Key Takeaways
- Eco friendly laundry detergent uses biodegradable, plant-based ingredients instead of harsh chemicals or microplastics.
- Choosing detergents with plastic-free or refillable packaging helps cut single-use plastic waste at the source.
- Certified options like MADE SAFE® or EWG VERIFIED™ ensure better safety for your family, clothes, and the environment.
When you toss clothes in the wash, you probably don’t think about pollution. But here’s the thing: every load of laundry can send tiny plastic fibers, harsh chemicals, and even detergent residue down the drain. From synthetic fabrics that shed microplastics to pods wrapped in plastic film that don’t always break down, the laundry room is sneakier than most people realize.
Some detergents even add plastic on purpose—microbeads. A single load can contain more than two million of them, all of which are heading straight into rivers and oceans. Not exactly what we want swirling around in our drinking water or harming wildlife.
That’s why switching to an eco-friendly laundry detergent is such a decisive move. Instead of plastic-heavy formulas and single-use bottles, these detergents are made with biodegradable ingredients, safer scents, and packaging that actually considers the planet. It’s a small swap, but one that makes every wash cycle count toward something cleaner.
What is Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent?
At its core, eco-friendly laundry detergent is designed to clean your clothes without dirtying the planet. Unlike conventional detergents that rely on synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and plastic-heavy packaging, eco-friendly options prioritize three key aspects: safer ingredients, sustainable packaging, and responsible manufacturing.
Most formulas are made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients that break down naturally, rather than lingering in waterways or clinging to fabrics. They’re often free from harsh sulfates, optical brighteners, and dyes that can irritate skin and pollute the environment.
Packaging is another big difference. Instead of bulky plastic jugs, eco-friendly detergents may come in refillable tins, recyclable cardboard boxes, or aluminum bottles. Many brands also back up their claims with certifications like MADE SAFE®, USDA Biobased, or EWG VERIFIED™, so you can trust what you’re using.
Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
Switching to an eco-friendly laundry detergent isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s about choosing something safer for your family and kinder to the planet. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth making the change:
👕 Gentle on Sensitive Skin
If your clothes ever leave you feeling itchy or irritated, your detergent could be the culprit. Many conventional formulas are loaded with fragrances, dyes, and preservatives that linger on fabric. Eco-friendly detergents avoid these extras, relying on simple, plant-based ingredients that are gentle on the skin, especially for babies and those with sensitive skin or allergies.
🌊 Helps Keep Waterways Clean
What we wash away doesn’t just vanish; it flows into rivers, lakes, and oceans. Conventional detergents often carry phosphates, microplastics, and chemical residues that harm fish and other wildlife. Eco-friendly detergents are designed to break down naturally, allowing them to clean your clothes without polluting the water.
❄️ Works in Cold Water to Save Energy
Hot water isn’t always necessary for a good clean. Many eco-friendly detergents are designed to perform just as well in cold water, thereby reducing energy use and lowering utility bills. It’s a small switch that makes a significant difference in your carbon footprint while still providing you with fresh, clean laundry.
❌ The Hidden Dangers in Conventional Laundry Detergents
Most mainstream laundry detergents don’t just wash dirt away—they leave behind a mess of their own. Harsh chemicals, synthetic additives, and even hidden plastics can harm your health, irritate skin, and pollute waterways long after the spin cycle ends. Here are some of the biggest offenders to watch out for:
- Synthetic Fragrances – Made from petroleum-based chemicals that can trigger allergies, asthma, and skin irritation. They also linger in rivers and oceans, harming aquatic life.
- Artificial Dyes – Added purely for aesthetic purposes, dyes provide no cleaning benefits and often cause sensitivities, while also contributing to water pollution.
- Phosphates – Used to soften water and boost cleaning power, but once in waterways, they fuel algal blooms that suffocate fish and marine ecosystems.
- Sulfates (SLS, SLES) – Strong foaming agents that strip natural oils from skin and fabrics, leading to irritation. They also take a long time to break down in the environment.
- Optical Brighteners – Chemicals that coat fabrics with a fluorescent layer to make clothes look whiter, while leaving residues on skin and in waterways.
- Chlorine Bleach – A disinfectant that can release toxic fumes indoors and create harmful byproducts in the water supply.
- Formaldehyde – Sometimes used as a preservative; it’s a known carcinogen that can irritate skin and lungs.
