13 Best Non Toxic Laundry Detergents That Actually Work
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Are you searching for the best non toxic laundry detergents?
Ever look at the ingredient list on your laundry detergent and wonder what half of those words even mean? If “methylisothiazolinone” doesn’t exactly scream “safe,” you’re not alone.
More and more of us are questioning the chemicals in our laundry detergents. But don’t worry, the switch to a non-toxic laundry detergent is easier (and more affordable!) than you might think.
Choosing a non toxic laundry detergent isn’t just about protecting your family from potential irritants – it’s about making a conscious choice for a healthier lifestyle too.
The good news is, there’s a bunch of non toxic laundry detergents out there that are tough on stains but gentle on everything else.
In this guide, we’ll break down the benefits of ditching the toxins and introduce you to some of the best non toxic laundry detergents that actually work. Whether you are battling baby stains, gym clothes, or everyday grime, this post has you covered.
So, let’s dive into a healthier way to tackle your laundry.
Why Choose Non Toxic Laundry Detergents
It’s not just about clean clothes anymore. It’s about clean clothes and a clean conscience. Here’s why making the switch to non-toxic laundry detergent is a win-win for you and your health:
Protects Your Health
- Dodge the Toxins: Conventional laundry detergents often contain a laundry list of chemicals linked to skin irritations, allergies, respiratory issues, and even hormone disruption. Switching to non-toxic means saying goodbye to these unwelcome guests.
- Safe for Sensitive Skin: If you or your family members have sensitive skin, non-toxic detergents are a game-changer. Their gentle, plant-based formulas are less likely to trigger redness, itching, or dryness.
- Peace of Mind for Parents: Let’s face it, kids and stains go hand-in-hand. With non-toxic detergents, you can tackle those messes without worrying about harsh chemicals rubbing against delicate skin.
Protect the Planet:
- Kinder to Waterways: Many conventional detergents contain ingredients that are harmful to aquatic life and can pollute our rivers, lakes, and oceans. Non-toxic options are biodegradable and break down more easily, minimizing their environmental impact.
- Reduce Your Footprint: Some non-toxic brands prioritize sustainability, using recycled packaging and eco-friendly production methods. By choosing these products, you’re doing your part to reduce waste and conserve resources.
Extra Perks:
- No Harsh Scents: If you’re sensitive to fragrances, non-toxic detergents are a breath of fresh air – literally. Many are unscented or lightly scented with essential oils, so you can enjoy a clean laundry smell without the sneeze-inducing chemicals.
- Long-Term Savings: While some non-toxic detergents may have a slightly higher upfront cost, they often require less product per load, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Ready to make the switch? In the next section, we’ll guide you through what to look for when choosing the best non-toxic laundry detergent for your needs.
What to Look for in the Best Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents
Let’s talk about how to find the best non-toxic laundry detergent for your needs. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
Ingredients to Look For In Detergents
- Plant-Based or Mineral-Based: Look for detergents made with natural ingredients like plant-derived surfactants (cleaning agents) and essential oils for fragrance. Some brands also use mineral-based ingredients like washing soda or borax for extra cleaning power.
- Enzyme Power: Enzymes are nature’s stain removers! They break down proteins, fats, and starches, making them a powerhouse for tackling tough stains like grass, blood, and food spills.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and brightener, helping to neutralize odors and leave your clothes looking fresh.
Ingredients to Avoid In Detergents
- Fragrances: Artificial fragrances are a common irritant and can trigger allergies or headaches. Opt for unscented options or those lightly scented with essential oils.
- Dyes: Dyes serve no cleaning purpose and can be harmful to the environment. Stick to clear or naturally colored detergents.
- Optical Brighteners: These chemicals make clothes appear brighter by coating them with a fluorescent residue, which can irritate skin and is not eco-friendly.
- Chlorine Bleach: While effective for whitening, chlorine bleach is harsh on fabrics and can release harmful fumes. Look for oxygen-based bleach alternatives instead.
