Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents: Choosing Sustainable Options for a Greener Clean

Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 10:59 am

As environmental sustainability becomes increasingly important, many people seek ways to make their laundry routine more eco-friendly. One way to do this is by choosing eco-friendly laundry detergents formulated with environmentally conscious ingredients and produced sustainably. This article will discuss the benefits of using eco-friendly laundry detergents and provide tips on choosing the right option for a greener clean.

Understanding Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents

These detergents are becoming increasingly prevalent as people look for ways to make their laundry practice more environmentally sustainable. These detergents are formulated with biodegradable ingredients, free from harsh chemicals, and produced with sustainable practices. They are designed to be safer for the environment, aquatic life, and human health while minimizing carbon footprint. These can also help to reduce water pollution, protect sensitive skin, and contribute to a greener and healthier planet.

Environmental Benefits of Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents

One of the key benefits of eco-friendly laundry detergents is their reduced impact on the environment. They typically contain biodegradable ingredients that break down naturally in the background, minimizing water pollution and reducing the harm to aquatic life. These detergents are also formulated without harsh chemicals such as phosphates and optical brighteners, which can be harmful to the environment and may linger in water bodies for a long time.

Health Benefits of Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents

These detergents are formulated with natural and environmentally-friendly ingredients that can provide several health benefits. Here are some potential health benefits of using these laundry detergents:

Reduced skin Irritation and Allergies

Conventional laundry detergents often contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes that can irritate the skin, cause allergies, or trigger respiratory issues. On the other hand, eco-friendly laundry detergents are typically free from these harmful ingredients. They are formulated with gentler, natural ingredients, reducing the risk of skin irritation, allergies, and respiratory issues.

Lower risk of Chemical Exposure

Many conventional laundry detergents contain chemicals that can harm human health and the environment. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled as fumes, or released into the atmosphere during washing and rinsing. On the other hand, eco-friendly laundry detergents are typically made with biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients, reducing the risk of chemical exposure to you and your family.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Conventional laundry detergents can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air during washing and drying, contributing to indoor air pollution. Eco-friendly laundry detergents are usually formulated with natural ingredients and are less likely to emit harmful VOCs, helping to improve indoor air quality and create a healthier living environment.

Environmentally-friendly Wastewater

Conventional laundry detergents can contain phosphates, surfactants, and other chemicals that can harm aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. But these detergents are typically biodegradable and do not contain toxic chemicals, reducing the environmental impact of wastewater discharged into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Safer for Children and Pets

Eco-friendly laundry detergents are often safer for households with children and pets who may be more vulnerable to chemical exposure. Children and pets may come into direct contact with clothes laundered with conventional detergents, increasing the risk of skin irritation, allergies, and other health issues. These laundry detergents can provide a safer alternative for sensitive skin and well-being.

Tips for Choosing Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents

Choosing eco-friendly laundry detergents can be a positive step towards reducing your environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. Here are some tips to help you select the suitable eco-friendly laundry detergents:

Look for Third-Party Certifications

Look for eco-friendly laundry detergents with third-party certifications such as the EPA’s Safer Choice label, USDA Organic, and certifications from reputable environmental organizations like Green Seal, ECOCERT, and Leaping Bunny. These certifications ensure the product has been independently tested and meets specific ecological and safety standards.

Read Ingredient Lists

Take a close look at the ingredient list on the laundry detergent packaging. Look for detergents that use plant-based or biodegradable ingredients, and avoid those that contain harsh chemicals like phosphates, sulfates, chlorine, and optical brighteners. Also look for detergents free of artificial fragrances and dyes, as these can potentially cause skin sensitivities and allergies.

Check for Concentrated Formulas

Look for concentrated formulas that require less product per load, as this can reduce packaging waste and lower the environmental impact of transportation. Concentrated formulas also tend to be more economical in the long run, as they last longer and require less frequent repurchasing.

Choose Packaging Wisely

Look for laundry detergents in recyclable or biodegradable packaging. Avoid detergents that come in single-use plastic packaging or excessive packaging. Opt for minimal packaging detergents, and consider purchasing detergents in bulk or refillable containers to reduce waste further.

Consider Local and Small-Scale Brands

Support local and small-scale brands prioritising sustainability and environmental responsibility. These brands may have smaller carbon footprints, use locally sourced ingredients, and prioritize ethical and sustainable production practices.

Do Your Research

Take the time to research and compare different eco-friendly laundry detergent brands and their environmental claims. Look for reviews and feedback from other consumers to assess the performance and effectiveness of the detergent. Consider factors such as price, availability, and overall sustainability practices of the brand.

Using Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents Effectively

Using eco-friendly laundry detergents effectively can help you achieve clean and fresh laundry and maximize its environmental benefits. Here are some tips for using eco-friendly laundry detergents effectively:

Follow Dosage Instructions

These laundry detergents are often concentrated, so you may need to use less detergent per load than traditional detergents. Follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you’re using the right amount of detergent.

