Eco-friendly laundry detergent sheets are said to lighten their load on the planet, but are they really eco-friendly?
We ask the experts.
What are laundry detergent sheets?
Using it is easy, too: Just toss it into washing machine and let it work its magic.
Plus, some variations can serve as dryer sheets to save you extra money and storage space.
Do dissolvable laundry detergent sheets work?
laundry specialist, host ofThe Laundry Guy, and author ofLaundry Love: Finding Joy in a Common Chore
You have to try a few options to find one that works for you, says Richardson.
Are eco-friendly laundry detergent sheets really better for the environment?
In many ways, laundry detergent sheets live up to their eco-friendly credentials.
For one, you will commonly find them packaged in small cardboard boxes.
While PVA is fully biodegradable, the process can only take place under very specific conditions.
Consumers can even look for refill shops where they can bring their own container to fill with laundry detergent.
These options may use less energy to ship, she says.
Conversely, a typical box of laundry detergent sheets will weigh much less at under one pound.
Ingredients
You might also want to consider the ingredients list.
laundry specialist, host ofThe Laundry Guy, and author ofLaundry Love: Finding Joy in a Common Chore
Unfortunately, many laundry detergents contain aquatic toxicants, and it might seem impossible to avoid them.
But what youcando is select products that have as little of them as possible.
Another tip from Richardson?
Purchase laundry detergent products from brands that you trust.
Stores that you trust vet their productsand theywantyou to have great products, he says.
If it doesnt work, start asking around for other recommendations.
It is also septic safe.
These sheets clean as well as anything Ive used, one Amazon reviewer wrote.
Another reviewer mentioned the fragrance-free formula (pictured above) is also gentle on the skin.
I have pretty sensitive skin and sometimes eczema flare upsthis hasnt triggered anything, they proclaimed.
If you crave fragrance, its also available in a version with a Fresh Linen scent.
However, there are two fragranced options availableLavender and Eucalyptuswhich are also EWG verified and come in plastic-free packaging.
Laundry detergent powder
Ingredients Matter, Laundry Soap Powder (36 Oz.)
According to multiple reviewers, it can make quick work of removing stains and odors.
It cleans well, leaves no residue, and leaves clothes smelling fresh, one reviewer wrote.
While tough on stains, the laundry detergent powder is gentle on skin, thanks to its hypoallergenic formula.
Plus, a little of the stuff goes a long way.
Youll get approximately 72 loads with just one 36-ounce box.
All that, and theyve beenindependently testedto perform just as well as conventional laundry detergents.
Reviewers have attested that the product lives up to claims, working wonders to remove stains and unwanted odors.
Pros
4 ways to make laundry day more eco-friendly
1.
Use less detergent
Regardless of which laundry detergent you use, Richardson says touse less of it.
When you arent purchasing laundry detergent as often, youre also doing your part to avoid unnecessary shipping.
The ultimate act of being sustainable with your laundry is just doing it less.
Youll be using less water, energy, and less product.
When washing clothes in the cold water, opt to use a cold-water detergent for the best clean.
Consider pre-treating stains, too.
Im a huge fan of vinegar to remove stains, says Richardson.
Its not only better for the environment, but also better for clothes, Richardson says.
The safer we are on our clothes, the longer they lastand thats a huge part of sustainability.
Frequently asked questions
Are laundry detergent sheets cheaper than liquid laundry detergent?
What can I use instead of laundry detergent sheets?
There are a wide range of alternativeslike powders, tablets, and liquidsto laundry detergent sheets.
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