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Why you should be using an organic detergent

Regular laundry detergents are loaded with chemicals, on average. Without getting too deep in the weeds, some chemicals you could be exposing your clothes – and yourself – to include surfactants, phosphates, and even pesticides (we include a longer list of ingredients to avoid below). These chemicals all have a purpose in terms of cleaning your clothes (well, not the pesticides), but they don’t rinse out of your clothes when you’re done washing them. And then the clothing rubs against your skin, and your body absorbs the chemicals… not good. Consider going with an organic laundry detergent.

An organic laundry detergent uses all-natural ingredients to clean your clothes. This is better for you and the environment, particularly marine life. This is particularly important if you have a new baby.

What to look for/avoid in an organic detergent

• Like we said, the list of chemicals that can be in commercial laundry detergents is pretty shocking. These can include phosphates, 1,4 Dioxane, phthalates, optical brighteners, nonylphenols and nonylphenol ethoxylates, silver nanoparticles… you get the idea. Try to avoid these.
• Also try to avoid detergents made in other countries. While countries like the U.S. and Canada have banned some of the worst chemical offenders, other countries (ex. India) have not.
• Terms such as “non-toxic,” “biodegradable,” and “fragrance-free” are good; those detergents making lofty claims about bright clothes and fresh smells will often be using chemicals to back up their claims.
• Look for the EPA’s “Safer Choice” label on detergents, as they generally are.

Best Organic Laundry Detergents

Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent

• Ships as a two pack, so you get 106 loads
• Unscented
• Hypoallergenic for sensitive skin
• Sports the EPA Safer Choice label

Biokleen Natural Laundry Detergent

• Naturally citrus scented
• Liquid detergent, cleans 300 loads
• No artificial colors or preservatives
• Plant-based eco-friendly option

Charlie’s Soap Laundry Liquid

• Cleans 160 loads
• Hypoallergenic
• Unscented
• EPA Safer Choice certified