- Phosphates: Phosphates were once common in detergents but are now banned in many areas due to their harmful effects on waterways.
- 1,4-Dioxane: This probable carcinogen can be a byproduct of the manufacturing process in some detergents. Choose brands that are transparent about their manufacturing practices.
Other Considerations
- Format – Non-toxic laundry detergents come in various forms:
- Liquid: Convenient for pre-treating stains and measuring.
- Powder: Often more concentrated and cost-effective, but can be messy to use.
- Pods: Pre-measured for convenience, but not always the most eco-friendly option due to packaging.
- HE Compatibility: If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washing machine, make sure the detergent you choose is specifically formulated for HE machines to prevent oversudsing.
By knowing what to look for, you can confidently choose a non-toxic laundry detergent that meets your needs and keeps your family and the environment safe.
In the next section, we’ll share our top picks for the best non toxic laundry detergents on the market.
How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent for Your Needs
With so many options available, you might be wondering, “Which one is right for me?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Here are some questions to consider when making your decision:
- What Are Your Priorities?
- Scent: Do you prefer unscented laundry, a light natural fragrance, or a specific scent profile (floral, citrus, etc.)?
- Skin Sensitivity: Do you or anyone in your household have sensitive skin or allergies? If so, opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options.
- Stain Fighting Power: How often do you encounter tough stains like grass, grease, or blood? Some detergents are formulated with specific enzymes to target these types of messes.
- Water Type: Do you have hard water? Look for detergents that mention being effective in hard water conditions.
- Budget: Non-toxic detergents range in price. Consider how much you’re willing to spend per load and choose accordingly.
- Consider Your Washing Habits
- Machine Type: Do you have a high-efficiency (HE) washer? Make sure to choose a detergent that’s HE compatible to avoid oversudsing.
- Water Temperature: Do you typically wash in cold water? Some detergents are specifically formulated to work well in cold water.
- Read Reviews & Do Your Research
- Check Online Reviews: Look for reviews from other users to get a sense of how well a particular detergent performs in real-life scenarios.
- Ingredient Lists: Don’t be afraid to get nerdy with ingredient lists! Look for detergents with plant-based or mineral-based ingredients and avoid those with harmful chemicals.
- Brand Values: Choose brands that align with your values. Many non-toxic detergent companies are committed to sustainability and social responsibility.
Remember, the best non toxic laundry detergent is the one that works for YOU.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and try a few different brands until you find your perfect match.
Top Picks: Best Non Toxic Laundry Detergents on the Market
For a homemade, easy, and effective laundry detergent, check out this post on making your own DIY non toxic liquid detergent without borax. It’s a great way to save money and reduce waste while still keeping your clothes clean!
Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder
Molly’s Suds is made with just five simple, plant-derived ingredients, so you can trust it’s safe for your family and the environment. Don’t let the “unscented” label fool you – your laundry will come out smelling fresh and clean, without any synthetic fragrances.
Plus, it’s HE compatible, so it won’t leave behind any soapy residue in your high-efficiency machine.
Price: $14.99 for a 70-load bag.
Where to Buy: Molly’s Suds website, Amazon, and select retailers.
Highlights: Simple ingredients, unscented, HE compatible, affordable.
Branch Basics Concentrate
This one’s a bit of a multitasker – it’s not just a laundry detergent, it’s an entire cleaning system!
The Branch Basics Concentrate can be diluted for laundry, all-purpose cleaning, hand soap, and more. It’s made with plant and mineral-based ingredients and is free of harmful chemicals and fragrances.
Price: $75 for the Starter Kit
Where to Buy: Branch Basics website and select retailers.
Highlights: Versatile cleaning system, plant-based ingredients, fragrance-free, concentrated.
