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11 Non Toxic Laundry Detergent Brands for Clean Clothes and Clean Living
You've probably gone through your entire bathroom cabinet and tossed all the toxic lotions, soaps, and cleansers you could find. That's a good call—the stuff that comes into direct contact with your skin needs to be squeaky clean!
And so do the products that come into contact with your skin "second-hand."
Harsh chemicals lurking in your detergent? No, thank you! Clean clothes shouldn't have to come at the cost of our health or the health of our planet.
Want to raise the bar on your laundry game and move to a lifestyle of clean living? Say hello to a cleaner, healthier approach to washing your clothes.
In this article, we've done the legwork for you and unearthed 11 non toxic laundry detergent brands for your clean clothes and clean living journey. With formulations based on plants and novel eco-friendly laundry detergent technologies, these brands will change how we think about laundry care.
Why Switch to Non Toxic Laundry Detergent?
Laundry day is a staple in household chores, making your choice of detergent crucial for both your health and the environment.
Conventional laundry detergents are full of harmful chemicals like anionic and non-ionic surfactants, ethanol, and propylene glycol. These can irritate your skin, cause respiratory issues, and other health problems. Children are especially at risk. In fact, a study found that 60% of liquid laundry detergent capsule exposures happen to kids, often leading to various health symptoms.
Switching to non-toxic laundry detergents can significantly decrease your exposure to toxic chemicals present in conventional products. Opting for a natural laundry detergent comes with a range of advantages that do not compromise on cleaning efficacy. Consider these key benefits of making the switch:
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Gentler Formulations: Non-toxic detergents avoid harsh chemicals like phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and chlorine, reducing skin irritation and respiratory issues.
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Natural Cleaning Power: These detergents use plant-based enzymes, essential oils, and mineral salts to clean effectively without harsh additives.
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Eco-Conscious Choice: Produced by eco-friendly brands, non-toxic detergents feature biodegradable ingredients and sustainable packaging, minimizing environmental impact. Learn more about sustainable laundry practices in this eco-laundry guide.
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Health and Wellness: Safe for sensitive skin, these detergents often contain coconut oil surfactants and baking soda, which clean while protecting fabrics and your family's health. Learn more about maintaining toxin-free clothing in our guide.
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Indoor Air Quality: The ingredients in the detergent you use are released into the air while your cycle is running and then again during dryer use. Make sure those ingredients are worth breathing!
By choosing non-toxic laundry detergent, you contribute to a healthier home environment and a more sustainable planet, all while keeping your clothes impeccably clean. For more insights on why it's crucial to switch to non-toxic products, check out this helpful article.
The Vetting Process
We value transparency and trust in selecting products that align with our values of health and sustainability and carefully choose the brands featured on our curated lists. Here’s how we selected the nontoxic laundry detergents for our top picks:
1) Intensive Testing: Each detergent undergoes rigorous testing in our own homes, with real life dirt, grime and stains to evaluate its effectiveness, safety, and environmental impact. We assess stain removal capabilities and ingredient transparency.
2) Product Variety: We tested numerous products from various brands, including multiple formulations within each brand to ensure we selected the best that each brand has to offer.
3) Stringent Standards:
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Ingredient Transparency: Brands must fully disclose their ingredients.
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Non-toxic Formulations: Detergents must be free from harmful chemicals like phosphates, parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances.
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Effectiveness: Detergents must clean effectively.
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Environmental Impact: Brands must use biodegradable ingredients, reduce packaging waste, and employ energy-efficient production methods.
Our selection process is thorough, scientifically rigorous, and ethically sound, ensuring that the brands we endorse are effective, safe for health, and environmentally responsible. Also we picked these products with our health and families in mind!
So what are the best clean & non toxic detergents?
The Best Non Toxic Laundry Detergent Brands
Here is our list of top picks of non-toxic laundry detergent brands:
NaturOli | Shop here*
Branch Basics | Shop here
Ecos | Shop here*
Meliora | Shop here*
Molly's Suds | Shop here*
Truly Free | Shop here*
Aspen | Shop here*
ATTITUDE | Shop here*
Clean Cult | Shop here*
Pronounce | Shop here*
Puracy | Shop here*
What Is the Best Non Toxic Laundry Detergent?
