11 Non Toxic Laundry Detergent Brands for Clean Clothes and Clean Living

You’ve likely already cleared out your bathroom cabinet of any toxic lotions, soaps, and cleansers. That’s a smart move—anything touching your skin directly should be safe and clean!

But have you thought about the products that touch your skin “second-hand,” like your laundry detergent?

Harsh chemicals lurking in your detergent? Definitely not welcome. Clean clothes shouldn’t come at the cost of your health.

If you’re ready to raise the bar on your laundry game and embrace a cleaner, healthier way to wash your clothes, we’re here to help.

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 plant-based formulations and novel eco-friendly laundry tech, these brands will change how you think about laundry care.

Image by KINN on Unsplash

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 often contain chemicals like SLS, synthetic fragrances, 1,4-dioxane, and formaldehyde releasers. These can irritate skin, impact indoor air quality, and harm aquatic ecosystems. Children are especially at risk.

A 2024 study found that 87% of laundry pod exposure calls to poison control involved children under six. That’s a number we can’t ignore.

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:

• Gentler Formulations: Non-toxic detergents avoid harsh chemicals like phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and chlorine, reducing skin irritation and respiratory issues.

• Natural Cleaning Power: These detergents use plant-based enzymes, essential oils, and mineral salts to clean effectively without harsh additives.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 a non-toxic laundry detergent, you create a healthier home 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 scoured ingredient lists, checked up-to-date certifications, reviewed third-party ratings (like EWG), and tested real-life performance on everything from toddler spills to gym gear. Here’s how we selected the nontoxic laundry detergents for our top picks:

• Free of toxic preservatives (no methylisothiazolinone, phenoxyethanol, etc.)

• No artificial fragrance or hidden endocrine disruptors

• Biodegradable and septic-safe

• Held to high standards like EWG Verified or USDA Organic

Our selection process is thorough, science-backed, and family-approved, ensuring that the brands we endorse are effective, safe for your household, and environmentally responsible. (We chose these products with our own families in mind!)

We’ve also removed products that didn’t make the cut in 2025. Let’s dive in!

So what are the best clean & non toxic detergents?

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The Best Non Toxic Laundry Detergent Brands

Here is our list of top picks of non-toxic laundry detergent brands:

Branch Basics | Shop here*

Truly Free | Shop here*

NaturOli | Shop here*

Ecos | Shop here*

Meliora | Shop here*

Molly's Suds | Shop here*

AspenClean | Shop here*

ATTITUDE | Shop here*

Puracy | Shop here*

Dirty Labs | Shop here*

Blueland | Shop here*

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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: $24

Cost per load: $0.1 / load

Certifications: USDA Certified Organic, QAI (Quality Assurance International)

Key Non Toxic Ingredients:

• 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!

Shop NaturOli here*

Image @Naturoli

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Truly Free*

Best For: Those who want a highly scented detergent without all the harsh chemicals

Type: Liquid

Pricing: $44.99 (Includes: 1 Reusable Jug & 3 refill packets)

Cost per load: $0.3

Certifications: Compact by Design (Amazon-developed Certification)

Key Non Toxic Ingredients:

• Sodium cocoate

• Lime Oil

• 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 offers the familiar strong scent of mainstream brands but without the toxic ingredients. Most of the detergents on this list are unscented (which we generally prefer), but we’re glad this safely scented option exists. It delivers that “fresh laundry” smell using natural oils, making it a wonderful gateway into the world of non-toxic laundry.

Shop Truly Free here*

Image @Truly Free

Ecos Free & Clear*

Best For: People with sensitive skin or allergies, babies

Type: Liquid concentrate

Pricing: $42.99 (100 Fl Oz Pack of 2)

Cost per load: $0.21

Certifications: U.S. EPA Safer Choice

Key Non Toxic Ingredients:

• 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 harnesses coconut (a renewable resource with amazing natural cleaning properties) as its star ingredient. And it works on everything for us—from delicate linens to everyday clothes—proving that gentler ingredients can still pack a punch in the wash.

