The Best Natural Laundry Detergent: A Comprehensive Guide

More people now know about the harm of toxic chemicals in everyday items. This has led to a big increase in demand for natural laundry detergent. Traditional detergents often have harmful substances like VOCs, SLS, and artificial scents. These can hurt your skin and the environment¹.

Natural and organic detergents, on the other hand, avoid harsh chemicals, dyes, and artificial smells. They are safer for families and the planet¹. This guide will show you the best eco-friendly laundry detergents. They are gentle on clothes and good for your health.

Whether you choose a concentrated formula like Puracy, with over 99% natural ingredients², or brands like Blueland for their green packaging¹³, we’ve got you covered. We’ll look at the benefits, ingredients, and top brands of non-toxic laundry detergents.

Why Choose Natural Laundry Detergent?

Natural laundry detergents are better for your family and the planet. They are made with non-toxic ingredients, which means less risk of skin problems and allergies⁴. Unlike regular detergents, they don’t have harsh chemicals like phosphates that harm water and soil⁴.

Choosing natural detergents helps the environment and keeps your clothes clean. It’s a smart choice for those who care about the planet and their health.

The demand for natural laundry detergents is growing fast, with a 4.8% annual increase⁵. Many people say their clothes feel softer and look brighter after switching⁶. These products use plant-based ingredients and enzymes to clean without harming the environment⁶.

Natural detergents are great at getting rid of tough stains like blood and grass⁴. They’re also kinder to your clothes, making them last longer and look better⁴. Plus, they come in natural scents from essential oils, offering a fresh smell without harsh chemicals⁴.

Opting for natural laundry detergents is a smart move. It’s good for your health and the planet. It shows we value both our well-being and the environment.

Key Ingredients to Look For

Choosing a natural laundry detergent means knowing the key ingredients. Look for biodegradable and plant-based surfactants. These help remove stains without harming the planet. Saponin in soap nuts and baking soda for deodorizing are great choices.

Essential oils add scent and boost cleaning power. Avoid harmful chemicals like phosphates and synthetic fragrances. Instead, opt for minerals and natural enzymes for a gentle clean.

The Environmental Working Group rates these ingredients. This helps you know if a detergent is safe for health and the environment⁷.

Choose concentrated detergents to reduce waste. They’re better for the planet and still clean well⁸. This way, you get a strong clean while being eco-friendly.

Top Brands for Natural Laundry Detergent

Choosing the best natural laundry detergent brands can make your laundry better and eco-friendly. Dropps offers convenient pods that are good for the planet. They are vegan, cruelty-free, and carbon-neutral⁹. Puracy is great for sensitive skin, using safe, non-toxic ingredients for gentle cleaning.

Charlie’s Soap is known for its excellent cleaning at a good price. It costs between 15-25 cents per load, even in hard water¹⁰. Molly’s Suds is another good choice, costing about $0.19 per load. It’s also safe and effective, earning an A rating from the EWG¹⁰¹¹.

• Defunkify: Unscented powder detergent at approximately $0.28 per load.
• Meliora: Priced at $21.99 for 128 HE loads, costing between $0.17 to $0.34 per load according to usage¹⁰.
• Root + Splendor: Offers 100 loads for $30, equating to $0.30 per load.
• Truly Free: Prices vary based on membership and quantity, starting around $0.36 to $0.40 per load¹⁰.

Earth Breeze is a new brand that donates to over 800 organizations for every pack sold⁹. Since 2019, Sheets Laundry Club has become popular for its affordable, easy-to-use products⁹.

Choosing from these top natural laundry detergent brands helps your laundry and the planet¹⁰.

Eco-Friendly Certifications to Watch For

Choosing eco-friendly products means knowing about different certifications. Look for green products labels to help you pick sustainable laundry detergents.

