Green product watch: best laundry liquids and powders
(This article is adapted from the July 2010 Consumer Reports Magazine.)
Choosing right
When it comes to laundry detergents, manufacturers can make green claims without checks or federal standards. Fortunately in recent Consumer Reports tests, several “green” brands were included so consumers can compare their performance with other detergents.
In general, with any detergent, consider washing in cold water, which could slice $60 a year off your energy bill.
Don't overdo it
Using too much detergent actually can waste money and water by requiring additional rinse cycles. So be sure to read directions, stick to the recommended amount, and if necessary, use a permanent marker on hard-to-read measuring cups.
Better test results
Our tests included several detergents that claim plant-based, hypoallergenic formulas. None of the greener detergents were top-rated, but two did a reasonably good job in the tests. Each is designed for high-efficiency top- loading or front-loading washers. They are: Kirkland Signature Environmentally Friendly Ultra 2X HE (Costco) at 12 cents per average load, which cleaned well among products making green claims; and Seventh Generation Natural Powdered HE at 34 cents per average load, which also cleaned well and did a better job on difficult bloodstains.
Spottier results
In the recent tests, some products that claim to be green actually delivered poorer results when measured against plain water. They are: Biokleen Cold-Water 3X Concentrated; Ecos 2X Ultra Magnolia and Lily HE; Ecover Laundry Wash HE; Method Squeaky Green 3X Concentrated HE; and Martha Stewart Clean Laundry Detergent.
Related links
Watch video: “Martha Stewart’s Dirty Laundry”
Six steps to cleaner clothes
Cleaners: green buying guide
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