2023, most consumers should have either disposed of or returned affected products by now. However, if you still possess an older bottle, it is safest to dispose of it properly following recall guidelines.
What health risks were associated with the recalled Fabuloso products?
The bacteria found in the recalled Fabuloso products could cause serious infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic lung conditions, or open wounds.
How can I stay informed about future cleaning product recalls?
Subscribe to updates from trusted sources like CPSC.gov, the FDA, or brand newsletters. Regularly checking the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall list is a proactive way to stay updated.
Have other cleaning products been recalled before?
Yes, other notable recalls include Clorox’s Pine-Sol in 2022 and Method’s antibacterial cleaners in 2020. Recalls typically happen due to contamination risks, labeling errors, or packaging defects.
What are some safer alternatives to conventional cleaning products?
Safer alternatives include products made with natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, Castile soap, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils. Brands that carry EPA Safer Choice or EWG Verified certifications are also good options.
How can improper storage of cleaning products cause contamination?
Exposure to heat, humidity, or sunlight can degrade preservatives in cleaning products, allowing bacteria or mold to grow. Always store products according to manufacturer instructions in a cool, dry place.
What steps should I take if I used a contaminated product?
If you suspect exposure to a contaminated product and experience symptoms like skin irritation, respiratory issues, or infections, seek medical attention promptly and inform your healthcare provider about the exposure.
How can I verify if a product is safe before using it?
Check the expiration date, inspect the packaging for any leaks or unusual odors, and research the brand’s safety practices. For added security, opt for products that undergo third-party safety testing.
Why do bacteria sometimes grow in cleaning products?
Bacteria can grow when preservative systems fail, especially if manufacturing errors occur or if the product is improperly stored. Water-based products are especially vulnerable if not formulated correctly.
▶️ See our full FAQ section above or jump to: How do I know if my Fabuloso was recalled?, What is Pseudomonas in cleaning products?, What should I do if I used a recalled bottle?
Final Thoughts
Recalls like the one issued for Fabuloso in 2023 offer a critical reminder: not all household cleaners are created — or stored — equally. Even a product you’ve used for years can unexpectedly pose a risk.
If you were affected by the Fabuloso recall—or remember another product you had to stop using—you’re not alone. Consumers deserve transparency, safety, and easy access to trustworthy alternatives.
Were you affected by the 2023 Fabuloso recall—or do you remember a time a cleaning product you trusted was suddenly pulled from shelves?
Stay informed, protect your household, and explore safer cleaning alternatives with us. Browse our trusted DIY cleaning solutions →
This post was last edited on April 29, 2025.
