10 Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Laundry Detergent

Key Takeaways

• Traditional laundry detergents and plastic-wrapped pods can contribute to environmental impact, as ingredients and materials can persist in waterways after washing.

• There are many eco-friendly alternatives—from natural options like soap nuts to baking soda—that can clean effectively while reducing environmental footprint.

• Blueland’s laundry tablets offer a convenient, plastic-free alternative designed to deliver effective cleaning without unnecessary packaging or harsh ingredients.

People are often concerned about the ingredients in their laundry detergent due to skin allergens or sensitive skin, but those same ingredients can also contribute to the environmental impact of laundry. Why? Because what you wash your clothes with ends up back in the environment. More and more households are making the switch to clean, plastic-free laundry detergent (and never looking back). Here are five reasons that you should make the switch to clean laundry detergent.

Did you know that dishwasher and laundry pods are plastic and typically wrapped in a material called PVA? While this plastic dissolves in the wash, it does not disappear. In fact, studies have shown that around 75% of PVA from these pods ends up back in our environment, raising concerns about PVA's impact on the environment. The growing awareness around this issue has even led to legislative discussions, such as the Pods Are Plastic Bill, which aims to increase transparency and reduce plastic pollution from everyday cleaning products.

With growing awareness of how traditional detergents and plastic-wrapped pods impact our health and the environment, more people are looking for safer, more sustainable ways to clean their clothes. Let’s explore eco-friendly alternatives to laundry detergent that can help reduce your environmental footprint without compromising on cleanliness.

10 Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Laundry Detergent

1. Soap Nuts (Soapberries): These are natural berries that contain saponin, a natural detergent. They can be placed in a cloth bag and added to your laundry.

2. Baking Soda: Baking soda is a versatile and eco-friendly option. It can help to soften water, remove odors, and act as a gentle cleanser.

3. Washing Soda: Also known as sodium carbonate, washing soda is a mineral-based compound that can be used as a laundry booster. It helps to remove stains and soften water.

4. Castile Soap: This vegetable-based soap is gentle and biodegradable. You can use it in small quantities as a laundry detergent. To minimize additives, choose an unscented version.

5. Eco-friendly Laundry Pods or Tablets: Some companies (Blueland!) offer laundry pods or tablets with environmentally friendly ingredients. Look for ones that are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals like Blueland Laundry Tablets.

6. Homemade Detergents: You can make your own laundry detergent using simple ingredients like grated castile soap, washing soda, and borax. There are many DIY recipes available online.

7. Vinegar: White vinegar can be used as a fabric softener and helps to neutralize odors. It can also act as a mild disinfectant.

8. Wool Dryer Balls: While not a detergent replacement, using wool dryer balls can help reduce drying time and eliminate the need for fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

9. Liquid Castile Soap: This soap is plant-based and can be diluted with water to create a laundry detergent. Again, choose an unscented version to minimize additives.

10. Lemon Juice: Lemon juice brighten whites and remove stains. It also has natural antibacterial properties.

Remember to check the specific needs of your laundry (e.g., high-efficiency machines, fabric types) when choosing an alternative to traditional detergent. Additionally, always test any new product on a small, inconspicuous area of your clothing to ensure compatibility.

What Not to Use as a Laundry Detergent Alternative

While it is tempting to reach for anything liquid and soapy, not all household products are safe for your clothes or your washer. Avoid these commonly misused alternatives:

• Shampoo: Often loaded with oils, fragrances, and silicones that can leave residue on clothing and damage machines.

• Body Wash: Not formulated to break down dirt or oils from fabrics and can cause build-up over time.

• Dish Soap: Too concentrated and sudsy for washing machines, which can cause overflow and mechanical issues.

Find Sustainable Laundry Detergent Alternatives with Blueland

With so many eco-friendly laundry detergent alternatives available, it's easier than ever to reduce your environmental impact while keeping your laundry fresh and clean. Whether you choose soap nuts, baking soda, or homemade detergents, making the switch is a simple step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

For an effortless, effective, and eco-conscious option, opt for Blueland’s plastic-free laundry tablets—packed with powerful ingredients and zero-waste packaging. As you rethink your laundry routine, explore more tips on how to reduce waste and make choices that are better for both your home and the planet. 

Sources: 

1. Science Alert. A Chemistry Expert Reveals What They Personally Use in The Laundry

2. Science Direct. Environmental impacts of detergents and benefits of their recovery in the laundering industry

3. UNB. Eco-friendly alternatives to traditional laundry detergent