Environmental pollution due to the increasing number of landfills and incinerating plastic remains a significant concern. Plastic packaging is very common as companies continue to rely on plastics, some of which are difficult to recycle. High-density polyethene (HDPE) is often used as laundry detergent jugs and more of these plastics end up in landfills or the ocean. This raises serious concerns about environmental pollution, especially considering that over 30 billion loads of laundry are done annually in North America.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an estimated one billion HDPE laundry detergent containers are discarded in the United States each year, with only 30% sent to recycling facilities. With the recycling rate of these laundry detergent containers below 50%, there is an urgent need for sustainable alternatives, specifically packaging without plastics.
The Environmental Impact of Plastic on Laundry Detergents
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics are difficult to recycle, leading to an increased number of these plastics showing up in landfill sites. The production of new plastic products contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which negatively impact the environment. This situation worsens when these products are discarded, as plastics are non-biodegradable and take an extremely long time to decompose. Poor waste management has led to more plastic waste breaking down into microplastics that pollute the soil, enter the food chain and contaminate the ocean.
To minimize the environmental impact of plastic pollution, new eco-friendly laundry detergents are emerging to meet the demands of consumers. These are green products packaged in compostable, recycled or refillable containers, offering sustainable options to reduce and mitigate climate change caused by plastic pollution.
What are Plastic-Free Laundry Strips?
Plastic-free laundry strips are liquid-less detergent sheets that simply dissolve in cold and hot water. These strips are lightweight and take up minimal space, making them more convenient for travel than traditional detergents. A single detergent strip can effectively wash a full load of laundry.
Laundry strips come in unique packaging. These strips are packaged in recyclable containers and not plastic, such as cardboard, instead of plastic. Unlike HDPE plastic packaging, cardboard is recyclable, making it a more sustainable option.
The Benefits of Using Laundry Strips
#1. Plastic-Free Packaging
Laundry strips are lightweight and easy to package in paper or cardboard, both of which are more sustainable than HDPE plastic packaged laundry detergents.
#2. Natural Ingredients
Laundry strips are often made with plant-based ingredients, providing a sustainable option that can completely biodegrade without harming ecosystems. This is especially important for protecting aquatic life from the harmful effects of toxic chemical runoff.
#3. Smaller Carbon Footprint
One of the advantages of laundry strips is their lightweight nature, which reduces transportation energy requirements. Transporting more strips at a time lowers fuel and energy consumption, ultimately reducing the carbon footprint and benefiting the environment.
How to Identify and Choose an Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
Choosing the best products for your laundry routine is more than just picking items labelled “green”. Always look for specific certifications and check ingredient content to select the most environmentally friendly product.
Key Certifications to Look for
- EPA Safer Choice Label: This certification indicates that the laundry detergent contains ingredients that meet strict safety standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Laundry products with this label have been accessed by a third party to ensure they are safe to use.
- USDA Organic Seal: Detergent with this seal indicates that it’s made with an estimated 95% organic ingredients. The USDA Organic Seal guarantees consumers that a laundry product does not contain harmful chemicals like synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and phosphates. Rebel Green and Greenshield Organic are examples of products with this certification.
- Leaping Bunning Certification: If you are looking for a product that was not tested on animals, choose those with this label. The Leaping Bunny Certification serves as a guide for eco-conscious consumers who are concerned about animal welfare.
- B Corporation Certification: This is a certification awarded to brands that meet the standards of environmental and social performance, accountability and transparency. Companies that are B Corp certified include Seventh Generations and ECOS.
Ingredients to Avoid
Paying attention to every detail of the products you purchase is important, especially when it comes to avoiding laundry products made with harmful ingredients. As an eco-conscious individual avoid laundry products containing ingredients such as;
- Phosphates: Phosphates are chemicals that can cause an algal bloom in nearby water bodies, leading to the depletion of oxygen and also harming aquatic life.
- Sulfates: Sulfates are surfactants that are often derived from petroleum and this harsh surfactant can cause skin irritation. It is also unhealthy for the environment, often contributing to pollution.
- Optical Brighteners: These synthetic chemicals make garments become brighter but they are toxic to aquatic life.
