Doing laundry is a necessary chore, but many popular detergents contain harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances that can irritate skin and harm the environment. If you’re looking for a non-toxic laundry detergent that gets your clothes clean without nasty ingredients, you’ve come to the right place.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Some top non-toxic laundry detergent brands include Seventh Generation, Mrs. Meyer’s, GrabGreen, Molly’s Suds, and Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss signs of toxic ingredients to avoid, provide an overview of different types of non-toxic laundry detergents and how they work, review the top natural laundry detergent brands on the market, and provide tips for getting optimal cleaning results from non-toxic formulations.
Toxic Ingredients to Avoid in Laundry Detergents
Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances are a common ingredient in many laundry detergents, but they can be harmful to both your health and the environment. These fragrances are typically made from a combination of chemicals, some of which have been linked to respiratory issues, allergies, and skin irritation. To avoid these potential risks, look for laundry detergents that are fragrance-free or use natural fragrances derived from essential oils.
1,4-dioxane
1,4-dioxane is a chemical that is often found as a contaminant in laundry detergents. It is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and has also been linked to kidney and liver damage. To ensure that your laundry detergent is free from 1,4-dioxane, look for products that are labeled as “1,4-dioxane-free” or choose detergents that have been certified by third-party organizations.
Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)
Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) are a group of chemicals that are used as surfactants in laundry detergents. These chemicals have been found to be toxic to aquatic life and can also disrupt hormonal balance in humans and animals. To avoid NPEs, choose laundry detergents that are labeled as “NPE-free” or opt for plant-based detergents that use natural surfactants.
Optical Brighteners
Optical brighteners are chemicals that are added to laundry detergents to make your clothes appear brighter and whiter. While they may make your clothes look cleaner, optical brighteners can cause skin irritation and have been found to be toxic to aquatic life. Look for laundry detergents that are free from optical brighteners or choose products that use natural brightening agents, such as baking soda or lemon juice.
Phosphates
Phosphates are chemicals that are commonly used in laundry detergents to help remove stains and hard water minerals. However, these chemicals can contribute to water pollution and algal blooms in lakes and rivers, which can have harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems. To reduce your impact on the environment, choose laundry detergents that are phosphate-free or opt for eco-friendly alternatives.
By avoiding laundry detergents that contain these toxic ingredients, you can ensure that your clothes are clean and safe without compromising your health or the environment. Remember to always read the labels and choose products that prioritize safety and sustainability.
Types of Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents
Plant-based detergents
Plant-based detergents are a popular choice for those seeking non-toxic laundry detergents. These detergents are made from natural ingredients such as vegetable oils and plant extracts. They are free from harmful chemicals like sulfates, phosphates, and artificial fragrances, making them gentle on both your clothes and the environment. Plant-based detergents are highly effective in removing stains and odors, leaving your clothes clean and fresh.
Oxygen bleach detergents
Oxygen bleach detergents are another non-toxic option for laundry. These detergents use hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient to remove stains and brighten your clothes. Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is gentler on fabrics and doesn’t release harmful fumes. It is also environmentally friendly as it breaks down into water and oxygen. Oxygen bleach detergents are particularly effective in removing tough stains like wine, coffee, and grass.
Detergent nuts
Detergent nuts, also known as soap nuts, are a natural and non-toxic alternative to traditional laundry detergents. These nuts contain saponin, a natural surfactant that acts as a cleaning agent. Simply place a few soap nuts in a cotton bag and toss it in with your laundry. The nuts will release saponin when they come in contact with water, effectively cleaning your clothes. Detergent nuts are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Soap nuts
Soap nuts are similar to detergent nuts, but they come in the form of dried berries. These berries contain saponin, which creates a soapy lather when agitated in water. Soap nuts are gentle on fabrics and can be used for both machine and handwashing. They are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and do not contribute to water pollution. Soap nuts are a great option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and use a non-toxic laundry detergent.
Baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are common household ingredients that can be used as non-toxic laundry detergents. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer and helps to brighten and soften clothes. Vinegar, on the other hand, works as a natural fabric softener and can help remove stains. By combining these two ingredients, you can create a powerful and non-toxic laundry detergent. Simply add a cup of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar to your laundry load for clean and fresh-smelling clothes.
When choosing a non-toxic laundry detergent, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you opt for plant-based detergents, oxygen bleach detergents, detergent nuts, or homemade solutions like baking soda and vinegar, you can feel confident that you are using a product that is safe for you, your family, and the environment.
