Cruelty-Free Laundry Detergents That Actually Work
I don’t know anyone who loves doing laundry, but we all have to do it unless we’re cool with our home smelling like a locker room.
If you’re trying to shop more ethically, one place to start is your detergent. Many big-name brands like Tide and Gain still test on animals, which means their products aren’t considered cruelty-free.
Cruelty-free laundry products are made without testing on animals at any point during production. I’ve been using cruelty-free options since 2021 and have tried several of the brands below, including my current go-to. I like that it doesn’t leave that overpowering scent like some conventional brands.
By the end of this post, you’ll know which laundry detergents are certified cruelty-free, which ones are worth trying, and how to find something that works for your washing machine, your clothes, and your values.
Short on time? Start with these cruelty-free detergents
If you just want a quick answer, these are the cruelty-free laundry detergents I recommend most. They’re all certified by Leaping Bunny or PETA and don’t test on animals at any stage.
If you just want a quick answer, these are the cruelty-free laundry detergents I recommend most, based on personal experience and trusted certifications:
- Ecover – My personal favorite. It has a mild scent, works well in HE machines, and doesn’t leave residue.
- Biokleen – Concentrated and effective with a light citrus scent. It’s gentle on skin but strong enough to handle sweaty loads.
- Molly’s Suds – Great for sensitive skin or baby laundry. Free of harsh ingredients and fragrance-heavy formulas.
- Dr. Bronner’s – Super versatile. You can use it for laundry, dishes, and more, and the ingredients are all organic and biodegradable.
Each one is a solid option if you’re just getting started with cruelty-free laundry products.
Cruelty-Free Laundry Detergents
Most of the laundry detergents listed below are both vegan and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny or PETA. That means they weren’t tested on animals at any stage of production and contain no animal-derived ingredients.
If you’re not sure what these certifications mean, check out this quick guide to cruelty-free labels to help you shop with confidence.
Attitude
Based & Made in: Canada
Quick take: Scented or unscented, this Canadian-made option is safe for sensitive skin and kinder to waterways.
Attitude Laundry Detergent is a gentle, plant-based option that’s both effective and easy on sensitive skin. It’s hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, so you don’t have to worry about irritation or residue. Whether you’re washing everyday clothes or baby items, the formula is designed to clean thoroughly without relying on synthetic ingredients.
You can choose from a variety of light, natural scents if you like your laundry with a little fragrance. All of the ingredients are vegan and cruelty-free, and the packaging reflects the brand’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.
If you’re looking for a cleaner laundry routine that keeps your skin and the planet in mind, Attitude Laundry Detergent is a great place to start.
Biokleen
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: Citrus-fresh and highly concentrated, this plant-based pick cleans deep without synthetic additives.
Biokleen Laundry Detergent is a plant-based cleaner that gets clothes fresh and stain-free without relying on harsh chemicals. It’s a concentrated formula that tackles dirt, sweat, and odors while still being gentle on your fabrics. The light citrus scent it leaves behind is clean and refreshing without being too strong.
What makes Biokleen stand out is its commitment to safe, effective ingredients. It skips the synthetic fillers, animal byproducts, and strong artificial fragrances that show up in many mainstream detergents. Instead, it uses a mix of plant-based surfactants and natural extracts to clean thoroughly but gently.
It’s certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny, PETA, and the Vegan Society, and it’s also recognized by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization. That makes it a strong fit for households with allergies or those avoiding animal-derived ingredients altogether.
If you want a detergent that performs well without sacrificing your values, Biokleen Laundry Detergent is a dependable choice to add to your routine.
Caldrea (owned by SC Johnson)
Based & Made in: USA
Quick take: A luxe-feeling detergent that treats your clothes to delicate fragrances and natural cleansers.
Caldrea Laundry Detergent offers a more refined take on plant-based cleaning. It uses gentle, plant-derived surfactants to remove tough stains while still being safe for all fabrics and machine types. Whether you’re washing delicates or a pile of towels, it gets the job done without wearing out your clothes.
The formula is biodegradable and made to rinse clean, which keeps both your laundry and the environment in better shape. It’s also Leaping Bunny certified, so there’s no need to worry about animal testing.