Some important certifications to watch for include:

• USDA Certified Biobased: This label shows products are made from renewable resources, ensuring they are eco-friendly.
• Cradle to Cradle Certified: This certification checks if a product’s materials and processes are safe and sustainable, supporting a circular economy.
• B Corp Certified: Brands with this certification meet high social and environmental standards, showing their commitment to sustainability.

Many top laundry brands show off these eco-friendly certifications. For example, Dropps makes stain and odor laundry pods with 58% USDA Certified Biobased content. This shows a big commitment to sustainability¹². Clean People offers ultra-concentrated laundry detergent sheets for an efficient, eco-friendly choice. Their package is enough for 32 loads of laundry¹². Charlie’s Soap has a concentrated laundry powder that lasts for 150 loads, focusing on using resources wisely¹².

When picking laundry detergents, knowing about these green products labels and certifications is key. It helps you choose not just effective laundry solutions but also supports brands that care about the environment. By recognizing these certifications, shoppers can choose products that match their eco-friendly values.

DIY Natural Laundry Detergent Recipes

Creating your own laundry detergent is a smart move. It’s good for the planet and your wallet. Making your own can save you a lot of money, costing just $0.06 per load. This is much cheaper than buying it at the store.

Here’s a simple recipe using things you might already have at home:

1. 1/2 cup liquid castile soap
2. 1/2 cup baking soda
3. 1/2 cup washing soda
4. 1/4 cup coarse salt
5. 30 drops of your favorite essential oil

This recipe makes enough detergent for 50-64 loads. It’s a big plus over store-bought detergents, which can be full of bad stuff. This homemade version is safer for families, especially kids who might help make it.

Adding essential oils can make your detergent smell great. It’s also gentle on your washing machine, working well in both HE and standard machines. For most clothes, just 1 tablespoon is enough. But if they’re really dirty, you might need 2-3 tablespoons.

Keep your homemade detergent in a cool, dry spot to keep it working well. It’s also good for washing in cold water, which saves energy and helps the planet.

Choosing to make your own laundry detergent is a step towards living more naturally. It lets you control what goes into your clothes without spending a lot. Try making some and see how it changes your clothes and your budget¹³¹⁴!

How to Use Natural Laundry Detergent Effectively

Using natural laundry detergent is good for both your clothes and the planet. Start by following the right amount of detergent for your load size and washing machine. For example, standard washers need about 1/2 cup for big loads, but high-efficiency machines can get by with just 1/4 cup¹⁵.

It’s important to choose the right amount, especially if you have hard water. In such cases, a liquid detergent might work better¹⁵.

Water hardness affects how well your detergent works. If your water is hard, using a water softener or a special detergent can help. Also, treating stains before washing can make a big difference. A diluted solution of Sal Suds works well for stains like wine or mustard¹⁶.

Washing clothes in cold water can save a lot of energy. It’s estimated that about 90% of energy use in washing comes from heating water¹⁷. Energy-efficient washers also use less water, up to 40 gallons less than older models¹⁷.

Using these tips can save energy and make your clothes last longer.

Finally, try air drying your clothes when you can. It saves energy and keeps your clothes in better shape. If you must use a dryer, clean the lint screen before each load to save energy and money¹⁷.

Common Misconceptions About Natural Detergents

Many people think natural detergent misconceptions are true. They believe natural detergents can’t remove stains as well as regular ones. But, eco-friendly detergents use plant-based enzymes and surfactants. These work well without harsh chemicals¹⁸.

Some think natural products cost too much. While they might be pricier at first, you use less of them. This makes them cheaper in the long run¹⁸. It’s great for families looking to save money without sacrificing cleanliness.

People often think fragrances in detergents are good for skin. But, many regular detergents have synthetic fragrances. These can irritate skin and harm health. Switching to natural options can help avoid these problems¹⁸.

