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10 Best Plant Based Laundry Detergents 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Liquid Laundry Detergent, Biodegradable Formula Infused with Essential Oils, Basil, 64 oz - Pack of 2 (128 Loads)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,478
Scent
Cleaning Power
Concentration

Most important from
23214 reviews

Scent
The basil scent is phenomenal and consistently a favorite, offering a fresh and uplifting fragrance without being overpowering.
Cleaning Power
It cleans clothes well, leaving them fresh with a natural scent that stands out from conventional detergents.
Concentration
The detergent is concentrated, so less is needed per load compared to standard detergents, making it economical in use.
Environmental Impact
Choosing this plant-based option aligns perfectly with a preference for natural, eco-friendly laundry products.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Liquid Laundry Detergent stands out for its plant-based, biodegradable formula infused with essential oils, making it a solid choice for those who prefer environmentally friendly cleaning products. The detergent uses plant-derived cleaning agents combined with stain-fighting enzymes, which means it should clean your clothes effectively without being too harsh. This makes it suitable for both high-efficiency (HE) and conventional washing machines, offering flexibility for different machine types.

The concentration level is good since each 64 oz bottle handles 64 loads, so the pack of two gives you 128 loads in total. One nice bonus is the garden-inspired basil scent, which is fresh and uplifting without being overpowering, appealing if you like your laundry to have a natural fragrance. On the environmental side, the formula is phosphate-free, biodegradable, and cruelty-free, with Leaping Bunny certification, so it aligns well with eco-conscious values.

If you have sensitive skin, it’s worth noting that although the ingredients are plant-based, the scent and enzymes might still cause mild irritation for some. While effective for everyday dirt and stains, heavy-duty stain removal may require pre-treatment or a stronger detergent. This detergent is a great choice for people looking for a gentle yet capable plant-based option with a pleasant natural scent, who want an eco-friendly product that works with most washers.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,478
Scent
Cleaning Power
Concentration

Most important from
23214 reviews

Scent
The basil scent is phenomenal and consistently a favorite, offering a fresh and uplifting fragrance without being overpowering.
Cleaning Power
It cleans clothes well, leaving them fresh with a natural scent that stands out from conventional detergents.
Concentration
The detergent is concentrated, so less is needed per load compared to standard detergents, making it economical in use.
Environmental Impact
Choosing this plant-based option aligns perfectly with a preference for natural, eco-friendly laundry products.
#2

ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid, 200 Loads - Dermatologist Tested Laundry Soap - Hypoallergenic, EPA Safer Choice Certified, Plant-Powered - Magnolia Lily, 100 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

Rating
8.5
Ingredients
Cleaning Power
Scent

Most important from
16953 reviews

Ingredients
Made with plant-based ingredients and biodegradable, ECOS aligns with a commitment to reducing ecological footprints.
Cleaning Power
ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid effortlessly tackles a variety of stains and everyday dirt, leaving clothes fresh and vibrant.
Scent
The light, natural fragrance of ECOS leaves clothes smelling fresh without being overpowering.
Environmental Impact
Made with plant-based ingredients and biodegradable, ECOS aligns with a commitment to reducing ecological footprints.
Concentration
Highly concentrated, a little goes a long way, making the bottle last longer and providing great value for money.

The ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid is an environmentally friendly option ideal for those seeking a plant-powered detergent. With ingredients free from parabens, phosphates, and other harsh chemicals, it is gentle on sensitive skin and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for families with skin sensitivities. The detergent is EPA Safer Choice Certified, ensuring it meets high standards for human and environmental health. Additionally, it is vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with ethical consumer values.

The product's scent, Magnolia Lily, is a pleasant floral fragrance, although it may not appeal to everyone's preferences. It is also pH-balanced, which is beneficial for both skin sensitivity and maintaining the fabric quality of clothes. A significant highlight is its production in a carbon and water-neutral facility, using 100% renewable energy, which adds to its strong environmental credentials.

However, the product is enzyme-free, which could impact its effectiveness on tough stains compared to other enzyme-based detergents. It works well with most washing machines and provides sufficient detergent for 200 loads, offering good value for money. The concentration is effective for regular laundry needs but might require an extra amount for heavily soiled loads. The manufacturer, Earth Friendly Products, emphasizes sustainability and ethical business practices, being a women-owned and black-owned company, which may appeal to socially conscious consumers.

