Everyone wants to know what’s best for their body, so, of course, “natural,” “organic,” and “nontoxic” have become brands’ favorite words. People are prioritizing wellness like never before, cutting out anything harmful and investing in stuff that makes them feel good. It’s about more than living clean, but having the choice of taking your health into your own hands. Most won’t think a second about spending extra dollars on products if it means lowering their risk of cancer. Nothing’s touching our bodies that we don’t like, including everyday essentials like laundry detergent. The typical go-tos are losing consumers to options with higher-quality ingredients. As a result, household names, such as Tide, have developed alternatives that cater to the health-obsessed space we’re in. That’s great news, right? Not necessarily.
Companies often slap buzzwords on products as a marketing gimmick, although the formulas still contain ingredients that don’t abide by the cleanest standards. Even when they’re being transparent, it’s vague, leading researchers at the Environmental Working Group to create a Guide to Healthy Cleaning. EWG reviewed the labels of thousands of household cleaners, rating each based on hazard levels from low to high concern.
Which detergents tackle stains and crush odors? Or work well for people with sensitive skin? Home & Texture’s got the answers. H&T searched for ones that are low on EWG’s scale but top in everything else. Want to snuggle in a blanket that smells amazing and is free of harmful chemicals? Check out the best natural laundry detergents of 2024 that will keep your clothes clean and your mind clear.
Molly’s Suds’ packaging boasts a “powerful clean” that’s safe for sensitive skin and rids clothes of tough stains, once and for all. Formulated with plant and earth-based ingredients, vegan, and cruelty-free, it claims to do its job without leaving that filmy residue we can feel until the next wash. But are these just claims or the real deal? We think it’s the latter and for a reasonable price, too. And it comes in natural scents, like lavender and peppermint, that won’t overpower your signature fragrance.
Parents want nothing but to give their children a soft and gentle life, especially when first born. That’s why they rave about this detergent from ATTITUDE, saying it keeps their little one’s skin free from irritants and easily removes stains. While they love the non-toxic perks, the bottle’s design isn’t the best and may leak.
A little goes a long way with this pick, which packs the power to make you smell and feel so good. It gets its name from the brand’s promise never to use more than nine ingredients, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden harmful stuff. We’re particularly fans because it contains vinegar, a natural stain remover, without the pungent scent. It’s light, airy, and just what you need for an aromatic wash.
The convenience of a pod had many of us hooked on Tide, but this nontoxic version gives you the same option of tossing and washing. Gentle on clothes and skin, it has a slight, pleasant scent and works well for reviewers experiencing irritation from other detergents. Some also say it makes their clothes look bright and clean without leaving residue.
If you’ve ever had a pesky rash, you know itchy skin isn’t fun, especially when you’re covered in the stuff causing the itch. Washing your clothes in detergent that doesn’t agree with you is a recipe for constantly squirming, scratching, and discomfort. The itchy sensation can feel unbearable for people with skin conditions like eczema. With ECOS’ dermatologist-tested laundry detergent, you can let those worries go. Despite its lavender scent, it’s safe on all skin types and free of irritants. Even better, it’s Black and woman-owned!
When handling your delicates, you need something, well…delicate. Dirty Labs is gentle enough for silks and wools, but don’t let that fool you. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic ingredients are harsh on odors and stains. Plus, it uses advanced enzyme cleaning technology that’s put to the test before it makes it to you. It’s also safe for pets, offering a benefit over other toxic detergents to furry friends.
Our editors love finding you the best products and offers! If you purchase something by clicking on one of the affiliate links on our website, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
From cookware to mattresses, and everything in between — these are the best buys of 2024.
Find us on social for more home inspiration where culture, personal style, and sophisticated shopping intersect to help you create a home where you love to live.