Do you ever get overwhelmed and confused trying to figure out where to start greening your home life? If this is the case, we suggest that you start with your laundry detergent. Why? Oh so many reasons. Detergents cause many household poisonings every year to children playing with those fascinating colorful powders in packaging so appealing to them.

Fragrances that are added to detergents are notorious for bothering those who are sensitive to chemicals, or they can create sensitivities in those who think they're not susceptible, especially so for children. Symptoms of flu and asthma are commonly reported by many in relation to being around laundry fragrance and dust.
But it doesn't stop there. Residue of the dust and fragrances linger on clothing and bed linens which have been known to cause rashes, respiratory and neurological problems. Besides synthetic fragrances, the ingredients of conventional detergents can include whiteners, enzymes, softeners and sometimes masking fragrances used to cover up the original scent of the detergent formula, making them seem scent-free. But, scent-free doesn't necessarily mean no scents have been used in the ingredients.
Problems for animal testing issues and the environment are also related to detergents, particularly water sources. Detergents contain petrochemicals and phosphates which get into rivers and lakes, encouraging the growth of algae and killing plants and marine life including coral reefs. Some have been banned.  
Soaps, on the other hand, are made from fats and natural substances and work perfectly for natural fabrics. Detergents were originally developed to clean synthetic fabrics. Many alternative laundry options now exist that are better for you and more environmentally friendly too. Our favorites include washing soda and other powdered alternatives, especially when combined with Borax