If you’re after a detergent that’s gentle, effective, and aligns with a vegan lifestyle, Caldrea Laundry Detergent is a great addition to your routine.
Cleancult
Based & Made in: USA
Quick take: Biodegradable and bottle-free, this stylish option delivers clean laundry and cleaner living.
Cleancult Laundry Detergent is a cleaner option for your clothes and the planet. Made with a biodegradable formula, it handles dirt and odor without relying on harsh ingredients. Whether you’re washing everyday loads or tackling tougher messes, it lifts stains effectively without leaving behind anything questionable.
The formula uses citric acid and saponified coconut oil to break down grime, while essential oils add a light, fresh scent that actually sticks around after washing. It’s cruelty-free, vegan, and designed to be both safe for your skin and gentle on the environment.
If you’re looking for a detergent that balances performance with peace of mind, Cleancult Laundry Detergent is one to consider.
Dr. Bronner’s
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: A multi-tasking liquid soap that handles laundry, dishes, and more with organic, fair-trade ingredients.
Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap is a versatile cleaner made with simple, plant-based ingredients. It skips synthetic preservatives, thickeners, and foaming agents, which makes it a gentle but effective option for everything from laundry and dishes to even washing your pets. If you’re trying to streamline your cleaning products and avoid a long list of unknown chemicals, this one covers a lot of ground.
With over 90% organic ingredients, it’s a dependable pick for anyone trying to keep their home routine more aligned with their values. It’s certified cruelty-free and vegan, and the biodegradable formula means it’s easier on the planet too.
If you’re ready to switch to something that works hard without the unnecessary extras, give Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap a try. It’s one of the most flexible and low-impact cleaners you can keep in your home.
Earth Breeze
Based & Made in: USA
Quick take: Slim, mess-free sheets that save space and drastically cut down on plastic waste.
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets offer an easy switch for anyone looking to clean their clothes without the waste. These ultra-lightweight, pre-measured sheets come in compact packaging that takes up barely any space—twelve packs can fit where one traditional plastic jug would. That simple change cuts down on plastic use and lowers your carbon footprint significantly.
The formula is hypoallergenic, vegan, and free from bleach, parabens, and phosphates, so it’s safe for sensitive skin and gentle on fabrics. It’s also certified cruelty-free, making it a strong fit for anyone committed to more ethical everyday products.
If you’re ready to swap bulky bottles for something that works just as well and takes up a lot less space, Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets are a thoughtful option to consider.
ECOS
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: Hypoallergenic and lightly scented, this detergent covers all fabrics and water temps with plant-powered strength.
ECOS Laundry Detergent is a gentle, plant-based option that works well across all fabric types, colors, and water temperatures. It’s hypoallergenic, which makes it a safe pick for sensitive skin or households with kids. Despite the mild formula, it still holds up against everyday messes and leaves clothes feeling clean and fresh.
Instead of synthetic fragrances, ECOS uses natural fragrance oils that give a light, lasting scent without overwhelming your senses. It’s a simple way to keep your laundry smelling good without the usual irritants.
With certifications from Leaping Bunny and PETA, ECOS checks the boxes for cruelty-free and vegan standards. If you’re looking for a detergent that balances effectiveness with a gentler approach, ECOS Laundry Detergent is worth trying out.
Ecover (owned by SC Johnson)
Based & Made in: Belgium
Quick take: Plant-based cleaning that tackles tough stains without irritating sensitive skin.
Ecover Laundry Detergent is a reliable option if you want clean clothes without the chemical overload. It uses plant-based ingredients to remove dirt, stains, and odors, and it leaves your laundry smelling fresh in a natural, not artificial, way. I’ve been using it for years and haven’t had to second-guess a single wash.
Unlike many conventional brands, Ecover keeps things biodegradable and septic-safe. That means it’s gentler on your clothes, your skin, and the water system. They offer a few scent options made with plant extracts. The lavender vanilla version is my go-to because it’s light, soothing, and not too strong.
Ecover is certified by both Leaping Bunny and PETA, so you can trust that it’s a cruelty-free and vegan-friendly product.
