Hi, I’m Evelyn!
I'm an eco-conscious consumer with a PhD and I have spent the last several years researching and testing the best eco-friendly products on the market.
.png)
Hi, I’m Evelyn!
I'm an eco-conscious consumer with a PhD and I have spent the last several years researching and testing the best eco-friendly products on the market.
We tested today’s best eco-friendly laundry detergents to find options that actually work and align with our standards for non-toxic ingredients and low-waste packaging. Each one was evaluated for stain removal, scent, cost, and overall ease of use. One clear winner stood out for performance and eco impact, and it’s 40% off today with a subscription (just $12.75 for a month’s supply)! Here are our results:
Our results
How we tested detergent
EarthFold detergent sheets impressed us from the start with their mix of performance, purpose, and simplicity. These ultra-concentrated sheets delivered a deep clean that rivaled top liquid and powder detergents—without any of the waste. Clothes came out soft, fresh, and residue-free, even in cold water.
What really sets EarthFold apart is its mission: for every box sold, they plant a tree in areas most impacted by deforestation. It’s an eco-friendly choice that actually makes a measurable difference.
We also loved the minimalist approach—no plastic jugs, no messy measuring, and no harsh chemicals. The sheets dissolve instantly and leave clothes feeling light, clean, and naturally fresh.
Most laundry sheets are a more eco-friendly options vs detergents with heavy chemical and plastic use. But, it's awesome to see EarthFold take this a step further with their tree planting mission!
Right now, EarthFold is offering a 40% discount and free shipping, making it one of the best-value options we’ve tested.
If you’re looking for a detergent that’s powerful, gentle, and good for the planet, EarthFold delivers on all fronts. 🌎
.png)
Check Availability
If you're drawn to the convenience of pods but want something gentler, cleaner, and less wasteful than what the big brands offer, Dropps is our top pod pick.
These compact pods strike a rare balance: they deliver solid cleaning power without the synthetic dyes, artificial fragrances, or heavy plastic packaging found in traditional options like Tide pods. However, they are one of the pricier options we tested at $0.54 per load.
We also liked that Dropps offers a fragrance-free version for those with sensitivities, and their entire product line is plant-based, cruelty-free, and low-waste. Instead of coming in plastic tubs, their pods ship in compostable cardboard boxes that are slim, recyclable, and easy to store
If you're not ready to switch to a detergent sheet but want something that’s far more thoughtful than the average pod, Dropps is the best of both worlds: convenient, effective, and better for your home and the planet.
Check Availability
Puracy Liquid earned its spot on our list because it just works — and it does so with a gentler, cleaner ingredient list than most.Made with plant-based enzymes and minerals, it’s a great option for families who want something that’s both effective and safe.
Whether you’re dealing with playground mud, food spills, or everyday grime, it gets clothes clean without relying on harsh chemicals. And it’s gentle enough for everything from baby onesies to your favorite hoodie.
The pump-top bottle is a small detail that makes a big difference — no drips, no overpouring, just a simple press and you’re good to go. Messes often come with liquid detergent, so this is a big plus.
While it does come in plastic, the fact that it’s refillable helps offset that a bit. If you’re looking for a plant-powered liquid detergent that doesn't compromise on cleaning power, Puracy is definitely worth a look.
Check Availability
Molly’s Suds Powder is a great example of doing more with less. With just four mineral-based ingredients, this detergent delivers an impressive clean. It's free of synthetic additives, dyes, and fragrances.
It was originally developed by a mom and pediatric nurse, and it shows. The formula is gentle enough for babies, people with skin sensitivities, and anyone trying to cut down on chemicals in their home. It handled most everyday stains well in our testing, especially in warm or hot water.
There's a lot to like, and powders are generally a solid eco-friendly detergent format. That said, powders can be a bit messy if you're used to pods or sheets, and it’s not ideal for cold cycles or for taking on the go.
If you're looking for a no-nonsense powder detergent with a thoughtful ingredient list and a gentle touch, Molly’s Suds is our pick.
Check Availability
If you're looking for a detergent that takes the guesswork out of clean laundry, Seventh Generation Packs are a solid choice.
We liked how easy these pods made the laundry routine: just toss one in and go. They're fragrance-free, dye-free, and made with plant-powered enzymes to break down common stains like grass, food, and dirt. And for those with allergies or sensitivities, they’re hypoallergenic and certified by the EPA’s Safer Choice program — a nice seal of approval.
These pods generally dissolve well, especially in warm water, but we did notice they sometimes struggle to fully break down in colder cycles. And although they leave clothes feeling fresh, though their light scent might not be strong enough for anyone used to traditional laundry fragrances.
They're also not quite as tough on set-in stains as some other options, but for day-to-day loads, they more than hold their own.
They do come at a higher cost, averaging around $0.31 per load at full price, which is one of the pricier options on our list. For a grab-and-go pod that’s gentle, reliable, and cleaner than most mainstream brands, Seventh Generation is a solid pick.
After testing detergents across every format, from powders and pods to liquids and sheets, one option stood out for its balance of cleaning performance and environmental care.
EarthFold matched the cleaning power of big-name brands, but added something they don’t: a genuine commitment to sustainability and simplicity.
What really impressed us was how effortless it made laundry feel. EarthFold’s detergent sheets fit seamlessly into my everyday life. There are no bulky jugs, no plastic waste, and no messy measuring or spills. Each pre-measured sheet dissolves completely in hot or cold water and always left my clothes soft and fresh.
Whether it’s a quick midweek load or a full family wash, EarthFold keeps things easy and consistent. Beyond performance, it just feels like a smarter way to do laundry. With biodegradable packaging, plant-based ingredients, and a reforestation giveback program, EarthFold was a small change but felt like I made a big difference. For my family, the choice was simple: EarthFold delivers a clean you can feel good about for your home and the planet. 🌿
Thanks for reading!
Eco-conscious consumer, avid hiker, and mother.