Best Non Toxic Laundry Detergent: 7 Picks For A Healthy Lifestyle
After years of testing, I finally discovered the best non toxic laundry detergent for clean, fragrance-free loads: Rocking’Green Active Wear Laundry Detergent.
I’m very conscious about avoiding harsh chemicals in everyday products. Strong scents also easily trigger headaches for me.
Finding the right gentle detergent was a journey! Many “natural” brands still contain irritants.
But through tons of trial and error, I landed on these 7 non-toxic and eco-friendly picks that get clothes clean without toxic chemicals or overpowering smells.
This website contains affiliate links, and I may earn commissions on recommended or purchased products.
My top pick
I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
What Is the Best Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent?
The best non toxic and eco friendly laundry detergent overall is Rockin Green.
- Rockin’ Green Laundry Detergent
- Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder
- ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid
- Grab Green 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods
- Clean People Fragrance-Free Laundry Detergent Sheets
- Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets
- Dirty Labs | Scent Free | Bio-Liquid Laundry Detergent
Best Liquid without
a plastic bottle
1. Rockin’ Green Laundry Detergent
When it comes to powerfully cleaning laundry without toxins, Rockin’ Green Platinum Series Active Wear Detergent is my top pick.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
Rockin’ Green Platinum detergent is my go-to for all laundry needs. Nothing beats its stain-fighting magic on funky odors compared to other non toxic laundry detergents I’ve tried. The plant-based formula is incredibly gentle on my sensitive skin. And I love that it comes in an eco-friendly powder – no plastic bottles cluttering my laundry room! Rockin’ Green’s mission to create effective yet non-toxic cleaners that are kind to the planet also wins me over. This detergent checks every box. It’s an eco-friendly laundry solution that truly keeps my clothes fresh and clean.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
2. Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder
Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Powder is the second non toxic detergent on my list.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
I’ve tried the unscented and lavender-scented versions of Molly’s Suds powder. While it doesn’t have the refreshing tea tree scent of Rockin’ Green, I like the unscented option for clothes worn close to my sensitive skin. The 120-load bag is around 30% cheaper than Rockin’ Green.
However, I need to use about 1.5 scoops per load to really get clothes fresh and clean, especially for bigger loads. The powder does effectively clean everyday laundry without irritating my skin. I appreciate Molly Suds’ commitment to non-toxic ingredients and its mission to create safe yet effective cleaners.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
3. ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid
The next non-toxic laundry detergent on my list is ECOS Free & Clear formula.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
Normally I’m not too fond of liquid detergents in plastic bottles, but ECOS Free & Clear has won me over. Even with the light scent options like lavender and lemongrass, it doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. The plant-based formula really gets clothes clean without any residue, too.
As someone who cares about sustainability, I love that ECOS is carbon-neutral, water-neutral, and zero-waste certified. This company walks the walk when it comes to eco-conscious practices. That gives me peace of mind when I buy their products, despite the plastic bottles. ECOS Free & Clear is a fantastic choice for a non-toxic liquid detergent.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
4. Grab Green 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods
I never thought I’d be into laundry pods, but the Grab Green 3-in-1 pods changed my mind with its non-toxic formula.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
I found the Grab Green pods work well for whitening my laundry without needing extra bleach. They dissolve fully without leaving any sticky residue. However, I prefer the light tea tree scent of Rockin’ Green over the fragrance-free pods. And the pods didn’t quite match the cleaning power of my favorite powder detergents. But they are a convenient, eco-friendly option.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
The Grab Green 3-in-1 pods are a convenient choice, but for maximum cleaning power, I still reach for my favorite non-toxic powder detergents first.
5. Clean People Fragrance-Free Laundry Detergent Sheets
My favorite non-toxic laundry sheets are from Clean People.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
I originally discovered Clean People sheets when looking for portable detergent for trips. I needed something compact since I’m a minimalist traveler with just a carry-on, even for months-long journeys. The sheets are perfect!
I was so impressed by how well these sheets cleaned clothes that I started using them in my laundry room at home, too. The scientist in me wanted to have the same factors and washing machine to properly compare them to my other detergent choices.
The packaging says you only need a quarter sheet for small loads. But I really need a full sheet to get that fresh, clean feeling, even for smaller loads. And it works! No scent or funk left behind.
When using a full sheet per load as needed, the cost per load is about 25% higher than my other top non-toxic detergent choices. But I am okay with paying extra for the awesome zero-waste packaging and plant-based ingredients.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
6. Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets
The Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets are another non-toxic, plastic-free, zero-waste option.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
I was initially excited to try the Earth Breeze sheets as a zero-waste, vegan laundry option. And I love Earth Breeze’s sustainability mission as a company. However, when putting the sheets to the test on my clothes, I noticed some differences from my top-ranked Clean People sheets.
