Cautionary Tale: Does Your Laundry Detergent Contain Harmful Vocs?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemical compounds that easily evaporate at room temperature. They are found in a wide range of household products, including laundry detergents.

VOCs in Laundry Detergent

Yes, laundry detergents do contain VOCs. These chemicals are used for various purposes, such as:

• Fragrances: Artificial fragrances added to laundry detergents release VOCs into the air.
• Surfactants: These cleaning agents help dissolve dirt and stains, and they also emit VOCs.
• Bleach: Chlorine bleach releases VOCs as it breaks down stains.
• Optical brighteners: These chemicals make clothes appear brighter, and they can also emit VOCs.

Health Effects of VOCs

Exposure to VOCs can have various health effects, including:

• Respiratory problems: VOCs can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Eye irritation: VOCs can cause eye irritation, redness, and tearing.
• Headaches: Exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause headaches and dizziness.
• Skin irritation: VOCs can irritate the skin, causing rashes and itching.
• Cancer: Some VOCs have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Reducing VOC Exposure from Laundry Detergent

To reduce your exposure to VOCs from laundry detergent, consider the following tips:

• Choose fragrance-free detergents: Opt for detergents without added fragrances to minimize VOC emissions.
• Use unscented dryer sheets: Dryer sheets can release VOCs, so use unscented ones or avoid them altogether.
• Ventilate your laundry area: Open windows or use a fan to ventilate the area where you do laundry, allowing VOCs to escape.
• Wash clothes in cold water: Washing clothes in cold water releases fewer VOCs than using warm or hot water.
• Use natural laundry alternatives: Consider using homemade laundry detergents or natural cleaning products that are less likely to contain VOCs.

Choosing Low-VOC Laundry Detergents

When selecting a laundry detergent, look for products that:

• Are fragrance-free: Avoid detergents with added fragrances.
• Have low VOC content: Check the product label for VOC content information.
• Are Green Seal certified: The Green Seal certification indicates that the product meets certain environmental standards, including low VOC emissions.

DIY Laundry Detergent Recipes

If you prefer to make your own laundry detergent, here are two recipes with low VOC content:

Borax and Baking Soda Detergent

• 1 cup borax
• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup grated Castile soap (or liquid Castile soap)

Vinegar and Essential Oil Detergent

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)

Final Thoughts: Laundering with Care

While it’s true that laundry detergents contain VOCs, you can take steps to reduce your exposure. By choosing fragrance-free detergents, ventilating your laundry area, and using natural alternatives, you can create a healthier environment for yourself and your family. Remember, laundering with care not only keeps your clothes clean but also protects your health.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: Are all laundry detergents safe to use?
A1: Not all laundry detergents are created equal. Some detergents contain harsh chemicals and high levels of VOCs that can be harmful to health. It’s important to choose detergents with low VOC content and avoid those with added fragrances.

Q2: How can I tell if a laundry detergent has VOCs?
A2: Check the product label for VOC content information. Some detergents may also be certified by third-party organizations, such as Green Seal, which indicates that they meet certain environmental standards, including low VOC emissions.

Q3: Is it safe to use laundry detergents with fragrances?
A3: While fragrances can make your clothes smell fresh, they often release VOCs into the air. If you are sensitive to VOCs or have respiratory problems, it’s best to avoid using detergents with added fragrances.