- 1,4-Dioxane – A byproduct not listed on labels but present in many detergents. It’s linked to cancer and nearly impossible to remove from drinking water once it contaminates supplies.
- Single-Use Plastic Packaging – From bulky jugs to single-load packets, most end up in landfills or the ocean, where they contribute to plastic waste and microplastic pollution.
Conventional detergents might get your clothes “clean,” but the trade-off is toxic residues on fabrics, more plastic in the environment, and chemicals that threaten both people and ecosystems.
✅ How to Choose an Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
With so many options on the shelf, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Labels like “green,” “natural,” or “eco” don’t always mean what they claim to be. Here’s how to separate genuine eco-friendly laundry detergents from clever marketing:
- Ingredient Transparency: Look for brands that clearly list all their ingredients. If the label is vague or uses phrases like “proprietary blend,” that’s a red flag.
- Biodegradability: A truly eco-friendly detergent breaks down naturally in the environment, leaving no harmful residue in waterways or soil.
- Non-Toxic Formulas: Skip products with phosphates, sulfates, optical brighteners, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, choose plant-based surfactants, mineral boosters like baking soda, or essential oils for scent.
- Sustainable Packaging: Plastic jugs are out. Better choices include refillable tins, glass jars, aluminum bottles, or compostable pouches.
- Trusted Certifications: Third-party seals, such as MADE SAFE®, USDA Certified Biobased, EWG VERIFIED™, and Leaping Bunny, give you confidence that a product meets higher health and sustainability standards.
- Cleaning Performance: Eco-friendly doesn’t mean weak. Many concentrated or enzyme-based detergents clean just as effectively, sometimes even better, than conventional ones, even in cold water.
Watch out for greenwashing. If a detergent highlights “plant-based” ingredients but still comes in a giant plastic jug with no certifications, it’s not as eco-friendly as it seems.
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 that are suitable 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
$26
Meliora’s Laundry Powder is one of those rare finds that feels good for you and the planet. It’s ultra-concentrated, plastic-free, and preservative-free but still gets clothes just as clean as any liquid detergent I’ve tried.
I tested the lavender scent, and it smelled absolutely fantastic, fresh but not overpowering. The only downside? The canister lid can be a little stubborn to pop off, which isn’t a dealbreaker, but worth noting. I appreciate that each canister handles 128 loads—it reduces the frequency of restocking.
- Packaging: The canister is made from sturdy paper and steel, thereby avoiding the use of plastic altogether. Each canister also comes with a stainless steel scoop that can be fully recycled at the end of its life.
- Certifications: MADE SAFE®, Leaping Bunny
Dirty Labs
$18
Dirty Labs is an excellent option if you’re looking for a detergent that’s both effective and gentle. Their enzyme-based formula targets stains and odors without the harsh chemicals commonly found in conventional detergents.
I tried the Magnolia scent and loved how soft and floral it smelled—fresh without being too strong. The compact bottle is easy to store, though I did feel like I went through it quickly compared to some other detergents.
- Packaging: Dirty Labs packages its detergent in recyclable aluminum bottles, eliminating the need for a large plastic jug to dispose of when you’re done. They also sell refills, which makes it easy to keep using the same bottle and reduce waste.
- Certifications: USDA Certified Biobased, Safer Choice, Green Seal, EWG VERIFIED™
Blueland
$16
Blueland makes laundry feel clutter-free and straightforward. Their tablets are made with plant- and mineral-based ingredients that clean effectively without the use of harsh chemicals.
I’ve used Blueland many times, and what I love most is the space-saving design. Living in a townhouse, bulky plastic jugs take up too much room, so the compact tin and refill tablets are a perfect fit. My only wish is that the scent were a little more pungent.
- Packaging: The starter set comes in a reusable steel tin that holds 60 tablets, and refills arrive in compostable paper pouches—no plastic bottles or single-use waste.
- Certifications: B Corp, Climate Neutral, EWG VERIFIED™, MADE SAFE®, EPA Safer Choice, USDA BioPreferred, Leaping Bunny, Cradle to Cradle Platinum
ATTITUDE
$19
ATTITUDE is quickly becoming one of my favorite go-to brands—not just for laundry, but for everything from sunscreen and shampoo to dish soap. Their laundry detergent is no exception.
It comes in a compact bottle that doesn’t take up much space, and I tried the Geranium Lemongrass scent.. Honestly, I don’t have anything constructive to add here—it’s just a great product that works exactly the way I want it to.
