non-toxic laundry detergents for blog post

7 Best Natural Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents: Top Picks for a Healthier Home

November 21, 2025 The links in this post are regular links. I am not affiliated with any company.

Cleaner Clothes, Cleaner Living: The Best Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents

Switching to natural and non-toxic laundry detergents is not only better for the environment, but also for your health. Conventional detergents could irritate sensitive skin, trigger allergies, and leave chemical residues that affect indoor air quality. For homes with children, babies, or people with skin sensitivities, gentle, plant-based formulas make doing laundry safer and more pleasant.

I only recommend detergents that pass the strict criteria I have for safety: no synthetic fragrances, harsh surfactants, phosphates, optical brighteners, chlorine, enzymes, dyes, formaldehyde, or quats. These criteria ensure a clean that’s effective, safe, and eco-conscious.

What to Look for in Truly Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents

When choosing a truly non-toxic laundry detergent, it helps to focus on a few key criteria that ensure the product is not only safe but also effective. Paying attention to ingredients, certifications, and packaging will go a long way in finding a detergent that best suits your health requirements and environmental considerations.

Plant- or mineral-based ingredients: Try to find formulas made from naturally derived cleaning agents, not harsh synthetic chemicals. These options clean effectively while being gentler on skin and the environment.
Unscented and fragrance-free options: For the most sensitive households, opt for detergents without synthetic fragrances-or even essential oils. Unscented formulas minimize irritation in people with allergies, eczema, or reactive skin.
Trusted certifications: Labels like ECOLOGO, EWG Verified, and USDA Organic provide third-party assurance that the product meets strict safety and environmental standards. This allows you to spot truly clean formulas.
Sustainable packaging: Biodegradable, recyclable, or refillable packaging reduces the environmental footprint of your household. Most nontoxic brands opt for low-waste packaging formats made of cardboard, paper, or refill pouches.
Who benefits most: Non-toxic laundry detergents are ideal for families with babies, individuals with sensitive skin, people avoiding endocrine disruptors, and anyone with allergies or respiratory sensitivities. They’re also a great choice for anyone who just wants a safer, greener laundry routine.

Keeping these factors in mind will help you choose a detergent that supports a healthy home and a more sustainable lifestyle.

The 7 Best Natural Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents

1. Molly’s Suds Unscented Laundry Detergent Powder

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What makes Molly’s Suds Unscented Laundry Detergent Powder stand out is its ultra-clean and minimalist ingredient profile, specifically formulated for sensitive skin. With a focused approach to transparency and purity, it incorporates only plant- and earth-derived components, avoiding harsh chemicals, dyes, and synthetic fragrances. As a result, it is trusted by households to minimize irritants and still provide effective cleaning.

Best for: It’s perfect for washing baby clothes, cloth diapers, and garments from family members with skin sensitivities, eczema, or allergic reactions.

Highlights:

Powder formula for clean dissolving.
Residue-free performance, even in cold water
Highly concentrated, providing more loads per package
Free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and preservatives
Compatible with both regular and HE washing machines.

Pros

Gentle on skin, very suitable for babies and sensitive skin.
Ingredient list simple, transparent
Concentrated formula offers better value and less waste.
Effectively eliminates odors and buildup with no harsh chemicals.
Performs well for cloth diapers and heavily soiled items

Cons

Powder format can be more sensitive and prone to clumping in extremely cold water.
May not offer high stain-fighting power for deeply set-in stains
More expensive per load than some mass-market detergents

2. ATTITUDE Nature+ Technology Laundry Detergent (Unscented)

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ATTITUDE’s Nature+ Technology Unscented Laundry Detergent ranks high because of its powerful plant-based formula and commitment to sustainability. Its certification by ECOLOGO® ensures that it has stringent environmental criteria for low ecological toxicity, making it a responsible choice for households needing effective cleaning with no harsh chemicals. The formula relies on surfactants derived from natural sources and avoids synthetic fragrances, being both gentle and dependable in daily laundry.