Ecos Laundry Detergent
With a wide range of scents and formulations, Ecos has something for everyone. Their Free & Clear detergent is a great choice for sensitive skin, while their Magnolia & Lily scent will transport you to a field of flowers.
Ecos detergents are plant-derived, biodegradable, and gentle on fabrics.
Price: $10+
Where to Buy: Widely available in grocery stores, Target, and online retailers like Amazon
Highlights: Variety of scents, plant-derived, biodegradable, affordable, readily available.
AspenClean Laundry Pods
AspenClean’s laundry pods offer a truly worry-free laundry experience. These little pods are packed with plant-based cleaning power that’s tough on stains and gentle on the skin.
They’re also EWG Verified, meaning they meet the Environmental Working Group’s strict standards for health and safety.
Plus, they’re completely plastic-free – the pods are biodegradable, and the packaging is made from 100% recycled paper.
Choose from Unscented for sensitive skin or Lavender for a calming, natural fragrance.
Price: $19.99 for a 36-load bag.
Where to Buy: AspenClean website and Amazon.
Highlights: EWG Verified, plant-based, plastic-free, biodegradable, available in unscented or lavender.
Blueland Laundry Detergent Tablets
If you’re ready to say goodbye to plastic jugs and messy spills for good, Blueland’s Laundry Detergent Tablets are the answer.
These little tablets pack a powerful cleaning punch, effectively tackling stains and odors while remaining gentle on fabrics.
They’re made with plant- and mineral-based ingredients, are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances, and are even EPA Safer Choice certified.
Plus, the tablets come in a reusable steel tin, and refills come in compostable packaging, making this a truly zero-waste laundry solution.
Price: $29.99 for a 60-load tin.
Where to Buy: Blueland website and Amazon.
Highlights: Zero-waste, convenient, plant- and mineral-based, fragrance-free, EPA Safer Choice certified.
Meliora Laundry Powder
Meliora’s Laundry Powder is a simple, yet effective laundry solution for those who prefer a minimalist approach.
It’s made with just a few plant-based ingredients, including baking soda for odor control and washing soda for cleaning power.
It comes in a reusable metal tin and is available in unscented or lightly scented varieties. (smells super good too!)
Price: $23.99 for a 35-ounce tin (128 loads).
Where to Buy: Meliora Cleaning Products website and select retailers.
Highlights: Minimalist ingredients, reusable packaging, available unscented, effective cleaning.
9 Elements Natural Laundry Detergent
If you’re searching for a truly clean laundry experience, 9 Elements Natural Laundry Detergent is your answer.
This liquid soap includes a simple yet powerful formula made with just nine plant-based ingredients. It effortlessly tackles everyday dirt and grime, leaving your clothes fresh and soft.
Plus, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and safe for the whole family, including babies. With its refreshing citrus scent derived from essential oils, you can say goodbye to harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
Price: $15.99 for a 92 fl oz bottle (94 loads).
Where to Buy: Target, Walmart, and online retailers like Amazon
Highlights: 9 plant-based ingredients, gentle on sensitive skin, EPA Safer Choice label, no artificial preservatives or dyes
Biokleen Laundry Liquid
Biokleen Laundry Liquid is a reliable choice for those who prefer liquid detergent. It’s made with plant-derived ingredients, including citrus and grapefruit seed extracts for natural cleaning power.
It’s also free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, and brighteners.
This Biokleen detergent consistently delivers clean, fresh laundry.
Price: $20.99 for a 64-ounce bottle (128 loads).
Where to Buy: Biokleen website, Amazon, and select retailers.
Highlights: Plant-derived, no synthetic fragrances or dyes, effective cleaning.
Stoneworks Laundry Detergent Pods
If convenience is your top priority, Grab Green Stoneworks Pods offer a mess-free way to do laundry.
These pods are packed with plant-based cleaning power and essential oils for a refreshing scent. They’re also free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and optical brighteners.
They’re a great choice for busy households who want a quick and easy laundry solution.
