9 Natural Laundry Detergents Made With Nontoxic Ingredients
The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
Have you (or perhaps your baby) ever worn newly washed clothes only to have your skin break out in rashes or hives?
You’re not alone: This is an all-too-common problem due to most commercial laundry detergents. Many detergents use surfactants (chemicals that help water penetrate the fabric), phosphates, and even potential carcinogens, which can irritate our skin, make their way to our lungs, and even endanger our long-term health.
But with organic laundry detergents, you can look out for your health and the planet. Organic laundry detergents are made with natural ingredients that still do the hard work of removing tough stains. We’ve found options that are more than just natural/organic—they’re eco-friendly, too, with biodegradable formulas and recyclable packaging. And they all work with either front-loading or top-loading washers, so no matter what, you’re all set.
Who knows, it might just be the first time you enjoy doing laundry.
Best Overall | Best for Sensitive Skin
1. Dropps
Features | Plant-based formulas, recyclable packaging, HE-compatible, no dyes, chlorine, phosphates, parabens, or phthalates
Available At | Online, Thrive Market
Price | $26 for 64 pods; discounted subscriptions available
Dropps makes our lives easier and safer with plant-based laundry detergent pods. Made without dyes, phosphates, and chlorine, this third-party tested formula is powered by botanical ingredients and natural oils like patchouli and eucalyptus. It’s pre-packaged in a water-soluble casing so you don’t even need to measure it; simply drop one in to the wash, add your clothes, choose your cycle, and hit start! Dropps offers subscriptions so you never need to worry about restocking, sent to you in compostable packaging with carbon-neutral shipping. Ideal for pets, babies, and sensitive skin, Dropps has formulas for everyone. Check out our Dropps review for more!
Dropps’ Detergent Review | “We […] couldn’t be happier to make the switch! We also love how eco-friendly and minimal the packaging is. We bought the biggest quantity available (as this will last our needs for at least a year) and it was well worth the money!” —Thomas B.
2. Puracy
Features | Plant-based enzyme formula, hypoallergenic, biodegradable, HE-compatible, no sulfates, phosphates, dyes, chlorine, artificial fragrances, or brighteners
Available At | Online
Price | $17 for 16 fl. oz
Puracy developed the first stain remover in history to include all six plant-based enzymes—and its Natural Laundry Detergent has four of them. At 64 loads per 16 oz. bottle, it’s also one of the most concentrated laundry detergents (10x) ever sold. Developed by doctors for allergy sufferers and those with sensitive skin, Puracy’s 99.5 percent natural detergent also includes a mineral-based odor remover and has successfully been tested on silk, premium denim, wool, microfiber, and other fine fabrics. It’s safe on septic systems, has a no-drip pump top, and is fully produced in the USA.
Puracy’s Detergent Review | “I do at least 2 large loads of laundry every day and 2 of these containers last me over a month, so I definitely think they are a good value…I am really picky about detergent because it has to be really good at getting the stains out and these are.” —Kat
3. The Simply Co.
Features | Biodegradable formula, recyclable packaging, HE-compatible, no dyes, synthetic fragrances, chlorine, phosphates, or parabens
Available At | Package Free
Price | $24 for 32 oz.
The Simply Co. laundry detergent is highly effective, especially since it only has three ingredients—yup, just three! Baking soda, washing soda, and organic vegan castile soap help remove stains with no problem at all for up to 60 loads. The Simply Co. wins extra points, too, thanks to its biodegradable formula, recyclable packaging, and bulk buying option to reduce single-use plastic waste. The formula is also safe for babies, children, and those with sensitive skin.
The Simply Co.’s Detergent Review | “I love this detergent! It does a fabulous job at cleaning my clothes and getting them smelling fresh. I also love the look of the container and the basic ingredients it’s made from. A win win all around!” —Zoe M.
4. Dedcool
Features | Signature fragrance collection in laundry detergent, personal fragrances & more, biodegradable, non-toxic & carbon neutral
Available At | Online, Sephora
Price | $35 for 32 oz.
LA brand Dedcool‘s genderless, sophisticated personal fragrances might already be on your radar, but did you know about their detergent? 100% biodegradable and available in a refillable, recyclable aluminum can, this wash comes in four of their intoxicating, genderless, signature scents. If you’re tired of the same old big box laundry smell and want to level up your clothing scent (bergamot, incense, or gardenia, anyone?) without harming the environment, their aptly named Dedtergent is the product for you!