- Synthetic Fragrances: Be wary of laundry products containing synthetic fragrances, as these chemicals can be linked to hormone disruption and can trigger allergies.
Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent Options With No Plastics
Here, we have listed some of the best products along with brands that produce eco-friendly and plastic-free laundry detergents. These products have been tested by experts and recommended for a greener and more sustainable clean.
#1. Dropps Laundry Detergent Pods
Dropps laundry detergent pods are suitable eco-friendly options. These detergent pods are transported in a recyclable and compostable box, with no additional packaging material. Dropps pods are wrapped in water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol film that easily dissolves in washing machines.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Plastic-free, compostable packaging.
- Biodegradable film wrapping.
- Free from harsh chemicals.
User Experience: These laundry pods have received positive reviews as one of the top laundry pods that are easy to use. Consumers appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Reviews highlighted the laundry pods’ compostable packaging as a sustainable option compared to plastic-packaged laundry detergents.
#2. EcoRoots Detergent Strips
EcoRoots is another brand committed to making its products more eco-friendly, with its lightweight detergent strips. They are easy to use, effective in removing tough stains, and contain no toxic ingredients.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Plastic-free packaging.
- Made with non-toxic, plant-based ingredients.
- Reduces carbon footprint due to its lightweight nature.
User Experience: Reviews from consumers are positive. They love EcoRoots for making a laundry product that is effective with minimal packaging. The detergent strips are perforated, making it easy for users to rip, and a single pack can last for multiple loads.
#3. Meliora Eco Laundry Powder
Meliora is another brand at the forefront of making sustainable products with its highly concentrated laundry powder. The laundry powder is made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil and soda and is packed in recyclable and reusable steel containers.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Recyclable and reusable packaging.
- 100% natural, biodegradable ingredients.
- Refills are available to reduce waste.
User Experience: The brand’s laundry powder is rated for being effective and sustainable. Users appreciate Meliora’s use of 100% natural ingredients and the brand’s commitment to reducing waste with its refill system.
#4. Bestowed Essential Landry Powder
Bestowed Essential Laundry Powder is another eco-friendly product on our list. It is packaged in a compostable container and contains no sulfates, artificial fragrances, preservatives, or parabens.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Compostable packaging.
- Made with natural, non-toxic ingredients.
- No artificial chemicals or fragrances.
User Experience: Bestowed Essential has received praise from users for prioritizing waste reduction in making a unique laundry product free from toxic ingredients.
#5. The Simply Co Laundry Detergent
The Simply Co Laundry Detergent is made with a few ingredients and packaged in a recyclable container. It is said to completely biodegrade in the environment, making it a perfect choice for consumers.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Minimal ingredients.
- Biodegradable and recyclable packaging.
- No synthetic chemicals or additives.
User Experience: The Simply Co is recognized and celebrated for its transparency. Beyond the brand’s commitment to reducing waste, users appreciate their products for having a natural scent.
#6. Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets
Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets are made from plant-based ingredients and they easily dissolve in water. Packaged in recyclable cardboard boxes, this product is better than traditional detergents that impact the environment.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Biodegradable ingredients.
- Recyclable cardboard packaging.
- Non-toxic and safe for sensitive skin.
User Experience: Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets are well-known for being lightweight. Consumers appreciate the fresh natural scent of the product and trust it because it’s made from biodegradable ingredients.
#7. Cleancult
Cleancult produces a sustainable laundry product made with natural ingredients. The brand’s products come in recyclable containers that consumers can also refill.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Refillable and recyclable packaging.
- Natural ingredients.
- Focus on reducing waste through durable, reusable dispensers.
User Experience: Cleancult’s laundry products are appreciated for their effective cleaning power and eco-friendly packaging. The brand’s refill programs entice eco-conscious consumers who are tired of single-use plastic detergent containers.
#8. Natural Laundry Soap Bar
Natural Laundry Soap Bar is made from ingredients like coconut oil water, sodium hydroxide, and arrowroot starch.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Plastic-free, minimal packaging.
- Made with natural, biodegradable ingredients.
- Reduces the need for liquid detergent bottles.
User Experience: Natural Laundry Soap Bar is appreciated by users for being effective, especially for hand washing.
