In a world where our choices can either harm or heal the planet, imagine transforming your laundry routine into a powerful act of environmental heroism.
Every load of laundry becomes a step towards a cleaner, greener future. Regular detergents harm our clothes and pollute water, hurting marine life. Eco-friendly detergents, made from natural ingredients, break down easily and lack harmful toxins.
They often come in eco-friendly packaging. By using these green detergents, we reduce our environmental impact while keeping clothes clean.
This article reviews some of the best eco-friendly laundry detergents available today, suitable for both seasoned eco-friendly users and newcomers.
It’s Key to Consider…
When choosing an eco-friendly laundry detergent, several important factors should be considered to ensure you select a product that effectively cleans your clothes while minimizing environmental impact. Prioritizing eco-friendly options can help protect ecosystems and reduce pollution.
Here are some of the criteria you should pay more attention to:
- Ingredients: look for detergents that are free from harmful chemicals such as phosphates, chlorine bleach, synthetic fragrances, and brighteners. These substances can cause significant environmental harm, including water pollution and health issues for aquatic life and humans. Look for plant-based ingredients that are more sustainable and less toxic.
- Certifications: Look for credible, eco-friendly certifications on the product labels. Certifications like USDA OrganicCertification indicating compliance with organic farming standards., EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and EcoLogo ensure that the products have been tested for environmental impact and safety. These labels can provide assurance that the detergent meets high standards for sustainability.
- Packaging: Choose detergents with sustainable packaging. This includes products packaged in fully recyclable, compostable, or plastic-free containers. Avoid single-use plastic bottles when possible.
- Effectiveness at low temperatures: Many eco-friendly detergents are formulated to work effectively in cold water, which reduces energy consumption during laundry cycles. This helps save on utility bills and reduces the carbon footprint associated with heating water.
Best compact
| Item form | Sheets |
| Load counts | up to 64 small loads |
| Concentrated | No |
| Can be cold-washed | Yes |
| Special features | Pre-measured |
Tru Earth detergent sheets offer a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional laundry detergents. These sheets replace bulky detergent jugs with a small, powerful strip made in Canada, popular in the USA and worldwide.
They are gentle on sensitive skin, vegan-friendly, and free from parabens. They are safe for all household members and perform well without compromising their health.
Their eco-friendly design reduces carbon footprints and eliminates plastic waste, making them easy to handle and store, especially for people with arthritis.
Unlike traditional detergents, Tru Earth sheets are pre-measured, avoiding the mess and hassle of measuring. Each strip is designed for one load, making laundry simple and efficient.
Despite their small size, these sheets are powerful cleaners.
They effectively remove stains, brighten whites, and restore colors, weighing only 3 grams per strip. They are ideal for college students, RV travelers, and anyone needing a compact, effective laundry solution.
If you are interested in laundry detergent sheets, read our article on the best laundry detergent sheets.
Tru Earth Compact Dry Laundry Detergent Sheets Reviews
- Effective cleaning: Customer reviews show that it removes stains and brightens clothes efficiently.
- Eco-friendly: Customer reviews show that its packaging and formulation are environmentally friendly.
- Higher cost: Customer reviews show that it is more expensive than traditional detergents.
- Space-saving: Customer reviews show that the compact size saves significant storage space.
- Fragrance Options: Customer reviews show that some users want more fragrance variety.
- No mess: Customer reviews show that pre-measured strips prevent detergent spills and messes.
- Heavy loads: Customer reviews show that it may struggle with very heavily soiled laundry.
- Sensitive skin safe: Customer reviews show that it’s gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Dissolving issues: Customer reviews show that it sometimes doesn’t dissolve well in cold water.
Most sustainable
| Item form | Liquid |
| Load counts | 48 |
| Concentrated | N/A |
| Can be cold-washed | Yes |
| Special features | Free of dyes and perfumes |
Tide Purclean is free from dyes, perfumes, chlorine, phosphates, and optical brighteners, making it a safer choice for sensitive skin and users with babies in their family. Also, if you want to know more about laundry detergents suited for babies’ sensitive skins, you can read our article titled best baby laundry detergent.
This detergent is versatile, being suitable for both high-efficiency (HE) and regular washers. Additionally, it holds USDA certification for plant-based content, reinforcing its credibility and effectiveness. The unscented formula ensures no artificial fragrances are added, catering to those who prefer or require fragrance-free laundry solutions.
