The Dirty Truth: The Worst Toxins in Conventional Laundry Detergents (and Why You Should Ditch Them)

If you’ve ever wondered about what’s really in your laundry detergent, you’re not alone. The truth is, many of the big-brand laundry detergents are packed with chemicals that could be hurting you, your family, and the environment. Here, we’re calling out the worst offenders lurking in conventional laundry soaps and why switching to a plant-based, earth-derived option like Humble Suds is healthier choice. 

Phthalates (aka Synthetic Fragrances)

Why They’re There:  Phthalates are added to make fragrances last longer, so your clothes keep that “fresh scent” (even though it’s anything but fresh).

• The Problem: Phthalates are linked to hormone disruption, which can mess with everything from your mood to your reproductive health. They’re also bad news for people with allergies and asthma, who often react to the synthetic scents lingering in clothes.
• The Eco Angle: Phthalates aren’t biodegradable, and they stick around in the environment long after they leave your laundry. They’ve been found in water sources, harming aquatic life and ecosystems.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Why They’re There: These sulfates create a bubbly lather, which has become our standard for “clean.” 

• The Problem: SLS and SLES are too good at what they do—they strip your skin of natural oils and often lead to irritation. Worse yet, SLES can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen.
• The Eco Angle: These sulfates aren’t just tough on skin; they’re toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, affecting their natural oils and health. 

Optical Brighteners

Why They’re There: Optical brighteners are like a fancy highlighter—they make fabrics look cleaner by reflecting light. 

• The Problem: These chemicals can cling to clothes even after rinsing, irritating sensitive skin. They’re known allergens and are particularly tough on kids and anyone with eczema or skin sensitivities.
• The Eco Angle: Optical brighteners don’t break down easily and accumulate in water sources, disrupting ecosystems and harming aquatic life.

Chlorine Bleach

• The Problem: Bleach is highly corrosive. It’s known to irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, and when mixed with other common cleaners, it can release toxic gases.
• The Eco Angle: Bleach is toxic to aquatic life and forms harmful byproducts that linger in water systems, affecting everything from fish to plants.

Formaldehyde

• The Problem: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can trigger skin reactions, respiratory issues, and eye irritation. Long-term exposure has been linked to increased cancer risks.
• The Eco Angle: This chemical is toxic to aquatic organisms, and its byproducts can persist in water sources long after it’s flushed down the drain.

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)

• The Problem: Quats are potent skin and respiratory irritants, especially for people with asthma. Plus, some types of quats are linked to antimicrobial resistance, which is a serious concern in healthcare.
• The Eco Angle: Quats don’t break down easily, meaning they accumulate in water systems and harm aquatic organisms.

1,4-Dioxane

Why It’s There: This chemical isn’t intentionally added; it’s a byproduct created when manufacturers make certain detergents.

• The Problem: 1,4-Dioxane is a probable human carcinogen linked to liver and kidney damage. It’s also incredibly difficult to remove from water once it’s there.
• The Eco Angle: 1,4-Dioxane lingers in the environment and is nearly impossible to eliminate from water supplies, posing a long-term risk to ecosystems.

Ammonium Compounds (Ammonium Sulfate and Quats)

• The Problem: They’re known to irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, and certain types (like quats) are also asthma triggers.
• The Eco Angle: Just like other chemicals on this list, ammonium compounds are toxic to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution.

Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)

Why They’re There: These surfactants are cheap and help cut through grease and oils.

• The Problem: NPEs are known endocrine disruptors that can mess with hormone function, leading to reproductive issues and developmental delays.
• The Eco Angle: NPEs are toxic, persistent, and don’t break down easily. They accumulate in the environment and disrupt aquatic food chains.

What are you waiting for?! Ditching conventional laundry detergents greatly reduces exposure to these harmful chemicals. When you make the switch, you’re protecting your family’s health, supporting a cleaner environment, and saying “no” to chemicals that are better left behind.