In our previous post, we explored eco-friendly dishwashing solutions. Another everyday household task that relies heavily on chemicals is doing laundry. Yet, few people consider its environmental impact. Every year, billions of laundry loads are washed worldwide. In the U.S. alone, the average household does about 400 loads annually (EPA). Similar numbers can be expected in Europe and other developed regions. Conventional laundry detergents often contain toxic chemicals, phosphates, and synthetic fragrances that pollute the environment and disrupt ecosystems.
Fortunately, there are now eco-friendly laundry detergents that offer the same cleaning power without the harmful effects on health and nature. In this article, we’ll explore the best eco-friendly laundry detergents that are globally available, highly rated, and meet strict environmental standards.
Conventional vs. Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents: What’s the Difference?
Advancements in detergent technology have made clothes cleaner, but they’ve also contributed to environmental and health issues. Synthetic fragrances and preservatives in traditional laundry detergents can be toxic to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. Wastewater from laundry detergent use poses a serious environmental threat due to the contamination of water supplies, the energy required for treatment, and the disposal of packaging materials (for more details, see Nidhi Gupta, Seema Sekhri 2021 or Unsustainable).
Most conventional laundry detergents contain chemicals that are proven to be harmful to both the environment and human health. The biggest culprits include:
- Phosphates – These contribute to excessive algae growth in water systems, leading to oxygen depletion and mass die-offs of fish and other aquatic species.
- Synthetic fragrances and phthalates – These chemicals can disrupt hormonal balance in both humans and animals.
- Optical brighteners – They leave residues on fabrics that may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
- Petrochemical-based detergents – While effective at removing stains, they leave toxic residues in waterways.
Most people wouldn’t want to return to outdated laundry methods, and fortunately, they don’t have to. Eco-friendly laundry detergents provide a sustainable alternative that minimizes environmental impact without sacrificing effectiveness. Their main benefits include:
- Plant-based and mineral ingredients instead of synthetic chemicals.
- Biodegradable formulas that don’t harm water ecosystems.
- Gentle on the skin, free from toxic fragrances and allergens.
- Recyclable packaging or zero-waste
- Cruelty-free, with vegan and Leaping Bunny certifications.
Let’s Take a Look at Some of the Best and Most Widely Available Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents You Can Buy Today
Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
Founded in 1988 in Burlington, Vermont, Seventh Generation is inspired by the Iroquois philosophy of responsibility for future generations. As a certified B Corporation, the company is committed to sustainability, ethical business practices, and reducing environmental impact. It produces eco-friendly cleaning products and household essentials while actively supporting climate change initiatives, fair trade, and water conservation (seventhgeneration.com).
Their laundry detergent line includes a variety of options with natural scents like Fresh Lavender and Geranium Blossoms & Vanilla, as well as a fragrance-free Free & Clear version, which is popular among people with sensitive skin. The brand offers liquid detergents, concentrated formulas, and laundry pods, with concentrated versions reducing the carbon footprint by minimizing transportation impact.
Sustainability: Seventh Generation detergents are formulated with plant-based cleaning agents, such as laureth-6 and sodium lauryl sulfate, along with enzyme-based stain removers like protease. They contain no synthetic fragrances, dyes, or optical brighteners, making them safer for sensitive skin and reducing environmental harm.
The packaging is made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, minimizing new plastic production. Compact and concentrated formulas further reduce emissions from transportation.
With 96% USDA Biobased content and a biodegradable formula, Seventh Generation is one of the most eco-conscious choices available. It also carries key certifications, including:
- EPA Safer Choice – Ensuring safety for people and the environment.
- Leaping Bunny – Guaranteeing no animal testing in any stage of production.
Performance: Consumers generally find this detergent effective for everyday stains, though it may struggle with tougher stains, requiring pre-treatment (Consumer Reports, Reddit). Reviews on Evolving Wellness praise its eco-friendly formula and absence of harsh chemicals while still offering good cleaning performance for regular laundry.
Overall, Seventh Generation is well-rated for its eco-friendly benefits and skin-friendly ingredients, though it may require additional treatment for stubborn stains.
Ecover Laundry Detergent
Founded in Belgium in 1979, Ecover was a pioneer in eco-friendly cleaning products. Since its inception, the company has focused on plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and sustainable manufacturing. In 2015, it earned B Corporation certification, reaffirming its commitment to social and environmental responsibility (bioplasticsmagazine.com). Ecover also promotes plastic waste reduction through refill stations and low-impact packaging.
Their laundry detergent range offers various options to suit different needs:
- Ecover Bio Laundry Liquid – Works effectively at low temperatures, available in scents like Honeysuckle & Jasmine and Lavender & Sandalwood.
- Ecover Non-Bio Laundry Liquid – Free of enzymes, making it gentler on sensitive skin.
- Ecover Zero Laundry Liquid – Completely fragrance-free and dye-free, designed for people with allergies or skin sensitivities.
Besides liquid detergents, Ecover also offers laundry powder, detergent pods, and specialty detergents for delicate fabrics, such as Ecover Delicate Laundry Liquid, which contains plant-based ingredients to protect sensitive materials like wool and silk (ecover.com).
Sustainability: Ecover’s formulations are carefully designed with both environmental and health concerns in mind. They are free from phosphates, synthetic fragrances, and petroleum-based chemicals, making them a safe and eco-friendly choice.
The packaging is made from 100% recycled plastic and is fully recyclable. The company also offers refill stations, allowing customers to reuse bottles, further cutting down on plastic waste (uk.ecover.com).
Ecover products meet strict environmental standards and hold multiple certifications, including:
- Leaping Bunny – Ensuring that neither the products nor their ingredients are tested on animals, making them a vegan-friendly option.