The best non-toxic laundry detergent is one that delivers cleanliness to your clothes while ensuring safety and sustainability.
NaturOli* (Our Top Pick)
Best For: People with sensitive skin or allergies, Babies
Type: Liquid concentrate
Pricing: $19.95
Cost per load: $0.08 / load
Certifications: USDA Certified Organic, QAI (Quality Assurance International)
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Organic Sapindus mukorossi (Soap Nuts)
Why We Like It: Just one ingredient? One super effective ingredient?! What a dream. NaturOli makes quick work of the most tough stains and leaves our clothes spotless and fresh. It's gentle on fabrics and mother nature. This product is completely plastic free and biodegradable. It hits all the marks for us and even though it's not a traditional laundry detergent, it's by far, our fav!
Image @Naturoli
Ecos Free & Clear*
Best For: People with sensitive skin or allergies, babies
Type: Liquid concentrate
Pricing: $36.96 (100 Fl Oz Pack of 2)
Cost per load: $0.18
Certifications: U.S. EPA Safer Choice
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Coconut plant-derived surfactants
Why We Like It: The hypoallergenic, coconut-based formula not only protects fabrics and whiten whites but it's also color-safe. Ecos prides their use of coconut, a renewable resource possessing awesome natural detergent cleaning properties. And it works on everything—from our delicate linens to our everyday wear.
Image @Ecos
Meliora Unscented Powder Detergent*
Best For: Those who prefer a powder detergent that's safe for sensitive skin
Type: Powder
Pricing: $21.84
Cost per load: $0.17
Certifications: MADE SAFE® Certified, Leaping Bunny, Compact by Design (Amazon-developed Certification)
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Baking soda
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Washing soda
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Organic coconut oil-based soap
Why We Like It: Using this will totally change the way your laundry is done! This fragrance-free detergent makes it easy to take off stubborn stains, brighten your clothes, and protect all fabrics. We love that we can use this to handwash delicates as well. Highly recommend!
Image @Meliora
Molly's Suds*
Best For: Peppermint lovers!
Type: Liquid laundry detergent
Pricing: $21.84
Cost per load: $0.22
Certifications: EWG, Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Plant essences and oils
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Plant-derived enzymes
Why We Like It: The consistent performance of this laundry detergent, combined with earth-sourced ingredients, has completely won us over. We appreciate the 2x concentrated formula that uses less water and so is more cost effective and more sustainable.
Truly Free*
Best For: Those who want a highly scented detergent without all the harsh chemicals
Type: Liquid
Pricing: $35.96 (Includes: 1 Reusable Jug & 3 refill packets)
Cost per load: $0.24
Certifications: Compact by Design (Amazon-developed Certification)
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Sodium cocoate
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Lime Oil
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Eucalyptus Oil
Why We Like It: We think Truly Free laundry detergent might be a great switch for first time tryers of non toxic laundry detergent because it has the familiar strong scent of conventional laundry detergents. While, you'll notice most of the detergents on this list are unscented, because that's what we prefer, we're glad that this safely scented laundry detergent is available.
Image @Truly Free
Aspen*
Best For: Babies, People with allergies or sensitivities
Type: Pods
Pricing: $17.99
Cost per load: $0.50
Certifications: EWG, Ecocert, Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Salt
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Decyl Glucoside (Coconut, Palm Kernel Oil derived)
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Organic Glycerine (Vegetables derived)
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Lauryl Glucoside (Coconut, Palm Kernel Oil derived)
Why We Like It: We've been awestruck by its freshness and cleaning power since the first wash. We love that it's 100% natural, organic, and safe for the whole family. This one wins bonus points for being completely plastic free with the container even being compostable!
Image @Aspen
ATTITUDE*
Best For: Babies, People with allergies or sensitivities
Type: Liquid
Pricing: $27.46
Cost per load: $0.69
Certifications: EWG, PETA
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Salt
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Camellia Sinensis (Tea) Leaf Extract
Why We Like It: This detergent is specially made to wash my little one's clothes easily and delivers on its promise. Its fragrance-free, dermatologically tested detergent gently cleans up the clothes without any hassle, leaving them soft and spotless. We have tried the scented version also and found the "wild berries" and "pink grapefruit" to be unique and lovely scented we couldn't find anywhere else.
