Your Guide to Eco Friendly Detergent

Updated 4/10/23

In 2023 (and beyond) sustainability has become more important than ever before. And its really become a topic of conversation in everyday life. One of the most significant is the growing awareness of the negative impact that human activity is having on the environment. As we continue to emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, we are causing global warming and climate change, which is resulting in devastating consequences such as more extreme weather conditions, rising sea levels, and loss of biodiversity. We are also depleting the earth’s resources at an unsustainable rate. We are using up fossil fuels faster than they can be replenished, we are overfishing our oceans, and we are clearing forests at an alarming rate. This is not only damaging the environment; it is also putting our own future at risk. Sustainability is therefore more important than ever because we need to find ways to protect the environment and use resources in a more sustainable way. This means reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, protecting natural habitats, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. It also means making changes in our own lifestyles to consume less and waste less. Only by making these changes can we hope to create a sustainable future for ourselves and for the planet.

With this increasing focus on sustainability, it's essential to consider how our everyday choices impact the environment, including the products we use to clean our homes and clothes. Laundry detergent may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about environmental sustainability, but it plays a significant role. Traditional laundry detergents often contain harsh chemicals and non-biodegradable ingredients, such as phosphates, that can have detrimental effects on waterways, aquatic life, and soil health when they make their way into the environment. Furthermore, the plastic packaging used for many conventional detergents contributes to the ever-growing problem of plastic pollution. In light of these concerns, sustainable laundry detergents offer an eco-friendly alternative that can help reduce our environmental impact and support a more sustainable lifestyle.

Switching to a sustainable laundry detergent is not only an easy but impactful step towards a greener lifestyle. Sustainable laundry detergents are formulated with biodegradable ingredients derived from plant-based sources, which are gentler on the environment and aquatic life. These eco-friendly options often come in reduced or zero-waste packaging, such as cardboard boxes, compostable bags, or reusable containers, which helps minimize plastic waste. In addition, many sustainable laundry detergents are concentrated or available in low-waste formats like strips, tablets, or pods, which means less water is used during production, and transportation emissions are reduced due to the smaller, lighter product sizes. As consumers, choosing sustainable laundry detergent not only promotes the health of our environment but also encourages the growth of the green product industry, helping pave the way towards a more sustainable future for all.

What is sustainable laundry detergent made out of?

There are a variety of sustainable laundry detergents available on the market today. Some are made out of natural ingredients like coconut oil, while others are made from recycled materials. Regardless of the ingredients, all sustainable laundry detergents aim to be gentle on both your clothes and the environment.

Other ingredients in sustainable laundry detergents range from plant-based surfactants and enzymes to natural minerals, essential oils, and even baking soda. The main goal of a sustainable laundry detergent is to provide an effective cleaning power while reducing our impact on the environment.

Most brands use plant-derived surfactants as their primary ingredient because they are biodegradable and have a neutral pH level. These act as the primary agent for breaking down dirt, grease, and oil during the wash cycle. To boost the detergent’s cleaning power, manufacturers often add enzymes such as proteases and amylases which help break down proteins or starches that may be clinging to clothing fibers.

What is sustainable laundry detergent?

Sustainable laundry detergent is a type of laundry detergent that is designed to be gentle on both your clothes and the environment. Sustainable laundry detergents are usually made out of natural ingredients like coconut oil, which helps to protect your clothes from damage and keep them looking their best. Additionally, sustainable laundry detergents often contain recycled materials, which helps to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills.

Why should I use sustainable laundry detergent?

Sustainable laundry detergent is often much gentler on your clothes than traditional laundry detergents. This means that it can help to prolong the life of your clothing and keep them looking their best for longer. Sustainable laundry detergents help to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills, which is good for the environment.

Using sustainable laundry detergent is beneficial to both the environment and your family. It helps reduce pollution in water systems by reducing the number of chemicals that are released into our waterways. Sustainable detergents are also biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally without releasing harmful toxins into the air or soil. Additionally, using an eco-friendly detergent can save you money because it requires less energy and fewer natural resources to create, resulting in a lower price tag for consumers. Finally, many sustainable laundry detergents are hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals so they’re better for sensitive skin types.