Best For: This detergent provides consistent cleaning for daily household loads and appeals to eco-minded shoppers because of its biodegradable, low-impact formula. It also comes unscented and hypoallergenic, perfect for users with sensitivities to added fragrances.

Highlights:

Hypoallergenic, designed especially to reduce irritation
Fully biodegradable formula
Fragrance-free, formulated without synthetic perfumes
Plant-based surfactants provide reliable, everyday cleaning.
Suitable for both standard and HE washing machines
Vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged with the environment in mind.

Pros

Formula made up of environment-friendly, botanical-based ingredients.
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic in design, it is gentle on sensitive skin.
Biodegradable and sustainably certified to lessen environmental impact.
Works well in cold water to help conserve energy.
Refill formats are available to reduce packaging waste.
Vegan and cruelty-free, supporting ethical household choices.

Cons

Not as effective on hard stains as enzymes-based detergents
Unscented profile may feel too neutral for those who prefer a “fresh laundry” smell
Higher price per load than many conventional detergents
Powdery or film-like residue may occur in very hard water unless adjustments are made
Not as effective against oils or gym smells as some specialty solutions

3. AspenClean Natural Laundry Detergent (Unscented)

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What really sets AspenClean’s unscented laundry detergent apart, though, is that it’s EWG Verified, meaning it meets some of the strictest health and safety standards out there for cleaning products. The formulation is remarkably clean and transparent: AspenClean publishes all of its ingredients, and the components are plant- and mineral-derived, avoiding synthetic dyes, brighteners, carcinogens, and unnecessary chemical preservatives.

Best For: This is highly suitable for those who have extremely sensitive skin or allergies, for eco-conscious shoppers who look for non-toxic and biodegradable cleaners, for families with babies or pets who need gentle, fragrance-free products, and for anyone looking for full ingredient disclosure in their homes.

Highlights:

Certified EWG Verified, ensuring that no toxic or harmful substances are hidden.
Made without synthetic fragrance – completely unscented.
Ingredients include decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, sodium carbonate, sodium gluconate, potassium cocoate, and glycerin – all from plant- or mineral-based origins.
Works in all water temperatures and is suitable for both regular and HE machines.
Cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny–certified, and Ecocert certified for natural formulation.
Packaging utilizes post-consumer recycled materials, reflecting AspenClean’s commitment to the environment.

Pros

Exceptional safety: EWG Verified means very low risk of toxic or irritating ingredients.
Gentle on skin: Truly fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, great for babies, eczema, or allergy sufferers.
Eco-friendly: biodegradable, plant- and mineral-based formula; sustainably sourced ingredients.
Transparent: Full disclosure of ingredients, so there is no guesswork about what’s in your detergent.
Versatile: Works in all kinds of washing machines and water temperatures.
Ethical: Certified cruelty-free, uses environmentally responsible packaging.

Cons

May feel milder on tough stains: without heavy-duty synthetic enzymes, it may not remove really stubborn or greasy stains as aggressively as a conventional detergent does.
Price-per-load can be higher: Premium, green-certified detergents can be more expensive than mass-market formulas.
No scent “freshness”: Whereas unscented is a big plus for many, some people may miss the uplifting smell that fragranced laundry detergents give them.
May require extra product: Extra-large or very dirty loads may require more than the minimum amount of recommended product for the same cleaning power as more robust detergents.

4. Meliora Cleaning Products Laundry Powder (Unscented)

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Meliora’s unscented laundry powder earns its place because of its environmental ethos and ingredient transparency. Instead of an encyclopedic list of synthetic chemicals, it uses a clean, simple formula — and is thoughtfully packaged to eliminate waste. The MADE SAFE®-certified formula means that each ingredient within the product has passed through a high safety standard for both human health and ecological impact.

