We love eco-friendly detergents because they save the environment, treat our skin with kindness, and protect our clothes from harsh abrasives. After testing dozens of options, we genuinely believe these are the best green laundry detergents on the market.
How did we reach this conclusion? We spent hours analyzing ingredient labels, scouring real customer reviews, and consulting expert advice on sustainability. We ensured every detergent we recommend is safe for your home, your family, and the water systems they drain into.
- 100 percent natural
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Includes stain fighting enzymes
- Dermatologically-tested
- Plant-derived formula
- 96 loads per bottle
- Powerful cleaning formula
- Naturally scented
- Works in any washer
- Plant-based ingredients
- Tackles tough stains
- Good for sensitive skin
- Fights stains with no pre-treatment
- Plant-based product
- Cruelty-free
- Beautiful scent options
- Stain & dirt fighting enzymes
- Gentle on clothes
- Plant-derived ingredients
- Convenient pod design
- 3-in-1 formula
What Are Eco-Friendly Detergents?
Eco-friendly detergents, often called green detergents, ditch the petroleum-based ingredients found in conventional brands. Instead, they utilize plant-based surfactants and enzymes to lift dirt. They avoid harsh chemicals like phosphates, optical brighteners, and synthetic dyes.
What Are the Benefits?
Switching to organic laundry detergents offers significant advantages beyond just clean clothes. Here are two compelling reasons to make the switch:
- It is healthier for you: You drastically reduce your exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Conventional detergents can be a risky business; the chemicals often trigger headaches and irritate sensitive skin (1). By switching, you prioritize the health of your family.
- You protect the ecosystem: Many ingredients in standard detergents, such as phosphates, cause algal blooms that suffocate aquatic life (2). Green detergents are biodegradable and safer for our waterways.
Are Green Detergents Less Toxic?
Yes, they are generally much less toxic than conventional detergents. However, WebMD warns that there is technically no such thing as completely “non-toxic” since even natural ingredients can have side effects if misused (3).
In general, green detergents are safer, but you should always verify the ingredient list. Some “natural” products may still contain common allergens like limonene (citrus) or specific essential oils.
How to Choose
Navigating the aisle of green cleaning products can be confusing. Here are the top factors to consider when hunting for the best eco-friendly laundry detergent.
Type
We recommend looking at the type of laundry detergent first to see what fits your lifestyle.
Powders are excellent for hot washes and cardboard packaging is easily recyclable, but powder can struggle to dissolve in cold water. Laundry pods are convenient and pre-measured, but you must ensure the casing is fully biodegradable.
Liquids are the most versatile since they dissolve easily in any temperature. However, they usually come in heavy plastic jugs, which increases their carbon footprint during shipping.
Strength and Concentration
Green laundry detergents are generally gentler than commercial chemical cocktails. While this preserves fabric life, they might need help with heavy-duty grease.
Look for “concentrated” formulas. These require less water to manufacture and ship, making them a more sustainable choice. If you have kids or pets, look for enzyme-based formulas, as these are biologically designed to eat away at stains like grass and blood.
Hypoallergenic Properties
If you or your family members suffer from eczema, asthma, or contact dermatitis, a hypoallergenic detergent is non-negotiable.
Not every green detergent is hypoallergenic; some plant-based fragrances can still cause reactions. Always check for the National Eczema Association seal or a clear “fragrance-free” label if you are sensitive.
Scent
Finally, consider the fragrance source. Conventional brands use phthalates to make scents stick to clothes, which can disrupt hormones.
Green detergents should be scented with essential oils or botanical extracts. We will let you know if the detergents on our list are naturally scented or fragrance-free.
Product Reviews
We compiled this lineup based on meticulous research into brand transparency, real customer reviews, expert sustainability advice, and our own cleaning experiences. We analyzed the cleaning power, packaging waste, and ingredient safety of each contender.
Whether you need a heavy-duty stain fighter or a gentle wash for delicates, we are confident you will find a green match on this list.
Nellie's Laundry Soda
Best Detergent for Hard Water
This is a non-toxic, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic laundry powder. It leaves clothes feeling fresh without the chemical coating of softeners. It is free from gluten, SLES, phosphates, SLS, chlorine, and synthetic fragrance.
Nellie’s Laundry Soda keeps it incredibly simple with only four ingredients: linear alcohol ethoxylate, sodium metasilicate, sodium chloride, and sodium carbonate.