Reviews of the Top Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent Brands
Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
Seventh Generation is a well-known brand that offers a range of non-toxic laundry detergents. Their products are made with plant-based ingredients and are free from harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. Seventh Generation laundry detergents are also biodegradable, making them an environmentally friendly choice. Customers rave about the effectiveness of the detergent in removing stains and leaving clothes fresh and clean. With a variety of scents and formulas available, Seventh Generation has become a favorite among those seeking a non-toxic laundry detergent option.
Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent
If you’re looking for a non-toxic laundry detergent that combines effectiveness with delightful scents, Mrs. Meyer’s is a fantastic choice. Their laundry detergents are made with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, providing a gentle yet powerful cleaning experience. Mrs. Meyer’s laundry detergents are free from harsh chemicals like chlorine, phosphates, and artificial colors. Customers love the refreshing scents, such as lavender, lemon verbena, and basil, that linger on their clothes after washing. Mrs. Meyer’s commitment to creating safe and effective products has earned them a loyal customer base.
GrabGreen Laundry Detergent
GrabGreen offers a range of non-toxic laundry detergents that are not only environmentally friendly but also highly effective in removing stains and odors. Their formulas are made with plant and mineral-based ingredients, ensuring that your clothes are clean without any toxic residue. GrabGreen laundry detergents are free from harsh chemicals like phosphates, bleach, and optical brighteners. Customers appreciate the convenience of the pre-measured pods, making laundry day a breeze. GrabGreen’s commitment to sustainable and safe cleaning products makes them a top choice for those seeking non-toxic laundry detergents.
Molly’s Suds Laundry Detergent
Molly’s Suds is a brand dedicated to providing non-toxic laundry detergents that are safe for both your clothes and the environment. Their laundry detergents are made with plant-based ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. Molly’s Suds laundry detergents are also biodegradable, making them an eco-friendly choice. Customers praise the effectiveness of the detergent in removing tough stains and leaving clothes fresh and clean. With a commitment to transparency and sustainability, Molly’s Suds is a brand you can trust.
Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent
Puracy offers a natural laundry detergent that is safe for your family and the environment. Their formula is plant-based, hypoallergenic, and free from harsh chemicals, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Puracy laundry detergent is effective in removing stains and odors without leaving behind any residue. Customers appreciate the gentle yet powerful cleaning action of this detergent. Puracy is a brand known for its commitment to transparency and sustainability, making it a popular choice among those seeking non-toxic laundry detergents.
Tips for Effective Cleaning with Non-Toxic Detergents
Using non-toxic laundry detergents not only helps protect the environment, but also keeps your clothes clean and safe for your family. Here are some tips to ensure effective cleaning with non-toxic detergents:
Start with a good pretreatment for stains
Before tossing your clothes in the washing machine, it’s important to treat any stains first. Non-toxic stain removers, such as hydrogen peroxide or baking soda paste, can be applied directly to the stain to help loosen and remove it. Allow the pretreatment to sit for a few minutes before washing as usual.
Use warm or hot water for best results
When using non-toxic detergents, using warm or hot water can help enhance their cleaning power. Warm or hot water helps to dissolve oils and dirt more effectively, resulting in cleaner clothes. However, always check the care labels on your clothing to ensure they can withstand higher temperatures.
Increase detergent dose for heavily soiled loads
If you have heavily soiled loads, such as stained baby clothes or workout gear, consider increasing the amount of non-toxic detergent you use. This can help provide extra cleaning power to tackle tough stains and dirt. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate dosage.
Soak tough stains before washing
Sometimes, tough stains require a little extra attention. To ensure their removal, you can soak the stained garments in a mixture of non-toxic detergent and water before washing. This allows the detergent to penetrate the fabric and break down the stain, making it easier to remove during the wash cycle.
Add Borax or washing soda to boost cleaning power
Borax or washing soda can be added to your non-toxic detergent to boost its cleaning power. These natural additives can help remove tough stains, brighten whites, and eliminate odors. Just be sure to follow the recommended amounts specified on the packaging to avoid overuse.
Use vinegar as a fabric softener and whitening agent
Vinegar, a natural and non-toxic ingredient, can be used as a fabric softener and whitening agent. Simply add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to soften fabrics and remove any soap residue. Additionally, vinegar can help brighten whites and remove yellowing, leaving your clothes fresh and clean.
By following these tips, you can effectively clean your clothes using non-toxic laundry detergents, ensuring both cleanliness and safety for your family.
Conclusion
Switching to a non-toxic laundry detergent is a simple way to protect sensitive skin, avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, and reduce your environmental footprint. While natural detergents use gentler cleaning agents than conventional formulas, they can still effectively lift stains and odors when used properly. Evaluate the options covered here and choose the plant-based, eco-friendly detergent that fits your budget and cleaning needs. With a few adjustments to your laundry routine, you’ll see that clean clothes don’t require toxic chemicals.