Here are 17 zero-waste and plastic-free laundry detergents. These innovative products not only take a stand against plastic waste but are also completely toxin-free.
Say goodbye to harmful chemicals and embrace a sustainable approach to cleaning your clothes with zero-waste and plastic-free laundry detergents.
Read also our articles about
- Eco-Friendly Laundry Baskets
- How To Create A Toxin-Free Bedroom
- Guide To Sustainable Fabrics and Green Materials
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Table of Contents
Going Plastic-Free
Going plastic-free is more complex than it seems because almost every product in the market contains or is packaged with plastic. Finding eco-friendly products can therefore be a long and tiring process.
Thankfully, companies and businesses have recognized the need for sustainable and zero-waste living. You can now get your hands on specialty plastic-free products and everyday essentials like shampoo, conditioners, toothpaste, and even laundry detergent.
If you’re looking for plastic-free and sustainable laundry options but don’t know where to start, here are the top zero-waste or plastic-free laundry detergents you can try:
Best Plastic-Free Detergent With Precision Targets Stain Technology
1. Dirty Labs – Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Lauryl glucoside, Caprylyl/Capryl glucoside, coconut fatty acid
The Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent by Dirty Labs is unlike any other. Their formula uses Phytolase, a patent advanced enzyme cleaning technology that precisely targets stains and odors while being extra gentle on you, your clothes, and the planet. All the ingredients used are safe, non-toxic, and biodegradable. The detergent is also sulfate-, paraben-, and dye-free.
The Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent contains zero California Prop 65 chemicals, so it’s super safe. Naturally, the formula is vegan and USDA-certified.
Dirty Labs uses recyclable aluminum to package the cruelty-free formula. You can choose between the unscented, signature, and Murasaki variants for fresh-smelling and crisp laundry every time.
Pros:
- Compatible with traditional and HE washers
- Certified EPA Safer Choice
- No CA Prop 65 chemicals
Cons:
- Some might be wary of the scent
Best Sulfate-Free Laundry Detergent
2. Lazy Coconuts – Eco-Friendly laundry detergent strips
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium lauryl sulfate (plant-derived surfactant), Kaolin (absorbent clay), Polyvinyl alcohol, Cocamide (plant-derived surfactant)
The eco-friendly laundry detergent strips by Lazy Coconuts are unlike any other product. The sheets that look and feel like paper dissolve in water and use plant-derived surfactants to clean stubborn stains. The strips contain zero parabens, bleach, or dye, making them 100% safe for sensitive skin.
Additionally, Lazy Coconut’s laundry detergent strips are vegan, biodegradable, and 20x lighter than liquid detergents. That’s interesting because it reduces transportation fuel and the overall carbon footprint with each load.
Since the strips use 100% plant products, they are completely plastic-free. Each pack gives you about 48 loads, which is quite impressive.
Pros:
- Dissolves quickly
- Leaves no residue
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Is scent-free
- May need more than the recommended amount for large loads
Best Zero-Waste Detergent for Deep Cleaning
3. Dropps – Stain and Odor Laundry Detergent
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Natural enzymes, plant-based surfactants, minerals
Sustainable laundry detergent pods are something only a few imagined, but Dropps made it happen. These eco-friendly pods help remove stains and eliminate odors in clothing, linens, and more with the help of natural enzymes and plant-based ingredients.
Dropps Stain and Odor Laundry Detergent not only removes odors and stubborn stains, it keeps the clothes smelling fresh, and colors bold and bright. If you do not like the unscented detergent, you can choose between Pine, Lavender & Eucalyptus, Ocean, and Orange Blossom fragrances.
Pros:
- Available in multiple scents
- User-friendly packaging
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons:
- May need more than the recommended amount
- Some scents may be overpowering
Best Eco-Friendly Economic Detergent Bar
4. Tangie – Laundry Soap Washing Detergent Bar
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Plant-based soap of coconut & olive oils, soap nuts liquid, yucca powder (washing), baking soda (freshening)
Tangie’s Laundry Soap Washing Detergent Bar might seem like an ordinary bar but don’t be mistaken. This bar can be diluted using water to create liquid laundry detergent that can wash up to 256 loads.