The Earth Breeze laundry strips dissolved well in the wash and cleaned my clothes decently. But I found they didn’t fully remove tough stains the way Clean People did. I also noticed a subtle but detectable difference in the fragrance. While both are fragrance-free, my clothes didn’t smell quite as freshly laundered with Earth Breeze. It was a faint difference but noticeable to me.
Looking at the ingredients, Clean People uses a plant-based formula, while Earth Breeze contains ingredients like sodium dodecyl sulfate that is connected to potential skin irritation. The Clean People sheets may have a slight edge in terms of being non-toxic and gentle, particularly for sensitive skin.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
7. Dirty Labs | Scent Free | Bio-Liquid Laundry Detergent
The final non-toxic laundry detergent on my list is the Dirty Labs Scent Free Bio-Liquid Detergent.
Key Benefits
My Personal Experience
I like that this liquid detergent comes in a recyclable aluminum bottle, reducing plastic waste. However, I wasn’t fully convinced of the purity of the ingredient list. In testing, I also found it didn’t remove stains quite as effectively as some other options. At 33 cents per load, it is one of the pricier choices. While the recyclable bottle is a plus, I wasn’t as impressed by the cleaning power and non-toxic ingredients compared to my top picks.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
While I like the recyclable bottle, the Dirty Labs Bio-Liquid Detergent fell short for me in performance and ingredient quality compared to my top non-toxic detergent picks.
Understanding Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents: My Review Criteria
What Does “Non-Toxic” Mean?
When I refer to laundry detergents as “non-toxic,” I’m focusing on products that minimize the use of harmful chemicals. These are ingredients that could cause health issues or environmental harm. My definition aligns with seeking products that are:
- Free from harsh chemicals: This includes avoiding substances like phthalates, parabens, optical brighteners, and certain surfactants known for causing skin irritation or environmental harm.
- Biodegradable and environmentally friendly: Ingredients should break down naturally without leaving harmful residues in the environment.
- Safe for sensitive skin: Given my sensitivity to scents and irritants, I prioritize detergents that are gentle on the skin and free from overwhelming fragrances.
Review Process: How I Tested Each Product
Why Trust My Reviews?
I bring a personal perspective to these reviews, having navigated the challenges of finding genuinely non-toxic and eco friendly laundry detergents due to my own sensitivities and environmental concerns. My journey through trial and error, combined with thorough research, has equipped me with a keen eye for what truly constitutes a non-toxic, effective laundry detergent.
FAQs
What Makes a Laundry Detergent ‘Non-Toxic’?
Non-toxic laundry detergents avoid chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and optical brighteners. They prioritize ingredients that are safer for health and the environment, often using plant-based formulas, and are usually free from overwhelming fragrances, making them ideal for sensitive skin and eco-conscious users.
Can Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents Clean as Effectively as Regular Detergents?
Yes, non-toxic detergents can clean as effectively as regular ones. They use natural enzymes and plant-derived surfactants to break down stains and odors. While gentle on the skin and the environment, they effectively tackle dirt, ensuring clothes are thoroughly cleaned.
Are Non-Toxic Detergents Suitable for Sensitive Skin?
Absolutely. Non-toxic detergents are particularly suitable for sensitive skin. They omit irritants like synthetic fragrances and toxic chemicals, reducing the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions making them a safer choice for those with skin sensitivities.
How Do Non-Toxic Detergents Impact the Environment?
Non-toxic, natural laundry detergents are environmentally friendly, often biodegradable, and minimize water pollution. They avoid harmful chemicals (often found in conventional laundry detergents) that can damage aquatic ecosystems and often come in sustainable, recyclable packaging, reducing their environmental footprint.
What Should I Look for When Choosing a Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent?
Look for detergents free from toxic chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and optical brighteners. Prioritize plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and check for certifications like EPA Safer Choice or EcoCert. Packaging sustainability is also a key factor to consider.
Can Non-Toxic Detergents Be Used in All Types of Washing Machines?
Yes, most non-toxic detergents are suitable for all types of washing machines, including HE (High Efficiency) models. They are formulated to work effectively in various water temperatures and machine types without causing build-up or residue.
Are There Fragrance-Free Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents?
Many non-toxic laundry detergents offer fragrance-free options, catering to those with sensitivities or preferences for unscented products. These detergents still clean effectively without the addition of synthetic scents.
How Cost-Effective Are Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents?
Non-toxic detergents may have a higher upfront cost but can be cost-effective in the long run. They’re often highly concentrated, requiring less per load, and their health and environmental benefits can outweigh the initial expense.