Image @Attitude
Clean Cult*
Best For: People for Sensitive Skin, Eczema, Babies
Type: Liquid Concentrate
Pricing: $9.98 (One 32 oz carton washes 64 loads)
Cost per load: $0.16 / Load
Certifications: Carbon-free Certified
Key Non-Toxic Ingredients:
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Coconut Oil
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Olive Oil
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Salt
Why We Like It: This detergent's concentrated formula is great at fighting stains and eliminates odors, and after we wash our clothes with it, they feel crisp and clean. We especially love the earth-friendly packaging that reduces plastic waste. Because it has no fragrance and no dyes, there's nothing to smell but fresh, clean clothes— just pure laundry magic!
Image @Clean Cut
Pronounce*
Best For: People with Eczema, Skin Sensitivities, Babies
Type: Powder
Pricing: $29.95
Cost per load: $0.25 / Load
Certifications: N/A
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Washing Soda
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Baking Soda
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Lavendar Oil
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Soapberries
Why We Like It: This is the one detergent we found that we actually prefer one of the scented varieties! The lavender is so subtle and all natural and leaves our clothes with just a tease of fresh lavender fields. The ingredients on this one are pretty outstanding as well - they include soapberries, a truly natural cleansing ingredient!
Image @Pronounce
Puracy*
Best For: People with skin sensitivities, Allergies
Type: Liquid
Pricing: $19.99
Cost per load: $0.31
Certifications: Leaping Bunny, PETA
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Cocoglucoside (coconut based cleanser)
Why We Like It: We really like the pump system of the Puracy laundry detergent. 1 pump for a small load and 2 pumps for medium to large. It's so easy and there's no need for measuring which makes doing laundry with a baby on your hip that much easier! And the plant based ingredients in this one are powerful and get all of our laundry really clean.
Image @Puracy
Branch Basics Laundry Kit*
Best For: Babies, children, especially cloth diapers
Type: Liquid concentrate
Pricing: $85 (includes 1 liter of concentrate, 2 lb bag of oxygen boost, and 1 glass detergent bottle)
Cost per load: $2.26 (this includes using detergent and oxygen boost)
Certifications: EWG, MadeSafe, Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients:
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Organic Chamomile Flower Extract
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Coco-Glucoside
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Baking Soda
Why We Like It: This detergent, paired with the oxygen boost, was our saving grace when we had cloth diapers in the community laundry room every other day! Not only did the diapers come out completely clean and odor-free, but there was never a lingering scent in the machine. If Branch Basics can tackle soiled diapers - what can't it handle?! (For more tips on non-toxic baby care products, check out this helpful guide on organic natural baby care products )
Image @Branch Basics
Common Misconceptions About Clean Laundry Detergents
Despite their benefits, there are several misconceptions about non-toxic laundry detergents:
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Less Effective: Many believe non-toxic detergents don’t clean as well as conventional ones. However, natural ingredients like enzymes and plant-based surfactants can be just as effective. And we have loads of clean cloth diapers to prove it!
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Expensive: While some non-toxic detergents can be pricier, many affordable options are available, costing just pennies per load.
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Limited Availability: With growing awareness, non-toxic laundry detergents are becoming more widely available in stores and online.
Different Types of Laundry Detergent
Non-toxic laundry detergents come in various forms, each with its own benefits:
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Laundry Strips: Thin, dissolvable strips that you place directly in the wash.
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Laundry Pods: Pre-measured capsules that dissolve in the washing machine.
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Liquid: Traditional liquid form, easy to measure and use.
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Powder: A dry option that can be scooped directly into the wash.
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Soap nuts: A plastic-free, wild harvested nut that contains cleansing properties to clean clothes.
What You Should Know About Laundry Pods, Strips, and Laundry Sheets
These forms often contain polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a synthetic plastic polymer. While marketed as sustainable due to its water solubility, PVA doesn’t fully degrade in real-life conditions, potentially contaminating waterways and soil.