You can also cut the bar in quarters to dissolve it fully and enjoy a huge supply of laundry detergent at a fraction of the price.
The bar works well on all fabrics, including athletic wear. Moreover, the formula is suitable for front and top-loading machines. Although the concentrate has no added fragrance, it will leave your clothing with a freshly laundered smell.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use
- Contains natural ingredients
Cons:
- Some may find the dilute icky
Best Overall Plastic-Free Laundry Detergent
5. Blueland – Laundry Starter Set
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium Carbonate, Citric acid
Blueland has become synonymous with the zero-waste lifestyle, and their laundry detergent is one of the top-rated products. Ditch the plastic-coated laundry pods and opt for Blue Land’s detergent tablets. One tablet is enough to clean a load of laundry; however, if your clothes are super dirty, add two.
The scent-less tablets are made from super-clean ingredients, are 3x smaller than the equal load-sized container, and contain zero harsh chemicals.
They are vegan, gluten-free, soy, and nut-free. You can also get your hands on the refills instead of the whole starter pack to avail a discount.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Contains natural ingredients
- Refills available
Cons:
- Scents not available
- No other sizes are available
Best Dermatologist Tested Plastic-Free Detergent
6. Earth Breeze – Laundry Detergent Eco Sheets
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Glycerol, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate, Polyvinyl Alcohol (100% water soluble)
A detergent sheet that is vegan, cruelty-free, contains no bleach or dye, and is compatible with HE washing machines? Well, that’s the Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Eco Sheets for you. These are hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, so it’s ideal for people with sensitive skin.
The sheets dissolve in cold or hot water within minutes and get rid of tough stains because it is super concentrated. Plus, the need for measuring is completely eliminated, thanks to the perfect sheet size.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Saves space
- Available in scented and unscented versions
Cons:
- It could leave a residue
- May need more than the recommended amount
Best Liquid Concentrated Detergent With Recyclable Packaging
7. GROVE CO. – Ultra-Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Citrate, naturally derived fragrances from essential oils and plant-based ingredients
If you want a sustainable liquid formula, choose Grove Co.’s Ultra Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent. The formula is 5x more potent than regular detergent and uses clean ingredients derived from plants while removing tough stains. It cleans so well that it outperforms big brand names sans the plastic waste.
It is safe for all fabrics, colors, and machine types.
Although the refills come in a plastic bag, Grove Co. will recycle it for you. They even send a prepaid return label, reducing plastic waste by 70%, so you can continue with your zero-waste journey without a hitch.
The option to choose between Citrus and Woods, Lavender and Rosemary, or the unscented Free and Clear formula — whatever suits you best — is the cherry on top.
Pros:
- Compatible with all machines
- Recyclable plastic
- Available in scented and unscented versions
Cons:
- May need some extra help with stubborn stains
Best Zero Waste Detergents With Safe Ingredients
8. Kind Laundry – Laundry Detergent Sheets
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate, Tea Seed Oil, Deionized Water
The laundry detergent sheet by Kind Laundry is so gentle on the skin that it is even safe for those with allergies. The natural and biodegradable ingredients used also make it an excellent choice for newborns.
Kind Laundry’s Laundry Detergent Sheets are eco- and travel-friendly and use no plastic packaging. This makes it an ideal choice when starting your zero-waste journey. Ingredients like tea seed oil leave a fresh scent behind. However, opt for the ocean breeze variant if you want something stronger in scent.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Saves space
- Available in scented and unscented versions
Cons:
- May need more than the recommended amount
Best Zero Waste Detergents for Stain Removal
9. Grove Co. – Laundry Detergent Sheets
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium dodecyl sulfate, fatty acids, fragrance from essential oils and plant extracts
Choose from lingering fragrances like Balsam Fir, Free and Clear, Lavender Blossom and Thyme, and Harvest Apple with Grove Co. Laundry Detergent Sheets. The scents are 100% natural, meaning those with sensitive skin can use them too. These sheets are made with the highest quality natural ingredients so that it’s safe for the skin and the environment.
