Is Full Circle ethical?

Overview

Full Circle is a brand dedicated to creating eco-friendly home cleaning tools that minimize environmental impact. Their philosophy centers on circular economy principles—designing products that can be reused, recycled, or composted. The brand’s product range includes dish brushes, scrubbers, and dispensers made from materials like FSC-certified wood, recycled plastics, and plant-based fibers. Full Circle holds B Corp certification and other environmental certifications, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Certifications

Full Circle has earned several notable certifications that validate its ethical and environmental claims. B Corp Certification (score: 92/100) confirms the brand meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Certification ensures that wood used in products like the Bubble Up Dish Brush comes from responsibly managed forests. The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certifies that the Bubble Up Dish Soap Dispenser & Brush contains recycled materials, and the brand is also Plastic Neutral, offsetting its plastic footprint through partnerships with plastic waste recovery programs. These certifications are verified by third-party audits.

Animal testing & vegan range

Full Circle does not test its products on animals, and the brand is officially recognized as cruelty-free. Their cleaning tools are made from plant-based, recycled, and mineral materials, and none contain animal-derived ingredients. The company states that its entire product line is vegan-friendly, making it a safe choice for consumers seeking ethical, plant-based alternatives.

Sustainability pledges

Full Circle operates under a circular design framework: products are built to last, repairable, and recyclable. The brand pledges to reduce single-use plastic by using recycled and recyclable materials in packaging and products. They are a certified Plastic Neutral company, meaning they fund the collection and recycling of an equivalent amount of plastic waste. Additionally, Full Circle partners with organizations like 1% for the Planet, donating a portion of sales to environmental nonprofits. The company has also committed to sourcing FSC-certified wood for its wooden handles, ensuring responsible forestry practices.

Sourcing & labor

Full Circle sources materials primarily from certified suppliers in the US, China, and Europe. Their factories are audited for safe working conditions and fair wages. The brand is transparent about its supply chain and requires suppliers to adhere to a code of conduct that prohibits child labor, discrimination, and unsafe workplaces. As a B Corp, Full Circle undergoes regular assessments of its labor practices throughout the supply chain. While specific factory locations are not publicly listed, the brand’s B Corp score includes strong metrics in the workers and community categories.

Controversies context

Full Circle has no major controversies on record. There are no lawsuits, consumer boycotts, or endemic scandals related to labor violations, environmental harm, or misleading marketing. The brand’s high ethical score (92/100 for the Bubble Up Dish Brush) reflects its consistent adherence to its stated values. Some critics note that while the brand uses recycled materials, its products are still predominantly plastic-based, which may not align with zero-waste ideals. However, the company’s Plastic Neutral certification and circular design help mitigate this concern.

Bottom line

Full Circle is a leading ethical brand in the home cleaning category, with strong third-party certifications and a transparent commitment to sustainability and animal welfare. For consumers seeking effective, low-impact cleaning tools, Full Circle offers a reliable and certified option. The brand’s B Corp status and absence of controversies make it a top choice for conscious shoppers.