Shop Ecos here*

Image @Ecos

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Meliora Unscented Powder Detergent*

Best For: Those who prefer a powder detergent that's safe for sensitive skin

Type: Powder

Pricing: $24.69

Cost per load: $0.19

Certifications: MADE SAFE® Certified, Leaping Bunny, Compact by Design (Amazon-developed Certification)

Key Non Toxic Ingredients:

• Baking soda

• Washing soda

• Organic coconut oil-based soap

Why We Like It: Using Meliora will totally change your laundry routine. This fragrance-free powder makes it easy to lift stubborn stains, brighten dingy clothes, and protect all types of fabrics. We love that it even works for hand-washing our delicate garments. It’s proof that you don’t need a fancy liquid or pod—this simple, eco-friendly powder gets the job done. Highly recommend!

Shop Meliora here*

Image @Meliora

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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:

• Plant essences and oils

• Plant-derived enzymes

Why We Like It: the consistent performance of Molly’s Suds, combined with its earth-derived ingredients, has completely won us over. We also appreciate the 2x concentrated formula—it uses less water, making it more cost-effective and sustainable. This detergent has a light natural peppermint scent (from essential oils) that makes laundry day a little more refreshing, but never overpowering.

Shop Molly's Suds here*

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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:

• Salt

• Decyl Glucoside (Coconut, Palm Kernel Oil derived)

• Organic Glycerine (Vegetables derived)

• Lauryl Glucoside (Coconut, Palm Kernel Oil derived)

Why We Like It: From the very first wash, we were impressed with AspenClean’s pods. Our clothes came out fresh, clean, and residue-free. We love that the formula is 100% natural, organic, and safe for the whole family (even a newborn’s onesies). This one also earns bonus points for being completely plastic-free—the pod container is compostable! It’s a convenient, eco-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on cleaning power.

Shop Aspen here*

Image @Aspen

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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:

• Salt

• Camellia Sinensis (Tea) Leaf Extract

Why We Like It: Attitude’s baby-friendly detergent is a gentle workhorse. It’s fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and it cleans our little one’s clothes with ease—no irritation, just soft and spotless outfits. We’ve also tried Attitude’s scented versions, and the natural “Wild Berries” and “Pink Grapefruit” fragrances were uniquely lovely without being overwhelming. It’s nice to have a trustworthy option that keeps baby clothes clean and our minds at ease (just note: avoid the tea tree variety if you have pets, as tea tree can be unsafe for cats).

Shop ATTITUDE here*

Image @Attitude

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Dirty Labs*

Best For: Tackling tough stains and odors with advanced science (while being gentle on sensitive skin)

Type: Liquid concentrate

Pricing: $29.00 (21.6 fl oz bottle – 80 loads)

Cost per load: $0.36

Certifications: EWG Verified, EPA Safer Choice

Key Non Toxic Ingredients:

• Plant-based enzyme blend (Phytolase® technology)

• Coconut-based surfactants

Why We Like It: Dirty Labs is turning the tide on “green” cleaning with its high-tech approach. We love that this detergent harnesses Phytolase®, an advanced enzyme technology that targets stains and odors at the molecular level. Despite its scientific prowess, the formula is hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, and safe for babies and pets. The hyper-concentrated liquid comes in a small, recyclable aluminum bottle—drastically cutting plastic waste. It amazed us by eliminating tough smells (gym clothes, we’re looking at you) without any harsh chemicals. It’s proof that you can have cutting-edge cleaning power and non-toxic ingredients in one bottle.

Shop Dirty Labs here*

Image @ Dirty labs

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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:

• 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.