The formula gets rid of stains with ease and leaves your clothing and linens smelling fresh, clean, and crisp. Grove’s concentrated formula is compatible with all washing machines. Say yes to recyclable and eco-friendly packaging, and goodbye to plastic with Grove.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Available in scented and unscented versions
Cons:
- May need extra soaking time
Best Plastic-Free Bar for Travel
10. Ethique – Flash! Multi-Purpose Stain Remover Bar
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium cocoate, aqua (water), kaolin, lavender oil
Flash!, a multi-purpose stain remover solid bar, is perfect for hand washing delicates and cleaning carpets when you’re out traveling or camping. It washes clothes, dishes, or even hands – the uses for Flash are endless! No wonder, it can be used on almost all types of fabrics, including silk and wool.
Flash! is made with biodegradable ingredients, pure essential oils, and white kaolin clay that helps to remove oils and dirt. It also leaves your clothing smelling beautiful, thanks to the lavender and peppermint extracts.
If you’re someone who is always on the go, this is the perfect product for you.
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- It can be used to clean multiple items
- Travel-friendly
Cons:
- It may leave a waxy build-up over time
Best Sustainable Laundry Detergent in Powder Form
11. Meliora – Laundry Powder
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Baking Soda, Washing Soda, vegetable soap, and organic coconut oil
Meliora, one of the few sustainable detergent options in powder form, works just as well as regular liquid detergents. The non-toxic detergent is made of safe ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, vegetable soap, and organic coconut oil that are Made Safe® Certified.
Moreover, the packaging is 100% plastic-free. The detergent is packed in a paper canister with steel endings and includes a steel scooper. This ensures the product is safe even in transit. The canister can be reused for other things around the household or recycled.
You can choose between unscented, lavender, lemon, and lemon-lavender clove variants for a clean, fresh-smelling laundry experience.
Buy the refillable packs instead of the whole canister when you want to save money.
Pros:
- Made with non-toxic ingredients
- It comes in sturdy packaging
- Refillable packages available
Cons:
- Only compatible with HE washing machines
Best Plastic-Free Detergent for Sensitive Skin
12. Eco Roots – Laundry Detergent Sheets
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate* (plant-derived cleaning agent), Biodegradable Polyvinyl Alcohol
Eco Roots’ Laundry Detergent Sheets are super concentrated, so even one sheet is more than enough for a large load of laundry. The ultra-concentrated vegan and cruelty-free formula easily removes stains and dirt, giving you clean, fresh-smelling loads with every wash.
They’re convenient to use as the sheets are perforated, so you don’t have to worry about tearing too much or too little. Eco Roots’ Laundry Detergent Sheets are also lightweight and perfect for frequent travelers or those who are embracing the nomad lifestyle.
The best part? The formula is free from palm oil.
Pros:
- Palm-oil free formula
- Travel friendly
- Available in scented and unscented variants
Cons:
- Some may dislike the scent
Best Zero-Waste Detergent With Stain-Targeting Enzymes
12. Zero Co. – Fabric Soaker & Wash Booster Combo
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Coco Sulphate, Enzymes
Very rarely do sustainable options come in aesthetically pleasing designs, and Zero Co., is one of the few. Its packaging is made of 50% recycled plastic found in the ocean. Additionally, they have affordable refillable packs that are industrially recyclable, so you don’t have multiple plastic bottles lying around at home.
Coming to the cleaning power, the fabric soaker and wash booster have stain-targeting enzymes that remove stubborn stains. The biodegradable surfactants are gray water and septic tank safe. The Fabric Soaker & Wash Booster are also suitable for all washing machine types and water temperatures, making them perfect for busy folks.
Pros:
- Gray water & septic tank safe
- Packaging made from 50% recycled plastic
- Refillable packages available
Cons:
- No scented options available
- Available only in Australia
Best Plastic-Free Concentrated Detergent
13. Tru Earth – Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Corn Starch, Glycerine, Glyceryl Cocoate
Save time doing your laundry with Tru Earth Eco-Strip Laundry Detergent. The pre-measured strips are easy to use and mess-free. To add to that, these strips have zero palm oil, glutens, SLS/SLES, parabens, phosphates, synthetic dyes, bleach, or animal-based ingredients. In fact, all the ingredients are plant-derived, food-grade, and biodegradable.
