If you want to reduce your ecological footprint, then switching to a zero-waste laundry detergent is a great place to start, especially because there are so many fantastic options available.

Traditional laundry detergents usually come in bulky plastic jugs that create a lot of waste and use a lot of resources to ship. In response to these issues, a substantial industry of eco-friendly and zero-waste laundry detergent has developed over the last several years. These detergents are made from nontoxic and gentle ingredients and come with minimal packaging that can be composted or recycled. If you want to make the change, then here are five of the best brands to consider.

Tru Earth

Easily one of the most popular options, Tru Earth is a zero-waste laundry detergent made in Canada. The detergent comes in hypoallergenic and biodegradable strips that you simply toss into the washer before running a cycle. There is no need to measure, as one strip equals one load. The strips are shipped in thin and light recyclable packaging, and you can even order a durable tin to store them in at home. This zero-waste detergent packs a stain-fighting punch that will brighten all of your clothes.

Dropps

If you currently use laundry pods and want to stick with something similar, then consider Dropps. Made in the United States, Dropps detergent pods come in varieties for sensitive skin, in formulations for fighting stains and odours, and in naturally derived scents like eucalyptus and lavender. They are made of plant-based materials that dissolve easily and completely during the wash cycle. Plus, they arrive in recyclable and compostable packaging.

Eco Nuts

Eco Nuts is a completely organic laundry detergent for those who are nuts about the environment. It is made from soap berries (or soap nuts) that grow on trees and naturally contain soap! Because soap berries are also naturally resistant to pests, they don’t require pesticides to grow. Eco Nuts are shipping in plastic-free, recyclable packaging and are highly effective at fighting stains and odours. Best of all, they are gentle enough even for a baby’s skin.

Meliora

Meliora is an all-natural powder detergent and a top choice for those who want their laundry to smell heavenly. Options include lavender, lemon, and lemon-lavender-clove, and each one is made from organic essential oils. There’s also an original unscented option if you prefer. And that’s not all: Meliora is a certified B Corp that directs a portion of all sales to environmental causes.

Grab Green

Grab Green 3-in-1 laundry detergent pods offer everything you could be looking for in a detergent. Each pod includes a concentrated detergent, a fabric brightener, and a stain remover for a powerful clean every time. The powder pod is pre-measured, so just toss it in and run the cycle. It has a lovely lavender and vanilla fragrance that will leave your laundry smelling exquisite as well.

The journey to living more sustainably can’t be done overnight, but there are a lot of changes you can make that will add up over the long term. Switching to a zero-waste laundry detergent is a small but impactful step to an eco-friendlier lifestyle.