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 a few of the brands below, including my current go-to.

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, 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.
• Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day – Easy to find and available in gentle, plant-based scents like lavender or lemon verbena.
• Molly’s Suds – Great for sensitive skin or baby laundry. Free of harsh ingredients and fragrance-heavy formulas.
• ECOS – A solid starter brand that’s easy to find and kind to sensitive skin.

Each one is a solid option if you’re just getting started with cruelty-free laundry products.

Certified Cruelty-Free Laundry Detergents That Actually Work

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.

Note: Brands marked with an asterisk (*) are owned by parent companies that still test on animals. I’ve included them for transparency, so you can decide what works best for you.

1. Ecover (owned by SC Johnson)

Based & Made in: Belgium
Best for: Everyday laundry in eco-conscious households

Ecover’s liquid detergent is a plant-based formula made to clean clothes without irritating your skin or the planet. It’s tough on stains but skips the usual synthetic junk that can stick around on fabrics or pollute waterways.

This certified cruelty-free and vegan brand (Leaping Bunny, PETA) keeps sustainability in mind with biodegradable ingredients and a bottle made from recycled plastic. The formula is lightly scented, with options like lavender or apple blossom, and it’s safe for septic systems and greywater.

It’s a solid choice for households trying to lower their impact without giving up performance. It actually works and doesn’t leave behind the heavy artificial smell that some big-name brands do.

• What’s inside: Plant-based surfactants, biodegradable ingredients, no optical brighteners or synthetic dyes
• Sustainability check: Bottle made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic, formula designed for low aquatic toxicity
• Heads up: The scent is mild but not fragrance-free. The bottle may not be easy to find in smaller shops outside Europe
• My take: I’ve used Ecover for years and love that it leaves no strong scent behind. It works well in my HE machine and doesn’t leave any residue

2. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day (owned by SC Johnson)

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Scent lovers and everyday laundry

Mrs. Meyer’s liquid detergent is a plant-powered cleaner made with essential oils and biodegradable ingredients. It’s designed to fight dirt and odors while leaving a fresh, lingering scent on your clothes.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA. With popular scents like Lavender and Lemon Verbena, the formula is a go-to for anyone who enjoys laundry that smells like a spring garden. It’s biodegradable and works in both standard and HE machines.

A good pick if you want your clothes to come out clean and lightly scented without using harsh chemicals.

• What’s inside: Plant-derived surfactants, essential oils, no chlorine, no optical brighteners
• Sustainability check: Bottle is recyclable, biodegradable formula, no animal testing
• Heads up: The scent is strong compared to other natural detergents and may not be ideal for sensitive noses
• My take: Lavender is my go-to. It actually makes folding laundry feel kind of pleasant

3. Molly’s Suds 

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Sensitive skin, babies, and fragrance-free households

Molly’s Suds laundry powder is a gentle, fragrance-free option made for those who need a safer clean, whether it’s for babies, allergy-prone skin, or anyone avoiding harsh ingredients.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is certified by Leaping Bunny and avoids animal byproducts like tallow, which is common in traditional detergents. The formula relies on simple, mineral- and plant-based ingredients to get clothes clean without synthetic additives or unnecessary fillers.

A solid pick for families who want to avoid harsh chemicals and scented formulas, especially in nurseries or around sensitive skin.

• What’s inside: Baking soda, washing soda, sodium carbonate, no synthetic dyes, no SLS, no fragrance
• Sustainability check: Plastic-free packaging, concentrated powder (no water shipping), low-waste formula
• Heads up: It’s a powder, not a liquid — best when added directly to the drum in HE machines
• My take: I’ve used this on baby clothes and it cleaned well without any lingering smell or irritation

4. ECOS

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Families, sensitive skin, and everyday laundry

ECOS’s liquid laundry detergent is a plant-based, hypoallergenic formula that’s gentle on skin and safe for nearly all fabrics and water temperatures. It’s a reliable everyday option that doesn’t rely on harsh chemicals or overpowering scents to get the job done.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is Leaping Bunny and PETA certified. ECOS is also known for its commitment to sustainable manufacturing, including carbon-neutral facilities and 100% renewable energy use. Their formula includes built-in fabric softener and naturally derived fragrance from essential oils.

It’s a solid pick for anyone looking for a multitasking detergent that’s safe for skin, kinder to the planet, and still leaves clothes feeling clean.

• What’s inside: Coconut-based surfactants, plant enzymes, essential oil fragrance, no dyes or formaldehyde
• Sustainability check: Recycled and recyclable plastic bottle, carbon-neutral production, water-efficient manufacturing
• Heads up: Some scents are stronger than others, so go for “Free & Clear” if you’re sensitive to fragrance
• My take: I’ve used ECOS for years.it cleans well without irritating my skin and doesn’t leave behind that fake detergent smell.
  

5. Seventh Generation (owned by Unilever)

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Eco-conscious shoppers who want proven, widely available options

Seventh Generation’s detergent is a plant-based formula that’s tough on stains and gentle on the planet. It’s available in liquid, powder, or convenient packs, giving you flexibility depending on your laundry setup and preferences.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA, and it’s also safe for septic systems. Their formula skips artificial brighteners and synthetic fragrances while still delivering a solid clean.

