Most common detergents use harmful chemicals that can affect your long-term health. Luckily, the non-toxic laundry detergent market is thriving as people become more aware of these unnecessary dangers. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG, nearly 70% of laundry detergents receive a D or F rating, indicating their highest level of safety concern. That should be concerning to all of us.
But no need to go spend hours researching the best non-toxic laundry detergent – I’ve done it for you! These products have been carefully evaluated based on ingredient quality, certifications, plastic-free packaging, and cleaning performance. Rest assured, these brands are transparent about their ingredients and offer safe yet effective cleaning power.
But what does “natural” really mean when it comes to laundry detergents? Let’s debunk the marketing lingo and uncover the true definition of a natural detergent. You’ll also learn which ingredients to avoid, empowering you to choose the best detergent for yourself, even beyond this list.
Join us as we unveil the best clean and non-toxic laundry detergents for 2023. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have peace of mind with your laundry routine and be one step closer to a healthier home.
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Short on time? The best non-toxic laundry detergents include:
- Best overall non-toxic laundry detergent:
AspenClean Laundry Detergent - Best runner-up:
Lazy Coconuts Laundry Detergent Sheets - Best on stains:
Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder - Best smelling:
Rebel Green Organic Laundry Detergent - Best value:
Dr. Suds Natural Laundry Detergent Powder - Best for sensitive skin and allergies:
ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Packs - Best for baby laundry:
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets (Baby Formula) - Best eco-friendly:
Smart Strips Laundry Detergent Sheets - Best for color preservation and bright whites:
Tide Free and Gentle Laundry Detergent (powder only)
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How to choose a non-toxic laundry detergent
Here are some friendly tips to help you choose the cleanest laundry detergent option:
Read the ingredient list
Take a closer look at the ingredient list and seek out detergents that use plant-based or naturally derived ingredients. Steer clear of those sneaky culprits like synthetic fragrances, dyes, phosphates, parabens, phthalates, optical brighteners, and harsh surfactants.
Look for certifications
Keep an eye out for trusty certifications from respected organizations like USDA Organic, EcoCert, EWG Verified, or Safer Choice. These badges of honor ensure that the detergent meets rigorous standards for safety, environmental impact, and ingredient transparency. It’s like a stamp of approval for your peace of mind.
Transparency and disclosure
Choose brands that are proudly transparent and openly share their ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices. Say no to brands that hide behind vague or misleading terms.
Biodegradable
Biodegradable detergents often contain fewer harsh chemicals and toxins, making them safer for both our health and the environment. They are typically free from unwanted ingredients like phosphates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, and optical brighteners.
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic detergents are specifically designed to minimize the risk of triggering allergies or skin irritations. They are formulated without common allergens and harsh chemicals that can cause sensitivities in individuals with allergies or sensitive skin.
Eco-friendly packaging
Let’s give Mother Earth a helping hand and consider the packaging of the detergent. Seek out options that sport recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials. Even better, keep an eye out for those rockstar brands that offer refillable options. It’s a win-win for your laundry and the planet!
Performance and reviews
We all want clean, fresh-smelling clothes, right? Take a peek at customer reviews and ratings to get the inside scoop on cleaning performance. Look for feedback on stain removal, fabric care, and overall effectiveness.
Consider personal values
You’re unique, so let your values shine through! If you have specific concerns like allergies or sensitivities, find a detergent that caters to those needs. Maybe you’re all about cruelty-free or vegan options. Or perhaps you want to support brands that are making a positive impact on society and the environment. Follow your heart and choose a detergent that aligns with your values.
Top ingredients to avoid for a non-toxic laundry detergent
Bleach
Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is toxic and should be avoided, especially around children or individuals with respiratory conditions. It has the potential to cause severe skin burns and eye damage, trigger allergy and asthma reactions, and even lead to cancer and organ damage through prolonged or repeated exposure. Not to mention it’s extremely toxic if inhaled or ingested.
Optical brighteners
Optical brighteners make fabrics appear brighter, but it sticks to the fabric even after rinsing. The EWG recommends steering clear of optical brighteners due to concerns about skin irritation and their negative impact on aquatic life. It has also not been studied enough to determine how toxic it may be for humans in the long run, so why risk it when there are natural solutions to brightening clothes?