You can use this laundry detergent for darks, lights, whites, and even cloth diapers. It is unscented, which might disappoint those who love a lavender breeze, but it does a fantastic job of truly removing odors rather than masking them.
Pros
- Contains only four non-toxic ingredients.
- Highly effective in hard water areas.
- Removes odors at the source.
- Suitable for HE and standard washing machines.
- Works in both cold and hot water.
- Safe for cleaning cloth diapers.
Cons
- Unscented formula leaves no smell.
- The metal tin can be difficult to pry open.
- Struggles with very stubborn grease stains.
Product Specs
| Type | Powder |
| Cleaning strength | Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Naturally scented | Unscented |
| Number of Loads | 100 |
Our Ratings
Woolzies 100% Natural Laundry Detergent
Best Powder
This is a powerful stain-fighting detergent made with plant-derived ingredients like castile soap, coconut soap, washing soda, baking soda, and borax. It avoids the “grey area” chemicals that some other green brands still use.
We also love that it is hypoallergenic and formulated specifically for sensitive skin. If you are struggling to find a detergent that doesn’t make you itch, this gentle formula is a great contender.
Plus, it smells amazing. It is scented with real essential oils, giving you a lovely lavender and jasmine fragrance without the synthetic headache.
Pros
- 100 percent natural ingredients.
- Hypoallergenic formula is kind on the skin.
- Includes stain-fighting enzymes.
- Softens clothes naturally while cleaning.
- Suitable for standard and HE machines.
- Available in lavender or lemon-lime.
Cons
- Powder tends to puff out when opening the jar.
- The scent dissipates quickly after drying.
- Occasionally has trouble dissolving in ice-cold water.
Product Specs
| Type | Powder |
| Cleaning strength | Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 100 |
Our Ratings
Puracy Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent
Best for Sensitive Skin
This detergent is a holy grail for folks with skin conditions. It is hypoallergenic and was created by doctors specifically for allergy sufferers. It is plant-derived, allergen-free, and contains zero sulfates or phosphates.
It promises to be kind to your skin while still attacking dirt with plant-based enzymes. You can use this safely on most fabrics, including delicates, darks, microfibers, and cloth diapers.
If your goal is a non-toxic home, we highly recommend this green detergent. Plus, the super-concentrated pump bottle means you aren’t paying for shipped water.
Pros
- Developed by doctors for sensitive skin.
- Concentrated plant-derived formula.
- Pump bottle reduces mess and waste.
- Safe for children and pets.
- Offers 96 loads per bottle.
- Tackles odors effectively.
Cons
- Struggles to remove heavy, set-in stains.
- The scent is noticeable and might be strong for some.
- The pump mechanism can sometimes leak.
Product Specs
| Type | Liquid |
| Cleaning strength | Medium |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Naturally scented | Unscented |
| Number of Loads | 96 |
Our Ratings
Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent
Strongest Green Laundry Detergent
It employs a powerful triple-enzyme formula to break down proteins, starches, and fats. It claims to tackle all of life’s messes, making it a solid choice for big families with active kids.
It is a certified biobased product with 96 percent plant-based ingredients. While it does contain preservatives (making it not 100 percent natural), it is biodegradable and cruelty-free. Plus, it is fragranced naturally with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes.
This works in HE washers and standard machines. Just use the right amount, and you can say goodbye to wine, coffee, and spaghetti stains.
Pros
- Powerful cleaning formula with triple enzymes.
- Naturally scented in citrus or seaside options.
- Works effectively in any washer type.
- Fights tough stains like food and grass.
- Up to 53 loads per bottle.
- 96 percent plant-based ingredients.
Cons
- Contains synthetic preservatives (methylisothiazolinone).
- Bottles are prone to leaking during shipping.
- Not a hypoallergenic formula.
- Some customers find the scent too potent.
Product Specs
| Type | Liquid |
| Cleaning strength | Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 53 |
Our Ratings
Biokleen Natural Laundry Detergent
Best Liquid Detergent
This detergent cleans tough stains and tackles terrible odors using citrus extracts and grapefruit seed extract. It combines natural ingredients with science to give you a satisfying clean on all your clothes, including delicates.
The carefully selected ingredients mean you can do laundry without guilt. You are being kind to your skin, your family, and the watershed.
Biokleen is highly concentrated (3x), meaning a little goes a long way. It leaves no harsh residue that can irritate skin or harm aquatic life.