Dedcool’s Detergent Review | “I have been a long time user if clean detergent and this one is great! It’s so fresh but nothing like the grocery store brands. Smells expensive. I use it on my sheets, sweaters and blankets. It keeps static at bay and everything is super soft.” —Andrea
5. Blueland
Features | Hypoallergenic, compostable packaging, HE-compatible, no artificial dyes or fragrances, chlorine, phosphates, or parabens
Available At | Online, The Container Store
Price | $25 for 60 tablets
On a mission to reduce plastic and waste, Blueland‘s laundry detergent pods come in fully compostable packaging without the plastic film you may be used to. Free from allergens, chlorine, and petroleum, these are better for the planet and your body. They’re vetted, too, with certifications from Leaping Bunny, Cradle to Cradle, and USDA BioPreferred. (A tip: If you’re missing the typical “laundry smell” that comes with mainstream detergents, throw in some dryer balls with essential oils for a subtly lingering scent.)
Blueland’s Detergent Review | “I have two of the WORST smells to get out of clothes…I thought I would give these tablets a try. After all, less waste, no giant jugs to store, no residue left on my shelves all wins. After doing a load of husbands clothes and a load of soiled bedding I am hooked! The smell is GONE!” —Karen R.
6. Branch Basics
Features | Plant- and mineral-based, fragrance free, non GMO, no harmful preservatives
Available At | Online
Price | $85 for three-piece laundry kit
Branch Basics‘ laundry kit comes with a liquid concentrate and an oxygen boosting powder, and a reusable, refillable detergent bottle. The bottle comes with a no-drip cap and is the perfect, stylish and sustainable container for mixing your concentrate (one bottle lasts up to 192 loads of laundry!). Fragrance-free and naturally soothing from antioxidant-rich chamomile extract, this detergent is good for sensitive skin.
Branch Basics’ Detergent Review | “I was skeptical, but proven wrong. This works well. I was surprised at how well it cleans mirrors and glass. And I love the glass spray bottles. I am trying to rid our house of plastic!” —Angel M.
7. Rosey by Thrive
Features | Gluten- and synthetic fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, pthalate- and paraben-free, BPA-free, safe for septic tank
Available At | Thrive Market
Price | $13 for 50 fl.oz. (liquid), $13 for 42 oz. (powder), $18 for 45 packs
Rosey by Thrive makes earth-friendly liquid detergent, powder, and pods that are free from toxic or harsh chemicals but high performing enough to handle your daily messes. Choose from all natural, non-synthetic fragrances peppermint or lavender, or go for a fragrance-free option for ultra sensitive skin. With 3x concentrated, the liquid detergent lasts up to 100 washes and the powder and pods last up to 75 and 40 loads respectively. This Thrive Market brand has thousands of four-star+ reviews, so it’s certainly worth a shot!
Rosey by Thrive Detergent Review | “Love that this doesn’t have harsh chemicals or fragrance and it actually cleans my clothes. It’s the only detergent I’ve used for about two years now. I do use a separate stain remover for things I know are tough stains but this is great for normal washing.” —Angela
8. Earth Breeze
Features | Hypoallergenic, works in all machines, bleach- and dye-free
Available At | Online
Price | $20 for 30 sheets (just $12 when you subscribe)
For a truly plastic-free experience, liquidless eco-sheets from Earth Breeze are top of the list. These fully biodegradable sheets are harmless to the planet, to humans, and to our animal friends, providing a portable, easy-to-use product that also deep cleans and smells great. Without any jugs, bottles, or microplastics, this sheet can be dropped into any washing machine and cleans without depositing anything harmful into the earth. *Adds to cart*
Earth Breeze Sheets Detergent Review | “Love this amazing product on so many levels – I keep telling my friends and family about it – hope they’re buying 😊🙏” —Debra R
9. Biokleen
Features | Plant-based, biodegradable, recyclable packaging, HE-compatible, no phosphates, chlorine, petroleum, artificial dyes, fragrances, or brighteners
Available At | Online
Price | Starting at $18 for 64 fl. oz
Founded in 1989, Biokleen has been delivering highly-concentrated nontoxic cleaners for over three decades. It was initially launched to make plant-based products for professional services and janitors and has since shared its formulas with families across America. The 3x concentrated Laundry Liquid can clean 300 high-efficiency loads (or 150 standard ones). It’s safe for those with allergies or sensitivities and has no negative effects on rivers, plants, or wildlife. And by manufacturing with cold water, Biokleen reduces its gas reliance and output.
Biokleen’s Detergent Review | “I am so happy to have found an inexpensive detergent alternative! Biokleen has an A rating from the EWG. I am just now reordering after my last bottle lasting almost 7 months for a family of 5!” —B. Sticks
Featured image is from Deadcool
