Top 10 Best Non-toxic Laundry Detergents for a Greener Home

Last Updated on August 20, 2024 by Shavy Jain

Are you aware of the environmental destruction that your favorite detergent causes? Chances are, you haven’t considered it. Yet, relax and embrace a solution: Welcome Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents to bid farewell to your concerns.

As the laundry detergent market experiences an impressive annual growth rate of up to 4.8%, the spotlight is increasingly turning towards sustainability. Embracing eco-friendly laundry detergents has become a pivotal stride in advancing this cause. The surge in demand for sustainable laundry alternatives not only signals a positive shift but also underscores the market’s receptiveness to the imperative for change. Let’s explore the 10 best non-toxic laundry detergents and go green! 

10 Best Non-toxic Laundry Detergents 

With various ethical brands available at your disposal, it is only normal to get confused. If you are trying to find top brands to buy non-toxic laundry detergents, we have got you. Here is your comprehensive list of the top 10 non-toxic laundry detergents: 

Blueland offers a sustainable and eco-friendly laundry solution with their Laundry Starter Set. Their powerful laundry tablets are not individually wrapped in plastic film, ensuring an earth-friendly clean without sending dissolved plastic down the drain. The set includes a reusable steel tin and 40 fragrance-free laundry tablets suitable for various fabrics such as cotton, linen, denim, polyester, rayon, acetate, and Tencel.

Pros	Cons
Reduces plastic waste as there’s no need for traditional plastic detergent bottles	Tablets don’t fit easily through bottle openings
Tablets dissolve in water, making it easy to use
Compact form factor saves space compared to traditional liquid detergents

ATTITUDE shines in the zero-waste laundry sector, presenting various organic products with delightful scents like Wildflowers, Citrus Zest, and Summer Berries. Their hypoallergenic detergents, plant-based soaps, and chemical-free solutions are pillared on the values of ec-consciousness. As a vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable brand, ATTITUDE leads in offering its customers a variety of products –  liquid detergents, fabric softeners, dryer sheets, and baby-specific options – for effortless sustainable laundry care.

Pros	Cons
Protection of dark colors	Keep the colors vibrant.
Keep the colors vibrant.

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Grab Green is a vegan and eco-friendly brand dedicated to crafting safe and effective cleaning products. With a commitment to cruelty-free practices, they offer a range of innovative items, including their fragrance-free best-selling original laundry detergent. Notably, their 3-in-1 laundry detergent pods and powder excel in stain and soil removal, surpassing Tide in third-party tests. Grab Green’s focus on sustainability and performance makes them a standout choice for conscientious consumers.

Pros	Cons
It cleans clothes deeply and removes stains	It is a very concentrated powder
It also brightens clothes

Seventh Generation’s Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent offers a potent triple-enzyme formula, effectively combating stubborn stains. Designed with sensitivity in mind, this hypoallergenic detergent is fragrance-free and gentle on the skin, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. Experience a powerful clean that’s both tough on stains and kind to your skin with this remarkable laundry detergent.

Pros	Cons
Hypoallergenic laundry detergent for sensitive skin	Lacks 100% recyclable packaging
Triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains

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Tru Earth laundry strips offer a revolutionary cleaning solution. These compact, hypoallergenic, and vegan strips deliver potent cleaning power in a pre-measured, liquidless format. Simply toss a strip into the wash to experience ultra-concentrated effectiveness. With Tru Earth, laundry becomes effortless and eco-friendly, transforming your cleaning routine with a convenient and innovative approach to washing clothes.

Pros	Cons
Gentle for the skin	Less effective in removing oil from clothes
No problem measuring since it is in the form of strips

Biokleen Natural Cold Water Laundry Detergent offers a family-friendly solution with its gentle yet effective formula. Featuring plant-derived ingredients, natural essential oils, and GMO-free enzymes, it prioritizes sustainability and biodegradability. Free from harsh chemicals like optical brighteners, petrochemicals, and chlorine, this detergent is safe for even sensitive skin. Its whitening capabilities without toxins make it ideal for baby clothing and cloth diapers, ensuring a clean and eco-conscious laundry routine.

Pros	Cons
Contains no artificial colors and artificial fragrances	Expensive
Cleans activewear best

Meliora is a supremely safe laundry detergent brand featuring plastic-free, low-waste options such as scented and unscented laundry detergent powder, oxygen brightener, and stain removal sticks. Crafted and packaged in Chicago, Illinois, Meliora’s commitment extends to social responsibility – donating a minimum of 2% of sales to nonprofits like Women’s Voices for the Earth, actively striving to eliminate harmful chemicals from products.

Pros	Cons
Preservative-free	Less effective in removing oil from clothes
Ultra-concentrated

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EcoRoots presents a reliable solution in laundry detergent sheets, catering to eco-conscious consumers seeking a plastic-free alternative. Their ultra-concentrated, lightweight sheets, available in Fresh Breeze or Fragrance-Free options, offer easy use while aligning with sustainability. With a focus on being biodegradable, vegan, cruelty-free, and hypoallergenic, EcoRoots ensures a safe and effective cleaning experience. Embrace a zero-waste, organic, and chemical-free approach to laundry with EcoRoots.

