Laundry leaves the dirty job to you. However, the detergent you choose makes all the difference in terms of health and sustainability. Traditional laundry detergents are commonly filled with harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances and plastic packaging that negatively impact waterways, aquatic life and plastic waste. Environmentally friendly laundry detergents provide a safer, greener alternative to keeping your clothes and linens clean.

Here, in this all-encompassing guide about eco-friendly laundry detergents that takes on why it matters, what to look for when shopping, popular brands, DIY detergent recipes, and tips for sustainable laundry habits. It’s time to level up in the laundry game, and do your part for the environment. Let’s dive in!

Why Should You Use Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent?

Defending Waterways and Aquatic Life

A lot of traditional detergents use phosphates and other chemicals that can pollute rivers, lakes, and oceans and cause things like algae blooms and damage fish and wildlife. Environmentally friendly detergents contain biodegradable ingredients that decompose naturally without harmful residue.

Reducing Plastic Waste

Eco-friendly detergents are typically sold in recyclable, refillable or plastic-free packaging, which vastly reduces single-use plastic pollution.

Health Benefits

Without synthetic scents, dyes, or harsh chemicals, environmentally friendly detergents are more sensitive to delicate skin and reduce the chance of allergies and allergic contact dermatitis.

Energy and Resources Efficiency

Highly concentrated and cold-water active to reduce energy and water waste during laundry cycles.

Ingredient Spotting to Do on Clean Beauty Labels

Key Ingredients in Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents

• NO Artificial Fragrances or Dyes: Made with plant based surfactants to clean as well as (if not better than) leading national brands.

• Enzymes: Natural proteins that break down and remove stains without the use of harsh man-made chemicals.

• Sodium Carbonate (Washing Soda): Adds extra cleaning power and softens water.

• Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): Absorbs and eliminates odors on contact and can be used to deodorize: Drains, garbage disposals and trash cans.

• Essential Oils: Add scent and anti-bacterial action to your product.

• Citric Acid: Aids to remove mineral deposits and softens water.

Some Well-Known Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent Brands

• Seventh Generation: Plant-based, biodegradable products in recyclable packaging.

• Ecos: Employs natural substances and dilutes concentrated detergents.

• Dr. Bronner’s: Multi-use Castile soap you can use for laundry.

• The Method: Chic, effective and eco-friendly laundry supplies.

• Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day: Blends natural ingredients with some more fragrances that might be up your alley.

• Grab Green: Plant-based, zero-phosphate and dye-eliminating detergents.

DIY Natural Laundry Detergents

Basic Laundry Soap Powder

Combine 1 cup of washing soda, 1 cup of baking soda and 1 of cup grated castile soap. Use 1-2 tablespoons per load.

Liquid Laundry Detergent

Mix 1 cup of grated castile soap with 1 cup of washing soda, 1 cup of baking soda, and 4 cups of hot water. Mix until dissolved and use 1/4 cup per load.

Laundry Pods

Combine the powdered detergent recipe with some water to create little balls, let them dry and store in airtight container. Use one pod per load.

Tips on practicing laundry sustainability

• Do full loads and save water and energy.

• Whenever you can, use cold water to help save energy.

• Air-dry clothing for energy savings and fabric preservation.

• Use detergent sparingly to avoid a build up and water pollution.

• If you own an HE washer, select high-efficiency (HE) detergents.

7 Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents

With things like microbeads on their way out and other harmful chemicals being banned in various countries, it’s no wonder some of us have started to consider what’s actually in the laundry products we use in our homes.

• They don’t clean as well: The modern eco detergents are engineered to clean for stains and odors.

• They cost more: Although some eco-friendly detergents will indeed demand a higher upfront investment, overall, many tend to be concentrated, meaning they’ll last longer and save you money in the long run.

• Scent choice is limited: The ones you can choose are the natural essential oils, which come in a selection of wonderful soft scents.

• Not as available: There are plenty of eco-friendly options available at many supermarkets and online retailers.

Conclusion

Environmentally friendly laundry detergent is an easy and powerful method to lessen your environmental impact while still cleaning your clothes. Select plant-based, biodegradable formulas in eco-friendly packaging and you’re saving waterways, limiting plastic waste, and treating your skin kindly. Whether you purchase trusted brands or brew your own detergent at home, clean laundry can be a benefit to both the planet and your household.

Switch now and start saving now while benefiting from clean and fresh clothes you can feel good about.

Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent FAQs

Q1: Is organic laundry detergent safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, these are free from nasty chemicals and synthetic fragrances which end up causing irritation.

Q2: Are eco-friendly detergents suitable for all types of washing machines?
A majority of them are designed for standard and high-efficiency (HE) washers but make sure you check the label.

Q3: Do Natural Detergents Work in Cold Water?
Many are made to be effective in cold water, which saves energy.

Q4: What is the best way to store homemade laundry detergent?
Store it in an airtight container, away from moisture and heat.

Q5: Will eco-friendly detergents be able to eliminate hard stains?
They can remove most stains effectively if properly pre-treated and if you soak the items with enzyme additives.

Q6: What store can I purchase environmentally friendly laundry soap?
Found in health stores, supermarkets, and online eco product shops.