Non-Toxic Living: The Laundry Room (Detergents, Stain Removers, & More)
"Laundry is the real Never Ending Story."
—Unknown
When it comes to laundry, we tend to use the products that our parents used when we were growing up out of habit and familiar comfort. Fortunately, we have more awareness of the harms of these products than our parents did, and more options than ever when it comes to finding alternatives.
Conventional laundry products are laden with a myriad of chemicals that pose risks to both personal well-being and the planet. By embracing non-toxic alternatives, you proactively protect your family's health while minimizing ecological harm. From gentle detergents devoid of synthetic fragrances and dyes to natural stain removers and wool dryer balls, there exists a spectrum of solutions that prioritize cleanliness without compromise. Moreover, adopting simple yet effective methods to clean your washing machine with ingredients like distilled white vinegar and baking soda not only ensures hygienic laundry practices but also promotes the longevity of your appliances.
With these recommendations, you can revolutionize your laundry routine, fostering a healthier home environment that doesn’t come packaged with toxins for improved health.
Healthy Laundry Room Product Recommendations
Laundry Detergent
Conventional laundry detergents often contain a mix of harmful chemicals that can negatively impact human health and the environment. Ingredients like synthetic fragrances and dyes have the potential to trigger allergic reactions and skin irritations, particularly in individuals with sensitivities. Moreover, chemicals such as phosphates and chlorine bleach may pose risks to respiratory health and can exacerbate skin conditions. Optical brighteners, commonly used to enhance the appearance of clothes, can leave residues on fabrics and may cause skin discomfort. By opting for non-toxic laundry detergents, you prioritize the well-being of your family by minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals and potential skin irritants.
When seeking a non-toxic laundry detergent, it's essential to prioritize ingredients that are gentle on your skin and clothes. Look for detergents free from harsh chemicals like synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes, phosphates, parabens, chlorine bleach, and optical brighteners. Opt instead for plant-based and biodegradable ingredients that effectively clean your laundry without leaving behind toxic residues.
Top Picks:
Branch Basics Oxygen Boost (Get $10 off by using this link)
DIY Laundry Detergent
Ingredients:
1 cup washing soda
1 cup borax
1 bar (5.5 oz) castile soap (grated or flakes)
Optional: 10-20 drops essential oil (lemon, lavender, or tea tree oil)
Optional: ½ cup Oxyclean Free (fragrance and dye-free version)
Instructions:
Grate or flake the castile soap using a cheese grater or food processor.
In a large bowl, combine the washing soda, borax, and grated/flaked soap.
Add essential oils (optional) and stir the mixture well.
If using Oxyclean Free, incorporate it now and mix thoroughly.
Transfer the finished detergent to an airtight container with a lid for storage.
Stain Remover
When selecting a non-toxic stain remover, avoid ingredients like phosphate, chlorine, ammonia, petroleum solvents, butyl, glycol ether, SLS, and SLES, as these can pose health risks. Instead, choose products containing natural ingredients such as plant-based surfactants and enzymes. Look for fragrance-free options or those scented with natural essential oils to avoid synthetic fragrances and their potentially harmful compounds.
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Dryer Sheets?
Dryer sheets, despite their innocuous appearance, can contain harmful chemicals that may trigger asthma attacks and affect reproductive health. Ingredients like ammonium chloride and phthalates are best avoided, as is fragrance, which can hide undisclosed chemicals. Additionally, the emissions from dryer vents can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which are toxic. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like wool dryer balls, which soften clothes and reduce static without the use of harmful chemicals. Adding a half cup of distilled white vinegar to the washer during the rinse cycle can also make clothes softer.
Related: Dryer Sheets, Non-Stick Cookware, & Toothpaste: 3 Fatal Conveniences
Top Picks::
Branch Basics Wool Dryer Balls (Get $10 off by using this link)
How To Clean Your Washer
Keeping your washing machine clean without resorting to toxic chemicals is not only safer for your health but also for the environment.
One effective method is to use a combination of distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Simply pour one cup of vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle. Then, add half a cup of baking soda directly into the drum and run another hot water cycle.
This helps to remove built-up residue and odors. Additionally, wiping down the inside of the machine, including the rubber gasket and door seal, with a mixture of vinegar and water can prevent mold and mildew growth. Regular maintenance like this not only ensures a clean washing machine but also prolongs its lifespan. Also, make sure to leave your washing machine lid open between uses to prevent mold buildup.
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Choosing Your Laundry Appliance
A word about the washing machines and dyers from an interview I did with building biologist Paula Baker who literally wrote the book on healthy homes:
Laundry Appliances: Gas dryers release combustion gases; condensing dryers without vents and that have reservoirs require careful maintenance to avoid mold reservoirs. One common source of mold is from front-loading laundry machines, which can easily harbor mold in the rubber gasket that seals the door. Though front-loading machines have many benefits, such as being more energy efficient and gentler on clothes, if they are not meticulously cared for they will almost certainly be an issue for those with mold sensitivities.
Learn More
To learn more about toxins, check out The Non-Toxic Living Guidebook: Hacks, Strategies, & Natural Products for Better Health. I wrote this comprehensive guide as a way to break down the complexity of toxins into a simple, easy-to-read format with practical tips and clickable links to the least toxic products I could find. Get your copy today and use the code MBD20 at checkout for a 20% discount. You can also get a paperback or hardcopy on Amazon.
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