• Too much laundry detergent can cause skin irritation¹⁹.
• Turning clothes inside-out for spot treatment doesn’t always work better than treating stains from the front¹⁹.
• Delicate fabrics like silk can be safely washed with the right machine settings¹⁹.
• Hot water alone doesn’t kill germs; modern detergents handle this¹⁹.
• Washing machines don’t clean well when overloaded¹⁹.

Knowing the truth about laundry myths helps you choose the right natural detergents. For more information, check out this article at this link²⁰.

Laundry Care Tips for Longer-Lasting Clothes

Proper laundry practices are key to keeping clothes looking new. Start by washing clothes in cold water. This saves energy and keeps fabrics intact. The average American family washes 50 pounds of laundry a week. It’s important to use effective laundry care tips to reduce wear and tear on clothing²¹.

When washing clothes, group similar fabrics together to prevent snagging and damage. Avoid overloading the washing machine. This ensures better cleaning results and reduces fabric wear. Understanding care labels is vital; they offer specific instructions tailored to the needs of different fabrics, helping to preserve their quality.

• Consider using natural additives to enhance your laundry routine. Vinegar can dissolve residue from products, eliminate odors, and soften fabrics²¹. Baking soda serves as a natural deodorizer and can be added to the rinse cycle for its brightening properties²².
• For scent and mold protection, try adding lavender essential oil, known for its antibacterial benefits²¹. Alternatively, lemon juice provides an effective, natural option for stain removal²².
• If you use a dryer, switch to dryer balls instead of traditional dryer sheets. Unlike dryer sheets, which can release fragrances and chemicals that reduce efficiency, wool or tennis balls keep clothes fluffy and fresh.
• Always fold clothes while they are still warm to avoid setting wrinkles, particularly for jeans, dress shirts, and bed linens²¹.

Implementing these laundry care tips not only helps in maintaining the appearance of your garments but also plays a significant role in extending fabric life. This contributes to reduced waste and a more sustainable lifestyle²³.

Natural Laundry Detergent for Sensitive Skin

For people with sensitive skin, picking the right laundry detergent is key. Traditional detergents can be harsh and cause irritation. That’s why natural, hypoallergenic options are becoming more popular.

Products like Charlie’s Soap Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent are unscented and free from many harmful chemicals. They are safe for sensitive skin and work well in all washing machines²⁴²⁵. Charlie’s Soap has over 40 years of experience and is certified by the Environmental Protection Agency²⁴.

Molly’s Suds Unscented Laundry Detergent Powder is another great choice. It’s easy to store and gentle on even the most sensitive skin²⁵. Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear and Seventh Generation’s Free & Clear Laundry Detergent are also plant-based and hypoallergenic²⁵.

Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Detergent pods are convenient and gentle. They’re perfect for those with sensitive skin²⁵. Hexawash is a new, natural option that’s fragrance-free and good for sensitive skin²⁶.

Choosing the right hypoallergenic detergent is more than just avoiding irritation. It’s about keeping your skin healthy while doing laundry. Many of these options are designed to be safe and effective.

The Cost of Natural vs. Conventional Laundry Detergents

Many think natural laundry detergent costs more than regular brands. But, some users say cheaper detergents don’t make clothes fade faster or wear out quicker²⁷. They’ve found that Aldi’s Tandil is gentle and doesn’t cause colors to fade²⁷.

It’s key to remember that how much detergent you use affects clothes. Too much can make clothes wear out faster. But using the right amount can make them last longer²⁷. Also, washing clothes in cold water is usually good for most fabrics. But, warm water might be needed for really dirty clothes²⁷.

Some people save money by using cheap detergents for whites. They save the expensive stuff for colored clothes. They also look for the cheapest detergent and use store-brand softeners and bleach²⁷. Some even mix high-end detergents with water to save money without losing cleaning power²⁷.