#9. Milk Street Laundry Powder
Milk Street Soap Co. laundry products are made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil and soda. The brand specialises in non-toxic detergent, and its products are sustainably packaged with no plastic.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Plastic-free packaging.
- 100% natural ingredients.
- Commitment to reducing environmental impact.
User Experience: Users commend Milk Street’s commitment to making sustainable laundry products. Their laundry powder is effective for cleaning, thanks to its 100% natural ingredients.
#10. The Good Fill Laundry Detergent
The Good Fill Laundry powder is sustainably made with only four ingredients. The product is free from chlorine, fragrances and phosphate. It is also packaged in recyclable and compostable paper bags.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Minimal, natural ingredients.
- Compostable or recyclable packaging.
- Free from harmful chemicals.
User Experience: The Good Fill is appreciated by users for its simple ingredients and cleaning power. The brand has also been commended for prioritizing compostable packaging.
#11. Natural First Soap Berry Laundry Pods
Natural First’s laundry pods are made with organic ingredients, perfect for eco-conscious consumers. These pods are plastic-free and free from parabens, phosphorus, and sulfates.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Plastic-free, compostable packaging.
- Organic, plant-based ingredients.
- No harmful chemicals or additives.
User Experience: Natural First’s soap berry laundry pods are unique and widely appreciated for their cleaning properties. Consumers also value the brand’s sustainability efforts to reduce waste.
#12. Zero Co Laundry Liquid
Zero Co laundry detergent is free from ingredients like phosphate, bleach, and dyes. The company’s liquid laundry detergent dispenser is designed with recycled plastic obtained from the ocean. Zero Co pouches are also refillable.
Why It’s Eco-Friendly:
- Recycled plastic dispenser.
- Refillable pouches to reduce waste.
- Plant-based, non-toxic ingredients.
User Experience: Zero Co has attracted eco-minded consumers by incorporating ocean plastics into its production line. The brand’s refill programs also highlight Zero Co’s commitment to sustainability.
Other Environmentally Friendly Products to Consider
#1. Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Liquid-less Eco Sheets
Overview: Earth Breeze Eco Sheets are unique laundry products, sustainably packaged for a better laundry routine that doesn’t impact the environment. These liquid-less sheets easily dissolve in water to remove tough stains from clothes.
Expert Insight: According to Carolyn Forté, director of Good Housekeeping Institute, these liquid-free sheets have hit the market in a big way and are favoured by many, mostly because they are lightweight and compact, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with their packaging and transportation.
Environmental Impact: Earth Breeze sheets come in biodegradable cardboard, so they are safe for the environment and will not generate more waste.
Learn More: How to Adopt a Zero-Waste Lifestyle: A Comprehensive Guide
#2. Charlie’s Soap Natural Powder Laundry Detergent
Overview: Charlie’s Soap is a concentrated laundry powder with effective cleaning power. A tablespoon is enough for a load of laundry. The laundry powder is safe to use in washing machines, including high-efficient (HE) washers.
Expert Insight: An article published on Howstuffworks indicated that powdered detergents often have a lower impact on the environment compared to liquid detergents, mostly because they require less packaging and less water.
Sustainability: Charlie’s Soap is sustainably packaged in a recyclable pouch, which is a win for the environment as it reduces waste. The product is also said to be biodegradable, making it a top choice for eco-conscious consumers.
#3. ECOS Laundry Detergent
Overview: ECOS uses natural ingredients to make its vegan-certified laundry detergent. The product is available in a variety of scents which are all made from essential oils.
Certifications: ECOS is the first brand to obtain the TRU Platinum Zero Waste certification, which means that the brand’s manufacturing process doesn’t generate waste that ends up in landfill sites.
Environmental Impact: ECOS has achieved carbon neutrality, powering its facilities with renewable energy. Their products have become eco-conscious consumers’ favourites in the market.
#4. Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder
Overview: Molly’s Suds is another laundry detergent free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes but remains effective in removing stains and odour from clothes.
Expert Insight: A review by the Environmental Working Group suggests that Molly’s Suds uses non-toxic ingredients to make one of the finest laundry products on the market.
