Why Switch To Natural Laundry Detergent? Discover A Greener Clean

Discover our plant-powered laundry detergent sheets and why choosing natural laundry detergent is a better option for you and the planet.
Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes
Natural beauty is all around us – the trees, the birds, the oceans…and you! Okay, we’ll stop with the flattering. But our point is natural, more often than not, is better, and the same goes for household products like laundry detergent.
Just like natural deodorants, shampoo bars, and cleaning essentials, switching to a natural laundry detergent isn’t just a fad, it’s a simple, effective way to care for your health and the health of planet. Why? Because traditional detergents are packed with synthetic chemicals, many of which are potentially toxic to the earth and our skin (you can find more on that here!)
Not to mention, they come in bulky plastic bottles that clutter your laundry room and our landfills.
Natural alternatives, like our ZWS Essentials Laundry Detergent Sheets, offer a cleaner, greener solution, without compromising on performance.
Synthetic vs. Natural Laundry Detergent What’s The Difference?
Before we dive into the benefits of switching, let’s break down what sets natural laundry detergent apart from its synthetic counterpart:
Table header 0 | Synthetic Laundry Detergent | Natural Laundry Detergent |
---|---|---|
Ingredients | Contains petrochemicals derived from petroleum. | Contains naturally occurring chemicals derived from plants. |
Skin health | Often contains phosphates, optical brighteners, and artificial fragrances that linger on fabrics and contribute to allergies. | Free from harsh synthetic chemicals, parabens, phosphates, and artificial dyes, that can irritate the skin. |
Environmental health | Synthetic ingredients can pollute water supplies and soil. | Natural ingredients are biodegradable. |
Note: Everything contains chemicals, so nothing is technically "chemical-free." Some chemicals are naturally occurring, like oxygen and hydrogen, which are crucial for the survival of the planet. Others are synthetic and made by humans, and have potentially toxic effects on human health and the environment.
Best Natural Laundry Detergent: Laundry Detergent Sheets

For a truly natural, biodegradable, and waste-free option, laundry detergent sheets trump all the other options.
Not sure what they are? Just like the name suggests, laundry detergent sheets are an alternative to liquid laundry detergents, in sheet form.
That’s right – there’s no messy liquid in a heavy plastic jug, just ultra-thin, highly-concentrated, pre-measured strips that can be tossed in with your washing. They dissolve in water, providing the same cleaning power as traditional detergents, without the waste.
Read this post for more reasons why zero waste laundry detergent sheets are the best option for your home!
Now we can’t speak for all natural laundry detergent sheets, but we can brag about ours (we’re just proud of them, okay!). Our ZWS Essentials Laundry Detergent Sheets are designed with a no-fuss, no-waste approach:
- Completely plastic-free: Biodegradable formula + compostable packaging.
- Mess-free & pre-measured: No spills, no measuring cups, no wasted detergent.
- Works in all machines: Including HE washers.
- Powerful stain removal: While staying gentle on fabrics and skin.
- Available in scented (Fresh Linen) & unscented options: Perfect for sensitive skin (and noses!)
For a complete guide on how to use laundry detergent sheets, check out this guide.
Breaking Down the Ingredients: Transparency Matters
We believe in complete transparency when it comes to what’s in your detergent. Here’s exactly what goes into our ZWS Essentials Laundry Detergent Sheets and why:
- Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (Plant-Derived Cleaning Agent): A naturally derived surfactant that lifts dirt and grime from fabrics without the harshness of synthetic alternatives.
- Fatty Alcohol Polyglycol Ether (Biodegradable Grease Remover): A plant-based emulsifier that helps dissolve tough stains and grease.
- Polyvinyl Alcohol (Biodegradable Polymer): A water-soluble polymer that ensures the detergent sheet dissolves completely in water, leaving no residue behind.
- Deionized Water: Helps blend the ingredients smoothly, ensuring an even wash.
- Fragrance (Fresh Linen Scent Only): A gentle, pleasant scent for those who prefer a fresh, clean aroma.
Each ingredient is carefully chosen for effectiveness, biodegradability, and safety. Unlike conventional detergents loaded with mystery chemicals, our formula is as clean and transparent as your laundry will be.
To find out more about the not-so-nice synthetic ingredients in conventional laundry detergents, read this post!
Why Natural & Compostable Packaging Matters

When it comes to natural laundry detergents, it’s crucial to consider the packaging too.
Conventional laundry detergents tend to come packaged in bulky plastic jugs, whereas eco-friendly brands tend to use plant-based and compostable packaging for an all-natural laundry detergent inside and out.
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges we face today. 900 million plastic detergent jugs are discarded every year contributing to the 12 million tonnes of plastic that ends up in the ocean each year.
ZWS Essentials Laundry Detergent Sheets offer an alternative. As well as 100% biodegradable sheets, our cardboard packaging can be composted, so when it’s done, it’s completely done (we just wish we could say the same about our growing pile of laundry…)
The Benefits of Mindful Packaging:
- Zero plastic waste: Every part of the packaging breaks down naturally.
- Compact & lightweight: Easy to store and carry to your laundry room/shop, and perfect for travel.
- Lower carbon footprint: Less energy is required to produce and transport compared to traditional liquid detergents that take up more room.
Our all-natural laundry detergent sheets eliminate all unnecessary waste while keeping your laundry routine eco-friendly.
FAQ
How to make natural laundry detergent
Check our our natural laundry detergent recipe here!
Does natural laundry detergent work?
Yes, natural laundry detergent effectively cleans clothes using plant-based ingredients free from harsh chemicals that can damage clothes in the long run.
Is natural laundry detergent better for sensitive skin?
Yes, natural laundry detergent is generally better for sensitive skin as it avoids synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals that can cause irritation.
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