The Best Natural Laundry Detergents for Your Family’s Health

When it comes to household products, laundry detergent is one of the most important items to consider switching to a non-toxic or low-tox alternative. Conventional detergents often contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and irritants that can harm both your health and the environment. But with so many options out there, how do you know which ones are truly effective?

That’s why I’ve created this list of the best natural laundry detergents best laundry detergent that not only work but are safe for your family and the planet. Whether you’re looking to avoid skin irritations, reduce your environmental footprint, or simply create a healthier home, this guide has you covered.

Why Choose Non-Toxic or Low-Tox Laundry Detergents?

Switching to a non-toxic laundry detergent isn’t just a trendy choice; it’s a smart one that we started making about 8 years ago when I had my first child. I remember the moment I read that ingredient list on the baby detergent and I just knew something was wrong. Here are a few reasons why making the switch to a non-toxic laundry detergent can make a big difference:

Your Family’s Health Benefits: Traditional detergents often contain chemicals like sulfates, phosphates, and artificial fragrances that can cause skin irritation, allergies, and even respiratory issues. Non-toxic options are gentler on your skin and lungs.
Environmental Impact: Many conventional detergents release harmful chemicals into waterways, affecting aquatic life. Non-toxic detergents use biodegradable ingredients that are safer for the environment.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: If you or your family members have sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, non-toxic detergents are a lifesaver. They clean effectively without causing irritation.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re using a product free from harmful chemicals means you can wash your clothes with confidence, especially for babies, kids, and anyone with allergies.

What to Look for the best Natural Laundry Detergent

Not all “natural” or “eco-friendly” detergents are created equal. Here’s how to spot a truly non-toxic or low-tox option:

Ingredient Transparency: Look for brands that disclose all their ingredients and avoid vague terms like “fragrance” or “cleaning agents.”
Certifications: Check for labels like USDA Organic, EWG Verified, or EPA Safer Choice to ensure the product meets safety standards.
Free from Harsh Chemicals: Avoid detergents with parabens, phosphates, chlorine, or synthetic fragrances.
Biodegradable Formulas: These ensure the detergent breaks down easily in the environment.
Effective Cleaning Power: Read reviews or test to make sure the detergent actually gets your clothes clean!

How We Personally Switch to Natural Laundry Detergent

Switching to a non-toxic laundry detergent is simple, but here are a few tips to make the transition seamless:

First you want to use up what you have. Honestly, if you can afford to throw it away then great, but I recommend if you don’t want to confine to use your current detergent that you donate it to a shelter or a Buy Nothing group on Facebook so someone else can use it. This also helps reduce waste.

Start with a smaller size rather than getting the”beset deal” on a massive package of something you’re not even sure will work for your family. Test a smaller bottle of your chosen non-toxic detergent to see if it works for your laundry needs – and by that I mean does it work on your laundry, do you like the smell, does it pair well with your water (hard water vs soft water). As a reminder, you don’t need lots of suds for a clean load—non-toxic detergents often clean just as well with less foam.

List of The Best Safer Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents

Earthley Paraben-Free Laundry Detergent

Earthley Natural Laundry Detergent: only $22, this is a pretty great price point for 60 loads of laundry – very comparable to a typical laundry detergent. Their laundry detergent is a natural, plant-based option designed to deliver powerful cleaning without harmful chemicals. Free from sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and dyes, it’s safe for sensitive skin and eco-friendly. Made with simple, effective ingredients, Earthley ensures your clothes are fresh and clean while protecting your health and the environment. A perfect choice for families seeking a low-tox solution that truly works.

Molly’s Suds

Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder is a powerful yet gentle solution for tackling tough stains without compromising safety. Crafted with just 4-5 clean ingredients, it’s safe for sensitive skin and delivers a deep clean that outperforms many leading brands. A single tablespoon of this natural laundry detergent per load is all you need, making it highly concentrated and cost-effective.