Sustainability: Molly’s Suds cones in recyclable paper bags and their detergent powder is said to be biodegradable. The brand prioritizes transparency by making their ingredients sourcing known to consumers.
#5. Biokleen Laundry Liquid
Overview: Biokleen’s Citrus Essence Laundry Liquid is a detergent made from plant-based ingredients, making it free from artificial fragrances and dyes. It effectively cleans cloth without leaving any toxic residue that could harm the environment.
Performance: Biokleen’s Citrus Essence Laundry Liquid is suitable for lightly soiled clothing and just what you need for a regular laundry routine.
Environmental Impact: Biokleen has the EPA Safer Choice label, meaning it’s safe for the environment and meets the high standards for human health safety. Also, the laundry liquid is packaged in recyclable materials.
#6. Tru Earth Laundry Strips
Overview: Laundry strips are lightweight and Tru Earth is making them more sustainable with recyclable packaging. These strips are non-toxic and they dissolve easily in water for effective cleaning to remove stains.
Performance: Tru Earth strips may require additional treatments to be more effective in cleaning extremely soiled cloth—it removes other kinds of stains.
Environmental Impact: Tru Earth strips have a lower transportation carbon footprint compared to conventional detergents derived from petroleum-based materials because of their lightweight. Additionally, they are biodegradable and don’t contain toxic chemicals like phosphates or chlorine bleach.
#7. Blueland Laundry Tablets
Overview: Blueland Laundry Tablets are sustainably designed to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste. These tablets are packaged in reusable tin to reduce waste associated with laundry detergent packaging. Made responsibly with the intent to promote sustainability, they do not contain artificial dyes, petroleum or harsh chemicals.
Expert Insight: A report by the Sustainability Packaging Coalition discusses the brand’s innovative approach to minimising plastic waste through reusable packaging.
#8. Dirty Labs Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent
Overview: Dirty Labs, a new brand manufacturing eco-friendly laundry products is quickly gaining more consumers due to the effectiveness of their products. Dirt Labs Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is designed with advanced bio-based enzymes that break down tough stains at the molecular level.
Performance: Independence lab tests have shown that the brand’s Dirty Labs Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is as effective as conventional detergents in removing tough stains. However, unlike conventional detergents, these have no impact on the environment.
Environmental Impact: Dirty Labs packages its laundry products in recyclable aluminium bottles. The brand also uses a closed-loop manufacturing process to avoid generating more waste. As you would expect, Dirty Labs Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent are free from sulfates, phosphates, and other harmful chemicals.
Learn More: Washing Powder Vs. Liquid: Which Is More Eco-Friendly?
The Science Behind Eco-Friendly Detergents
Eco-friendly laundry detergents are formulated with natural ingredients that are safe for both the environment and human health. These products are sustainably manufactured without synthetic chemicals, sulfates, and phosphates, making them a preferred choice over conventional detergents. According to Rinse, a laundry detergent must be sustainably designed with non-toxic ingredients and packaged in recyclable or compostable containers to be considered eco-friendly.
How Surfactants Works
Surfactants are active agents in detergents that remove stains from garments. The surfactants used in green detergents are derived from renewable sources like coconut oil, soy and corn. Plant-based surfactants are biodegradable, so laundry detergents with these ingredients are safe to use without any worries about leaving harmful residues.
The Role of Enzymes
Eco-friendly brands are using enzymes to improve the cleaning power of their products. For example, Dirty Labs uses enzymes to ensure effective cleaning power. Enzymes are biological molecules that enhance detergent performance in removing food or grass stains.
The Importance of Biodegradability
Biodegradability is a key factor in making a laundry product eco-friendly. One of the main reasons green laundry alternatives are preferred over conventional detergents is their impact on aquatic life. Eco-friendly laundry products are non-toxic to aquatic life due to their natural ingredients. Unlike conventional detergent, these products are also packaged in compostable and recyclable containers.
The Lifecycle Analysis of Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
To be considered sustainable, laundry products should be free of toxic ingredients, packaged in recyclable or compostable containers or incorporate refill programs. Their entire lifecycle, from product to disposal should not affect the environment.