What’s tricky is that these ingredients are not always listed on product labels. But here’s a helpful tip: if you come across a laundry detergent labeled as biodegradable, chances are it doesn’t contain optical brighteners
Fragrances & phthalates
Fragrances are highly toxic. Laundry detergent manufacturers aren’t obligated to reveal their complete ingredient list when it comes to fragrances. So the term “fragrance” on a label may be (and often is) concealing a whole mix of more than 100 toxic ingredients. Some of these chemicals used to make fragrances are classified as allergens, hormone disruptors, asthma triggers, neurotoxins & carcinogens. Some chemicals in fragrances can pass through the skin and enter the bloodstream, and can even cause various health issues like cancer, birth defects, and more. Fragrances in laundry detergents are designed to stay in clothing after washing, so it’s no wonder people are concerned and steering clear of them.
Phthalates, commonly found in fragrances, are chemicals that help the scents last longer. Health risks for phthalates include cancer, human reproductive and developmental toxicity, endocrine disruption, birth defects & respiratory problems. They can also be found in some plastic containers, so avoid detergents with recycling codes 3 & 7 on the packaging.
Don’t be fooled by “fragrance-free” or “unscented” claims. Check the ingredient list as companies may use masking fragrances. Be wary of “natural” or “natural fragrance” labels, as there are no set standards. Always review the complete ingredient list for transparency.
Dyes
Commercial dyes contain compounds like benzidine, which is known to be carcinogenic, or cancer-causing. Most dyes bioaccumulate (become concentrated in the body) and are not readily biodegradable in the environment.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLS and SLES can lead to skin and eye irritation, organ toxicity, reproductive issues, neurotoxicity, and ecotoxicology. They are also linked to the production of the carcinogenic by-product 1,4-Dioxane, which is a byproduct formed during the production process.
Methylisothiazolinone & Benzisothiazolinone
These preservatives, often found in “natural” detergents, can cause allergic reactions, inhalation toxicity, neurotoxicity, and environmental pollution.
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Best overall non-toxic laundry detergent:AspenClean Laundry Detergent
Price: $29
Number of loads: 64
Type: Pods
Scents: Unscented, Lavender, Eucalyptus
Reasons to buy it:
- Free from phosphates, parabens, sulfates, carcinogens, synthetic fragrances, and petroleum
- Hypoallergenic, safe for sensitive skin, baby-safe, and pet-safe
- Fragrance-free and organic scents are available
- Zero plastic pods and recyclable and plastic-free packaging
- Ecocert-certified, vegan, and certified cruelty-free
- Biodegradable, made with organic, plant-derived ingredients
- 100% zero-plastic, compostable packaging
- Greywater & septic tank-safe
- Made in the USA
- Cleans laundry well
- EWG-Verified
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Leaves clothes soft
What could be better:
- Expensive
AspenClean’s Laundry Detergent is the ultimate non-toxic laundry detergent, hitting it out of the park on all factors. AspenClean has set the standard for non-toxic cleaning, and their laundry detergent is no exception! It’s carefully crafted with natural ingredients, free from harsh chemicals, and it’s hypoallergenic so it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Biodegradable, baby-friendly, and dedicated to sustainability – what more could you ask for?
It’s one of the few truly non-toxic options that work well when it comes to cleaning your clothes. You may want to add an oxygen bleach powder to the mix to help with more stubborn, older stains, but on its own it tackles stains fairly well, leaving your clothes fresh, vibrant, and odor-free. With AspenClean’s laundry detergents, you can trust that your laundry will be clean and toxin-free.
Best runner-up non-toxic laundry detergent:Lazy Coconuts Laundry Detergent Sheets
Price: $16
Number of loads: 48
Type: Sheets
Scents: Unscented
Reasons to buy it:
- Free from fragrances, plastics, dyes, microbeads, sulfates, parabens, phosphates, phthalates, and bleach
- Biodegradable
- Hypoallergenic
- 100% made from plants
- Plastic-free and packaged in recyclable cardboard
- 20 times lighter than comparable liquid detergents
- Zero Waste
- Cleans well
- Leaves clothes soft
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Carbon negative
- Takes up very little space
- Travel-friendly
- Septic safe
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
What could be better:
- Expensive
- May need a stain-removing booster
Lazy Coconuts Laundry Detergent Sheets are the second-best non-toxic laundry detergent on the market. Made with natural, plant-based ingredients, they offer a great cleaning without any harsh chemicals. They’re uniquely designed to be pre-measured sheets that disintegrate—simply toss one into the machine and let it work its magic! And don’t underestimate their size; they pack a powerful punch, removing pesky stains and odors. It scores an impressive A rating from the EWG.
