Top 8 Best Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents, According to Lab Testing

In recent years, eco-friendly laundry detergents have become increasingly accessible, featuring plant-based or naturally derived ingredients and sustainable packaging like water-free sheets, concentrated formulas, and refill systems to reduce plastic waste—here are the 8 best options that meet standard effectiveness criteria.

1. Tide Purclean Liquid Laundry Detergent

Best Overall

This detergent delivers strong cleaning performance and handles common stains well in hot, warm, or cold water. Its formula is made with 75% plant-based ingredients and is free from dyes, chlorine, and optical brighteners. It's also produced in a zero-waste-to-landfill facility powered by renewable wind energy.

Pros

• Effective stain removal
• Made with naturally derived ingredients
• Certified by EPA Safer Choice and USDA Biobased
• Available in a fragrance-free version
• Clear cap makes measuring simple

Cons

• Some may not like the honey lavender scent

Summary
Tide Purclean strikes a solid balance between performance and sustainability, making it a strong choice for those looking for an eco-friendly liquid detergent that doesn't compromise on cleaning power.