Shop Puracy here*

Image @Puracy

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Branch Basics Laundry Kit*

Best For: Babies, children, especially cloth diapers

Type: Liquid concentrate

Pricing: $77 (includes 1 liter of concentrate, 2 lb bag of oxygen boost, and 1 glass detergent bottle)

Cost per load: $1.20 (this includes using detergent and oxygen boost)

Certifications: EWG, MadeSafe, Leaping Bunny

Key Non Toxic Ingredients:

• Organic Chamomile Flower Extract

• Coco-Glucoside

• 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 )

Shop Branch Basics here*

Image @Branch Basics

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Blueland *

Best For: Eco-conscious folks who want a plastic-free, mess-free detergent option

Type: Tablets

Pricing: $33.97 (120 tablets)

Cost per load: $0.28

Certifications: EWG Verified, Leaping Bunny, Climate Neutral Certified (Plus: B Corp and USDA BioPreferred)

Key Toxin Free Ingredients:

• Sodium Carbonate (mineral-based cleaner)

• Enzyme blend (e.g. Subtilisin, Amylase)

Why We Like It: Blueland’s laundry tablets make it so easy to go green. We adore that the tablets are 100% plastic-free (even the refill bag is compostable) and yet they’re powerful—packed with four enzymes to lift tough stains like grass, coffee, and wine. Using them couldn’t be simpler: just toss a tablet into the drum (no measuring, no mess). Our clothes came out truly clean every time. Plus, Blueland avoids polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which many “eco” pods and sheets use, so you’re not rinsing microplastics down the drain. It’s a win for clean laundry and a cleaner planet.

Shop Blueland here*

Image @ Blueland

Common Misconceptions About Clean Laundry Detergents

Despite their benefits, there are several misconceptions about non-toxic laundry detergents:

• “They don’t clean as well.” It’s a myth that non-toxic detergents aren’t as effective as conventional ones. Natural enzymes and plant-based surfactants can be just as powerful at removing stains and odors as synthetic chemicals. (We have loads of clean cloth diapers to prove it!)

• “They’re too expensive.” While some eco-friendly detergents come at a premium, many affordable options are available—some costing just a few cents per load. You don’t have to break the bank to switch to a safer detergent.

• “They’re hard to find.” Non-toxic laundry detergents are easier to find than ever. With growing awareness, these products are now widely available online and increasingly on store shelves, from big-box retailers to local grocery stores.

Different Types of Laundry Detergent

Non-toxic laundry detergents come in various forms, each with its own benefits:

• Laundry Strips: Ultra-thin, dissolvable sheets that you pop directly into the wash. They save space and reduce packaging waste.

• Laundry Pods: Pre-measured capsules that dissolve in the washing machine.

• Liquid: Traditional liquid form, easy to measure and use.

• Powder: A dry option that can be scooped directly into the wash.

• Soap nuts: Dried berries (from the soapberry tree) that naturally contain soap. They’re a completely natural, compostable option to clean your clothes.

What You Should Know About Laundry Pods, Strips, and Laundry Sheets

Many “dissolvable” laundry products—pods, sheets, strips—contain polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a synthetic polymer. It’s marketed as eco-friendly because it dissolves in water, butresearch shows PVA doesn’t fully break down in real-world conditions. Partially degraded PVA can linger and contribute to microplastic pollution in waterways and soil.

For that reason, we prefer detergent formats that are truly plastic-free. If you’re concerned about PVA, opt for laundry tablets (like Blueland) that have no plastic coating, liquid concentrates in refillable containers, traditional powders, or our favorite solution: soap nuts. These options offer an eco-friendlier clean without the hidden plastic.

How to Choose a Clean Laundry Detergent

When selecting a non-toxic laundry detergent, consider these tips:

1. Check for Certifications: Look for trusted labels like USDA Organic, EWG Verified, EcoCert, or EPA Safer Choice. These can give you peace of mind that the product meets certain safety and environmental standards.

2. Read Ingredient Labels: The best brands will tell you exactly what’s inside. Avoid detergents that hide ingredients or use vague terms. Steer clear of anything that lists known offenders from our “Ingredients to Avoid” list below.