Not only are they effective, but they’re also eco-friendly. The sheets are biodegradable and come in recyclable packaging to reduce waste. Find convenience, effectiveness, and non-toxic power in these Lazy Coconuts Laundry Detergent Sheets! Your clothes will thank you, and you’ll have peace of mind using them. Miss that fresh laundry scent? You can simply add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to get a wonderful scent.
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Best non-toxic detergent for tough stains: Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder
Price: $19
Number of loads: 100
Type: Powder
Scents available: Unscented
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of fragrances, scent blockers, optical brighteners, dyes, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, harmful phosphates, enzymes, bleach, anti-foaming agents, preservatives, and more
- Sourced from all-natural ingredients
- Biodegradable
- Hypoallergenic and great for sensitive skin
- Cleans extremely well
- Dissolves thoroughly
- Always residue-free
- Highly concentrated formula means less packaging
- Cleans your washer with every cycle
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Liquid formula available
- EPA Safer Choice Certified
- Cruelty-free
- Good value
- Leaves clothes soft
- Septic safe
- Great for use on cloth diapers and heavily soiled clothing
- Zero fake or harmful additives
- Amazing on stains
What could be better:
- Uses baking soda, which may irritate those who are sensitive to it
With its clean non-toxic ingredients and super-effective cleaning abilities, Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder stands out from the rest. This detergent is free from harsh chemicals, dyes, fragrances, and so much more, making it a top choice for those with sensitive skin and allergies, and for babies. It’s gentle yet powerful, delivering exceptional cleaning results without compromising your health. It scored a B rating from the EWG and is EPA Safer Choice Certified.
Charlie’s Soap is incredibly effective. Its concentrated formula tackles tough stains, dirt, and odors, leaving your clothes fresh, clean, and odor-free. Plus, it’s safe for all types of fabrics from sporting gear to delicates, making sure your clothes stay vibrant and intact. When using natural laundry detergent, it’s usually best to use an oxygen bleach to keep your whites extra vibrant if that is a concern for you.
Charlie’s Soap is also environmentally friendly. Its biodegradable formula and minimal waste make it a sustainable choice, too. Consider Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder for high-quality non-toxic cleaning. It’s super safe, super effective, and eco-friendly!
Best smelling non-toxic laundry detergent: Rebel Green Organic Laundry Detergent
Price: $36
Number of loads: 128
Type: Liquid
Scents available: Unscented, Lavender & Grapefruit, Pink Lilac, Peppermint & Lemon
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of synthetic fragrances, sulfates, phosphates, phthalates, parabens, and dyes
- USDA certified organic
- Hypoallergenic
- Biodegradable
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Essential oil-derived scents
- Cleans extra well with its 3x concentrated formula
- Natural plant-derived formula
- They give back and make a donation to an environmental cause for each bottle of Laundry Detergent sold
- Amazing scents
- Certified cruelty-free
- Made in the USA
- Great value
- Septic tank safe
- Leaves clothes soft
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
What could be better:
- Not great for heavily soiled clothing like greasy work clothes or cloth diapers
Want a genuinely non-toxic option with an amazing natural scent? Get ready for a laundry experience that will awaken your senses! Green Rebel Laundry Detergent is not only non-toxic but also known for its exceptional scent that lingers in clothes for days. Say goodbye to harsh chemical fragrances and hello to a delightful, long-lasting clean smell made from pure essential oils (though unscented is an option, too).
What sets Green Rebel apart is its commitment to using plant-based and natural ingredients, offering a safe and gentle formula for your whole family. And not only does Green Rebel excel in gentle fragrance, but it also delivers outstanding cleaning power. Stubborn stains and dirt don’t stand a chance against this eco-friendly and super-gentle organic detergent. Your clothes will come out fresh, clean, and beautifully scented without any added toxins.