If you want a laundry detergent that works well and aligns with a more thoughtful routine, try Ecover Laundry Detergent and see how it fits into your home.
Grab Green
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: Convenient pods made with non-toxic ingredients for effortless, mess-free washing.
Grab Green Laundry Detergent offers a practical and eco-conscious way to get your laundry done without the usual irritants. The pre-measured pods are easy to toss into the wash and work on everything from everyday loads to stain-heavy items. They’re safe for all fabric types and make it simple to stick to a low-tox routine.
What sets Grab Green apart is what it doesn’t include. There are no parabens, phthalates, phosphates, chlorine, or animal byproducts in the formula, which is a big improvement over many conventional detergents. It’s designed to be gentler on both your clothes and the environment.
With its cruelty-free label and straightforward ingredient list, Grab Green is a dependable option if you’re looking for convenience without compromise. Try Grab Green Laundry Detergent to see how easy clean can be.
Heritage Park
Based & Made in: USA
Quick take: Dermatologist-approved for delicates and sensitive skin, yet strong enough for everyday use.
Heritage Park Laundry Detergent is designed with delicate fabrics and sensitive skin in mind. It’s a plant-based formula that cleans gently but thoroughly, making it a great fit for washing things like silk, wool, lingerie, or baby clothes. It’s free from harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate skin or damage fine materials.
This detergent is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-approved, so it’s especially helpful for anyone dealing with allergies or sensitivities. It rinses clean without leaving residue behind, which means your garments stay soft and your skin stays calm.
If you’re looking for a detergent that’s gentle enough for your most delicate items but still reliable, Heritage Park Laundry Detergent is one to keep on hand.
Kind Laundry
Based & Made in: Canada
Quick take: Zero-waste detergent sheets that pack strong cleaning power in a minimalist format.
Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets are a low-waste, no-fuss alternative to traditional liquid or powder detergents. They’re pre-cut, lightweight, and dissolve easily in both standard and high-efficiency machines, including front loaders. You just toss a sheet in with your laundry and let it do the work.
With only four plant-derived ingredients, the formula is hypoallergenic and free from harsh or toxic chemicals. That makes it a safer choice for families with kids or pets, especially if you’re trying to simplify your routine without giving up cleaning power.
If you’re ready to ditch the bulky detergent bottles and go with something that’s both effective and kinder to the planet, Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets are a smart switch.
Molly’s Suds
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: Perfect for babies and allergy-prone skin, this powder is tough on dirt and gentle on everything else.
Molly’s Suds Laundry Detergent is a gentle, no-nonsense option for anyone with sensitive skin, especially babies. It’s made with all-natural ingredients like coconut oil that clean delicate fabrics without irritating your little one’s skin. The formula skips harsh chemicals and relies on plant-based surfactants that still get the job done.
It’s completely free from preservatives, gluten, and animal byproducts like tallow, which you’ll often find in conventional detergents. This makes it a safer pick for families who want to avoid unnecessary additives and keep things simple.
Molly’s Suds is also Leaping Bunny certified and vegan, making it a solid choice for those who want to support cruelty-free brands. If you’re looking for a baby-safe detergent that’s both effective and trustworthy, Molly’s Suds is a great one to have on hand.
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day (owned by SC Johnson)
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: Naturally scented and biodegradable, this detergent brings a clean feel and garden-fresh scent to every load.
Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Laundry Detergent is a plant-based option that takes care of daily laundry without the usual chemical overload. It uses essential oils and other naturally derived ingredients to break down dirt and grime, leaving clothes fresh and soft. The formula rinses out well, so there’s no sticky residue or overpowering scent.
If you’re someone who likes their laundry to smell clean in a subtle, not synthetic, way, this is a solid pick. Scents like Lemon Verbena and Lavender are customer favorites for a reason. They smell like real plants, not a perfume aisle. Plus, the formula is biodegradable, which makes it a better choice for the environment.
If you’re ready to try something that works well and fits into a low-tox lifestyle, Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Laundry Detergent is a great place to start.
Nellie’s Natural
Based & Made in: Canada
Quick take: Old-school powder detergent with a clean formula and modern cruelty-free standards.
