What's actually in your laundry detergent?

Let’s talk laundry.

It’s one of those chores we do without thinking, right? Load the washer, throw in a detergent pod, maybe toss in a dryer sheet, and move on with our day.

But have you ever stopped to wonder what’s actually in your detergent?

Most conventional laundry products are loaded with ingredients that can irritate your skin, disrupt your hormones, and even impact your long-term health. And because we wear our clothes, sleep in our sheets, and use our towels every day, this exposure really adds up.

Here are a few common offenders to look out for:

1. Fragrance
This one seems innocent enough—who doesn’t love fresh-smelling laundry? But “fragrance” is actually a trade secret, which means manufacturers aren’t required to list the hundreds of chemicals it might contain. Many of these are linked to hormone disruption, allergies, and even respiratory issues.

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These are foaming agents that can strip skin of natural oils and cause irritation. If you’ve ever noticed itchy skin or rashes, your detergent could be playing a role.

3. Optical Brighteners
These chemicals reflect light to make clothes look cleaner and brighter. But they leave behind a residue that can cause skin sensitivity—and they’re not great for the environment either.

4. Preservatives like formaldehyde-releasing agents
Yes, really. Some detergents use preservatives that slowly release formaldehyde (a known carcinogen) to extend shelf life. Definitely not something we want on our skin or in our homes.

So, what can you use instead?
There are so many great low-tox options these days that clean your clothes just as well—without the gross chemicals. Here are a few of my favorites:

Dropps

Blueland

Truly Free

Baking soda + white vinegar – A classic DIY option that really works

One small change = a big difference
Swapping out your laundry detergent is one of the easiest (and sneakiest-powerful) ways to reduce the chemical load in your daily life. Your skin, your hormones, and your nervous system will thank you.

And if you have kids or furry friends rolling around on everything? This change is even more important.

This kind of detox doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s just about making intentional swaps, one by one. Laundry detergent is a great place to start.

Stay tuned next week, because we’re tackling another common offender: air fresheners. We’ll talk about what’s really in those little plug-ins and sprays, and how you can make your space smell amazing without compromising your health. 💙

Have questions or want more personalized support with your wellness goals? I’d love to chat. Feel free to book a time here!