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Best Laundry Detergent Septic Systems (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for an effective laundry detergent that won’t harm your septic system, then you’ve come to the right place. Septic systems are more delicate than many people realize, and using harsh chemicals in the laundry room can have a negative impact on the system's performance. So, it's important to choose a laundry detergent that's safe for both your clothes and your septic system.

When shopping for laundry detergents for septic systems, there are several important factors to consider. First, look for a product that is labeled as septic-safe, as this indicates that the detergent has been specially formulated to avoid causing harm to your plumbing system. You should also choose a detergent that is low in phosphates, as high levels of phosphates can increase the risk of water pollution.

If you're still unsure about which laundry detergent to choose, here are some questions to consider: Why is it important to use a septic-safe laundry detergent? What impact can harsh chemicals have on a septic system? And, most importantly, how can you find a laundry detergent that's effective and safe for your septic system? By answering these questions, you'll be able to make an informed decision about which laundry detergent is right for you.

10 Best Laundry Detergent Septic Systems

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for washing clothes and removing stains effectively.
2
This product is ideal for those who want a fragrance-free laundry detergent that is gentle on sensitive skin.
3
It is ideal for individuals seeking a plant-powered and hypoallergenic laundry detergent liquid with EPA Safer Choice certification.
4
This laundry detergent is ideal for those with sensitive skin and can do up to 640 loads per bottle.
5
This product is ideal for cleaning clothes and removing dirt and stains effectively.
6
This product is ideal for doing laundry and cleaning clothes.
7
It is ideal for those who want a green, non-toxic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional laundry detergents.
8
This product is ideal for those who want a laundry detergent that is free of fragrances and dyes.
9
This laundry detergent is ideal for commercial use in all types of washing machines, including HE and professional dispensing systems.
10
The product is ideal for pumping sewage and waste from residential or commercial buildings.
This product is ideal for washing clothes and removing stains effectively.
This product is ideal for those who want a fragrance-free laundry detergent that is gentle on sensitive skin.
It is ideal for individuals seeking a plant-powered and hypoallergenic laundry detergent liquid with EPA Safer Choice certification.
This laundry detergent is ideal for those with sensitive skin and can do up to 640 loads per bottle.
This product is ideal for cleaning clothes and removing dirt and stains effectively.
This product is ideal for doing laundry and cleaning clothes.
It is ideal for those who want a green, non-toxic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional laundry detergents.
This product is ideal for those who want a laundry detergent that is free of fragrances and dyes.
This laundry detergent is ideal for commercial use in all types of washing machines, including HE and professional dispensing systems.
The product is ideal for pumping sewage and waste from residential or commercial buildings.

1. Clean Linen Laundry Detergent – 110 Loads

The Amazon Basics liquid laundry detergent is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient detergent. This package includes an 82.5-ounce bottle of concentrated liquid detergent that can clean up to 110 loads of laundry. Compared to standard concentrated detergents, this Amazon Basics detergent offers twice the number of loads per bottle with its 1.56oz dose.

The fresh scent of clean linen that this detergent leaves on clothes ensures that they smell great. This detergent is safe to use in both standard and high-efficiency washing machines, making it a versatile option for all households.

Amazon Basics is proud of its products and provides a satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the product for any reason, you can return it for a refund within a year of purchase. Additionally, if you need to restock, you can simply ask Alexa to order the Amazon Basics liquid laundry detergent through your Alexa device.

Pros

  • Can clean up to 110 loads of laundry
  • Twice the number of loads per bottle compared to standard concentrated detergents
  • Leaves clothes with a fresh scent of clean linen
  • Safe for use in both standard and high-efficiency washing machines
  • Satisfaction guarantee offered by Amazon Basics
  • Can be easily restocked by asking Alexa to order through your Alexa device

2. Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Twins

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Fragrance-Free is a powerful laundry detergent that is designed to fight tough stains with its triple-enzyme formula. This hypoallergenic laundry detergent is made for sensitive skin and is EPA Safer Choice Certified to ensure safety. The concentrated detergent is capable of washing 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE detergent) or standard machines. This laundry detergent is USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased, made with plant-based ingredients. Caring for the environment and future generations, Seventh Generation's liquid detergent is perfect for those who want to make a positive impact on the world. To complete your laundry routine, try our dryer sheets and stain remover.

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Fragrance-Free is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic formula ensures that it won't cause any irritation or allergic reactions. The powerful triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains, leaving your clothes clean and fresh. This concentrated detergent is designed to wash 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE detergent) or standard machines, making it an affordable and effective option. Made with plant-based ingredients, this laundry detergent is USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased. Seventh Generation's commitment to caring for the environment and future generations is evident with this product. Additionally, it is EPA Safer Choice Certified, ensuring that it is safe for use in the home.

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Fragrance-Free is a laundry detergent that is safe for sensitive skin and the environment. Its triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains, leaving clothes clean and fresh. This concentrated detergent is capable of washing 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE detergent) or standard machines. It is made with plant-based ingredients, and is USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased. Seventh Generation's commitment to sustainability and safety is evident with this product, as it is EPA Safer Choice Certified. To complete your laundry routine, Seventh Generation also offers dryer sheets and stain remover.

