Derek Ma, MSc
When I first considered switching to non-toxic laundry detergent, I was skeptical.
Would it really get my clothes clean? Would it be gentle enough for my sensitive skin? And would I miss the familiar “fresh laundry” scent from my favorite conventional detergents such as Tide?
After some research, I decided to try plant-based, fragrance-free detergents. So as a scientist, here are my Top 10 best non toxic laundry detergents for 2025.
The first thing I noticed was the absence of the overpowering scent that used to linger on my clothes and in my laundry room. Instead, my laundry just smelled clean—no artificial fragrances.
The real test came during my workouts. In the past, I’d often experience itchiness and mild rashes, especially after working out and sweating in freshly washed clothes.
Within a few weeks of using the non-toxic detergent, those issues noticeably decreased. My clothes felt softer, and I didn’t have to worry about hidden irritants or harsh residues.
Why Choose Non Toxic Laundry Detergent?
Healthier for You and Your Family
Traditional detergents often contain synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin and trigger allergies.
Better for the Planet
Many non-toxic detergents are biodegradable, use plant-based ingredients, and come in recyclable or compostable packaging, reducing your environmental footprint.
Effective Cleaning
Modern non-toxic formulas are just as powerful as their conventional counterparts, tackling stains and odors without compromising safety.
What I Look for in “Non-Toxic” Laundry Detergent
- Read The Ingredient List: Free from dyes, chlorine bleach synthetic fragrances, 1,4-dioxane, and optical brighteners
- Plant-based or mineral-derived ingredients
- No 1,4-dioxane, SLS (Sodium lauryl sulfate), or phosphates
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested
- Look for Third-party Certifications: Such as EPA Safer Choice, USDA Biobased, Made Safe or EWG Verified
List of Common Laundry Detergent Ingredients I’m looking to avoid
| Chemical/Group | Long-Term Health Risks | Key Takeaways |
| Synthetic Fragrances | Allergies, asthma, hormone disruption | Linked to skin/respiratory issues |
| Optical Brighteners | Skin irritation, environmental toxicity | Persistent on fabrics and skin |
| 1,4-Dioxane | Carcinogen, organ toxicity | Not listed on labels |
| Phthalates | Endocrine disruption, reproductive issues | Disrupts hormonal balance |
| Formaldehyde | Cancer risk, respiratory irritation | Used as preservative |
| Surfactants (SLS, SLES) | Mucous membrane/lung damage, irritation | May trigger asthma, eczema |
Top 10 Best Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents
1. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent
- Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (19,921 ratings)
- Highlights: Plant-based, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and USDA Certified Biobased.
- Best For: Families, those with allergies, and anyone seeking a gentle but effective clean.
2. ECOS Free & Clear Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent
- Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (16,043 ratings)
- Highlights: Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested, EPA Safer Choice certified, free from dyes and fragrances, and made in the USA.
- Best For: Those transitioning from conventional detergents and seeking eco-friendly packaging.
3. Truly Free Laundry Wash Signature Scent
- Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (1,274 ratings)
- Highlights: Non-toxic, cruelty-free, refillable packaging, available in scented and unscented options. Plant-based formula.
- Best For: Babies and people with sensitive skin.
4. Tru Earth Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent
- Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (30,865 ratings)
- Highlights: Ultra-concentrated strips, hypoallergenic, zero-waste, plastic-free. Fragrance-free and no plastic jug (strips)
- Best For: Minimalists and eco-conscious consumers who want convenience and sustainability.
5. Biokleen Free & Clear Laundry Liquid
- Amazon Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 (7,450 ratings)
- Highlights: Concentrated, plant-based and hypoallergenic formula, free from artificial fragrances and dyes. Made in the USA.
- Best For: Families with sensitivities, available in liquid, powder, or sheet form.
6. Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder
- Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (19,803 ratings)
- Highlights: EWG-verified, uses plant essences and enzymes, peppermint scent. Made in the USA and Leaping Bunny Certified.
- Best For: Those avoiding synthetic chemicals and wanting a refreshing scent.
7. Meliora Unscented Powder Detergent
- Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (722 ratings)
- Highlights: Minimal ingredients that are all Made Safe Certified, plastic-free packaging, fragrance-free. B-corp and Leaping Bunny Certified.
- Best For: Sensitive skin and those avoiding all scents.
8. Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets
- Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (93,441 ratings)
- Highlights: Compostable packaging, ultra-concentrated and hypoallergenic sheets, supports charitable causes.