Pros
- Plant-based ingredients with citrus extracts.
- Tackles tough stains and odors.
- Gentle on sensitive skin.
- Approved by U.S. EPA Safer Products Standards.
- Triple concentrated for 128 loads.
- Very budget-friendly per load.
Cons
- Heavy food stains may need pre-treatment.
- Specific cold-water version required for lower temps.
- The scent is very mild.
Product Specs
| Type | Liquid |
| Cleaning strength | Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 128 |
Our Ratings
Dropps Stain and Odor Laundry Detergent Pods
Best Detergent for Stains
If you have kids, you know the chaos of stained clothes. Tomato sauce, grass, crayons; they are all hard to remove. Dropps uses powerful enzymes to lift these stubborn marks without harsh bleaches.
The pods are convenient, and the packaging is 100% cardboard, making this a great low-waste option. We love that it is naturally fragranced with essential oils like orange and lavender, or available in an unscented version for purists.
Pros
- Fights stubborn stains without pre-treatment.
- Plant-based formula.
- Cruelty-free and never tested on animals.
- Safe for delicate fabrics.
- Works in standard and HE machines.
- Cardboard packaging reduces plastic waste.
Cons
- Large loads may require two pods.
- Membrane might not dissolve in very cold water.
- Higher cost per load than powders.
- Rare reports of allergic reactions.
Product Specs
| Type | Pods |
| Cleaning strength | Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 140 |
Our Ratings
Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent, Honeysuckle
Best Smelling
The scent is often described as “serene and sunny,” making your laundry room feel like a summer garden. It is fruity, floral, and arguably the best-smelling detergent on the market.
Mrs. Meyer’s detergent is made with 97 percent plant-derived ingredients. It is formulated without parabens, chlorine, and optical brighteners, though it does contain some synthetic preservatives.
It relies on enzymes to fight dirt and stains, ensuring your clothes come out clean. If you aren’t a fan of honeysuckle, the basil or lavender scents are equally popular options.
Pros
- Incredible scent options.
- Contains stain-fighting enzymes.
- Gentle on fabric fibers.
- Concentrated formula covers 64 washes.
- Compatible with high-efficiency washers.
- Naturally scented with essential oils.
Cons
- Not 100 percent natural ingredients.
- Not a hypoallergenic formula.
- Scent does not linger long after drying.
- Struggles with heavy-duty mechanical grease.
Product Specs
| Type | Liquid |
| Cleaning strength | Medium-Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 64 |
Our Ratings
Ecoegg Fragrance Free Laundry Egg
Best Zero Waste Detergent
You can use this single egg for up to 720 loads of laundry. You simply toss it in the drum with your clothes, run the cycle, and let it dry between uses. It is the most fascinating gadget we have tested.
It uses two types of mineral pellets (tourmaline and mineral) to lift dirt and freshen clothes without harsh chemicals. This makes it incredibly kind to your skin and the environment.
It is safe for all fabrics, including delicates. Once you hit the 720-load mark, you just buy refill pellets rather than a whole new plastic container.
Pros
- Completely zero-waste system.
- Easy to use with no measuring required.
- Contains no harsh chemicals.
- Perfect for daily light loads.
- Lasts for 720 loads, making it extremely cheap.
- Gentle on delicate garments.
Cons
- Doesn’t remove tough food or mud stains.
- Not compatible with hot water washes (over 140°F).
- Can cause increased pilling on some fabrics.
Product Specs
| Type | Egg |
| Cleaning strength | Medium |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 720 |
Our Ratings
Grab Green Laundry Detergent Pods
Best Green Laundry Pods
Grab Green pods are responsibly formulated without harsh chemicals. You won’t find phosphates, parabens, dyes, or caustic chemicals here. The ingredients are naturally derived but still pack a punch.
These are marketed as 3-in-1 pods because they act as a detergent, stain remover, and brightener all at once. They work at all temperatures in both standard and HE washers.
There are four scent options, including a solid unscented version, all derived from essential oils.
Pros
- Plant-derived ingredients.
- Convenient pre-measured pod design.
- 3-in-1 formula cleans, fights stains, and brightens.
- Four scent options available.
- Free of optical brighteners, dyes, and chlorine.
Cons
- Pod membrane may not fully dissolve in cool water.
- Higher price point per load.
- Not effective on strong pet odors.