Pre-Treat Stains

For tough stains, it’s best to pre-treat them before cleaning them. Use eco-friendly stain removers or mix water, baking soda, and vinegar to form a paste. Apply the paste directly to the stain and let it sit before washing. This can help to break down the stain and improve the effectiveness of your eco-friendly detergent.

Wash with Cold Water

Many eco-friendly detergents are formulated to work well in cold water, which can help save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. Washing in cold water also helps preserve the color and quality of your clothes, and it’s generally more gentle on fabrics.

Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine

Overloading the washing machine can prevent your eco-friendly detergent from working effectively. Clothes need enough space to move around, allowing the detergent to penetrate and clean them properly. Follow the recommended load size for your washing machine and avoid cramming too many clothes into a single load.

Choose the Right Wash Cycle

Use the appropriate wash cycle for your laundry. A shorter and gentler wash cycle may be sufficient for lightly soiled clothes, which can save water and energy. Reserve longer wash cycles for heavily dirty clothes or when necessary.

Skip the Fabric Softener

Most of these detergents are formulated without harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, so you may not need fabric softeners or dryer sheets. If you need fabric softening, consider using natural alternatives such as adding a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle or using wool dryer balls in the dryer.

Opt for Air Drying

Air drying your laundry is the most eco-friendly and energy-efficient option. Consider hanging your clothes on a clothesline or a drying rack whenever possible. If using a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting and avoid over-drying your clothes to conserve energy.

Properly Dispose of Packaging

These laundry detergents often come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging. Properly dispose of the packaging according to local recycling or composting guidelines to minimize waste and promote sustainability.

DIY Eco-friendly Laundry Detergent

Making your eco-friendly laundry detergent at home can be a fun and sustainable alternative to store-bought detergents. Here’s a simple recipe for DIY eco-friendly laundry detergent:

Ingredients

• 1 cup of washing soda (sodium carbonate)
• 1 cup of borax (sodium borate)
• 1/2 cup of grated castile soap or soap flakes
• 15-20 drops of essential oil (optional for fragrance)

Instructions

• Grate a bar of castile soap using a cheese grater or use soap flakes if available. Castile soap is a natural, vegetable-based soap that is biodegradable and eco-friendly.
• Combine the grated castile soap or soap flakes, washing soda, and borax in a large bowl. Mix well to create a dry detergent powder.
• Add 15-20 drops of your favourite essential oil to the mixture for fragrance if desired. Choose essential oils safe for skin contact and eco-friendly, such as lavender, tea tree, or lemon.
• Store the DIY laundry detergent in an airtight container, preferably a glass jar or a reusable container, to reduce plastic waste.

Usage

• Use 1-2 tablespoons of DIY laundry detergent per a load of laundry, depending on the size of your load and the level of dirtiness.
• Add the detergent directly to the washing machine drum or dispenser, depending on your washing machine’s instructions.
• Wash your laundry as usual, using cold or warm water as appropriate for your clothes.
• If desired, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener to help remove soap residue.

Incorporating Other Eco-friendly Laundry Practices

In addition to using this detergent, you can incorporate several other practices into your laundry routine to reduce environmental impact. Here are some ideas:

Cold Water Washing

Most energy in a washing machine goes towards heating the water. Washing your laundry with cold water can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint. Many of these laundry detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water.

Full Loads

Wait until you have a whole load of laundry before running the washing machine. Washing smaller loads wastes water and energy. Adjust the water level accordingly if you need to clean a smaller load.

Air Drying

Line-drying clothes instead of a dryer can save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You can hang your clothes outside on a clothesline or drying rack or indoors on a drying rack or clothesline. Air drying also helps extend the lifespan of your clothes and reduce wear and tear.

Avoiding Dryer Sheets

Many conventional dryer sheets contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and may contribute to indoor air pollution. Instead, consider using reusable dryer balls made of wool or other natural materials to reduce static and soften clothes.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Consider reducing your overall clothing consumption by buying fewer items and choosing high-quality, durable clothing that lasts longer. Repair and mend clothes when possible instead of discarding them. Donate or sell clothes you no longer wear. And when it’s time to dispose of clothes, recycle or repurpose them to reduce waste.

Use Natural Stain Removers

Instead of chemical-laden stain removers, consider using natural alternatives like baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, or hydrogen peroxide to remove stains from your clothes. These options are generally safer for the environment and pose fewer health risks.

It’s important to note that not all eco-friendly laundry detergents are created equal, and it’s still essential to read labels, follow usage instructions, and choose reputable brands certified by reputable organizations. If you have specific health concerns or sensitivities, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

You may also like: A Complete Guide to Fabric Softener