Method 8x Laundry Detergent

Method Natural Laundry Detergent delivers a high-powered clean with a plant-based formula that tackles stains and dirt, keeping whites vibrant and colors vivid. A concentrated formula means just a small capful is enough for a full load, providing an efficient and eco-friendly solution. For those who prefer a fragrance-free clean, the Free + Clear version contains no dyes or added scents. Plus, the packaging is made with 100% recycled plastic, ensuring your laundry routine is both effective and environmentally conscious.

Aspen Clean Natural Laundry Detergent

I’m always on the lookout for a laundry detergent that’s gentle on my skin and the planet, so when I found AspenClean natural laundry detergent, I was thrilled. Their unscented detergent is totally fragrance-free, made with organic ingredients, and it’s perfect for anyone with allergies or sensitive skin—like my little one. I’ve always been cautious about what I use for baby clothes, and this one gives me peace of mind because it’s non-toxic and hypoallergenic. The best part? It works! Whether I’m washing in cold or hot water, it’s tough on dirt but gentle on our skin. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, so I feel good knowing I’m doing my part for the planet while taking care of my family.

Nellie’s Laundry Soda

Nellie’s Laundry Soda is a powerful, concentrated detergent made with just four simple ingredients. It dissolves easily in both hot and cold water, ensuring a thorough clean every time. What I love most is that it rinses completely clear, so your clothes, skin, and the environment are left spotless. Plus, it’s free from all the harsh stuff—no SLS, SLES, gluten, phosphates, chlorine, fragrances, optical brighteners, or synthetic solids. It’s clean in every sense of the word.

Biokleen Laundry Detergent

Biokleen’s plant-based laundry detergent uses natural cleaning agents to tackle tough stains and odors, leaving clothes fresh and clean. The hypoallergenic formula is gentle on sensitive skin and works well in both high-efficiency and standard washers. Ultra-concentrated, Biokleen is 3X more effective, helping to reduce waste and energy use. Free from harsh chemicals like phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances or dyes, it’s an eco-friendly, biodegradable solution. Proudly made in the USA, Biokleen never tests on animals and is committed to sustainability.

Ecos Laundry Detergent Sheets

ECOS Laundry Detergent Sheets offer a sustainable, plastic-free solution for your laundry routine. With no measuring required, simply toss one sheet into your wash (half for smaller loads), and watch it dissolve instantly in both hot and cold water. These sheets fight dirt and stains while leaving clothes clean, fresh, and residue-free. Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, they’re made without dyes, parabens, or phosphates, making them gentle on sensitive skin. ECOS has been creating safe, powerful cleaning products since 1967, and is proudly both women-owned and Black-owned.

Dropps Natural Laundry Detergent

Dropps Odor + Stain Biobased Laundry Detergent Pods deliver powerful cleaning with a formula designed to tackle tough stains and odors using five specialized enzymes and advanced malodor technology. Compatible with all washers, cycles, and temperatures, these pods are ideal for everyday fabrics and leave a fresh Lavender Meadow scent without overwhelming perfumes. Made with a USDA Certified Biobased formula containing 58% renewable ingredients, they are free from dyes, phthalates, parabens, and optical brighteners. Vegan and cruelty-free, Dropps has been a trusted leader in sustainable cleaning for over 30 years, combining innovation and responsibility to provide a superior clean.

Why These Brands Made the List

The detergents in this post were chosen based on their ingredient safety, effectiveness, customer reviews, and commitment to sustainability. Each one offers a balance of powerful cleaning without compromising on health or environmental standards.

Switching to a non-toxic or low-tox laundry detergent is a small step that makes a big impact. By choosing one of the 20 detergents listed, you’re prioritizing your family’s health and doing your part for the planet. Clean clothes shouldn’t come at the cost of harmful chemicals or environmental damage—and with these options, they don’t have to.

Ready to make the switch? Explore the list and find the perfect detergent for your household!

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Where to Next?

Get the Full Guide of Wellness Swaps for all your personal care products. My entire list of Non-Tox/Low-Tox products that will help you quickly clean up your home from toxic chemicals in your personal care products.