- Best For: Travelers and anyone seeking a space-saving, eco-friendly option.
9. Soap Nuts Berries for Laundry – 330 Loads, 2.2 Lbs – Hypoallergenic & Unscented Natural Detergent – Eco-Friendly Alternative With Burlap Backpack
- Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (316 ratings)
- Highlights: These soap nuts laundry detergent are made from hand-picked wild soap nuts that grow at the base of the Himalayan mountains. These soap nuts organic can be reused up to 4 times until the nuts turn soft & gray. USDA Certified Organic, single-ingredient, fully biodegradable and comes in a reusable burlap backpack.
- Best For: Babies, allergy sufferers, and those seeking the most natural option.
10. NaturOli
- Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (1,454 ratings)
- Highlights: Organic laundry soap, natural detergent & all-purpose, green household cleaner. Hypoallergenic & fragrance free. Ideal for sensitive skin.
- Best for: Babies, allergy sufferers, and those seeking the most natural option.
Why You Should Avoid 1,4-Dioxane in Laundry Detergent
- It is not intentionally added to laundry detergents but often appears as a contaminant or byproduct, especially in products containing ethoxylated surfactants (1🍃) (ingredients often ending in “-eth,” such as sodium laureth sulfate, laureth-6, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), and ceteareth or steareth)
- Cancer Risk: The EPA and other agencies have determined that 1,4-dioxane is likely to cause cancer in humans, based on studies showing increased rates of tumors in animals exposed to the chemical.
- Organ Toxicity: Exposure—whether by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact—can damage the liver, kidneys, and nasal tissues.
- Environmental Impact: Even trace amounts washed down the drain from laundry detergents can accumulate and contaminate drinking water sources, posing risks to communities and the environment.
What is EPA Safer Choice?
EPA Safer Choice (2🍃) is a certification program by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that helps consumers easily identify cleaning and other products made with ingredients that are safer for people, pets, and the environment—without sacrificing cleaning performance.
To earn the Safer Choice label, every ingredient in a product is reviewed by EPA scientists and must meet strict safety standards for human health and environmental impact.
Products with this label do not contain known carcinogens, reproductive toxins, or chemicals that harm aquatic life.
| Certification | What It Means | Key Requirements & Features |
| EPA Safer Choice (U.S Environmental Protection Agency) | Identifies products with safer ingredients for people, pets, and the environment. | – Every ingredient reviewed by EPA scientists- No known carcinogens, reproductive toxins, or aquatic toxins- Must meet strict safety standards for health and environment |
| MADE SAFE (Independent Nonprofit) | Certifies products made without ingredients known or suspected to harm humans, animals, or ecosystems. (3🍃) | – Avoids 15,000+ harmful chemicals- Full ingredient and process transparency- Covers risks to people, pets, aquatic life, and environment- Precautionary principle: unverified ingredients not allowed |
| USDA Biobased (U.S Department of Agriculture) | Indicates products are made from renewable biological Sources (plants, marine, or forestry materials). (4🍃) | – Product must meet or exceed minimum biobased content (25% or as specified for category)- Third-party lab verification of biobased content- Certification allows use of USDA Certified Biobased label- Does not guarantee overall safety or environmental impact, but reduces reliance on petroleum-based ingredients |
Tips for a Greener Laundry Routine
- Use cold water to save energy.
- Wash full loads to reduce water and energy use.
- Skip fabric softeners—most non-toxic detergents leave clothes soft naturally.
- Air dry when possible to further minimize your carbon footprint.
Switching to non-toxic laundry detergents is a simple yet powerful way to protect your health, care for your family, and reduce your environmental impact.
With so many high-performing, safer options now available—from plant-based liquids to innovative detergent sheets—making the change has never been easier or more rewarding.
Certifications like EPA Safer Choice, MADE SAFE, and USDA Biobased help you identify products that meet strict standards for safety, sustainability, and transparency, giving you peace of mind with every wash.
By choosing non-toxic detergents, you’re not just getting clean clothes—you’re making a positive choice for your home and the planet.
Whether you have sensitive skin, young children, or simply want to live more sustainably, these detergents prove that you don’t have to sacrifice cleaning power for safety.
Small changes in your laundry routine can add up to big benefits for your well-being and the world around you.
References
- EPA confirms health risks of 1,4-dioxane
- Safer Choice | US EPA
- Certification Process – MADE SAFE a program of Nontoxic Certified
- BioPreferred|About
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