Doing the dishes and laundry is part of our daily routine, but have you thought about how the products you use impact the earth? Many traditional dishwashing and laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that harm aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. Eco-friendly detergents are a better choice because they’re made with biodegradable, plant-based ingredients that help reduce your environmental footprint. On top of that, they’re often safer for your skin and health, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities. Whether you live in a house with a big family or an apartment, sustainable detergents make a positive difference. Here’s a roundup of eco-friendly dishwashing and laundry detergents that prove caring for the planet can be easy and affordable.

ECOS Dishmate Dish Soap

  • Type: Liquid
  • Approx. Price: $12 for 25 fl oz

This liquid soap gets its cleaning power from coconut-derived surfactants, breaking down grease and grime without harmful solvents. Its plant-based formula creates a soapy foam that lifts food residue while being gentle on hands and the environment. It comes in a variety of scents, from lemon, apricot, lavender, and more.

Features:

  • Biodegradable Ingredients: Breaks down completely, leaving no toxins in waterways.
  • Hypoallergenic: Free from dyes, parabens, and phosphates, making it safe for all skin types.
  • Highly Concentrated: A small amount creates a rich lather, stretching each bottle further.

Better Life Dishwasher Gel

  • Type: Liquid Gel
  • Approx. Price: $14.99 for 30 fl oz

This dishwasher gel relies on plant-based cleaning agents, such as coco glucoside and other natural surfactants, to cut through grease and rinse away grime. Free from synthetic solvents or fragrances, it delivers spotless results without streaks or residue.

Features:

  • Natural Cleaning: Powered by coconut-based agents to break down food particles.
  • Non-Toxic: Gentle on dishes, your plumbing, and the environment.
  • Septic-Safe: Works effectively in all water types, including hard water.

Puracy Natural Dish Soap

  • Type: Liquid
  • Approx. Price: $20 for various bundle options

This premium dish soap uses plant-based surfactants and natural sea salt to clean dishes thoroughly. It lifts greasy residues without phosphates or petroleum derivatives. With the addition of green tea and lime for a refreshing experience, it’s as effective as it is pleasant to use. This formula claims to be 99.41% natural.

Features:

  • Natural Degreasers: Removes stubborn grease with biodegradable coconut-based cleansers.
  • Eco-Friendly Packaging: Available in refillable pouches, reducing plastic use over time.
  • Hypoallergenic: Safe for sensitive skin, thanks to its toxin-free formula.

Dropps Laundry Detergent Pods

  • Type: Pods
  • Approx. Price: $30 for 64 pods

Using plant-based enzymes, these pods dissolve naturally in water to target stains and dirt. The innovative formula avoids using synthetic solvents like optical brighteners or phosphates, instead relying on biodegradable surfactants. Unlike some other pods on the market, Dropps’s pod uses natural ingredients so they fully dissolve in water. This brand also has an oxy-cleaning product for extra cleaning.

Features:

  • Plant-Based Enzymes: Break down tough stains like coffee, sweat, and oils.
  • Pre-Measured Convenience: Pods ensure the right dose every time, reducing waste.
  • Plastic-Free Packaging: Delivered in compostable cardboard boxes.

Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Tablets

  • Type: Pods/Tablets
  • Approx. Price: $15 for 25 tablets

These tablets use oxygen-based bleach and natural citric acid to power through stubborn food stains and leave dishes spotless. Free from phosphates or synthetic fragrances, the formula is biodegradable and works even in low-temperature dishwashing cycles. This product really stands out because it is really price-friendly.

Features:

  • Oxygen-Powered Cleaning: Natural oxidants remove residue and grease effectively.
  • Biodegradable Wrappers: Each tablet is individually wrapped in water-soluble film.
  • Cruelty-Free: Made without animal testing or animal-derived ingredients.

Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder

  • Type: Powder
  • Approx. Price: $20 for 70 loads

Molly’s Suds opts for a simple ingredient list featuring baking soda and magnesium sulfate to tackle dirt and stains. It ditches synthetic solvents in favor of a gentle, pH-balanced formula that’s tough on laundry but safe for sensitive users. Molly prides themselves on the fact that the laundry powder is only made with four to five clean, simple ingredients.

Features:

  • Mineral-Based Cleaning: Lifts dirt using earth-derived ingredients, not chemicals.
  • Septic-Safe: Compatible with wastewater reuse systems.
  • Plastic-Free: Packaged entirely in recyclable paper.

Nellie’s Dish Nuggets

  • Type: Pods/Nuggets
  • Approx. Price: $14 for 24 nuggets

These pods combine coconut-derived surfactants and natural sodium carbonate to cut through grease and food particles. They dissolve quickly, releasing their cleaning power without leaving any residue behind.

Features:

  • Coconut-Free Surfactants: Great option for people who are allergic to coconut but still want eco-friendly products.
  • Pre-Portioned: Ensures no spills, mess, or overuse.
  • Reusable Tin: Eco-friendly packaging that can be recycled or repurposed.

Tips to Choose the Right Detergent

Because many of the eco-friendly products on the market are made using coconut, be sure to check what ingredients it uses. The fewer ingredients, the better. If you're really concerned about being eco-friendly, aim to use products that also have biodegradable packaging.