• It’s a good pick for households that want an accessible, reliable brand with a strong ethical track record, without giving up performance.
• What’s inside: Plant-based surfactants, no synthetic dyes or optical brighteners, fragrance-free options available
• Sustainability check: Recyclable bottles, USDA Certified Biobased Product, climate-conscious manufacturing practices
• Heads up: Some scented versions may still be strong for sensitive users. Go for the Free & Clear option if that’s you
• My take: This is one of the easiest cruelty-free brands to find in stores and online. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done without the guilt
  

6. Planet

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Fragrance-free households and sensitive skin

Planet Ultra is a liquid laundry detergent that’s free of dyes, fragrances, and unnecessary additives — designed to be gentle on skin and easy on the planet. It’s a straightforward formula that doesn’t rely on softeners or extra products to get the job done.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA. It focuses on biodegradable ingredients that break down in any water temperature. You won’t find optical brighteners or synthetic fillers here.

It’s ideal for babies, folks with allergies, or anyone who just wants a no-fuss clean without the scent cloud or added chemicals.

• What’s inside: Plant-based surfactants, no dyes, no fragrance, no optical brighteners
• Sustainability check: Biodegradable in hot or cold water, recyclable plastic bottle, minimal ingredient list
• Heads up: No scent at all — which is a bonus if you’re avoiding fragrance, but may feel “plain” if you’re used to perfumed detergents
• My take: I haven’t tried this one yet, though it looks like a practical pick if you’re avoiding fragrance or extra additives.

7. Powerizer Complete

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Minimalist households and multipurpose cleaning

Powerizer Complete is a powder laundry detergent that goes beyond just laundry. It’s designed as an all-in-one cleaner that replaces a long list of household products, including dish soap, bathroom cleaner, and even carpet shampoo.

This cruelty-free and vegan-friendly formula is plant-based and biodegradable. It skips the water fillers, phosphates, and synthetic dyes, and leans into a low-waste approach with one product that truly does it all. It’s certified by Leaping Bunny.

It’s a smart choice if you want to simplify your cleaning routine and reduce the number of bottles under your sink, all while keeping your clothes stain-free and fresh.

• What’s inside: Coconut oil-based surfactants, baking soda, no dyes or phosphates
• Sustainability check: Plastic-free powder in recyclable packaging, replaces multiple single-use cleaners
• Heads up: This is a powder, not a liquid or pod, so you’ll need to measure manually and it may not dissolve fully in cold water
• My take:  I haven’t tested it personally, but I like the idea of a single product that replaces multiple cleaners.

8. Nellie’s Natural

Based & Made in: Canada
Best for: Eco-conscious households and zero-waste fans

Nellie’s Natural Laundry Soda is a concentrated powder detergent made with just a handful of simple ingredients. It’s a low-sudsing, biodegradable formula that gets your clothes clean without the chemical cocktail found in conventional detergents.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is Leaping Bunny certified, and they focus heavily on reducing waste. Their metal tins are reusable and recyclable, which makes them a favorite for people looking to cut back on plastic.

It’s a good fit for anyone aiming to clean with less. You get fresh clothes, minimal ingredients, and sustainable packaging, without artificial fragrances or dyes.

• What’s inside: Sodium carbonate, linear alcohol ethoxylate, sodium chloride, no SLS or phosphates
• Sustainability check: Recyclable metal tin, refillable pouches available, plastic-free
• Heads up: Since it’s a powder, it works best in warm water and may not fully dissolve in cold cycles
• My take: I haven’t tried this one myself, but I like the low-waste packaging and simple ingredient list.

9. Grab Green

Based & Made in: United States
Best for: Busy households looking for convenience without toxic ingredients

Grab Green’s detergent pods offer a simple, mess-free way to get your laundry clean with fewer synthetic chemicals. The pre-measured pods are made without parabens, phthalates, chlorine, or animal byproducts, and they’re safe for most fabric types.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is certified by Leaping Bunny and designed with both your health and the environment in mind. The pods are biodegradable and packaged in recyclable materials, making them a lower-waste alternative to traditional jugs.

They’re great for anyone who wants quick stain removal and brightening without having to measure or second-guess ingredients — and they don’t come with the usual harsh detergent smell.

• What’s inside: Mineral- and plant-based cleaning agents, no chlorine, no synthetic dyes or animal byproducts
• Sustainability check: Biodegradable pods, recyclable packaging, made in the USA
• Heads up: Lightly scented and not recommended for very cold wash cycles, since the pods dissolve best in warmer water
• My take: I haven’t used these myself yet, but the low-tox formula and pod format would be great for travel or shared laundry rooms

10. Kind Laundry

Based & Made in: Canada
Best for: Low-waste homes, travel, and sensitive skin

Kind Laundry’s detergent sheets are ultra-concentrated, plant-based strips that pack cleaning power without the mess of liquid or powder. With only a handful of simple ingredients, they’re a gentle option for washing everything from gym clothes to baby onesies.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is Leaping Bunny certified and focuses on waste-free packaging. The sheets dissolve easily in hot or cold water, making them a convenient swap for bulky jugs.