Best For: This detergent is great for low-waste, minimalist households and sensitive-skin users thanks to its additive-free formula and refillable, biodegradable design.

Highlights:

MADE SAFE® certification for safer ingredient screening.
Formula contains only a few simple, naturally derived ingredients: baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), washing soda (sodium carbonate), and vegetable soap derived from organic coconut oil.
Packaging is plastic-free: comes in a paper-and-steel canister that is designed to be reused with refill bags.
Very concentrated: half a tablespoon for high-efficiency (HE) machines, one tablespoon for standard – and it produces a large number of loads.
Vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified; free from synthetic preservatives.
It is lightweight and shelf-stable, in a powder format for easier shipping and storage.

Pros

Zero-waste packaging: The reusable canister + paper/steel construction helps cut down on plastic.
Non-toxic, transparent formula: Only a few ingredients, all of which are listed and non-toxic.
Highly concentrated: A little is enough, therefore reducing per-load cost.
Gentle on skin and fabrics. Does not contain artificial dyes or fragrances, hence suitable for sensitive users.
Eco-friendly certifications: MADE SAFE, vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable; these go well with the values of green cleaning.
Flexible Refill System: Refills can be purchased to reuse the container.

Cons

Mild cleaning power: With the formulation being very straightforward-no heavy synthetic enzymes for hard work-it may not easily tackle very stubborn or greasy stains.
Unscented profile: While great for sensitivities, those who like a “fresh” fragrance might miss scented detergents.
Requires proper measure: either under- or over-measuring can reduce effectiveness because it is highly concentrated.
May not fully dissolve in very cold water: A number of users mention that powder detergents require at least some warmth to dissolve well.
Initial cost of container: You may have to buy the canister first, even though refills are less expensive in the long term.

5. Rebel Green Organic Fresh Laundry Detergent (Unscented)

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What really sets Rebel Green’s unscented laundry detergent apart, however, is its USDA Certified Organic formulation, meaning that the majority of its ingredients come from certified-organic sources. This commitment to organic, plant-based cleaning makes it a very clean, non-toxic choice for people seeking to minimize exposure to harsh chemicals. Additionally, the company highlights sustainability, biodegradability, and gentle performance-all without compromising on cleaning power.

Best For: This liquid detergent is ideal for eco-minded families and sensitive-skin users who want a gentle, biodegradable, organic formula that’s economical and effective for everyday laundry.

Highlights:

Hypoallergenic and free of synthetic dyes, parabens, phosphates, and phthalates.
USDA Certified Organic surfactants-meaning the key cleaning agents meet organic standards.
3× concentrated formula: less is needed per load.
Low-to-no sudsing: designed to rinse clean, which can save water and reduce residue.
Biodegradable, plant-derived ingredients, allowing for a more eco-friendly formula.
Certified B Corp, reflecting Rebel Green’s broader commitment to social and environmental standards.
Hypoallergenic, thus gentle enough for the most sensitive skins.

Pros

Highly eco-friendly: USDA Organic certification, biodegradable plant-based ingredients.
Gentle on skin: Unscented and hypoallergenic, reduces the possibility of irritation.
Concentrated formula: requires less detergent per load, therefore saving money and packaging.
Low residue: Low suds help with rinsing and may reduce buildup on clothes.
Ethically produced: the B Corp certification signals a commitment to social and environmental impact.

Cons

Price point: Organic, concentrated detergents are normally pricier than standard mass-market ones.
Less “fresh” smell: Because it is unscented, it may lack the typical “clean laundry” smell, which some people like.
Might not handle very heavy stains: Since it is supposed to be mild and without aggressive synthetic enzymes, it might work less effectively at very hard, greasy, or built-on stains.
Requires careful dosing: Being highly concentrated, there is a danger of using too little or too much, which will affect its performance.
Low suds: While low suds saves the environment, some consumers don’t think it’s powerful enough since they don’t get a lot of foam.