Therefore, we prefer laundry tablets without packaging, liquid detergent, powder or our favorite soap nuts for an eco-friendlier choice.
How to Choose a Clean Laundry Detergent
When selecting a non-toxic laundry detergent, consider these tips:
1. Check for Certifications: Look for products certified by reputable organizations such as USDA Organic, EWG Verified, and EcoCert.
2. Read Ingredient Labels: Ensure the detergent lists all ingredients and avoid those with harmful chemicals.
3. Research the Brand: Choose brands with a commitment to sustainability and transparency.
Effective Natural Ingredients in Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent
Non-toxic laundry detergent uses a variety of natural ingredients that are safe and effective. Here are some commonly found in top brands:
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Soap Nuts: A natural fruit with cleaning properties, soap nuts are biodegradable and hypoallergenic.
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Plant-Based Enzymes: Naturally occurring proteins that break down stains and organic matter.
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Essential Oils: Provide natural fragrance and antibacterial properties.
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Mineral-Based Cleaners: Like baking soda and washing soda, these help to neutralize odors and soften water for better cleaning.
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Plant-Based Surfactants: Derived from renewable resources, these surfactants lift dirt and stains without harmful residues.
Key Ingredients to Avoid in Laundry Detergents
To ensure safety and environmental friendliness, avoid laundry detergents containing:
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Phthalates: Commonly used to carry fragrances, phthalates can disrupt endocrine functions.
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Optical Brighteners: Chemicals that make fabrics appear brighter but can cause skin irritation and are not biodegradable.
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Phosphates: These can cause environmental damage by promoting algae growth in waterways, which depletes oxygen for marine life.
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Synthetic Fragrances: Often contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.
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Chlorine Bleach: A strong irritant that can produce toxic fumes and harm fabrics.
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Sulfates: These can strip natural oils from fabrics and skin, leading to dryness and irritation.
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PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols): Made through ethoxylation, which can contaminate products with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen.
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Benziothiazolinone / Methylisothiazolinone: Toxic to the lungs and brain.
Image micheile henderson on Unsplash
DIY (Homemade) Laundry Detergent Recipe
For those who prefer homemade solutions, here’s a simple recipe for non-toxic laundry detergent:
Ingredients:
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1 cup of baking soda
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1 cup of washing soda
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1 bar of grated castile soap
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20 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, tea tree)
Instructions:
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Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
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Store in an airtight container.
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Use 1-2 tablespoons per load.
This DIY recipe is easy to make, customizable, and ensures your laundry detergent is free from harmful chemicals.
Key Takeaways:
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Health and Environmental Benefits: Non-toxic laundry detergents reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, are gentler on the skin, and environmentally friendly due to biodegradable ingredients and eco-conscious packaging.
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Effectiveness and Misconceptions: Despite common misconceptions, non-toxic detergents clean just as effectively as conventional ones, using natural ingredients like enzymes and plant-based surfactants.
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Choosing and Using: Look for certifications like USDA Organic and EWG Verified, read ingredient labels carefully, and consider making your own DIY non-toxic detergent to ensure safety and effectiveness.
FAQs
What clothes detergent is safe?
Safe laundry detergents are those that use non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients and are gentle on the skin. Products incorporating biosurfactants, chitosan, and mild surfactants meet these criteria and are recommended for safer and more sustainable laundry practices.
What is the best non toxic laundry detergent for kids?
The best non-toxic laundry detergents for kids are those that are gentle on sensitive skin, free from harmful chemicals, and environmentally friendly. Branch Basics is highly recommended based on their proven mildness and cleaning performance.
Where can I find non-toxic laundry detergents?
They are widely available in stores and online, with many brands offering various options.
Do I have to use more non toxic detergent to get the same effect as conventional detergent?
No, you should use about the same amount and it will be just as effective. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
Are DIY laundry detergents effective?
Yes, DIY recipes with natural ingredients can be effective but may not hold up to the toughest of stains and odor.
Can I use wool dryer balls with nontoxic laundry detergent?
Yes, you can still use wool dryer balls on laundry that was washed with non toxic laundry detergent.
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Lauren Eaton