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:

1. Soap Nuts: A natural fruit with cleaning properties, soap nuts are biodegradable and hypoallergenic.

2. Plant-Based Enzymes: Naturally occurring proteins that break down stains and organic matter.

3. Essential Oils: Provide natural fragrance and antibacterial properties.

4. Mineral-Based Cleaners: Like baking soda and washing soda, these help to neutralize odors and soften water for better cleaning.

5. 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:

1. Phthalates: Commonly used to carry fragrances, phthalates can disrupt endocrine functions.

2. Optical Brighteners: Chemicals that make fabrics appear brighter but can cause skin irritation and are not biodegradable.

3. Phosphates: These can cause environmental damage by promoting algae growth in waterways, which depletes oxygen for marine life.

4. Synthetic Fragrances: Often contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.

5. Chlorine Bleach: A strong irritant that can produce toxic fumes and harm fabrics.

6. Sulfates: These can strip natural oils from fabrics and skin, leading to dryness and irritation.

7. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols): Made through ethoxylation, which can contaminate products with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen.

8. Benziothiazolinone / Methylisothiazolinone: Toxic to the lungs and brain.

Image micheile henderson on Unsplash

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DIY (Homemade) Laundry Detergent Recipe

For those who prefer homemade solutions, here’s a simple recipe for non-toxic laundry detergent:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of baking soda

• 1 cup of washing soda

• 1 bar of grated castile soap

• 20 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, tea tree)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Store in an airtight container.

3. Use 1-2 tablespoons per load.

This DIY natural recipe is easy to make, customizable, and ensures your laundry detergent is free from harmful chemicals.

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Key Takeaways:

• Healthier & Greener Cleaning: Non-toxic laundry detergents greatly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. They’re gentler on skin and help the environment by using biodegradable ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.

• No Sacrifice in Performance: You don’t have to trade efficacy for safety. Today’s best natural detergents use enzymes and plant-based cleaners to remove stains and odors just as well as conventional detergents.

• Lots of Great Options: From liquids and powders to pods, strips, and even DIY solutions, there’s a non-toxic detergent for every preference. It’s easier than ever to find a product (or method) that fits your lifestyle and keeps your laundry routine clean and green

If you enjoyed this post, check out these other articles on safe and non toxic products:

• 5 Reasons to Switch to Non-Toxic Products

• Ultimate Clean Beauty Guide: A Deep Dive into the Growing Trend

• Guide to Non-Toxic Candles: the Best 16 Natural Candle Brands

• 11 Best Non Toxic Air Fresheners for a Safe and Healthy Home

FAQs

FAQs

What clothes detergent is safe?

Safe laundry detergents are those made with non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients that are gentle on your skin. Look for products that use plant-based surfactants, enzymes, and other mild cleaners instead of harsh chemicals. Detergents with these kinds of ingredients (sometimes including things like biosurfactants or chitosan) are ideal 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 very gentle on sensitive skin, free of any harmful chemicals, and environmentally friendly. One highly recommended option is Branch Basics*, due to its proven mildness and excellent cleaning performance for families (even with babies and toddlers).

Where can I find non-toxic laundry detergents?

Non-toxic laundry detergents are widely available both in stores and online. Many major retailers carry eco-friendly cleaning brands now. You can also find a great selection through online marketplaces, the brands’ own websites, or specialty stores focused on green products.

Do I have to use more non toxic detergent to get the same effect as conventional detergent?

No. In general, you use about the same amount of non-toxic detergent as you would a conventional one to get your clothes clean. These formulations are designed to be just as effective, so follow the usage instructions on the label—using more than recommended usually isn’t necessary.

Are DIY laundry detergents effective?

DIY laundry detergents made with natural ingredients can be effective for regular washing needs. Many people get good results with homemade blends of washing soda, baking soda, and castile soap (as in our recipe above). That said, extremely tough stains or odors might sometimes require a commercial formula or an extra stain treatment, since DIY mixes can be a bit less aggressive than specialized store products.

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.