dirty little secret

Posted Thu, 07/30/2009 - 16:06 — SCJ Green Room

Did you know that most powder laundry detergents are petroleum-based? No lie.

So do we even have to mention that they do a number on the planet? Just think, if every U.S. household replaced just one 48-ounce box, we'd save enough oil to heat AND cool 5,300 homes for a whole year!

Here's another irritating fact about petroleum-based powder detergents: Most contain fragrances and harsh solvents, such as ammonia, that can trigger allergies, asthma, and rashes.

Our advice? Separate your whites and colors from petroleum-based detergents. There are a ton of safer options. Choose eco-friendly liquid detergents -- they're concentrated, so you use less. That's always a good thing for the environment. Or look for one of the many eco-friendly (and wallet-friendly) powder detergents.

Doesn't it feel good to come clean?

Got any other eco laundry tips? Share them now in the comments.

Green Room

SCJ Green Room blog
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