6. Charlie’s Soap Laundry Liquid

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Charlie’s Soap Laundry Liquid is a great choice for those seeking a deep-clean-but-nontoxic detergent. The formula is impressively simple, yet effective, which makes it ideal for taking away buildups not only from clothes but also from the washing machine. This is not just a “smells clean” detergent; it is specifically made to rinse completely, leaving no residues that are not immediately apparent. On top of everything, this formula avoids so many common irritants: synthetic fragrances, dyes, brighteners, and harsh chemicals are avoided, which is why it is regularly recommended for sensitive skin and for more eco-conscious customers.

Best For: Ideal for deep cleaning and buildup removal, especially on athletic or high-tech fabrics, while also suiting sensitive skin and eco-conscious households with its dye-free, fragrance-free, biodegradable formula.

Highlights:

The minimalist ingredients list includes water, nonionic surfactants, and sodium carbonate.
Residue-free rinse: Designed to penetrate the fibers and rinse out completely to avoid build-up.
Concentrated formula: Only about 1 oz is needed per large wash load.
Unscented and hypoallergenic: No perfumes, dyes, or enzymes.
EPA Safer Choice certified: Meets certain environmental and health-safety benchmarks.
Safe for all machine types: Compatible with top-loaders, front-loaders, and HE machines.

Pros

Deep cleaning, effective: The formula helps remove residual buildup from previous detergents and softeners.
Hypoallergenic and gentle, it is suitable for sensitive skin, eczema, cloth diapers, or baby clothes.
Biodegradable & eco-friendly: Fewer ingredients mean less impact on the environment, and the formula is certified by the EPA Safer Choice.
Economical: Because it’s concentrated, your cost per load is lower than many conventional detergents.
Machine-friendly: Works on all types of washers, and keeps the washing machine itself cleaner.
Simple and transparent: You know exactly what’s in it-no hidden fragrances or unnecessary chemicals.

Cons

Limited stain-fighting on its own: Without the use of enzymes or brightening additives, it may be less effective on particularly tough or greasy/protein-based stains unless pretreated or boosted.
Less “fresh scent”: Because it’s unscented, you don’t get that “just-laundered” fragrance, which some people may miss.
Hard water considerations: In very hard water, the cleaning power may be less unless you soften the water or use more detergent.
Requires the right dosage since using too much will over-alkalize your wash, while too little will reduce its effectiveness.
Very minimalist formula, which some users might find to be less effective compared to enzyme-boosted detergents for certain stain types.

7. 9 Elements Vinegar-Based Laundry Detergent (Unscented)

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With its natural, vinegar-powered formula, 9 Elements Vinegar-Based Laundry Detergent truly stands apart from regular detergents. Unlike other detergents, it employs the acidity in vinegar to break down mineral deposits, soap scum, and residue that can build up in hard-water areas. Its simple, transparent formulation ensures that a non-toxic, environmentally friendly approach to laundry still can perform very well for deodorizing and cleaning fabrics. All this makes it a top choice for households seeking a gentle, no-frills solution that keeps clothes and machines fresh.

Best For: For homes with hard water, effectively removing odors and residue from frequently used fabrics, while its unscented, biodegradable formula suits both sensitive skin and eco-conscious households.

Highlights:

Formula based on vinegar that naturally softens water and dissolves residue.
Unscented and free of synthetic perfumes, dyes, phosphates, and brighteners
Simple ingredient list for transparency and safety.
Biodegradable and environmentally responsible
Effective for both standard and high-efficiency washers
Extends the life of fabrics and washing machines by not letting buildup set in.

Pros

Excellent for hard-water homes: Vinegar naturally softens water by reducing mineral buildup on fabrics and machines.
Odor removal: Effectively eliminates lingering smells from towels, gym clothes, and heavily worn fabrics
Gentle on the skin: Hypoallergenic and without irritating chemicals
Eco-friendly and non-toxic: simple ingredients, biodegradable formula.
Helps maintain washing machines by preventing scale and residue buildup in appliances
Unscented: Perfect for those sensitive to fragrances or who prefer fragrance-free laundry.