After testing over 35 products, liquid detergents are the most popular. Powder detergents are great for tough stains²⁸. Laundry pods are convenient but cost more than liquids and powders²⁸. Knowing about water quality, how often you wash clothes, and your washing machine type helps make better choices²⁷.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Real user experiences show how well natural laundry detergents work. People have different opinions based on the brand. For instance, Clean People laundry detergent strips got a 3.4 out of 5 stars. But HeySunday got a high 4.8 out of 5. Earth Breeze is also praised with a 4 out of 5 stars for its cleaning power²⁹.

Reviews for natural products like ECOS Laundry Detergent talk about its plant-based ingredients. They say it’s great at removing stains from everyday messes. People like that it’s gentle and doesn’t have dyes or parabens, which is good for sensitive skin³⁰. Many love its fresh scent and eco-friendly nature. But, some say it might not handle tough stains well.

Tru Earth laundry strips are known for being eco-friendly and affordable. A pack of 32 loads costs $19.95, but it’s $12.95 with a subscription. Users love how it helps the environment, saying it’s like taking 27 million cars off the road for a day³¹. This shows how important it is to choose eco-friendly laundry options.

• Customer satisfaction with Clean People: Rating of 3.5/5 for convenience, especially with its ease of use.
• HeySunday stands out with top scores in eco-friendliness at 5/5, showing a robust commitment to sustainability.
• Users of Earth Breeze find it effective with a 3.5/5 in cleaning power, which remains a central factor in laundry detergent selection.

These reviews show that people have different experiences with natural detergents. Reading what others say can help you make a better choice. It ensures you pick something that meets your laundry needs and values.

Conclusion: Making the Switch to Natural Laundry Detergent

Choosing natural laundry detergents is a big step towards a healthier life and a greener planet. By using natural detergent, people avoid harmful chemicals found in regular detergents. This move also helps reduce the negative impact of laundry on our environment.

Traditional detergents contain phosphates and harsh surfactants. These can harm the environment, including water life and cause algae blooms. These blooms are bad for water ecosystems³².

Natural laundry has many benefits, including being better for skin and health. Brands like Truly Free Laundry Detergent use safe, plant-based ingredients. This makes them effective yet gentle³³.

As people learn more about their cleaning products, they can make better choices. This leads to healthier laundry habits. There are many good brands and DIY options out there, making it easy to start³²³³.

Q&A

What is the best natural laundry detergent available?

The top natural laundry detergent depends on what you need. Dropps, Puracy, and Molly’s Suds are favorites. They clean well and are safe for the planet.

Are natural laundry detergents effective in removing stains?

Yes, they are great at getting rid of stains. Brands like Charlie’s Soap and Branch Basics use natural stuff. This stuff works well on tough stains but is gentle on clothes.

How do I know if a laundry detergent is truly eco-friendly?

Check for USDA Certified Biobased and Cradle to Cradle Certified. Also, look for B Corp certified brands. They show they care about the planet and people.

Can I make my own natural laundry detergent at home?

Yes, making your own is simple. You need washing soda, borax, and soap flakes. There are many recipes online to help you get it right.

Will natural laundry detergents irritate my sensitive skin?

Many natural detergents are made for sensitive skin. They are labeled hypoallergenic. Brands like Puracy and Molly’s Suds are gentle and safe.

Are natural laundry detergents more expensive than conventional ones?

Natural detergents might cost more at first. But, they can be cheaper in the long run. Plus, they’re better for you and the planet.

Can I customize the scent of my homemade laundry detergent?

Yes! You can add essential oils like lavender or lemon. Just use pure essential oils that are safe for laundry.

How can I maximize the effectiveness of my natural laundry detergent?

Follow the dosage for your load size and water hardness. Pre-treat stains and wash in cold water. This saves energy and keeps clothes clean.

What are common myths about natural laundry detergents?

Some think natural detergents don’t clean as well. But, many natural options pass real-world tests. They’re also budget-friendly and safe.

How can I extend the life of my clothes?

Wash in cold water and separate fabrics. Don’t overload the washer and follow care labels. Air-drying is also good for your clothes.