How to Find an Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Household Needs Buyers Guide

Consumer Reports tested popular detergents for safety and effectiveness, highlighting key factors to consider when selecting eco-friendly options. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Findings

Top Performers:
- All Stainlifters Free & Clear and Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid Sensitive Skin stood out with no detected harmful chemicals.
- Both clearly list all ingredients, avoiding vague terms like "fragrances."

No Harmful Chemicals Detected:
- Tested for:
- 1,4-dioxane (suspected carcinogen)
- Heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead)
- Phthalates (linked to health risks)
- Phosphorus (environmental pollutant)
- None of the five tested detergents contained concerning levels.

Cleaning Performance:
- Seventh Generation performed slightly better in cleaning tests, but All is more affordable.

What to Look for in Eco-Friendly Detergents

Safer Choice Label:
- Look for the EPA’s Safer Choice seal, which certifies that products meet strict health and environmental safety criteria.
- Examples:
- All Free Clear Stainlifters
- Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid/Packs
- Tide Free & Gentle

Fragrance Transparency:
- Avoid products listing just "fragrance," which can hide harmful chemicals like phthalates.
- Gain and Tide Original listed "fragrance" as an ingredient, raising concerns.

Allergen Awareness:
- Common irritants include sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), benzisothiazolinone, and sodium borate. Check labels carefully.

Ingredient Disclosure:
- Use resources like:
- SmartLabel app for detailed ingredient info.
- Green-cleaner guides by the Environmental Working Group.

Common Concerns and Safety Measures

1,4-Dioxane:
- Check for ingredients that may produce it as a byproduct, such as sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) or polyethylene glycol (PEG).
- None of the tested products contained detectable levels.

Heavy Metals:
- Trace arsenic was found in Tide Original, Gain Original, and Dreft Stage 1: Newborn but at extremely low levels unlikely to pose health risks.

Environmental Impact:
- Avoid detergents with phosphorus, which can harm waterways by promoting toxic algae growth.

Eco-Friendly Detergent Recommendations

Best Overall:
- Seventh Generation Free & Clear Liquid Sensitive Skin
- Effective cleaning and no harmful chemicals detected.

Best Value:
- All Stainlifters Free & Clear
- Affordable, safe, and reliable for sensitive skin.

Safe for Babies:
- Use Seventh Generation or other options without detectable heavy metals.

Takeaway Tips

Choose detergents with clear ingredient labels and third-party certifications.
Use apps like SmartLabel for more detailed product info.
Minimize exposure to allergens and harmful chemicals by selecting fragrance-free or hypoallergenic detergents.

By making informed choices, you can keep your clothes clean while protecting your family and the planet!