My journey to cleaner products for beauty, skincare and my household steadily continues! It’s actually been an extremely eye opening journey, that’s made me want to switch out more and more products for less-toxic alternatives. Late last year, I successfully made the switch to natural laundry detergents, and once again I’m not looking back!
If you’re new here, then you might consider checking out some of the previous posts I’ve put together detailing my journey towards using cleaner products: household cleaning supplies and more natural makeup choices. While I know it’ll be virtually impossible to switch out all the products I personally use for less toxic options, in today’s day and age, it’s pretty easy to swap out a wide variety. Plus, I’ve learned a lot along the way!
My favorite natural laundry detergents
I realize there are a variety of natural detergent brands out on the market, and I have a number of them on my must-try list. But for now, here are three natural laundry detergents we personally use on our laundry and why we love them.
Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry packs
These were my foray into clean laundry detergent. I love Seventh Generation products, so these were a no brainer purchase. Plus laundry pods are so convenient.
The most readily available of the three clean laundry detergents I’ve tried, easy to order or pick-up from Target. I know fragrances are a red flag for many, so these Free & Clear laundry packs are a great option – made with no dyes, fragrances or artificial brighteners. Personally, the unscented aspect was an adjustment for me, as I’m used to my clothes having a light scent once they’ve been washed.
Concentrated and effective cleaning power. I only use one pod with a regular load, but if it’s an extra large load, I’ll use two. If you’re not a detergent pod fan, the Free & Clear liquid detergent is also available.
The Laundress Signature detergent
I stumbled upon The Laundress at the recommendation of an employee at our local Container Store. I was skeptical, as it’s expensive, but I’m definitely a fan. I’ll preface by saying, this is a luxurious purchase and I don’t use this detergent every time I wash clothes. I tend to use it more for our undergarments or small local or Rick’s polo shirts.
The Laundress detergent is non-toxic, biodegradable and allergen-free. It’s free of toxic ingredients VOCs, phosphates, phthalates and dyes. I’d say the fragrance is nice, but possibly a bit strong for those with sensitivities.
The concentrated formula works well and leaves clothes fresh. In my opinion the dispenser could use some work. The instructions recommend using the cap to measure out the detergent, but it drips and gets the bottle messy, so now I just eyeball it.
I’ve enjoyed this detergent enough to purchase a few of their other products. The Denim Wash is amazing, I feel like it’s totally worth the price tag. I also really love their Sports Detergent. The scent is strong, but my nasty, sweaty post-spin workout gear smells fresh and is free of stains when it comes out of the wash.
365 Whole Foods MarkeT Liquid detergent packs
The most recent of the clean laundry detergents I’ve purchased. I enjoy Whole Foods branded products, so I had high hopes for these pods. I like them, but they’re not at the top of my list.
The citrus scent can be a bit overpowering, but what bothers me the most is the color. The bag somehow got crushed after I purchased, and I later found a pod had popped inside… when orange-colored detergent got all over my clothing. With so many clean brands successfully getting away from dyes, you’d think Whole Foods could do the same. It looks like the fragrance-free version of these pods are dye free.
These pods have no added phosphates, phthalates free or chlorine. These laundry packs are well-priced, and the concentrated formula works efficiently. Bottom line, I like these laundry pods, but they have a few drawbacks for me. I still have a handful of them that I use, but don’t reach for them like I do the other two clean options above.
