What is an eco-friendly laundry detergent?
Before diving into the best eco-conscious detergents on the market, let's dive into some basics. Eco-friendly detergents are designed to be gentle on the environment. They typically contain fewer harsh chemicals, such as chlorine bleach, than traditional laundry detergents, and they are biodegradable, so they can be easily disposed of in a septic system.
Traditional detergents often contain:
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Alcohol ethoxylates (AEs)
Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS)
Ethanolamines (MEA, DEA, and TEA)
Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs)
Phosphates
Moreover, most traditional laundry detergents are packed in plastic bottles or any form of plastic packaging, which makes them not sustainable. Plastic packaging used by traditional detergents is often non-recyclable.
On the contrary, sustainable cleaning brands produce detergents that often come in cardboard boxes which are easy to recycle. Having sustainable packaging is only one step in their production process.
The main aspect is linked to the ingredients used. Besides having plastic-free packaging, they are cruelty-free, which means they were not tested on animals. They are also often made of plant-based ingredients, such as coconut oil, lemon, and baking soda, and do not contain harmful chemicals. Other plant-based ingredients used are :
Soapberries
Borax
Citric acid
Washing soda
Vinegar
Why should you use sustainable detergents?
There are several reasons why you should consider using them. First, it's good for the environment. Most laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can damage the ecosystem if they make their way into waterways. Second, they are often more effective than most detergents at getting rid of dirt and stains. This means you can use less of it, which saves you money. Finally, sustainable detergents are typically gentler on your clothes, so they last longer.
Another reason you should consider moving towards more sustainable cleaning methods is that most eco-conscious detergent brands are local, and small. By buying from these brands, you support local businesses that are working hard to provide high-quality, plastic-free products with plant-based ingredients.
The benefits of using an eco-friendly detergent
There are a few key benefits that you should know about. First and foremost, they are better for the environment. It's usually cruelty-free and doesnt contain any harsh chemicals or pollutants that can harm the planet, and its also biodegradable, so it wont pollute our water systems.
They are also better for your health. Many conventional laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your skin and respiratory system. eco-friendly laundry detergent, on the other hand, is made with natural ingredients that are safe for both your skin and your lungs.
Finally, they are often more affordable than conventional laundry detergents. Mainly because they often come as laundry powder, and their cost per usage is lower on average. So not only will you be doing your part to help preserve our planet, but youll also be saving money in the process!
The best eco-friendly laundry detergent on the market
We've tried a few eco-friendly laundry detergents and can say with certainty that there are some great options out there! We've compiled a list of our favourites, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your clothes will get clean while also helping to preserve our planet.
Best liquid laundry detergent
A liquid detergent is a type of detergent that is made to be used in a washing machine. It comes in a liquid form and is often more concentrated than powder detergents.
Liquid detergents have a few advantages over powder detergents. First, they are more concentrated, so you need less of them to get your clothes clean. Second, they are easier to dissolve in water, which makes them less likely to leave behind residue on your clothes. Finally, they can often penetrate fabric better than powder detergents, which can help remove stains and dirt more effectively.
Best powdered laundry detergent
We've compiled the market and tested a few powdered laundry detergents. Our favourite powdered detergent is the eco-friendly washing powder from Distinctive Wash.
Best fragrance-free laundry detergent
Many eco-friendly detergents are also fragrance-free, which can be a great option for those with allergies or sensitivities.
What are the benefits of fragrance-free detergents?
The benefits of using a fragrance-free detergent are twofold: first, you don't have to worry about any potential irritants; and second, eco-friendly fragrance-free detergents are often less expensive than their scented counterparts. If you're looking for a detergent that doesn't contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances, we recommend checking out the eco-friendly options from Seventh Generation or Method.
Best plastic-free detergent
Most sustainable laundry detergents are plastic-free and are often made with cardboard boxes.
One of our favourites is the Laundry Powder from Distinctive Wash, which comes in a compostable bag.
What are the benefits of using a plastic-free detergent?
The benefits of using a plastic-free detergent are many! First, you're doing your part to reduce your reliance on plastic, which is great for the environment.
Second, many plastic-free detergents are made with compostable materials, which means they can be broken down naturally and won't end up in a landfill. Finally, these detergents often perform just as well as their plastic counterparts, so you don't have to sacrifice performance for sustainability.
Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, you'll want to choose a detergent that is free of harsh chemicals and fragrances. We recommend Seventh Generation's Ultra Power Plus Liquid Laundry Detergent, which is designed specifically for sensitive skin. This detergent is also hypoallergenic, so it's less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Best laundry detergent for baby clothes
If you're looking for a laundry detergent that is safe to use on baby clothes, we recommend Seventh Generation's Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent. This detergent is designed specifically for baby clothes and is gentle enough for even the most delicate fabrics.
Bollicine Certified Eco Organic Baby Clothes Laundry Liquid
Hailed as one of the safest laundry products to use on baby clothes, this plant-based eco-friendly liquid is free of petroleum, lanolin, mineral oils and parabens. It's also allergy tested so you can be confident your babys sensitive skin wont be aggravated. Because it's plant-based, it may be an attractive purchase for vegans and animal lovers. Use by hand or in a washing machine; both work equally well to remove tough stains.
Best eco-friendly laundry detergent pods
Laundry detergent pods are a convenient way to measure and dispense laundry detergent. They are also eco-friendly, as they often come in recyclable packaging. We recommend eco-friendly laundry detergent pods from Homethings.
