Is Your Laundry Detergent Toxic?

Many consumers are often shocked when they learn about the variety of toxic ingredients that can be present in many popular laundry detergents. These everyday cleaning essentials, which we frequently use to keep our clothes fresh and clean, can also harbor harmful substances that may pose health risks to our families and the environment.

Today’s leading laundry detergents frequently contain a mix of carcinogens, toxins, and other hazardous compounds. This concerning reality calls for greater awareness and caution in our choices of household products.

At Tangie, we understand how important it is to feel safe in your own home. That’s why our mission is to help you create healthier living spaces. We’re here to provide you with essential information about the common toxins found in laundry detergents, so you can make informed choices for you and your loved ones.

In this article, you will learn about:

• Common Toxins In Laundry Detergents
• Potential Carcinogens You Must Avoid In Your Laundry Detergent
• Switch To Zero Waste Laundry Bars

What Makes A Laundry Detergent Toxic?

When you look closely at what goes into many laundry detergents, the problem usually comes down to a handful of harsh chemical groups. Let’s break them down in a simple way:

The first culprits are harsh surfactants like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) and SLES (sodium laureth sulfate). These are the ingredients that create all that foam. While they do clean, they can also strip your skin’s natural oils, cause irritation, and don’t break down easily once they enter waterways.

Next up are artificial fragrances. They may make your laundry smell “fresh,” but the reality is they often hide dozens of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates, which are linked to allergies, asthma, and even hormone disruption.

Dyes and optical brighteners are another hidden issue. They don’t actually clean your clothes, they make whites look whiter and colors pop. Unfortunately, they can trigger skin irritation and are not biodegradable, which means they persist in the environment.

Then there are preservatives like formaldehyde releasers (for example, DMDM hydantoin) or methylisothiazolinone. These keep detergents shelf-stable, but they are known allergens and can be toxic with repeated exposure.

Some detergents still contain phosphates, though these are banned in many places. Phosphates pollute rivers and lakes, leading to algae blooms that kill off fish and other aquatic life.

Chlorine bleach, scientifically known as sodium hypochlorite, is a widely used disinfectant known for its powerful cleaning and disinfecting abilities. It effectively kills a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, and molds, making it a popular choice in both household and industrial cleaning applications. However, while it is effective at sanitizing surfaces and preventing the spread of germs, chlorine bleach comes with several important safety concerns.

Lastly, there are nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), which are banned in Europe but still used in some parts of the world. These are endocrine disruptors, chemicals that interfere with your body’s hormones, and are particularly damaging to marine ecosystems.

What is the most toxic laundry detergent?

There isn’t a specific laundry detergent that can be labeled as the “most toxic,” but many traditional brands include harmful substances like 1,4-dioxane (which may cause cancer), phthalates (known to disrupt hormones), synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and optical brighteners. These ingredients can lead to skin irritation, breathing problems, and harm to the environment.

To choose a safer detergent, opt for those that are fragrance-free, plant-based, free of phosphates, and certified as non-toxic. You might also explore natural alternatives, such as soap nuts, or create your own using baking soda and vinegar.

NY State Law on 1,4-Dioxane in Detergents: What You Should Know

In January 2023, New York State enacted new legislation limiting the amount of 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen formed as a trace by-product during manufacturing, in household cleaning products, including laundry detergents. The law capped the permissible level at 2 parts per million (ppm), with a stricter limit of 1 ppm set to take effect by the end of 2023.

By May 2025, DEC working with the State Department of Health confirmed that the current limits (1 ppm for household products, 10 ppm for cosmetics) remain sufficient and protective for human health and environmental safety.

Mandatory testing showed that several popular detergents, such as Arm & Hammer Clean Burst, Tide Original, Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear, and Gain Original + Aroma Boost, exceeded the 2 ppm limit, with levels ranging from 3.3 to 4.3 ppm.

Meanwhile, some other brands (like those from Method or Seventh Generation) stayed below the limit, demonstrating compliance. Despite media reports claiming a ban on certain brands, New York did not ban any specific detergents outright. Instead, manufacturers were given time to reformulate their products. Many met the deadline early, and the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation also grants waivers in certain cases to allow continued sales during the transition.

Common Toxins In Laundry Detergents

Brands like Tide, Arm & Hammer, All, Gain, Seventh Generation, Method, and Mrs. Meyers utilize ethoxylates to create effective, cost-efficient, high-foaming laundry detergents.

Despite advancements in recyclable packaging and the reduction of skin-irritating fragrances, these companies need to focus on reformulating their products to ensure that consumers do not inadvertently come into contact with carcinogens during their laundry routines.