- Packaging: The detergent comes in a refillable aluminum bottle, eliminating the need for bulky plastic jugs. Refills are available, allowing you to reuse the same bottle and reduce single-use waste.
- Certifications: EWG VERIFIED™, Peta Cruelty Free & Vegan
The Simply Co.
$24
The Simply Co. offers a minimalist powder detergent made with just three simple ingredients — no synthetic fragrances, dyes, or preservatives.
Packaged in a reusable glass jar with a metal lid, it’s designed for zero-waste living and gentle, effective cleaning.
- Packaging: True to its name, Simply Co. keeps things as low-waste as possible. The powder comes in a glass jar with a metal lid, both of which can be recycled or repurposed.
- Certifications: EWG VERIFIED™
Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents for Babies
When it comes to baby laundry, the gentler the better. Conventional detergents often contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and allergens that can be tough on sensitive skin. Babies’ skin is especially sensitive, and whatever touches their clothes, blankets, or bibs can quickly end up on their skin too.
Research supports the need for parents to be extra cautious. A study from Nationwide Children’s Hospital found that more than 36,000 calls to poison control were related to laundry detergent packets, approximately one call every 44 minutes. Many of these cases involved chemical burns or accidental ingestion, showing just how risky certain products can be for little ones.
There are eco-friendly detergents made with safer, non-toxic ingredients and trusted certifications, providing you with peace of mind. Parents should still be cautious—no detergent is 100% risk-free—but these options are a much safer place to start. Here are a few baby-safe choices worth considering.
ATTITUDE Home Essentials™ – Baby
$24
ATTITUDE is a brand that frequently appears in the eco-friendly space, and their baby laundry detergent is specifically designed with sensitive skin in mind.
The formula is unscented, dermatologist-tested, and made with plant-based ingredients, making it a safer choice for little ones who may be sensitive to fragrances or harsh additives. It’s gentle but still effective enough to handle the everyday messes that come with baby clothes.
- Packaging: The detergent comes in a refillable aluminum bottle, which helps reduce plastic waste.
- Certifications: EWG VERIFIED™, ECOLOGO Certified, PETA Cruelty-Free & Vegan
Dirty Labs Baby Essentials
$46
Dirty Labs created this baby bundle to make laundry safer and easier for families. It comes with their Free & Clear Bio Laundry Detergent, an enzyme-based stain remover, and a set of wool dryer balls—so you’ve got washing, stain treating, and softening all covered.
The detergent is fragrance-free, making it a suitable choice for babies, children, or individuals with sensitive skin.
- Packaging: The detergent comes in a recyclable aluminum bottle, the booster in a sturdy cardboard canister with a wooden scoop, and the dryer balls in a recyclable box.
- Certifications: EPA Safer Choice, USDA Certified Biobased, EWG VERIFIED®, National Eczema Association, PETA Cruelty-Free & Vegan
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.
Don’t Miss: Microplastics — Health Risks, Sources, and How to Reduce Exposure Wondering where all those tiny plastic particles come from and how to limit your exposure? This guide breaks it all down in plain language. Read more →FAQs on Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
Eco-friendly laundry detergents use plant-based, biodegradable ingredients instead of harsh chemicals or microplastics. They often come in plastic-free or refillable packaging and carry certifications like EWG VERIFIED™, MADE SAFE®, or EPA Safer Choice.
Yes. Many eco-friendly detergents avoid synthetic fragrances, dyes, and preservatives, which are common triggers for irritation. They’re often dermatologist-tested and labeled hypoallergenic, making them suitable for babies and people with sensitive skin.
Many laundry pods are wrapped in a plastic-like film made from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). While marketed as dissolvable, studies show it doesn’t always fully break down in wastewater systems, meaning some of it can contribute to microplastic pollution.
If you want to avoid that risk, choose tablets that come unwrapped or stick with powders and liquids that are packaged in plastic-free containers.
It depends on the brand. Some eco detergents cost more upfront, especially those in compact bottles or specialty formats. But because they’re often concentrated, you use less per load, which balances out the price. DIY options and refill systems can also make eco-friendly detergents more cost-effective in the long term.
Final Thoughts 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.
Small swaps, such as choosing a detergent with biodegradable ingredients or eliminating single-use plastic packaging, add up over time. If you’re looking for an even more sustainable option, consider making your own laundry detergent using simple, non-toxic 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. 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. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/newsroom/news-releases/2024/01/gaw_laundrydetergentpackets_clinicaltoxicology