Homethings' laundry pods are a good choice for those who want to use eco-friendly and mild detergents. The ingredients in the pods are fragrance-free, which makes them ideal for people with sensitive skin types. Furthermore, HomeThings is certified by · Corp, ensuring that their products meet high environmental standards.
Best eco-friendly laundry sheets
If you're looking for a detergent that is eco-friendly and doesn't have any added fragrances, laundry detergent sheets are a great option. A laundry sheet is a type of detergent that comes in the form of a thin, flat sheet. You simply add one to your washing machine along with your clothes and it will dissolve, leaving your clothes clean and fresh-smelling.
Laundry sheets have a few advantages over liquid or powder detergents. First, they are pre-measured, so you don't have to worry about using too much or too little. Second, they are easy to use and leave behind no residue. Finally, laundry sheets are a great eco-friendly option because they often come in recycled packaging and can be composted after use.
We've compiled a list of the best eco-friendly laundry detergent sheets on the market, so you can rest easy knowing that you're doing your part to help preserve our planet.
Some of our favourite laundry sheets include the Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent Sheets and the Planet Ultra Laundry Detergent Sheets. Both of these options are non-toxic, biodegradable, and fragrance-free. They also work well at removing dirt and stains from your clothes.
Earth Breeze
Earth Breeze is a laundry detergent company headquartered in America but with operations spanning the globe, including Europe and the UK. 10% of each sale goes towards providing other non-profit organizations, like animal shelters and security for homeless individuals, with loads of laundry detergent. Their UK warehouse also operates on renewable energy!
Best laundry pods
Laundry pods have become a popular choice for eco-friendly laundry detergents in recent years. They are made of biodegradable materials and dissolve in water, so they are gentle on the environment. They also come in a variety of scents, so you can find one that suits your needs.
Ecozone Non-Bio Laundry Capsules
EcoZone Non-Biological Laundry Capsules are the perfect solution for your laundry needs. These plant-based liquid capsules work at cold 30° washes and can be used on whites and colours. They're also pre-measured for easy use and come in a no-spill application that makes them easy to use. Best of all, they last up to 20 loads!
If you want to cleanse your skin without any harsh chemicals, a non-biological laundry detergent is perfect for you! It's also delicate enough to wash baby clothes and other sensitive fabrics.
The cruelty-free, gentle and vegan-friendly formula has been approved by PETA and is not tested on animals. It also contains no animal products. In addition, Allergy UK has given it the all-clear to be allergy friendly and safe for individuals with sensitive skin.
With these easy-to-use pods, you can both deep clean and remove set-in stains while also feeling good about using an environmentally friendly product. The soluble tablet coating, which is made from plant-based materials, breaks down quickly and leaves no residue behind.
Best zero-waste detergent
Zero-waste detergents are a great way to cut down on waste and help preserve our planet. They are usually plastic-free and are made of compostable ingredients. Our favourite zero-waste detergent is this zero-waste laundry detergent from Distinctive Wash.
Distinctive Wash
Manufacturers of fine fragranced goods for skin, fabric and home. Distinctive wash manufactures a superior washing powder formulation that doesn't require a fabric softener, or stain remover to achieve professional wash results at home. They also manufacture matching fabric-safe fragrance sprays and luxury cold-pressed soaps. Distinctive Wash brand was the winner of the 2020 Lux Life award for premium fragranced detergent UK.
Best cruelty-free detergent
What is a cruelty-free detergent?
A cruelty-free detergent is a detergent that wasn't tested on animals. This means that the ingredients and the final product have not been subject to animal testing.
There are many reasons why you might want to use a cruelty-free detergent. Perhaps you are an animal lover and you want to do everything you can to avoid products that have been tested on animals. Or maybe you have sensitive skin and you want to avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals
Whatever your reasons, there are plenty of great cruelty-free detergents on the market.
FAQs about eco-friendly laundry detergent
Here are some of the most common questions about eco-friendly detergents:
Are they effective at cleaning clothes?
Yes, they are just as effective as regular laundry detergents at removing dirt and stains from clothes. Many sustainable detergents are even more powerful than most laundry detergents, making them a great choice for tough stains.
What are the benefits of using them?
The benefits of using eco-conscious detergents include reducing your environmental impact, protecting your family's health, and saving money on energy costs. They are also gentle on fabrics, so they can help extend the life of your clothes.
Where can I buy them?
Eco-conscious detergents are available at most grocery stores and online retailers. You can also find them at some speciality stores that sell natural or eco-friendly products as well as on The Good Boutique Sustainable Shopping.
Are they more expensive?
The cost of eco-friendly laundry detergent varies depending on the brand and type of detergent. However, it is generally more expensive than regular laundry detergent.
Now that you know more about eco-friendly laundry detergent, you can make the switch to a more environmentally friendly option with confidence!
What are some of the best eco-friendly laundry detergent brands?
Some of the best eco-friendly laundry detergent brands include Distinctive Wash, Seventh Generation, Ecos, and Method. These brands offer a variety of eco-friendly options that are effective at cleaning clothes and gentle on the environment.
What are some things to look for when choosing eco-friendly laundry detergent?
What is the difference between vegan detergents and cruelty-free detergents?
Vegan detergents do not contain any animal products, while cruelty-free detergents have not been tested on animals. Both options are gentle on the environment and safe for your family.
Conclusion
When it comes to eco-friendly laundry detergent, there are a lot of great options to choose from. Weve compiled a list of the best brands and provided some tips on what to look for when choosing a detergent that is gentle on both your clothes and the environment. So why not make the switch today? Your clothes will thank you, and youll be doing your part to help preserve our planet!