Rating
8.5
Ingredients
Cleaning Power
Scent

Most important from
16953 reviews

Ingredients
Made with plant-based ingredients and biodegradable, ECOS aligns with a commitment to reducing ecological footprints.
Cleaning Power
ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid effortlessly tackles a variety of stains and everyday dirt, leaving clothes fresh and vibrant.
Scent
The light, natural fragrance of ECOS leaves clothes smelling fresh without being overpowering.
Environmental Impact
Made with plant-based ingredients and biodegradable, ECOS aligns with a commitment to reducing ecological footprints.
Concentration
Highly concentrated, a little goes a long way, making the bottle last longer and providing great value for money.
#3

Method Liquid Laundry Detergent; Beach Sage Scent, Plant-Based Stain Remover; ; 66 Loads per 53.5 fl oz bottle; 4 Pack (264 Total Loads); Packaging May Vary

Rating
8.2
Cleaning Power
Scent
Concentration

Most important from
8558 reviews

Cleaning Power
This detergent gets clothes clean and leaves a scent that is quite pleasing.
Scent
This detergent gets clothes clean and leaves a scent that is quite pleasing.
Concentration
It takes very little detergent to clean laundry effectively, though the scent can be a bit strong.

The Method Concentrated Laundry Detergent in Beach Sage is a powerful plant-based option for your laundry needs. Coming in a pack of four, each 53.5-ounce bottle offers a total of 66 loads, making it a cost-effective choice. The concentrated formula ensures it packs a punch against tough dirt and stains while keeping your colors bright and whites white.

It's compatible with both high efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines, which adds to its versatility. One standout feature is its plant-based ingredients, which are both biodegradable and cruelty-free, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, the hypoallergenic nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin.

The beach sage fragrance provides a fresh, misty beach-like scent, adding a pleasant aroma to your laundry. Despite these minor drawbacks, this detergent is a solid choice for those seeking an eco-friendly, powerful laundry solution.

Rating
8.2
Cleaning Power
Scent
Concentration

Most important from
8558 reviews

Cleaning Power
This detergent gets clothes clean and leaves a scent that is quite pleasing.
Scent
This detergent gets clothes clean and leaves a scent that is quite pleasing.
Concentration
It takes very little detergent to clean laundry effectively, though the scent can be a bit strong.

Buying Guide for the Best Plant Based Laundry Detergents

Choosing the right plant-based laundry detergent can make a significant difference in your laundry routine, both for the cleanliness of your clothes and the impact on the environment. Plant-based detergents are made from natural ingredients, which are generally more eco-friendly and gentler on the skin compared to conventional detergents. When selecting a plant-based laundry detergent, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs.
IngredientsThe ingredients in a plant-based laundry detergent are crucial because they determine the product's effectiveness and environmental impact. Look for detergents that list natural, biodegradable ingredients and avoid those with synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, opt for hypoallergenic formulas that are free from common irritants. The more transparent the brand is about their ingredients, the better you can assess their safety and eco-friendliness.
Cleaning PowerCleaning power refers to how effectively the detergent removes dirt, stains, and odors from your clothes. Plant-based detergents can vary in their cleaning strength, so consider your typical laundry load. For everyday laundry, a standard plant-based detergent should suffice. However, if you frequently deal with tough stains or heavily soiled clothes, look for a detergent specifically formulated for high cleaning power. Reading reviews and checking for third-party certifications can help you gauge the effectiveness of a product.
ScentThe scent of a laundry detergent can enhance the freshness of your clothes, but it's a personal preference. Plant-based detergents often use essential oils or natural fragrances. If you prefer a strong, lasting scent, choose a detergent with a higher concentration of natural fragrances. For those who are sensitive to smells or prefer unscented products, there are fragrance-free options available. Consider your household's preferences and any sensitivities when selecting the scent.
Environmental ImpactThe environmental impact of a laundry detergent includes its biodegradability, packaging, and the sustainability of its ingredients. Look for detergents that are certified biodegradable and come in recyclable or minimal packaging. Some brands also use renewable energy in their manufacturing processes or support environmental causes. If reducing your carbon footprint is important to you, choose a detergent that aligns with these values and has certifications from reputable environmental organizations.
Compatibility with Washing MachinesNot all detergents are suitable for all types of washing machines. Check if the plant-based detergent is compatible with your machine, whether it's a high-efficiency (HE) washer or a standard one. HE detergents are formulated to produce fewer suds and work efficiently with less water, which is important for HE machines. Using the right type of detergent ensures optimal performance and longevity of your washing machine.
ConcentrationThe concentration of a laundry detergent refers to how much product is needed per load. Concentrated detergents require less product to achieve the same cleaning power, which can be more economical and environmentally friendly. If you prefer a more concentrated formula, look for labels indicating 'ultra-concentrated' or similar terms. This can also save storage space and reduce plastic waste. Consider your laundry habits and storage space when choosing the concentration level.

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