1,4-Dioxane 

1,4-dioxane is classified as a known human carcinogen, which means it has been identified as a substance that can lead to cancer in humans. Additionally, it acts as a neurotoxin, potentially causing harmful effects on the nervous system. This compound is often found in trace amounts when ethoxylated surfactants are utilized in various products.

Ethoxylated surfactants are produced through a chemical reaction in which ethylene oxide, a colorless gas with a sweet odor, interacts with other chemical compounds.

This reaction is fundamental in the formulation of various cleaning agents, personal care products, and industrial applications because it enhances the ability of the surfactants to reduce surface tension and improve wetting properties.

What Household Products Contain 1,4-Dioxane? 1,4-Dioxane is commonly found in various household products, including: Personal Care Products: Shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. Cleaning Products: All-purpose cleaners, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners. Cosmetics: Some makeup products and skin creams. Industrial Products: Paints, solvents, and adhesives. 1,4-Dioxane forms as a byproduct in the manufacturing of ethoxylated surfactants and various raw materials commonly present in consumer items like shampoo, body wash, dish soap, and laundry detergent.

However, a significant concern arises from the manufacturing process of these surfactants. During the reaction, 1,4-dioxane can be formed as an unintended byproduct.

This byproduct is often not fully removed during the purification processes, resulting in its presence in the final product, despite being in trace amounts. As a consequence, consumers may unknowingly expose themselves to this hazardous compound through the use of common household and personal care items that contain ethoxylated surfactants, thereby raising public health and safety concerns.

Surfactants

Many laundry detergents commonly contain surfactants, which are compounds that help to clean fabrics by breaking down dirt and grease. Two of the most frequently used surfactants in these products are petroleum distillate and naphtha. While these surfactants can significantly enhance the cleaning power of laundry detergents, they also pose considerable risks to human health.

Both substances are known to irritate mucus membranes and the respiratory system, potentially leading to serious respiratory complications if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals has been linked to heightened levels of inflammation in the lungs, raising concerns about their contribution to asthma and certain types of cancer.

In addition to petroleum distillate and naphtha, some laundry detergents opt for phenol as their surfactant of choice. Phenol, a toxic aromatic compound, is recognized for being even more hazardous than the aforementioned surfactants.

A significant number of individuals are allergic to phenol, experiencing reactions that can range from mild skin irritation to severe health consequences. In extreme cases, exposure to phenol can result in fatal outcomes, particularly in sensitive individuals or those with underlying health conditions.

Upon contact with the skin, phenol can easily penetrate the dermal barrier and enter the bloodstream, thereby affecting various organs, the nervous system, and potentially leading to systemic toxicity.

• Regular detergents typically contain around 15% surfactants, which is enough for everyday cleaning needs.
• Concentrated varieties raise that level to 25–30%, making them more efficient per wash.
• In specialized or patent-driven formulations, surfactant content can soar to 40–50%, but these are usually crafted for industrial or ultra-concentrated products

Phthalates

Phthalates are a group of chemical compounds commonly used in various consumer products, especially in the fragrance industry, to enhance and prolong the scent of perfumes, cosmetics, and household items.

While a growing number of manufacturers are now proudly advertising their products as phthalate-free in response to increasing consumer awareness and demand for safer alternatives, there remains a concerning number of companies that continue to covertly incorporate these chemicals in their formulations.

This is often done under the vague term “fragrance” on product labels, leading consumers to unknowingly expose themselves to these potentially harmful substances.

The health implications of phthalate exposure have been the subject of numerous scientific investigations. Research indicates that phthalates may act as endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with the body’s hormonal systems.

This disruption can manifest in various ways, including altered reproductive development, increased likelihood of certain types of cancer, and diminished fertility in both men and women. The impact of phthalates extends beyond individuals; there is also concern about their effects on fetal development during pregnancy, which could result in long-term health issues for children.

Can Laundry Detergent Cause Cancer? Yes, Laundry detergents commonly contain many human carcinogens. Laundry detergents are essential for keeping our clothes clean, but it’s natural to wonder about their safety. Some detergents have chemicals that people are concerned about, and there’s been talk about links to health issues, including cancer. However, the evidence is not definitive. Regulatory agencies like the EPA monitor these substances, and many detergents are formulated to be safe for consumer use. Here’s a study you can read to understand more – pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)

Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) are a group of non-ionic surfactants widely used in various industrial and household applications, particularly in cleaning products and laundry detergents.

These chemicals serve as effective agents that help to reduce surface tension and enhance the ability of water to penetrate fabrics, which is crucial for effective cleaning. Despite their utility, NPEs have drawn significant scrutiny due to their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment.