Tide Purclean Liquid Laundry Detergent Reviews
- Effective cleaning: Customer reviews show that Tide Purclean effectively cleans clothes, even with a plant-based formula.
- Gentle on skin: Customer reviews show that this detergent is suitable for sensitive skin and free from harsh chemicals.
- Odor control: Customer reviews show that it may not be as effective in removing strong odors.
- Versatile use: Customer reviews show that it’s effective in both HE and regular washers.
- Mild scent: Customer reviews show that some users miss having a scented option for their laundry.
- No residual odor: Customer reviews show that clothes do not retain any strong detergent smell after washing.
- Price: Customer reviews show that some find the product to be more expensive compared to other brands.
Best odor-control
| Item form | Pods |
| Load counts | 24 |
| Concentrated | No |
| Can be cold-washed | Yes |
| Special features | Advanced odor control technology |
Dropps Active Wash laundry detergent pods are great for sportswear, removing body odor and sweat. They keep athletic clothes fresh and protect the fabric. They also work well for regular laundry.
The pods are made with 55% natural ingredients and strong cleaning agents. They clean well, are gentle on clothes, and are safe for sensitive skin. Each pod has the right amount of detergent for any load size.
These pods work with all washing machines, including HE, front-loading, and top-loading machines, and are effective in all water temperatures, including cold cycles, saving energy. The pods are spill-free and easy to use.
Dropps’ commitment to low-waste packaging is evident in their recyclable cardboard boxes, which are designed to be space-efficient and fit neatly into limited storage areas. This thoughtful design keeps your home uncluttered while being considerate of environmental well-being.
With over 20 years of experience, Dropps is a trusted company. They meet high standards for social and environmental responsibility.
Dropps Active Wash Laundry Detergent Reviews
- Effective odor control: Customer reviews show that the detergent effectively neutralizes sweat and body odors.
- Eco-friendly: Customer reviews show that the packaging is recyclable and compostable.
- High price: Customer reviews show that the detergent is considered pricey compared to others.
- Convenient pods: Customer reviews show that the pre-measured pods are easy to use.
- PVA concerns: Customer reviews show that some are concerned about the environmental impact of PVA in the pods.
- Moisture issues: Customer reviews show that pods can stick together if exposed to moisture.
- Fresh scents: Customer reviews show that the light scents are pleasant and not overpowering.
Best enzyme-powered
| Item form | Pac |
| Load counts | 45 loads per packet |
| Concentrated | No |
| Can be cold-washed | Yes |
| Special features | Powerful quadruple-enzyme formula |
The packs dissolve quickly and can be used in both high-efficiency (HE) and regular washing machines, making them convenient for everyone. This detergent is also eco-friendly, with 94 percent of its ingredients being plant-based, and it is USDA-certified biobased. The Seventh Generation focuses on sustainability, aiming to protect both the present and the future.
Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent Packs Reviews
- Effective cleaning: Customer reviews show that these packs clean clothes well.
- Sensitive skin: Customer reviews show that they are suitable for sensitive skin.
- Scent preference: Customer reviews show that some miss having a scent in their detergent.
- Convenient packaging: Customer reviews show that the resealable bag is convenient and easy to use.
- Packaging stickiness: Customer reviews show that the pods can be sticky in the package.
Best enzyme-powered
| Item form | Liquid |
| Load counts | 50 |
| Concentrated | Yes |
| Can be cold-washed | Yes |
| Special features | Ultra-Concentrated Formula |
Method liquid laundry detergent comes in a 20-ounce bottle and has a natural, ultra-concentrated formula. This detergent is very efficient and uses only a quarter of the usual amount needed by other brands, making it both effective and economical.
Using SmartClean Technology, this detergent targets and removes tough dirt and stains, leaving your clothes clean and fresh. Its eco-friendly composition supports sustainable living, making it a good choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Method Liquid Laundry Detergent Reviews
- Effective cleaning: Customer reviews show that the detergent cleans clothes effectively with minimal detergent needed.
- Small quantity: Customer reviews show that the 20-ounce bottle is too small for some users’ needs.
- Hypoallergenic: Customer reviews show that it is gentle on sensitive skin and doesn’t cause irritation.
- Price concerns: Customer reviews show that some users find it more expensive compared to other brands.
- Versatile use: Customer reviews show that it works well in both high-efficiency and standard washing machines.
- Limited availability: Customer reviews show that it can sometimes be hard to find in local stores.