Cons

Limited stain-fighting power: may struggle with very tough or greasy stains, as compared to enzyme-based detergents.
Not foamy: Very little lather and might cause some users to think it is not as “powerful”.
Not heavily concentrated: for heavily soiled loads, larger amounts might be needed.
Vinegar smell: Some users find a slight vinegar smell that usually disappears after it dries.
Unscented profile: No classic “fresh laundry” smell, which may be less appealing to some users

How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Detergent for Your Home

Natural, nontoxic laundry detergents are no less effective than their conventional counterparts, if you follow a few simple best practices. Small tweaks, from dosing and load size to the temperature of the wash water, allow these gentle formulas to be most effective while preventing residue and buildup long-term.

Use the right amount of detergent: Proper dosing is essential. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust based on water hardness and load size. Overdosing can leave residue and reduce performance while under-dosing results in clothes that aren’t fully fresh.
Don’t overload your washing machine: For natural detergents to work well, proper water circulation is important. Allow space for clothes to move around so that the detergent works effectively. Overcrowding traps dirt and detergent between fabrics; this leads to heavy buildup and less-than-clean laundry.
Avoid residue by using the recommended water temperature—many plant-based formulas function best in warm or cold water. Add natural boosters, as needed: baking soda softens water and neutralizes odors; washing soda increases cleaning power for tough stains and hard water.
Eliminate long-term buildup: Even the most gentle detergents will eventually leave mild residue. Run an occasional cycle of hot water with white vinegar or a natural cleaner for washing machines to freshen your machine and keep your laundry free of residue.

These simple practices will help you get the most out of your natural detergent, so every load comes out clean, soft, and irritant-free while still maintaining the gentle, nontoxic benefits you’re aiming for.

Tips for Getting the Best Results With Natural Detergents

Because they’re naturally non-toxic, natural detergents may be easier on your clothes and skin, and on the environment too-but a few best practices can go a long way. Small adjustments in how you use them can make a big difference in cleaning performance, residue prevention, and keeping your washing machine fresh.

Proper dosing: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. More detergent does not always mean cleaner clothes, since overdosing may leave residue, reducing performance, while under-dosing may leave clothes less fresh. Adjust amounts based on water hardness and load size.
Do not overload the machine; clothes should have enough space to move freely. Natural detergents depend on the circulation of water to actually clean, whereas an over-full load can trap dirt and detergent between fabrics.
Prevent residue: Use proper water temperature—most plant-based detergents work best in warm or cold water. Add natural boosters such as baking soda for softening water and neutralizing odors, or washing soda for tough stains and hard water.
Eliminate long-term build-up: Even gentle, non-toxic detergents can build up mild residue over time. Run an occasional hot-water cycle with white vinegar or a natural washing machine cleaner to keep both clothes and your machine fresh.

Following these tips will ensure your laundry remains clean, soft, and residue-free, while reaping the maximum benefit of natural and non-toxic detergents.

Final Thoughts

Making the switch to natural, nontoxic laundry detergents is one of the easiest changes that can make a big difference for your home, your health, and the environment. With so many safe and effective options now available, finding the right fit is easier than ever-whether you need something gentle for babies, strong enough for hard water, or ideal for sensitive skin. Choosing a detergent that best fits the needs of your household requires minimal effort yet yields great advantages, from cleaner indoor air to fewer irritants on your clothes. Take a look at this list of top non-toxic detergents for a healthier home and safer laundry routine.

If you’re working toward a healthier, low-toxin home, you might also enjoy our guides on safe, high-performing essentials from non-toxic kitchen items to clean air purifiers and even non-toxic beauty products that are gentle on sensitive skin.

“I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean…” Ezekiel 36:25 (NIV)