Nellie’s Natural Laundry Detergent keeps things simple with a powder formula that skips harsh chemicals and still gets your clothes fresh and clean. It works in both standard and high-efficiency machines, and a little goes a long way—just one scoop per load.
The ingredient list is short and straightforward, which is great if you’re trying to avoid unnecessary additives. It’s also certified cruelty-free and vegan, so you know it aligns with ethical standards too.
If you want a no-fuss detergent that does the job and keeps your laundry routine low-tox, Nellie’s Natural Laundry Detergent is an easy choice to make.
Planet
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: Minimalist and fragrance-free, this detergent is great for delicate loads and eco-conscious homes.
Planet Ultra Laundry Detergent is a gentle yet effective option, especially for families with babies or anyone with sensitive skin. The formula is simple, fragrance-free, and designed to be tough on dirt without the need for added fabric softeners or dryer sheets. That means fewer products in your routine and less worry about skin irritation.
It’s fully biodegradable in all water temperatures, making it a thoughtful choice for those trying to reduce their environmental impact. And with cruelty-free standards in place, you can feel good about what you’re using in your home.
If you want a laundry detergent that’s low-irritant, low-waste, and low-maintenance, Planet Ultra is one to keep on your shelf.
Powerizer
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: One powder to clean it all, laundry, dishes, bathrooms, without a single harsh chemical.
Powerizer Complete is a multipurpose cleaner that simplifies your routine by handling laundry, dishes, and even bathroom cleaning with one concentrated formula. It’s made without water fillers, dyes, phosphates, or synthetic chemicals, so you’re not paying for extra fluff or exposing your home to harsh ingredients.
This bio-based detergent uses plant oils to tackle tough stains like sweat and grease while staying gentle on the environment. It’s septic-safe and designed to break down easily, which makes it a smart switch if you’re trying to cut back on plastic bottles and clutter under the sink.
If you’re ready to streamline your cleaning routine with something that works across the board, Powerizer Complete is a smart and sustainable pick.
Seventh Generation (owned by Unilever)
Based & Made in: United States
Quick take: A reliable, fragrance-free formula that’s easy to find and easy on the planet.
Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent is a straightforward, no-fuss option for anyone who wants to keep their laundry routine aligned with eco-conscious values. Whether you prefer liquid, powder, or convenient packs, this brand keeps things simple and low-impact.
It’s free from synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals, and it’s safe for septic systems too. Certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA, Seventh Generation backs up its claims with trusted third-party labels.
If you’re looking for a detergent that’s easy to find, easy to use, and stays true to cruelty-free standards, Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent is a reliable addition to your home.
Which Laundry Brands Still Test on Animals?
Some of the most familiar names in the laundry aisle continue to allow animal testing, either directly or through their parent companies. Even if a detergent looks eco-friendly or claims to be gentle, that does not mean it is cruelty-free.
These are the laundry brands to avoid if you are choosing products based on ethical testing practices. Each link takes you to a page where I explain why the brand is not considered cruelty-free.
- All (owned by Henkel)
- Cheer (owned by Procter & Gamble)
- Dreft (owned by Procter & Gamble)
- Gain (owned by Procter & Gamble)
- Persil (owned by Henkel)
- Perwoll (owned by Henkel)
- Snuggle (owned by Henkel)
- Softlan (owned by Colgate-Palmolive)
- Suavitel (owned by Colgate-Palmolive)
- Surf (owned by Henkel)
- Tide (owned by Procter & Gamble)
If you are unsure why a brand is listed here, the linked pages will give you the full background on their policies and parent company connections.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Cruelty-Free Laundry Detergent
Choosing a cruelty-free laundry detergent doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re shopping for sensitive skin, trying to avoid harsh chemicals, or simply want to support brands that don’t test on animals, there are plenty of solid options out there. In this post, we looked at trusted choices like Ecover, Molly’s Suds, and Attitude, broke down what cruelty-free really means, and called out the big-name brands that still allow animal testing.
Every laundry day is a small opportunity to make a more ethical choice that supports better practices for animals and the planet.
Now I’d like to hear from you. Have you tried any of these cruelty-free laundry detergents? Do you have a favorite I missed? Leave your thoughts in the comments.