Best value non-toxic laundry detergent: Dr. Suds Natural Laundry Detergent Powder
Price: $18
Number of loads: 100
Type: Powder
Scents available: Unscented, Lavender & Chamomile, Eucalyptus & Peppermint
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of synthetic fragrances, optical brighteners, phosphates, phthalates, parabens, dyes, petrochemicals, and aluminum
- Cleans thoroughly
- Natural ingredients (natural minerals, elements, and essential oils)
- Zero fake or harmful additives
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Great value
- Made in the USA
- Leaves clothes soft
- Wonderful scents
- Best for general laundry
What could be better:
- Not great for heavily soiled clothing
- Not hypoallergenic or biodegradable
Are you ready to revolutionize your laundry routine? Dr. Suds Natural Laundry Detergent Powder is your ultimate non-toxic companion. This detergent is formulated using natural ingredients, steering clear of harsh toxins commonly found in conventional detergents. Dr. Suds delivers outstanding cleaning power, too! Stubborn stains and dirt don’t stand a chance against this mighty concentrated powder. Plus, Dr. Suds is eco-friendly, designed to minimize its impact on the environment.
Best for sensitive skin and allergies: ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Packs
Price: $20
Number of loads: 80
Type: Pods
Scents available: Unscented
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of dyes, optical brighteners, formaldehyde, 1,4-dioxane, parabens, and phosphates
- No added scents or fragrances
- Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin, pets, and babies
- EPA’s safer choice certified
- Readily biodegradable
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Dissolves thoroughly
- Non-toxic pod casing
- Made with plant-derived ingredients
- Zero plastic (uses eco-friendly PVA for coating)
- Ecofriendly with recyclable packaging
- Greywater and septic tank safe
- Made in the USA
- Travel-friendly
- Great cleaning power
- Great on stains
- Residue-free
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Leaves clothes soft
- Climate-positive
What could be better:
- Expensive
ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Packs are specifically formulated for sensitive skin and allergies, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin and allergies, or even for delicate babies.
It’s made from plant-based ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. It is designed to be very gentle on the skin while effectively cleaning clothes and removing stains. The hypoallergenic formula helps minimize the risk of skin irritations and allergic reactions, providing added peace of mind for parents.
ECOS goes beyond cleanliness with its commitment to the environment. More than 100% of the carbon, water & energy used to make their products are restored to the earth. And don’t underestimate their size! These biodegradable packs are powerful stain removers, revitalizing your clothes with every wash.
Pre-measured and mess-free, just toss a pack into the washing machine and let it work its magic. With ECOS Laundry Detergent Packs, you get superior cleaning, a healthier home, and a happier planet.
Best non-toxic laundry detergent for baby laundry: Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets (Baby Formula)
Price: $16
Number of loads: 60
Type: Sheets
Scents available: Unscented
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of bleach, parabens, phosphates, phthalates, enzymes, fragrances, and dyes
- Hypoallergenic and safe for babies
- Dermatologist tested
- Certified readily biodegradable
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Dissolves thoroughly
- pH balanced formula
- Saves space & travel-friendly
- Removes tough stains & strong odors
- Zero plastic & no waste
- Does not contain microplastics
- They give 1% of their revenue to non-profits
- 10 sheets are donated with every sale
- Carbon neutral
- Ecofriendly with compostable packaging
- Residue-free
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Leaves clothes soft
- Great for heavily soiled clothing like cloth diapers
- Made with plant-derived ingredients and natural plant molecules
What could be better:
- Made in China
- Contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
When it comes to caring for your baby’s delicate skin, you want nothing but the best. That’s why Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets (Baby Formula) stand out as the ultimate choice for non-toxic baby laundry. Earth Breeze is made of non-toxic, cruelty-free, and vegan ingredients that are safe for sensitive skin and the environment. Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets (Baby Formula) are specially crafted to be a gentle and hypoallergenic formula, ensuring no harmful chemicals, fragrances, or dyes.
These laundry detergent sheets are ultra-concentrated and biodegradable, reducing waste and environmental impact. Each sheet dissolves easily in water, providing a mess-free and convenient laundry experience.
The powerful yet gentle formula tackles even the toughest stains like cloth diapers, leaving garments fresh and odor-free. Give your baby the purest start in life, surrounded by fabrics that are free from harmful chemicals with Earth Breeze.
