When it comes to buying your laundry detergent you will notice the labels biological and non-biological. Perhaps you just buy the same one out of habit? Or you're wondering what is best for sportswear or that dreaded spaghetti bolognese stain left from the school lunch? If you'd like to know more about how they clean your clothes and the impact on your skin, health and the planet then read on...
Biological detergent: the enzyme powerhouse
Biological detergents contain enzymes that effectively break down stains caused by food, sweat and oils. These are naturally occurring enzymes such as protese (breaks down protein based stains like blood and sweat) and lipase (breaks down fats and oils). They work best at lower temperatures; high temperatures destroy the enzymes before they've had a chance to do their job. Lower temperatures mean more energy efficient. They are particularly great for sports wear and children's clothes, think chocolate and grass stains!
Non-biological: the gentle clean
Non-biological detergents are enzyme free. They rely on other ingredients to remove stains and are considered gentler on skin, so can be a better option for people with allergies and sensitives, such as those with eczema and also babies. This is usually a blend of a surfactant (soap), percarbonate of soda (oxygen bleach) and water softener. They usually require hotter temperatures to remove stains so higher energy usage. You may find that non-biological detergents struggle with some stains, so pre-soaking or using extra oxygen bleach may help with this.
So which option to go for? As long as you use a quality non-toxic, plant-based laundry detergent, like the ones we stock, then the impact on the planet is more about energy usage. Lower temperatures mean you spend less on energy and a lower carbon footprint. Biological detergents are better for this. Particularly if you regularly wash sweaty sports wear and school uniforms.
However, if you are concerned with keeping skin sensitives to a minimum then a non-biological detergent is a safer bet. We stock a non-biological unscented powder for the most sensitive skin and those with allergies.
Many of our customers have both to hand and use them for different purposes. Here are the options:
- Non-biological laundry liquid
- Non-biological naturally scented powder
- Non-biological unscented powder
- Biological laundry liquid
- Biological naturally scented laundry powder
Whichever laundry product you choose, this blog outlines which toxic ingredients to avoid.