Price: $16.55 for a 50 load bag
Where to Buy: Grab Green Home website, Amazon, and select retailers.
Highlights: Convenient pods, plant-based, essential oil scents, no harsh chemicals.
Dirty Labs Signature Bio Laundry Detergent
Dirty Labs’ sleek packaging and innovative formula are sure to catch your eye. Their bio-based detergent uses cutting-edge enzymes and probiotics to tackle stains and odors effectively.
It’s hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and comes in a refillable aluminum bottle for reduced plastic waste.
Price: $16 for a 8.6-ounce bottle (32 loads).
Where to Buy: Dirty Labs website and select retailers.
Highlights: Bio-based formula, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, refillable packaging.
Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder
Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder is a concentrated formula that packs a punch.
It’s made with just three simple ingredients (washing soda, baking soda, and biobased surfactants), yet it’s surprisingly effective at cleaning even tough stains. It’s also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
Price: $13.99 for a 1.3-pound bag (50 loads).
Where to Buy: Charlie’s Soap website and Amazon.
Highlights: Concentrated formula, minimal ingredients, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free.
Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent
Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent is a plant-based formula that’s tough on stains and gentle on skin.
It’s free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and perfumes, making it a great choice for families with sensitive skin or allergies. It’s also biodegradable and comes in a recyclable bottle.
Price: $19.99 for a 16-ounce bottle (64 loads).
Where to Buy: Puracy website, Amazon, and select retailers.
Highlights: Plant-based, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, biodegradable.
ATTITUDE Liquid Laundry Detergent
Attitude’s Laundry Detergent comes in both liquid and powder form, with various scent options (or unscented if you prefer).
It’s formulated with plant and mineral-based ingredients, is biodegradable, and free of harsh chemicals.
The brand is committed to sustainability, using recycled and recyclable packaging.
Price: $16.99 for 2L (40 loads)
Where to Buy: Attitude Living website, Amazon, and select retailers.
Highlights: Plant and mineral-based, various scents (or unscented), biodegradable, sustainable packaging.
🏆 Best Overall | 🧼 Best for Stains | 👶🏻 Best for Sensitive Skin
Other Non-Toxic Laundry Products I Use
Beyond detergent, a few other natural swaps can seriously elevate your laundry routine.
Wool Dryer Balls: These fluffy balls are a natural alternative to dryer sheets. They reduce static, soften clothes, and even speed up drying time. Just toss a few in your dryer, and they’ll work their magic! Look for ones made from organic, ethically sourced wool.
Stain Remover Bars/Sticks: For spills and spots, keep a stain remover bar or stick on hand. These handy little helpers are typically made with plant-based ingredients like coconut oil or essential oils, and they work wonders on everything from grass stains to coffee spills.
Vinegar: This kitchen staple is a surprisingly versatile laundry tool. It can act as a natural fabric softener, help remove odors, brighten whites, and even remove detergent buildup. Just add a cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle for a boost of freshness.
Essential Oils: Want a subtle, natural fragrance for your laundry? Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, lemon, or peppermint are popular choices) to your laundry or dryer balls. It’s a simple way to customize your scent without harsh chemicals.
DIY Fabric Softener: If you’re feeling crafty, you can even whip up your own fabric softener using simple ingredients like vinegar and essential oils. It’s a fun project that can save you money and reduce waste.
There you have it – the best non toxic laundry detergents that get the job done. It’s time to ditch the chemical-laden formulas and upgrade your laundry routine with a cleaner, greener choice.
By making the switch, you’re not only prioritizing your family’s health and the environment, you’re also gaining peace of mind knowing your clothes are clean. No more worrying about hidden toxins or harsh ingredients irritating your skin.
Now we want to hear from you! Have you tried any of these non-toxic detergents? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!
P.S. Don’t forget to save this post to Pinterest so you can easily refer back to it!
This post was about the best non toxic laundry detergents.
