In today’s world, more and more people are becoming conscious of their environmental impact. One area where we can make a significant difference is in our laundry routine. By choosing eco-friendly laundry products and practices, we can reduce our environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. Traditional laundry detergents often contain harmful chemicals that can pollute waterways and harm aquatic life. By switching to eco-friendly alternatives, we can help to reduce this pollution and protect our planet.
Understanding Eco-Friendly Laundry
Eco-friendly laundry involves using products and practices that are less harmful to the environment compared to traditional methods. This includes:
- Using detergents that are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals
- Reducing water and energy usage
- Minimizing waste
So, what differentiates eco-friendly and natural laundry detergents from regular counterparts? Eco-friendly detergents are typically free from:
- Phosphates
- Bleach
- Other harsh chemicals
They are often plant-based and come in recyclable packaging. When shopping for eco-friendly detergents, look out for ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate, 1,4-dioxane, and synthetic fragrances, which can be harmful to the environment and your health.
The Most Eco-Friendly Wash Cycle
Not all wash cycles are created equal when it comes to their environmental impact. Generally, the most eco-friendly wash cycle is the one that uses the least amount of water and energy. This is often the cold wash cycle, which also has the added benefit of being gentler on your clothes. Switching your temperature setting from hot to warm can cut a load’s energy use in half. So, is eco wash better than quick wash? While quick wash cycles use less water, they often require higher temperatures, which can use more energy. Therefore, the eco wash cycle is usually the more environmentally friendly option.
Eco-Friendly Laundry Products
There are a variety of eco-friendly laundry products available on the market today. These include laundry detergents, washing balls, and laundry strips. Here are two of of our top recommended eco-friendly laundry detergent brands available in the USA:
| Top Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents | MyEcoHabit Summary |
|---|---|
| Seventh Generation Free & Clear | Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent is a top eco-friendly choice with a powerful triple-enzyme formula that effectively tackles tough stains while being gentle on sensitive skin. This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent is made with 96% plant-based ingredients, certified by the EPA Safer Choice, and packaged in a bottle made from 80% recycled plastic. |
| ECOS Plant Powered | ECOS Plant-Powered Laundry Detergent is an eco-friendly, vegan option that’s both gentle on sensitive skin and powerful against stains. Made from 100% plant-based ingredients and free from harsh chemicals like parabens and phosphates, this biodegradable detergent is suitable for all fabric types, including baby clothes and delicates, and it is produced in a carbon-neutral, zero-waste facility. |
| all Free & Clear Laundry Detergent | all Laundry Detergent Liquid offers a powerful, plant-based clean that’s tough on stains yet gentle on sensitive skin. Packaged in a 100% recycled plastic bottle (excluding cap, spout, and labels), this ultra-concentrated formula is EPA Safer Choice and USDA Certified Biobased, providing an eco-friendly laundry solution that requires just a third of the dose of standard detergents. Compatible with all washing machines and effective in all water temperatures, one 50-fluid-ounce bottle is enough for 100 loads, making it both efficient and environmentally responsible. |
**See further below for our recommended eco-friendly laundry strip brands.**
Pods vs Powder vs Gel vs Eco-Friendly Laundry Strips
When it comes to the form of your laundry detergent, you have several options:
Pods: Pods are convenient and pre-measured, which eliminates the need to measure out detergent for each load. This can make laundry quicker and easier, especially for those who are busy or don’t have a lot of experience with laundry. However, they often come in plastic packaging, which can be harmful to the environment. They can also be more expensive per load compared to other forms of detergent.
Powder: Powder detergent is effective and often comes in larger quantities, which can make it more cost-effective in the long run. It’s also easy to adjust the amount you use based on the size of the load, which can help prevent waste. However, powder can be messy and difficult to measure, and it may not dissolve as well in cold water.
Gel: Gel detergent is similar to powder but in liquid form. It’s easy to use and dissolves well in both hot and cold water. However, like pods, gel detergent can be more expensive per load compared to powder. It also often comes in plastic packaging.
Eco-friendly laundry sheets: Eco-friendly laundry sheets are a newer option that are lightweight, easy to use, and come in minimal packaging. They are pre-measured sheets that you simply toss in the wash, eliminating the need to measure out detergent. They’re also easy to store and great for travel. However, they can be more expensive and less widely available. So, are laundry sheets really eco-friendly? Yes, they are! They use less packaging, are easy to transport, and contain concentrated cleaning power in a small, convenient strip. They’re also free from parabens, phosphates, added dyes, chlorine bleach, and other harmful ingredients.
Top Eco-Friendly Laundry Sheets
Here are some recommended top laundry sheet brands:
| Top Eco-Friendly Laundry Sheets | MyEcoHabit Summary |
|---|---|
| ECOS Laundry Detergent Sheets | ECOS Laundry Detergent Sheets offer a sustainable, mess-free laundry solution with 100% plastic-free packaging and dissolvable, plant-powered sheets. Each sheet effectively tackles dirt and stains, requiring just one per load, making laundry simple and eco-friendly. Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, these sheets provide a gentle yet powerful clean without harsh chemicals |
| Tru Earth Compact Laundry Detergent Sheets | Tru Earth Compact Dry Laundry Detergent Sheets offer a powerful yet eco-friendly laundry solution with a compact design that eliminates the need for bulky plastic jugs. These vegan-friendly, paraben-free sheets are gentle on sensitive skin while delivering uncompromising cleaning power, making them perfect for both everyday use and travel. With no measuring or mess, Tru Earth’s space-saving packaging reduces your carbon footprint, offering a convenient, sustainable alternative to traditional liquid or powder detergents. |
| Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets | Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets offer a powerful and convenient laundry solution with a commitment to sustainability. These eco-friendly sheets effectively tackle odors and stains in any wash cycle, while their compact, plastic-free packaging saves space and reduces waste. Hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, Earth Breeze sheets are gentle on sensitive skin, and with every purchase, the company donates 10 loads of detergent to charitable causes, making your laundry routine an act of kindness. |
| INSO Green Eco Laundry Detergent Sheets | INSO Green Eco Laundry Detergent Sheets provide an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional laundry detergents, delivering powerful stain removal while being gentle on fabrics. These dissolvable sheets come in zero-plastic packaging and offer a fresh, non-overpowering scent, making them perfect for both home and commercial use. Each pack of 40 sheets handles up to 80 loads, helping to reduce plastic waste and support a more sustainable laundry routine. |
Reducing Carbon Footprint with Laundry
There are several ways to reduce your carbon footprint with laundry. First, wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible. This saves energy, as heating water accounts for about 90% of the energy your washing machine uses. Washing at lower temperatures, between 60 and 80 degrees, uses less energy than washing at higher temperatures. Second, try to wash full loads to maximize water and energy efficiency. Finally, consider air-drying your clothes instead of using a dryer. This can significantly reduce your energy usage.
Special Considerations for Sensitive Skin
If you or a family member has sensitive skin, you’ll be happy to know that eco-friendly laundry products are often a great choice. They are typically free from harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin. Some brands to consider for sensitive skin include Molly’s Suds, which is made in the USA with plant and earth-based active cleaning ingredients that are peanut free, vegan, and certified cruelty-free.
Wrapping Up
Making the switch to eco-friendly laundry practices is not only good for the environment, but it can also be good for you and your family. With a variety of products available, it’s easier than ever to make your laundry routine more sustainable. So why not give it a try? You might be surprised at the difference it can make.
Ready to make your laundry routine more eco-friendly? Explore our range of eco-friendly detergents coming soon in our new online store!