Kind Laundry is a great fit for eco-conscious homes and frequent travelers, offering clean clothes without synthetic fillers or plastic bottles.

• What’s inside: Four ingredients total — including coconut oil-derived surfactants, no dyes, bleach, or parabens
• Sustainability check: Compostable cardboard packaging, waterless formula, plastic-free shipping
• Heads up: If you’re washing a large or extra-dirty load, you may need two sheets instead of one
• My take: I haven’t used these yet, but detergent sheets are a great space-saving option if you’re looking to cut back on plastic.

11. Cleancult

Based & Made in: USA
Best for: Refill lovers, stylish low-waste homes

Cleancult’s liquid laundry detergent is a plant-powered formula that tackles stains and odors with coconut-based cleansers and citric acid. It’s tough on dirt but gentle on skin, with biodegradable ingredients and no harsh chemicals.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is Leaping Bunny certified, and their detergent comes in recyclable cartons designed to be used with a refillable glass dispenser. They also ship in carbon-neutral packaging, so you’re cutting waste without compromising results.

Great for eco-minded households that want effective cleaning plus less plastic, Cleancult offers fresh scents from essential oils — and a refill system that actually looks nice on your shelf.

• What’s inside: Saponified coconut oil, citric acid, essential oils — no dyes, parabens, or phosphates
• Sustainability check: Recyclable milk-carton refills, optional glass dispenser, carbon-neutral shipping
• Heads up: You’ll need to buy a dispenser or reuse your own — cartons don’t pour cleanly on their own
• My take: I haven’t tested this one firsthand, but the refill system and ingredients make it stand out for low-waste homes.

12. Caldrea (owned by SC Johnson)

Based & Made in: USA
Best for: Scent lovers who want cruelty-free formulas

Caldrea’s liquid laundry detergent blends plant-derived surfactants with luxe fragrances to clean clothes without the usual harsh stuff. It’s a concentrated liquid that handles stains and everyday grime while being gentle on fabrics and skin.

This cruelty-free and vegan brand is Leaping Bunny and PETA certified. If you love botanical scents like Sea Salt Neroli or Basil Blue Sage, this one’s for you — the fragrance payoff is strong but not overpowering.

Perfect for folks who want their laundry to smell fancy without compromising on values, Caldrea delivers clean clothes and aromatherapy vibes in one bottle.

• What’s inside: Plant-based surfactants, essential oil blends, no artificial dyes or animal byproducts
• Sustainability check: Biodegradable formula, recyclable packaging, no animal testing
• Heads up: Fragrance is noticeable — skip if you’re very sensitive to scents
• My take: I haven’t personally used this one, but it’s popular with scent lovers who still want a cruelty-free option.

13. Earth Breeze

Based & Made in: USA
Best for: Minimalist homes and zero-waste routines

Earth Breeze laundry sheets are a lightweight, space-saving alternative to heavy plastic jugs. These pre-measured sheets dissolve quickly in hot or cold water and come in a compact cardboard envelope that cuts way down on waste.

The brand is Leaping Bunny and PETA certified, vegan, and free from bleach, parabens, and phosphates. Their sheet format slashes shipping emissions and storage space, making it a solid pick for eco-conscious shoppers.

Great for people trying to reduce plastic and simplify laundry, Earth Breeze offers a low-waste way to get clean clothes without the bulky bottles.

• What’s inside: Plant-based cleaning agents, no chlorine bleach, parabens, or phosphates
• Sustainability check: Plastic-free packaging, carbon-reducing shipping format, certified cruelty-free
• Heads up: Sheets can sometimes clump in very cold water — dissolve in water before adding clothes for best results
• My take: I haven’t tried this one yet, but the plastic-free packaging and travel-friendly size are a huge plus.

14. Heritage Park

Based & Made in: USA
Best for: Delicates, sensitive skin, and luxury fabrics

Heritage Park’s liquid detergent is a gentle, plant-based formula designed for high-end fabrics like silk, lace, and cashmere. It’s hypoallergenic and dermatologist-approved, so it’s a solid pick for anyone with sensitive skin.

This Leaping Bunny certified, vegan-friendly detergent skips harsh additives and focuses on preserving your fabrics without synthetic fragrances or dyes. It cleans without stripping softness, making it a go-to for hand-washables and special care loads.

• What’s inside: Plant-based surfactants, no sulfates, phosphates, or synthetic dyes
• Sustainability check: Recyclable bottle, biodegradable formula, cruelty-free testing practices
• Heads up: Fragrance-free options are truly unscented — great for allergies, but might feel plain if you’re used to scented detergents
• My take: I haven’t tested this one myself, but it looks like a thoughtful option for anyone washing delicate or luxury fabrics.

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 Hello Bello, 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.

Explore more guides in our cruelty-free cleaning series: