Looking for ways to reduce microplastics in your everyday life? Start with your laundry.
It might sound surprising, but your laundry routine can be a major contributor to microplastic pollution. From synthetic fabrics that shed microfibers during each wash to detergent pods made with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)—a material that doesn’t always fully degrade in wastewater systems—microplastics are sneaking in through more than just your clothes. Even traditional detergents can be part of the problem, especially those that contain synthetic polymers, cleaning boosters, or fragrance capsules made with plastic.
And it gets worse. Some detergents—particularly those with microbeads—can contain as many as 178,000 microbeads per milliliter, which adds up to over 2.5 million microbeads in a single laundry load.1 That’s a lot of plastic headed straight into our waterways.
That’s why switching to an eco friendly laundry detergent is such an impactful choice. These options are usually made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients, and they skip the synthetic fragrances, harsh chemicals, and plastic-heavy packaging that traditional detergents rely on. It’s a small change that helps protect your health, your clothes, and the environment—without sending microplastics down the drain.
What is Eco Friendly Laundry Detergent?
So, what exactly makes a laundry detergent “eco friendly”? At its core, an eco friendly detergent is one that’s designed to be better for both your clothes and the planet. Unlike conventional detergents that rely on harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and non-biodegradable ingredients, eco friendly options use plant-based, biodegradable, and non-toxic formulas to clean your clothes without the environmental baggage.
These detergents are made with ingredients that break down naturally, so they won’t stay in water systems, soil, or even your clothes. Plus, many eco friendly detergents skip the synthetic fragrances and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin, opting instead for naturally derived scents or leaving them fragrance-free altogether.
But it’s not just about what’s in the bottle. Sustainability is a big part of the equation—eco friendly detergents often come in plastic-free or recyclable packaging, and many are produced using eco-conscious methods that minimize waste and energy use. So, when you choose eco friendly laundry detergent, you’re not just making a cleaner choice for your clothes but a cleaner choice for the planet, too.
What to Avoid in Conventional Laundry Detergents
Many mainstream laundry detergents rely on chemicals that might get your clothes “clean” but come with a hidden cost—to your health, skin, and the environment. These ingredients do more harm than good, from irritating additives to pollutants that linger in waterways. Here are some of the worst offenders to watch out for:
- Synthetic Fragrances – Made from undisclosed chemicals (often petroleum-based) that can cause skin irritation, allergies, and respiratory issues. They also linger in waterways, harming aquatic life.
- Artificial Dyes – Added purely for aesthetics, these dyes offer no cleaning benefits and can trigger skin sensitivities while contributing to water pollution.
- Phosphates – Used to soften water and boost cleaning power, but once they enter waterways, they fuel algae overgrowth (algal blooms), which depletes oxygen and harms marine ecosystems.
- Sulfates (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate) – Harsh detergents that create foam but can strip natural oils from fabrics and skin, leading to irritation. They also take a long time to break down in the environment.
- Optical Brighteners – Chemicals that make clothes appear whiter by coating fabric with a fluorescent residue. They don’t clean and can stick around on your clothes and waterways, causing long-term pollution.
- Chlorine Bleach – A potent disinfectant that can release toxic fumes, irritate skin and lungs and produce harmful byproducts when it enters waterways.
- Formaldehyde – Sometimes used as a preservative in detergents, this known carcinogen can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.
- 1,4-Dioxane – A byproduct found in some detergents (even if it’s not listed on the label) linked to cancer and difficulty filtering out drinking water once it enters the supply.
- Single-Use Plastic Packaging – Most conventional detergents come in plastic bottles that contribute to landfill waste and ocean pollution, with many never being properly recycled
5 Best Eco Friendly Laundry Detergents
Not all eco friendly laundry detergents are created equal—some prioritize plastic-free packaging, while others focus on gentle, non-toxic formulas for sensitive skin. There’s a sustainable option for every laundry routine. Whether looking for the best all-around detergent, a budget-friendly pick, or a DIY alternative, these top-rated choices prove you don’t need harsh chemicals to get fresh, clean clothes.
Meliora Laundry Powder Detergent
Meliora’s Laundry Powder Detergent is a people- and planet-friendly laundry solution crafted with safer ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. This ultra-concentrated, plastic-free, and preservative-free powder is as effective as liquid detergents, ensuring your clothes come out clean without compromising environmental values.
Key Features
- Simple Ingredients: This transparent formula uses baking soda, washing soda, and vegetable soap made with organic coconut oil.
- Multiple Scents: Available in unscented and scented varieties, utilizing organic essential oils like lavender, lemon, lemon-lavender-clove, and peppermint.
- Non-Toxic Ingredients: Free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and preservatives.
Packaging
- Paper and Steele: Comes in a durable paper-and-steel canister, eliminating the need for plastic.
- Refills Available: The canister is reusable and designed to be refilled with low-waste Laundry Powder refills.
- Stainless Steel: Both the canister and stainless-steel scoop are fully recyclable, reducing waste.
Certifications
Dirty Labs’ Signature Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent
Dirty Labs’ Signature Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent is an eco-friendly, hyper-concentrated liquid detergent designed to effectively clean clothes while being gentle on the environment and sensitive skin.
Key Features
- Advanced Enzyme Cleaning with Phytolase® Technology: Utilizes a 5-in-1 enzyme cleaning system that targets stains and odors at their source, ensuring thorough cleaning without harsh chemicals.
- CRequires only a small amount per load—8.6 fl oz bottle provides 32 loads, and the 21.6 fl oz refill offers 80 loads—making it both economical and efficient.
- Hypoallergenic and Safe for Sensitive Skin: It is free from dyes, SLS, SLES, parabens, and other potential irritants, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, babies, and pets.
- Biodegradable: Formulated with biodegradable ingredients that break down safely, minimizing environmental impact.
Packaging
- Aluminum: Recyclable aluminum bottle.
- BPA-Free: Both the packaging and formula are free from BPA.
Certifications
Blueland Laundry Detergent Tablets
I like Blueland’s Laundry Detergent Starter Set for its compact, space-saving design. The tablet format eliminates bulky plastic bottles, making storage effortless. I do use this brand, though I wish the scent was a bit stronger or had a fragrance.
Key Features
- Effective Cleaning: The plant and mineral-based tablets are designed to tackle tough stains like grass, coffee, food, and makeup without harsh chemicals.
- Eco-Friendly: Free from parabens, VOCs, ammonia, phthalates, chlorine, and bleach, making it safe for both your family and the environment.
- Fragrance Options: Available in ‘Spring Bloom,’ which offers a scent reminiscent of wildflowers and sun-ripened citrus, and a Fragrance-Free option for those with sensitivities.
Packaging
- Space-Saving Design: The compact Forever Tin holds 60 tablets and is three times smaller than traditional detergent containers, freeing up valuable storage space.
- Sustainable Materials: The Forever Tin is reusable, and refills come in compostable paper-based pouches, reducing single-use plastic waste.
Certifications
ATTITUDE Laundry Detergent
Another brand I use is ATTITUDE’s Laundry Detergent from their Home Essentials line. I appreciate its eco-friendly formulation and effective cleaning performance. However, I wish they would introduce detergent tablets for added convenience.
Key Features
- Naturally Sourced Ingredients: Formulated with biodegradable components, this detergent effectively cleans while protecting darks and keeping colors vibrant.
- Essential Oils: Enriched with luxurious essential oils, it offers a pleasant scent.
- Hypoallergenic: Free from skin-irritating enzymes, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- High-Efficiency Compatible: Designed for use in both high-efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines.
Packaging
- Refillable Aluminum Bottle: Comes in a reusable aluminum bottle, reducing plastic waste.
- Label: Made with waterproof and biodegradable stone paper.
Certifications
Simply Co. Package Free Laundry Powder
When it comes to laundry, simplicity is often the best approach—especially when it means fewer ingredients, less waste, and a cleaner planet. The Package Free Simply Co. Laundry Detergent lives up to its name with a minimalist formula made from just a few natural ingredients, proving that you don’t need synthetic chemicals to get fresh, clean clothes.
Key Features
- Minimalist Ingredients: Contains only three natural ingredients (four in the scented version), ensuring a simple and transparent formula.
- Effective Cleaning: Despite its simplicity, the concentrated powder formula is designed to tackle various stains and maintain fabric integrity.
- Hypoallergenic: Free from common allergens and harsh chemicals, making it suitable for households with babies, kids, and pets.
- HE and Septic Safe: Compatible with high efficiency washing machines and safe for septic systems.
Packaging
- Glass Jar: Comes in a glass jar.
- Metal Lid: The lid is made of metal and can be recycled.
Certifications
Eco Friendly Laundry Detergents for Babies
When it comes to washing baby clothes, gentle and safe ingredients matter. Conventional laundry detergents often contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and allergens that can irritate delicate skin. Babies have extra-sensitive skin, and what touches their clothes (and blankets, bibs, and everything else) can also end up on their skin.
A study from Nationwide Children’s Hospital sheds light on the risks of certain laundry products, particularly detergent packets. The study revealed 36,279 calls related to liquid laundry detergent packet exposures—an average of one call every 44 minutes.2 These exposures, often resulting in chemical burns or poisoning, pose serious health risks, especially for children.
Here are some options with trusted certifications to ensure they’re safe for your little one!
ATTITUDE Home Essentials™ – Baby
As someone who prioritizes eco-friendly products and gentle formulas, I appreciate ATTITUDE’s Baby Laundry Detergent’s commitment to clean ingredients and sustainability. This unscented detergent is designed specifically for babies’ delicate skin, making it an excellent choice for parents looking to avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances.
Key Features
- Hypoallergenic & Dermatologist-Tested: Made with plant-based ingredients and free from known irritants, making it ideal for babies with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Eco-Certified Formula: Certified by ECOLOGO and EWG VERIFIED™, meaning it meets strict environmental and health standards.
- Effective Yet Gentle: Cleans well without synthetic surfactants, dyes, or fragrances.
Packaging
- Refillable Aluminum Bottle: Comes in a reusable aluminum bottle, reducing plastic waste.
- Label: Made with waterproof and biodegradable stone paper.
Certifications
HealthyBaby Laundry Concentrate
HealthyBaby’s Laundry Concentrate is designed with both babies and the environment in mind. This ultra-concentrated formula is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals, making it a gentle yet effective option for families looking to minimize toxins in their home.
Key Features
- Non-Toxic & Baby-Safe: Made with EWG VERIFIED™ ingredients, ensuring it’s free from harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and irritants.
- Concentrated Formula: A little goes a long way, reducing waste and making it a more sustainable choice.
- Safe for Sensitive Skin: Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, making it a great option for babies and those with skin sensitivities.
Packaging
- Glass Bottle: The laundry detergent is packaged in a reusable glass bottle.
- Plastic Pump: Includes a plastic pump, but using it is optional—you can pour directly into the washing machine.
- Cardboard Packaging: The glass concentrate comes in a recyclable cardboard box.
Certifications
Dirty Labs Baby Essential Laundry Bundle
Dirty Labs’ Baby Safe Laundry Bundle is a great option for parents looking for an effective yet non-toxic way to clean baby clothes. This set includes their Bio Laundry Detergent and enzyme-based stain remover, both designed to be gentle on sensitive skin while still tackling tough messes.
Features
- Non-Toxic & Hypoallergenic: Free from dyes, sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, making it safe for babies and those with skin sensitivities.
- Biodegradable & Eco-Friendly: Plant-based formula breaks down safely in the environment without polluting waterways.