- ECOCERT – A certification for eco-friendly cleaning products that meet strict sustainability requirements. Ecover’s Essential product line, which includes these laundry detergents, has earned this certification.
Performance: Independent reviews and user feedback suggest that Ecover detergents are generally well-received. Based on personal long-term experience, this detergent is highly recommended.
Many consumers appreciate Ecover’s ability to effectively remove everyday dirt while leaving clothes fresh. However, some users note that stubborn stains may require pre-treatment or additional specialized stain removers.
The Ecover Zero range is particularly popular among people with sensitive skin, as it contains no fragrances or dyes. However, some users report that its cleaning power may be slightly lower compared to scented or enzyme-based alternatives (Consumer Reports, Reddit, Mumsnet).
Ecover laundry detergents remain a widely recognized and trusted eco-friendly alternative to conventional detergents. With a focus on plant-based ingredients, biodegradability, and ethical manufacturing, Ecover is a great option for consumers looking for sustainable laundry solutions. When selecting a specific product, it’s important to consider fabric type, skin sensitivity, and personal scent preferences.
Method Laundry Detergent
Method Products, PBC is a company founded in 2001 in San Francisco, specializing in the production of eco-friendly cleaning products for households. With a strong focus on sustainability and design, Method offers a wide range of products, from surface cleaners to personal care items.
In 2012, the company opened its “South Side Soapbox” factory in Chicago, designed with environmental sustainability in mind. The facility features a green roof and uses wind energy as part of its operations.
Method Laundry Detergent is available in a variety of scents, such as: Ginger Mango, Nectarine Blossom, Coconut + Cactus, Fresh Air. For individuals with sensitive skin, Method offers a Free + Clear version, which is dye-free and fragrance-free.
Sustainability: Method laundry detergent is highly concentrated, meaning that less detergent is needed per wash, reducing packaging waste and carbon emissions from transportation. The formula contains natural enzymes that enable effective cleaning even at lower temperatures. The detergent is made with biodegradable and plant-based ingredients, including laureth-7, sodium lauryl sulfate, and glycerin, which help remove dirt while being gentle on the environment.
All Method packaging is made from recycled plastics, contributing to waste reduction.
Method products hold several important certifications, including:
- Leaping Bunny – Guaranteeing that neither the product nor its ingredients were tested on animals.
- Cradle to Cradle Certification – Evaluating products based on material health, material reuse, renewable energy, water stewardship, and social fairness.
Performance: Method Laundry Detergent is often praised for its eco-friendly ingredients and pleasant scents. A review from TheHouseWire highlights its strong fragrance, effective cleaning power, and sustainability features. However, some users report that the scents can be too strong or artificial (Reddit).
Testing conducted by Better Homes & Gardens indicates that while Method Liquid Laundry Detergent has a pleasant scent, its ability to remove stains like chocolate, wine, or grass may be limited, meaning that pre-treatment might be required for tough stains.
Overall, Method Laundry Detergent is valued for its eco-conscious formula and fresh scents, but extra stain treatment may be necessary for optimal results.
Frosch Laundry Detergent
Frosch is a German eco-friendly cleaning brand launched in 1986 by Werner & Mertz GmbH, headquartered in Mainz, Germany. The brand focuses on producing sustainable and environmentally friendly cleaning and laundry products with a strong commitment to eco-conscious formulations.
Frosch Laundry Detergent is available in multiple variants, including:
- Aloe Vera Sensitive – Designed for sensitive skin, dermatologically tested, and free from harsh chemicals, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
- Color Detergent Pomegranate – Specially formulated to protect colors and prevent fading.
- Power Detergent Active Soda – A stronger formula designed for enhanced stain removal.
Sustainability: Frosch places a strong emphasis on eco-friendly ingredients and production methods. Their laundry detergents are formulated with plant-based components and are biodegradable, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The packaging is made from recyclable materials, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste.
The company also utilizes renewable energy in its manufacturing processes and operates its own wastewater treatment plant, which helps minimize environmental pollution.
Frosch has received multiple eco-certifications, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. These include:
- EU Ecolabel – A certification that guarantees products meet strict environmental criteria throughout their entire life cycle.
- EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) – Verifying compliance with European Union environmental management regulations.
Despite the brand’s strong commitment to natural and sustainable ingredients, not all of its products have received top ratings in independent tests (Environmental Working Group).
Performance: Many consumers appreciate Frosch’s mild scent and effective stain removal capabilities. According to ReviewMeta, which analyzed 2,367 reviews from 37 different Frosch products, the brand received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, indicating high customer satisfaction with its efficiency and quality.
Frosch has also demonstrated a proactive approach in addressing negative test results. In 2019, Öko-Test found synthetic polymers in some of Frosch’s laundry detergents, leading to a lower rating. In response, the company announced that it would remove these substances from its formulas. By 2020, Öko-Test confirmed that the problematic polymers were no longer present (Wikipedia).
Overall, Frosch Laundry Detergent is highly rated for its eco-friendly ingredients, effective cleaning power, and continuous improvements in sustainability standards.
Conclusion: A Small Change with a Big Impact
Switching to an eco-friendly laundry detergent is one of the simplest yet most impactful steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Traditional laundry detergents may leave clothes fresh, but at the cost of polluted rivers, damaged ecosystems, and potential health risks.
Today’s eco-friendly alternatives provide equal or better cleaning power while being safer, healthier, and environmentally responsible. With an increasing variety of sustainable products available, making the switch is easier than ever.
Even small steps lead to big changes—choosing the right eco-friendly laundry detergent protects not just your clothes, but also your health and the planet.
Stay connected with EcoCompass for more sustainability insights, product reviews, and eco-friendly tips to help make the world a greener place!