Biological Cleaning Products - the 'probiotic’ label: marketing or science?

When we hear the word probiotic, most of us immediately think of yoghurt, kombucha, or gut health supplements. But lately, more and more biological cleaning products are being labelled ‘probiotic cleaners.’ At first glance, this sounds like marketing tool, or maybe even a misuse of the word. But is there actually a reason behind it?

Let’s break it down.

What does ‘probiotic’ really mean?

The term ‘probiotic’ comes from the Greek ‘pro bios,’ meaning ‘for life.’ In health, probiotics refer to live microorganisms that provide a benefit to the host (usually humans or animals), especially by supporting gut health.

When you consume probiotics, the friendly bacteria help break down food and keep harmful microbes in check: they keep your digestive system in a stable, healthy state.

How do biological cleaners relate to your gut?

Modern biological cleaners contain live bacteria strains, especially robust species like Bacillus subtilis or Bacillus megaterium. When you spray these on surfaces, the bacteria remain dormant until they find moisture and organic matter (dirt, grease, biofilm).

On contact with the soils, the bacteria produce enzymes that break down organic dirt just like they break down food in your gut. By colonising microscopic surface layers, they help prevent harmful or odour-causing bacteria from re-establishing. Even after you finish wiping, the bacteria keep working on invisible residues.

Do the biological cleaning products use 'probiotics technology'?

Strictly speaking, ‘probiotic’ refers to a benefit to a living host. In cleaning, the ‘host’ is a surface rather than a human body. For that reason, the term ‘probiotics technology’ would seem stretched, but not entirely incorrect when highlighting the use of live beneficial bacteria that promote a cleaner, healthier micro-environment. In other words, just as probiotics keep your gut in balance, biological cleaners aim to keep surfaces biologically balanced and cleaner for longer.

Conclusion

When you see a biological cleaning product labelled ‘probiotic’, think of it as a clever parallel to gut health: using good bacteria to fight dirt and maintain balance. While the term is more marketing-driven than scientific, it does describe an innovative, eco-friendly way to clean — turning your surfaces into little ecosystems that work for you.