A large number of household detergents and cleaning agents contain components called phosphates, which have been known to cause environmental hazards. The most controversial uses involve dish-washing and laundry detergents, and some states have imposed restrictions or bans on their use.

Negative Impact
Phosphates carry into waste systems and are hard to break down by septic systems. As they seep into groundwater, they are later carried into streams, lakes and rivers, they increase algae growth and subsequently decrease the oxygen that is needed for healthy aquatic life, and contribute to the pollution of water bodies.

Industry Conflict
In the 1960’s and early 1970’s, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario were found to be heavily polluted with phosphates from detergents, and consumer agencies began calling for their ban. The detergent industry continues to use phosphates in their products on a large scale.

Advantages
Phosphates are helpful in softening hard water and also aid in suspending dirt, however, new green cleaning products have been introduced that work well in hard water and provide just as strong cleaning as traditional phosphate brands.

Alternatives
After highly publicized campaigns against the use of phosphates in household detergents, some manufacturers offer phosphate-free alternatives for consumer cleaning. Here are some of our most recommended products:

Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents

• Mrs. Meyer’s® Laundry Detergent –“Contains no phthalates, chlorine, formaldehyde, or artificial colors.”
• Method B4x Concentrated Laundry Detergent – “The plant-based formula is biodegradable and hypoallergenic.”
• Seventh Generation Natural 4X Concentrated Laundry Detergent – “Promises to knock out tough stains like grass, tomato sauce and chocolate.”
• Pods: Grab Green Natural 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods – “The delicious lavender and vanilla scent is made with essential oils.”
• Best for Hard Water: Water Boy Liquid Laundry Detergent- Hard Water Concentrate – “Specially formulated for hard water, customers say it leaves clothes soft and clean.”

Eco-Friendly Dish Soaps

• LifeTree Dish Soap – “Nice job on dishes and is soft and gentle on hands.”
• Ecover Dish Liquid – “Highly concentrated and requires just a few drops for a full sink of dirty dishes.”
• Method Dish Soap – “Ultra-concentrated, so a little goes a long way.”
• Seventh Generation Dish Soap – “Suds up and cleans as well as any other brand while being environmentally friendly.”

Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergents

• Grab Green Natural Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Pods – “Great for both standard dishwashers and HE dishwashers.”
• Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Dishwasher Detergent – “Gel helps to really get rid of stuck on foods and grease.”
• Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Soap Tablets – “Plant-based materials and minerals keep your dishes clean, without clogging up your septic system.”
• Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs – “Mineral-based ingredients help get rid of even the stickiest of residue, and even works if you have hard water.”