In the European Union (EU) and Canada, concerns regarding the safety of NPEs led to a ban on their use, recognizing the risks associated with these chemicals. In contrast, in the United States, NPEs remain prevalent in many laundry detergents and cleaning products sold to consumers. This continuation in use raises substantial public health concerns, particularly regarding their potential to disrupt endocrine systems.

Endocrine disruptors, like NPEs, can interfere with hormone functions in the body, leading to a cascade of health issues. Studies indicate that exposure to NPEs may result in hormonal imbalances, which can impact an individual’s fertility and reproductive health.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is widely recognized for its functionality as a low-cost preservative and antibacterial agent, making it a popular choice in various household products.

This chemical is commonly found in items such as laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids, where it contributes to the preservation of these products by preventing microbial growth, thereby extending their shelf life.

However, despite its effectiveness in combating bacteria, formaldehyde poses several health risks. It is known to irritate the eyes, lungs, and other parts of the respiratory system upon exposure. Individuals who are sensitive to this chemical may experience discomfort, including watery eyes, cough, or difficulty breathing, particularly in poorly ventilated areas where products containing formaldehyde are used.

Furthermore, some scientific studies have drawn connections between formaldehyde exposure and various skin conditions such as eczema. This suggests that prolonged or high levels of exposure might exacerbate existing conditions or contribute to their development.

Dichlorobenzene (P-dichlorobenzene / benzene)

P-dichlorobenzene is an aromatic compound that may be found in some laundry detergents, primarily as a solvent or fragrance component. It is important to note that while it provides certain functional benefits, its presence raises health and safety concerns.

Uses in Laundry Detergents

• Solvent: P-dichlorobenzene can help dissolve other ingredients, enhancing the cleaning power of detergents.
• Fragrance: It may be used to impart a pleasant scent to laundry products.

Due to its potential health risks, regulatory agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), monitor the use of P-dichlorobenzene. Some jurisdictions may restrict their use in consumer products, including laundry detergents.

Chlorine Bleach

Today, many manufacturers conceal the presence of bleach in their products by using more technical or chemically related terms, such as “sodium hypochlorite,” which is the active ingredient in many household bleach formulations. This can be misleading for consumers who are trying to avoid harsh chemicals.

Additionally, terms like “optical brightener” or “UV brightener” are often used in laundry detergents and cleaning products to suggest enhanced whitening or brightness effects without explicitly stating that bleach is present. These brighteners work by absorbing UV light and re-emitting it as visible blue light, thus making whites appear brighter.

Unfortunately, this lack of transparency can make it challenging for consumers who wish to avoid such substances for health or environmental reasons. It’s essential to read labels carefully and understand that these alternative terms can still indicate the presence of bleach or similar agents in the product.

Toxins In Laundry Detergent Pregnant Women Must Avoid

During pregnancy, your body is more sensitive, and so is the baby you’re carrying. That’s why it’s smart to be extra cautious about the products you use every day, including laundry detergent.

The safest approach is to stick with fragrance-free and dye-free detergents. Fragrances often hide chemicals like phthalates, which can disrupt hormones, while dyes and brighteners don’t actually clean your clothes; they just change how they look. Both can be irritating for sensitive skin and unnecessary during pregnancy.

Instead, look for detergents made with plant-based surfactants. These clean effectively without the harshness of petroleum-based chemicals. Also, check the label to make sure it says “no optical brighteners.” These brighteners only coat the fabric to make whites look whiter, and they can cause skin irritation while lingering in the environment.

Finally, pay attention to preservatives. Some common ones, like methylisothiazolinone (MI) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), are known to trigger allergic reactions. A safer option is a detergent that uses gentler preservatives or highlights “hypoallergenic” and “dermatologist tested.”