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Best eco-friendly non-toxic laundry detergent: Smart Strips Laundry Detergent Sheets
Price: $10
Number of loads: 38
Type: Sheets
Scents available: Unscented
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of paraben, dye, bleach, phosphate, 1,4-dioxane
- No plastic
- Ecofriendly
- Hypoallergenic
- Biodegradable
- Safe for babies
- Ultra-concentrated
- Easy to store and compact
- No waste
- Travel-friendly
- Great cleaning power
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Dissolves thoroughly
- Residue-free
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Leaves clothes soft
What could be better:
- Made in China
- Contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- Not best for heavily soiled clothes like greasy work clothes and cloth diapers
- Expensive
Say goodbye to chemical-laden detergents and hello to a greener and much cleaner laundry experience with Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder. With its clean non-toxic ingredients and super-effective cleaning power, this product stands out. This detergent is free from harsh chemicals, dyes, fragrances, and so much more, making it a top choice for those with sensitive skin, allergies, or babies. It’s gentle yet powerful, delivering exceptional cleaning results without compromising your health.
Charlie’s Soap is incredibly effective. Its concentrated formula tackles tough stains, dirt, and odors, leaving your clothes fresh, clean, and odor-free. Plus, it’s safe for all types of fabrics from sporting gear to delicates, ensuring that your garments stay vibrant and intact. When using any natural laundry detergent, it’s best to use an oxygen bleach to keep your whites extra vibrant.
Charlie’s Soap is also environmentally friendly. Its biodegradable formula and minimal packaging waste make it a sustainable choice that reduces your carbon footprint.
Make the switch to Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder and discover a world of high-quality non-toxic cleaning. It’s super safe, super effective, and eco-friendly!
Best for color preservation and bright whites: Tide Free and Gentle Laundry Detergent (powder only)
Price: $40
Number of loads: 68
Type: Powder
Scents: Unscented
Reasons to buy it:
- Free of phosphates, dyes, and perfumes
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologically-tested
- Safe for sensitive skin and babies
- 3-in-1 detergent, color protector, and stain remover
- Excellent on dirt and stains
- Great on heavily soiled clothes
- Accepted by both NEA and NPF (National Eczema Association and National Psoriasis Foundation)
- Works in all washing machines and water temperatures
- Septic tank safe
What could be better:
- Not biodegradable
- Contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS)
- Hard to find
- Affordable if you can find it in-store, expensive otherwise
Tide Ultra Free & Gentle Powder Detergent provides powerful cleaning action while being free from dyes and perfumes that may irritate delicate skin. It’s designed to remove stains and odors and works wonders on cloth diapers and heavily soiled clothes. It scored a B rating from the EWG, but this only applies to the powder version of this detergent. The liquid and pod versions rank lower.
Tide Ultra Free & Gentle Powder Detergent has the ultimate edge in stain removal, with the ECOS packs coming in second. Tide’s powerful cleaning technology keeps your clothes looking their best, without any residue, stains, or odors. Say goodbye to tough stains and hello to fresh, clean clothes that are a little safer for your family and the environment!
Detergents that didn’t make the cut
These detergents are marketed as “clean” detergents but contain a concerning ingredient list.
- Amazon Basics Free & Clear Laundry Detergent
- Babyganics 3x Laundry Detergent (All scents + fragrance-free)
- Dreft Hypoallergenic Liquid Baby Laundry Detergent (Stage 1 and 2)
- Rockin’ Green Hard Rock Laundry Detergent (All scents + unscented)
- Tide Ultra Free & Gentle Liquid Detergent (Liquid only)
More non-toxic laundry detergent options
The following non-toxic laundry detergents are great options to consider as well:
- Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder
- Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Laundry Detergent Packs
- Seventh Generation Zero Plastic Laundry Detergent Tablets, Fragrance Free
- Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent Packs
- ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent With Enzymes (Liquid)
- Attitude Laundry Detergent
- Dirty Labs Bio Laundry Detergent with Phytolase, Free & Clear
- Blueland Laundry Detergent Tablets, Fragrance Free
- 365 Everyday Value 2X Concentrated Powder Laundry Detergent, Unscented
- 9 Elements Laundry Detergent
- Common Good Laundry Detergent (Lavender & Unscented)
- Dropps Laundry Detergent Pods, Unscented
- Earthley Laundry Detergent (Citrus & Unscented)
- Hello Bello Organic Concentrated Laundry Detergent, Unscented
- Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent, Free & Clear
- Whole Foods Market Baby Laundry Detergent, Unscented
- Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Laundry Detergent
- Clean People Ultra Concentrated Laundry Detergent Sheets
- Grab Green Stoneworks Laundry Detergent Pods