- Concentrated Formula: Uses less product per load, reducing waste and making each bottle last longer.
- Effective Stain Removal: The included stain remover is enzyme-powered, helping to break down tough baby stains without harsh chemicals.
- National Eczema Association: Recognized by the National Eczema Association.
Packaging
- Recyclable aluminum bottle.
- BPA-Free both the packaging and formula are free from BPA.
Certifications
Benefits of Using Eco Friendly Laundry Detergent
Choosing an eco friendly laundry detergent isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about looking out for your health, home, and the planet. Conventional detergents are often packed with synthetic chemicals that aren’t doing us (or the environment) any favors. Here’s why making the switch is worth it:
Gentler on Your Skin
Many traditional laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and skin-irritating preservatives. Eco friendly detergents skip the questionable ingredients, using plant-based and hypoallergenic formulas that are gentler on sensitive skin—especially for babies, those with allergies, or anyone prone to irritation.
Reduces Water Pollution and Microplastic Contamination
Most conventional detergents leave behind more than just clean clothes. They often contain phosphates, synthetic surfactants, and microplastics that get washed down the drain and end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans. Eco friendly options use biodegradable ingredients that break down safely, helping to keep waterways cleaner and reducing plastic pollution in the environment.
Energy-Efficient and Works in Cold Water
Hot water isn’t always necessary for clean laundry. Many eco friendly detergents are designed to work just as effectively in cold water, cutting down on energy use with every wash. This not only helps lower your utility bills but also reduces your household’s overall carbon footprint—without sacrificing cleaning power.
Other Ways to Cut Back on Microplastics in the Laundry Room
Choosing an eco friendly laundry detergent is a big step in the right direction—but it’s not the only one. The laundry room is full of opportunities to reduce microplastic pollution and make your routine more sustainable. Here are a few extra ways to go the (micro)distance:
- Use a Guppyfriend Bag or microfiber filter: Synthetic clothes shed tiny plastic fibers with every wash. Tools like Guppyfriend bags or washing machine filters (like PlanetCare or Cora Ball) can trap those microfibers before they flow into waterways.
- Wash less often: This one’s simple but effective. If something’s not visibly dirty or smelly, consider wearing it again. Less washing means fewer microfibers released and less water and energy used.
- Switch to natural fabrics when possible: Cotton, hemp, linen, and other plant-based textiles shed fewer or no microplastics compared to synthetics like polyester or nylon. Bonus: they’re often more breathable, too.
- Use cold water: Hot water can break down synthetic fabrics faster, leading to more fiber shedding. Cold water is gentler on your clothes and the planet.
- Ditch the dryer sheets: Most conventional dryer sheets are made from polyester and are single-use. Try wool dryer balls instead—they’re reusable, plastic-free, and help soften clothes naturally.
Even small swaps in your laundry routine can keep thousands of microfibers from entering the environment over time. It all adds up.
This Has Been About Eco Friendly Laundry Detergent
Making the switch to an eco friendly laundry detergent is a simple change that can have a big impact. Every load of laundry is an opportunity to choose safer ingredients, reduce plastic waste, and cut down on water pollution. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making choices that align with a healthier home and a cleaner planet.
Small swaps, like choosing a detergent with biodegradable ingredients or ditching single-use plastic packaging, add up over time. If you’re looking for an even more sustainable option, you can make your laundry detergent using simple, nontoxic ingredients. It’s easier than you might think, and I’ve put together a guide to help you get started here.
References
- Earth Institute, Columbia University. (2019, August 22). Laundry and microplastic pollution. State of the Planet. Retrieved from https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2019/08/22/laundry-microplastic-pollution/ ↩︎
- Nationwide Children’s Hospital. (2024, January). New Study Highlights Risks of Laundry Detergent Packets in Clinical Toxicology. Retrieved from https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/newsroom/news-releases/2024/01/gaw_laundrydetergentpackets_clinicaltoxicology ↩︎