When evaluating eco-friendly laundry detergent, these are what to look out for.
Production Phase
The manufacturing process of conventional liquid detergent is resource- and energy-intensive. Their packaging relies on petroleum as a primary resource to produce plastic bottles. Eco-friendly laundry detergents, on the other hand, are produced sustainably with renewable resources and natural ingredients. They have little to no effect on the natural environment.
Transpiration Phase
Liquid detergent occupy more space compared to laundry strips. Transpiration for bulky liquid detergents will consume more fuel, which leads to more carbon emissions. Plastic-free laundry strips and powder are lightweight and, therefore require less fuel for transportation.
Usage Phase
Sustainable laundry detergents have concentrated formulas, meaning consumers will need less product per load. These products are also likely to contain harmful ingredients that may contaminate waterways.
Disposal Phase
Plastic detergent bottles, when improperly disposed of, contribute to environmental pollution. Tons of HDPE plastic used in laundry detergent containers end up in landfills or, even worse, in the ocean. Eco-friendly laundry detergents come in sustainable packaging options that help reduce plastic waste in landfills.
DIY Eco-Friendly Laundry Solutions
If you have ever considered making an eco-friendly homemade detergent, here are a few tips to help you make a customized laundry detergent. Try out this basic recipe:
DIY Laundry Detergent Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 bar of Castile soap (grated)
- 1 cup of washing soda
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 20 drops of essential oil (optional for fragrance)
Instructions:
- Grate the Castile soap into fine pieces.
- Mix the grated soap, washing soda, and baking soda in a large bowl.
- Add essential oil if desired, and stir well.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container.
- Use 1 to 2 tablespoons per load of laundry.
Benefits of DIY Detergents
- Cost-Effective: DIY detergents won’t cost you much, it’s cheaper and fun to make.
- Customizable: you can customise your DIY detergent with your preferred fragrance (or go fragrance-free) and adjust the ingredients based on your needs.
- Zero Waste: Since it’s homemade, it generates no waste.
Additional Tips for Sustainable Laundry Practices
Here are a few tips to make your laundry routine more sustainable with eco-friendly products.
- Use Cold Water: Doing your laundry with cold water helps you save energy.
- Air Dry Clothes: Air dry your clothes when you can to help you save on utility bills. Try not to use a dryer more often, it will help your garment lifecycle.
- Full Loads Only: Operate your washing machine only when you have a full load.
- Use energy-efficient Washer: If you are upgrading to a new washing machine, look for energy-efficient models to minimize your energy and water usage.
Call to Action: Advocate for a Plastic-Free Future
Get involved today in the fight against plastic with these simple green initiatives.
- Support Legislation: Advocate for green policies that promote sustainable ideas to reduce plastic waste, and improve recycling.
- Join Environmental Groups: Become a member and support the cause of organizations working to reduce plastic waste.
- Educate Others: Share your knowledge about the best eco-friendly laundry products to use, and help others make informed choices.
The Future of Eco-Friendly Laundry Solutions
Due to the growing demand in the market, brands are redesigning their products to meet consumers demand. Companies are becoming innovative in the laundry detergent industry and emerging technologies can make laundry products more efficient and effective.
Biodegradable Packaging
While brands have made the switch to biodegradable packaging, new technologies in the industry can further improve packaging options to be more sustainable. Technological advancements can significantly reduce the environmental impact of conventional laundry detergents.
Waterless Detergents
Waterless detergent can be a game changer in reducing the environmental impact of laundry products. As research continues, we may see more waterless detergents emerge in the coming years.
Smart Laundry Systems
Integrating smart technology in laundry appliances has improved laundry routines. Future smart washers may be able to optimize detergent use based on load size and soil level, which will help reduce waste and ensure efficient use of detergent.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly laundry detergents are sustainable options that focus on reducing waste, particularly plastic. These products are designed and packaged in recyclable and compostable containers, making the environmental benefits of choosing eco-friendly laundry products and supporting such brands highly satisfying.
More consumers are switching to greener laundry options to reduce their carbon footprint. The laundry products mentioned in this article are safe for both the environment and human health, as they are free from artificial dyes, sulfates, phosphates, and other toxic chemicals.