Issues > March/April 2007 (#119) > Cleaner and Greener Laundry

Cleaner and Greener Laundry

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Beside the signal word is usually a phrase that describes the nature of the hazard, such as "may cause skin irritation," "flammable," "vapors harmful," or "may cause burns on contact." Look for instructions on how to use the product, which may help you avoid injury. Some labels do list active ingredients, which may assist you in detecting caustic or irritating ingredients you may wish to avoid, such as sodium hypochlorite. A few manufacturers voluntarily list all ingredients. And don't stop with the product labeling. A few manufacturers list specific ingredients on their web sites simply because there isn't adequate room on the product itself.

When gauging ecological claims, look for specifics. For example, "biodegradable in 3 to 5 days" holds a lot more meaning than simply "biodegradable," as most substances will eventually break down if given enough time and the right ecological conditions. And claims like "no phosphates" or "plant-based" are more meaningful than vague terms like "ecologically-friendly" or "natural." When ingredients are listed, choose products made with plant-based, instead of petroleum-based, ingredients.

To reduce packaging waste, buy the largest size available. Select products in bottles made with at least some recycled plastic or in cardboard boxes made with 100 percent recycled content. And choose concentrated formulas, which require less packaging and fuel for shipping.

Avoid harsh fragrances by choosing detergents and fabric softeners labeled "fragrance free." While some less-toxic detergents are scented with essential or citrus oils, these plant-based fragrances can still aggravate allergies and cause contact dermatitis in extremely sensitive individuals.

What to Look Out For

Laundry product manufacturers like to lure people in with unsubstantiated claims like "non-toxic," "hypo-allergenic" and "natural." These claims aren't verified by third parties and are therefore meaningless.

Be aware that some labels that may make a product appear eco-friendly are actually meaningless. For example, many spray fabric stain removers and spray starches come in aerosol spray cans labeled "no CFCs" (or chlorofluorocarbons, which deplete the ozone layer), leading consumers to believe they are buying a more eco-friendly product by purchasing that brand. In reality, CFCs have been banned from aerosols since 1978, so no products are permitted to contain CFCs.

Buying products in "recyclable" packaging is not the same as buying those in "post consumer recycled" (PCR) packaging. Purchasing PCR supports companies that are providing a vital end-market for recycled paper and plastic, without which recycling would not be possible.

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