Product Specs
| Type | Pods |
| Cleaning strength | Strong |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Naturally scented | Yes |
| Number of Loads | 60 |
Our Ratings
NaturOli Soap Nuts
Best Naturally Green Detergent
These organic soap berries, harvested in the Himalayas, contain saponin, a natural surfactant that foams up when agitated in water. They are the most primitive, yet effective, way to wash clothes without processing.
These soap nuts leave clothes fresh and clean without any chemical residue. They are safe for delicates like silk and wool and work wonders on cloth diapers because they don’t cause buildup.
They are completely hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. If you have hyper-sensitive skin, this is likely your safest bet.
Pros
- Organic and harvested from the Himalayas.
- Safe for delicates, wools, and silks.
- Hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin.
- Leaves clothes feeling soft without softeners.
- Compostable after use.
Cons
- Not reliable as a heavy stain remover.
- Only last about 12 loads before needing replacement.
- High upfront cost (though cost-per-load is low).
- Requires a learning curve to use correctly.
Product Specs
| Type | Soap nuts |
| Cleaning strength | Gentle |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Naturally scented | Unscented |
| Number of Loads | 12 |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Type | Cleaning strength | Hypoallergenic | Scented | No. of Loads |
| Nellie’s Laundry Soda | Detergent for Hard Water | Powder | Strong | Yes | No | 100 |
| Woolzies 100% Natural Detergent | Powder | Powder | Strong | Yes | Yes | 100 |
| Puracy Liquid Laundry Detergent | For Sensitive Skin | Liquid | Medium | Yes | No | 96 |
| Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent | Strongest Green Laundry Detergent | Liquid | Strong | No | Yes | 53 |
| Biokleen Natural Laundry Detergent | Liquid Detergent | Liquid | Strong | No | Yes | 128 |
| Dropps Stain and Odor Laundry Pods | Detergent for Stains | Pods | Strong | Yes | Yes | 140 |
| Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent | Smelling | Liquid | Medium-Strong | No | Yes | 64 |
| Ecoegg Laundry Egg | Zero Waste Detergent | Egg | Medium | Yes | Yes | 720 |
| Grab Green Laundry Pods | Green Laundry Pods | Pods | Strong | No | Yes | 60 |
| NaturOli Soap Nuts | Naturally Green Detergent | Soap nuts | Gentle | Yes | No | 12 |
FAQs
How Can I Make My Laundry More Green?
You can make your laundry greener by switching to eco-friendly detergents like Woolzies 100 Percent Natural Detergent. Additionally, washing clothes in cold water saves massive amounts of energy, and air-drying your clothes skips the dryer’s energy consumption entirely.
Why is Fabric Softener Bad for the Environment?
Fabric softener is bad for the environment because it contains quats (quaternary ammonium compounds) that do not biodegrade easily and can be toxic to aquatic life. They also coat your clothes in a waxy layer that reduces the fabric’s absorbency and lifespan.
What is the Cheapest Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent?
One of the cheapest eco-friendly options per load is Puracy Natural Liquid Laundry due to its high concentration. Alternatively, reusable systems like the Ecoegg offer an incredibly low cost per wash over their lifespan.
How Good is Plant-Based Detergent?
Plant-based detergents are excellent for daily washing. They rely on enzymes and plant surfactants to lift dirt just as effectively as chemical detergents for normal loads. However, they may require a pre-treatment booster for heavy grease or industrial stains.
Are Laundry Detergent Sheets Better For the Environment?
Laundry detergent sheets are significantly better for the environment regarding transport. They are lightweight and plastic-free, drastically reducing carbon emissions during shipping compared to heavy liquid jugs.
What Happens to the Plastic In Laundry Pods?
The “plastic” in laundry pods is a polymer called Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA). While it is designed to dissolve in water, recent studies suggest that under certain conditions, it does not fully biodegrade in wastewater treatment plants and can linger in the environment.
Are Green Detergents Safe for Septic Systems?
Yes, most green detergents are highly recommended for septic systems. Because they lack harsh chemicals like bleach and phosphates, they do not kill the beneficial bacteria that your septic tank relies on to break down waste.
What Ingredients Should I Avoid in Laundry Detergent?
You should avoid phosphates (causes algae blooms), formaldehyde (a preservative and carcinogen), chlorine bleach (skin irritant), and 1,4-dioxane (a likely carcinogen often hidden in foaming agents).