The strips dissolve easily and leave your laundry smelling clean and fresh. Tru Earth’s Eco Strips Laundry Detergents are available in fresh linen, lilac breeze, and fragrance-free options and are suitable for all washing machines.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Available in multiple scents
- Compatible with all washing machines
Cons:
- Not many sizes are available
- Not available on most e-commerce websites
Best Zero Waste Laundry Bar To Use as a Pre-Treatment
14. Bio-D – Laundry & Stain Remover Bar
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Anionic Surfactant, Alkyl polyglucosides, Lauric Acid
Sometimes, the stubborn stains need some extra TLC. Bio-D’s Laundry & Stain Remover Bar is perfect for those, thanks to its stain-removing power. The bar works perfectly as a pre-treatment — all you need to do is rub the bar on the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
Besides that, the bar can be used to do regular laundry as well. Just lather the soap in a bucket full of water and soak your clothes for a few minutes before you start washing them.
The formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and contains naturally derived ingredients. Moreover, it is 100% plastic-free, and the packaging is 100% recyclable.
Pros:
- Contains naturally derived ingredients
- Suitable for septic tanks
- Gentle
Cons:
- May need extra soaking time
Best Sustainable Concentrated Laundry Detergent
15. Puracy – Natural 10x Laundry Detergent
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Plant-based and coconut-based cleanser, aqua, vegetable glycerin
Puracy’s Natural 10x Laundry Detergent contains 99.96% ingredients from nature, meaning this is as sustainable and clean as it can get. The concentrated formula works 10 times better than commercial detergent with just two pumps’ worth of product. Moreover, the plant enzymes get rid of odor, stains, and bacterial build-up.
The toxin-free formula contains zero dyes, parabens, chlorine, or harsh chemicals. The Natural 10x Laundry Detergent is also compatible with all washing machines, including commercial ones. You can also buy refill packs to reduce the consumption of plastic.
If at any point you feel like the product is not performing as promised, contact the company, and you’ll get your money back.
Pros:
- 100% customer satisfaction guarantee
- Compatible with all washing machines
- Refillable packages available
Cons:
- Flimsy packaging
Best Zero-Waste Detergent With Vegetable Glycerine
16. Net Zero Co. – Laundry Detergent Strips
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Vegetable Glycerine and Cocamide (plant-derived surfactant)
Doing your laundry cannot get more convenient than this. Net Zero Co.’s Laundry Detergent Strips easily remove stains and debris from fabric, leaving them clean and spotless. Moreover, they are easy to use. Just use one strip for a large round of laundry and half for a small one.
The strips dissolve quickly, are as effective as regular detergent, and happen to be cruelty-free too. Net Zero Co is vegan and paraben-, and phosphate-free, making them an ideal choice for this list.
Additionally, since these are hypoallergenic, they are great for those with sensitivities as well.
Pros:
- Available in unscented and scented variants
- No mess, no spills
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons:
- It may not be suitable for front-load machines
Best Plastic-Free Spot Cleaner
17. Etee – Natural Laundry Stain Bar
Non-Toxic Ingredients – Organic Coconut Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid
Etee’s Natural Laundry Stain Bar is a game changer in the zero-waste game. Unlike regular spot cleaners that come in a plastic spray bottle, this comes as a bar. Wet the stubborn stain and rub the bar on it liberally to get rid of the stain.
Don’t forget to rub and squeeze the fabric to activate the bar. After the stain is out, put it along with the other clothes for a regular wash.
To remove older stains, let the soap sit on the stain for a few hours to activate before washing. The unscented formula is super gentle and won’t irritate the skin after use.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Travel friendly
Cons:
- Only for stains, not load washing
Conclusion
The laundry detergents listed above are cruelty-free, vegan, and contain non-toxic ingredients. The packaging used is eco-friendly, recyclable, or made up of recycled products, making them excellent choices for your zero-waste living.
Try a couple of products before you find a detergent that’s suitable for you. Ensure you check your washing machine type and the detergent’s compatibility before buying a product and committing to it.