Toxic Laundry Detergent Ingredients List

Chemical	Function in Detergent	Potential Health & Environmental Effects
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)	Primary foaming/surfactant	Skin & eye irritant; can strip natural oils and worsen eczema
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)	Foaming/surfactant (milder cousin of SLS)	Similar irritation risks as SLS; often contaminated with 1,4‑dioxane trace levels
Alkylbenzene Sulfonates (ABS)	Surfactant	Very toxic to aquatic life; slow to biodegrade in waterways
Benzalkonium Chloride (a “quat”)	Fabric softener/disinfectant agent	Respiratory irritant; may promote antibiotic resistance; toxic to aquatic organisms
Optical Brighteners (stilbene dyes)	“Whitening” / UV‑fluorescing agents	Skin sensitizer; persistent in the environment; bioaccumulative
Ethanolamines (DEA, MEA, TEA)	pH adjuster, foaming aid	May form nitrosamines (probable carcinogens); skin irritation
Methylisothiazolinone (MI)	Preservative	Potent skin allergen; linked to allergic contact dermatitis
Triclosan	Antimicrobial agent	Endocrine disruption; contributes to antibiotic resistance; toxic to aquatic life
Borax (Sodium Borate)	Water softener, pH buffer	Reproductive toxin (at high doses); irritating to skin & eyes
Sodium Hydroxide	pH adjuster (“lye”)	Highly caustic; can cause severe skin burns and eye damage
Synthetic Fragrances (e.g. “Parfum”)	Scent	Endocrine disruption contributes to antibiotic resistance; toxic to aquatic life
Synthetic Dyes (FD&C colors)	Coloring	Endocrine disruption contributes to antibiotic resistance; toxic to aquatic life

Check ingredient lists for “no SLS/SLES,” “no optical brighteners,” and “no synthetic dyes.”

By choosing these certified detergents, you contribute to a more sustainable future while ensuring effective cleaning in your home.

Potential Carcinogens You Must Avoid In Your Laundry Detergent

When picking laundry detergents, it’s really important to pay attention to the ingredients that might be harmful to your health, especially potential cancer-causing chemicals. Some traditional detergents have substances that could increase the risk of cancer or other serious health issues if used over a long time.

By being aware of these ingredients, you can make smarter choices that keep your family safe and happy!

C12-16 Pareth

C12–16 Pareth is a commercial name for a category of non-ionic surfactants created by linking a short chain of ethylene oxide units (“–eth”) to fatty alcohols containing 12 to 16 carbon atoms. In common household items, it aids in blending grease, oil, and dirt with water, allowing them to wash away effortlessly.

To help protect yourself from harmful chemicals like 1,4-dioxane, it’s a great idea to look for products that say “no ethoxylates” on the label. Ethoxylation is a manufacturing process often used in cleaning and personal care items, but it can unintentionally add 1,4-dioxane, which is a potential carcinogen, to those products.

By choosing brands that are dedicated to testing for and removing 1,4-dioxane, you can make healthier choices for yourself and your loved ones. Remember to take a little time to research and find brands that are transparent and committed to safety in the ingredients they use

Polyethelene Glycol (PEG)

PEGs are a family of synthetic compounds made by combining ethylene oxide and water.

You’ll find PEGs in everything from creams and lotions (they help ingredients blend and absorb) to toothpaste, shampoos, and yes, some laundry detergents (they can act as thickeners or solvents).

Different PEGs, or polyethylene glycols, are identified by a numbering system that indicates the length of their chemical chains. For example, you may encounter PEG‑4, PEG‑100, or PEG‑150.

Look for ingredients that start with “PEG‑” or contain “-eth-” (that hints at ethylene oxide).

How To Transition To More Sustainable Laundry Detergents?

Switching to zero-waste laundry bars is not only a fantastic choice for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the environment but also a smart move for those who want to enjoy clean, fresh laundry without the downside of conventional detergents. These laundry bars are compact, making them easy to store and use, and they often come with little to no packaging, which reduces waste significantly compared to traditional liquid detergents that typically come in large plastic bottles.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, these laundry bars are formulated with natural ingredients, which means they are gentler on both your clothes and the planet. Many zero-waste laundry bars are free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, and chemicals, making them suitable for sensitive skin and reducing the risk of allergies.

Moreover, using laundry bars can offer cost savings over time. Although they may require a higher upfront investment, their concentrated formulas mean you typically use less product per load, leading to fewer purchases and less waste in the long run.

One of the most compelling reasons to make the switch is the reduction of plastic waste. Every year, millions of plastic bottles end up in landfills and oceans, contributing to pollution and harming wildlife. By opting for laundry bars, which typically come in compostable or recyclable packaging, you can significantly cut down your plastic footprint.

Additionally, zero-waste laundry bars are often made with natural ingredients, free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances found in many conventional detergents. This means they are gentler on both your skin and the planet. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re using a product that’s safe for your family and the environment.

Using laundry bars is also incredibly convenient. They are compact, easy to store, and can last a long time, making them a cost-effective solution. Simply rub the bar directly onto your clothes or dissolve it in water for a powerful cleaning solution.

Making the switch to zero waste laundry bars is not just a trend; it’s a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. It’s a simple change that can lead to significant benefits for you, your family, and the planet.

Embrace the shift and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’re doing your part to protect the environment while keeping your laundry fresh and clean!