Pros	Cons
Gentle for sensitive skin, including babies	Laundry strips may not be as effective as powder
Lightweight and super easy to use

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Molly’s Suds offers a versatile laundry line with special formulations for activewear, swimwear, and delicate items. Notably, their laundry detergent stands out for its safety and non-toxic nature. Certified vegan and cruelty-free, Molly’s Suds prides itself on simplicity, using just five ingredients in its laundry powder. The refreshing peppermint scent adds an extra freshness, ensuring clean, vibrant clothes with a conscience.

Pros	Cons
Great for sensitive skin	Plastic packaging
Used in standard, commercial, and High-efficiency (HE) washers

Rebel Green’s USDA Organic HE Liquid Fresh Laundry Detergent is optimal, boasting a harmonious blend of natural ingredients. It ensures clothes are clean, soft, and free from harsh chemicals. The integrated fabric conditioner imparts a lasting freshness, while its advanced biodegradable formula suits High-Efficiency washing machines. Rebel Green prioritizes effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and a delightful, long-lasting fragrance for your laundry experience.

Pros	Cons
Works in High-efficiency washers	Relatively low availability for international buyers.
Free from phthalates and parabens

Why Choose Non-toxic Laundry Detergents?

Non-toxic laundry detergents not only nourish the clothes but also possess the ability to offer environmentally safe cleaning methods. Conventional laundry detergents, constituting synthetic dyes, parabens, and phthalates, threaten the aquatic life in the water bodies where these detergents are dumped/used. In contrast, non-toxic laundry detergents are also known as ocean-safe detergents to safeguard and promote aquatic life from laundry toxins.

Further, the clean ingredients in non-toxic detergents are mostly plant-derived (vegan), ensuring no animal harm. Including these ingredients is an attempt to maintain the ecosystem and adopt a green lifestyle.

Non-toxic laundry detergents also offer significant benefits for sensitive skin and personal health. Residues left on fabrics post-wash can irritate the skin upon contact, especially for those with conditions like eczema. Synthetic dyes, fragrances, and optical brighteners in traditional detergents may trigger reactions. Opting for non-toxic choices with natural ingredients helps prevent itching, rashes, and irritations, ensuring a more comfortable and skin-friendly experience when wearing laundered clothes or using laundered bedding.

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Criteria for Choosing Non-toxic Laundry Detergents

Non-toxic laundry detergents must be clear of harmful ingredients for safety and health. Avoid bleach and brighteners like sodium hypochlorite, known for its toxicity and skin hazards, and optical brighteners, which can cause skin irritation. Fragrances, often undisclosed, can contain carcinogens, hormone disruptors, and respiratory irritants. Phthalates, linked to hormone disruption, can also hide in fragranced products. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) poses risks such as skin irritation and carcinogenic by-products. 

In addition to the composition of these detergents, it is also important that you go through the biodegradability criteria and sustainable packaging options. Zero-waste laundry allows you to wash your clothes while leaving no residue behind. Make sure to choose those brands with refillable laundry stations to reduce packaging efforts. Compostable packaging ensures that the material breaks down naturally without harming the environment. Research and customer reviews to judge the cleaning efficacy of these detergents. 

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Tips for Maximizing the Efficacy of Non-toxic Laundry Detergents

Firstly, proper dosage is crucial. While non-toxic laundry detergents are often concentrated for efficiency, too much detergent can lead to over-tearing and residue buildup on clothes. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended dosage based on the load size to balance effectiveness and conservation. 

Secondly, consider water temperature. Non-toxic detergents can work effectively across various temperatures, but adjusting your water setting based on the type of load can make a difference. For lightly soiled items, cold water works well, conserving energy while providing adequate cleaning. Warmer water temperatures can enhance the detergent’s performance for heavily soiled clothes or items that require sanitization. 

Additionally, consider enhancing your non-toxic laundry routine by pairing the detergent with eco-friendly fabric softeners or boosters. While non-toxic detergents are designed to be gentle on fabrics, fabric softeners can further enhance the softness and freshness of clothes without compromising their safety. Eco-friendly boosters, like oxygen brighteners, can tackle tough stains and keep whites looking vibrant. 

Conclusion

Making the switch to non-toxic laundry detergents is not only beneficial for our skin and clothes but also contributes to the preservation of our environment. By avoiding harmful ingredients, embracing sustainable packaging, and practicing proper dosing and water temperature considerations, we can maximize the efficacy of these detergents while minimizing our ecological footprint. Let’s take a step towards a healthier lifestyle and a greener planet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is non-toxic laundry detergent?

Non-toxic laundry detergents are cleaning products that do not contain harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or artificial dyes. They are formulated with natural ingredients that are safe for the environment and gentle on the skin.

Why should I use non-toxic laundry detergent?

Using non-toxic laundry detergent helps reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritations, allergies, and other health issues. Additionally, it is better for the environment as it reduces the release of toxic substances into water systems.

Do non-toxic laundry detergents work?

Yes, many non-toxic laundry detergents are just as effective, if not more so, than regular detergents. They can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors without the use of harsh chemicals.

Are non-toxic laundry detergents safe for sensitive skin?

Non-toxic laundry detergents are often recommended for sensitive skin as they are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can cause irritation. However, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first.