Pros

  • Powerful triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains
  • Hypoallergenic laundry detergent made for sensitive skin
  • EPA Safer Choice Certified
  • Concentrated detergent washes 53 medium loads
  • USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased
  • Made with plant-based ingredients
  • Caring for the environment and future generations
  • Dryer sheets and stain remover also available

3. Magnolia Lily Hypoallergenic Eco Laundry Detergent

ECOS Laundry Detergent is a sustainable and climate-positive formula that is gentle on sensitive skin. It is pH-balanced and biodegradable, making it an ideal choice for households focused on reducing their carbon footprint. Unlike most conventional laundry detergents, it is free from parabens and phosphates, which can be harmful to the ecosystem. Detergent for 200 loads of laundry is included in each bottle of this plant-powered product, making it a great value for the price.

ECOS Laundry Detergent is dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, making it a safe and effective cleaning solution for families dealing with skin allergies and sensitivities. Since 1967, ECOS has been creating powerful yet safer products by using enzymes found in nature. Their liquid laundry detergents are made in a carbon-neutral, water-neutral TRUE Platinum Zero Waste factory that uses 100% renewable energy. This product is also certified as a safer choice, indicating that it contains ingredients that are safer for both human health and the environment.

ECOS is not just a climate-positive and sustainable product, but it is also a socially responsible one. It is a women-owned and led company that is also black-owned and led. Choosing ECOS Laundry Detergent means not only choosing a safe and effective cleaning solution for your family's laundry needs but also supporting a company that is committed to making a positive impact on the environment and society.

Pros

  • Sustainable and climate-positive formula.
  • Biodegradable and pH-balanced.
  • Contains enough detergent for 200 loads of laundry.
  • Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic.
  • Safer Choice certified for human health and the environment.
  • Women-owned and led company that is also black-owned and led.

4. 8x Concentrated Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent, Fragrance-Free.

If you have sensitive skin, this detergent is perfect for you. It does not contain any added fragrance or dye, making it gentle on the skin. It also has deep cleaning power that effectively removes dirt, stains, and grime from your clothes. The formula is hypoallergenic, which means it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

This detergent is 6X concentrated, which means that you can get up to 640 loads per bucket. Its concentrated formula also means that you only need a small amount of detergent for each load. It is HE-safe, which means it is suitable for use in all washing machines, including high-efficiency machines. It is also safe for septic systems.

One of the best things about this detergent is that it whitens and brightens clothes without the use of bleach or phosphates. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to keep their clothes looking new without damaging the fabric. The pump included in the package makes it easy to dispense the detergent, ensuring that you use the right amount every time.

Pros

  • Contains no added fragrance or dye, making it gentle on sensitive skin
  • 6X concentrated formula provides up to 640 loads per bucket
  • Whitens and brightens clothes without the use of bleach or phosphates
  • Pump included for easy dispensing

5. Arm & Hammer 33200-01001 Powder Laundry Detergent, Crisp Clean, 18lb Pail

Get your laundry done with ease and efficiency with this detergent that can wash up to 290 medium loads. Suitable for high-efficiency washing machines, this detergent is formulated to provide excellent cleaning performance while being gentle on your clothes. It is also safe for septic systems, making it an eco-friendly choice.

This detergent leaves your clothes smelling fresh and clean with its crisp scent that will keep you feeling confident all day long. You can trust this detergent to remove tough stains and dirt from your clothes, leaving them looking and feeling like new.

This detergent is easy to use – simply measure the recommended amount of detergent based on the size of your laundry load and let it work its magic. It is also gentle on your skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. With this detergent, you can enjoy clean, fresh-smelling clothes every time you do your laundry.

Pros

  • Can wash up to 290 medium loads, providing excellent value for money
  • Suitable for high-efficiency washing machines
  • Safe for septic systems, making it an eco-friendly choice
  • Leaves clothes smelling fresh and clean with its crisp scent
  • Removes tough stains and dirt from clothes, leaving them looking and feeling like new
  • Easy to use, simply measure the recommended amount based on the size of your laundry load
  • Gentle on your skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin

6. Arm & Hammer Clean Burst, 107 Loads Liquid Laundry Detergent, 144.5 Fl Oz

ARM & HAMMER concentrated liquid laundry detergent is a powerful formula that fights tough stains with 2x powerful stain fighters in every drop. This concentrated detergent uses less water than the prior formula, providing power-packed cleaning in every bottle. It is a perfect choice for wash day as it effectively removes dirt and odors with the deep-cleaning power of ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda.

This liquid laundry detergent leaves laundry smelling fresh and clean with its clean burst scent. It infuses a crisp, just-washed fragrance into towels, sheets, team uniforms, and more. Its low-suds formula ensures a clean rinse every time, without leaving behind any residue.

ARM & HAMMER concentrated liquid laundry detergent is designed to work in all machines and all temperatures, including high-efficiency machines. It is an ideal choice for cold water laundry loads and delivers concentrated laundry washing power in every load. Choose this powerful and naturally fresh laundry detergent for a clean and refreshing laundry experience.

Pros

  • 2x powerful stain fighters in every drop
  • Less water formula for power-packed cleaning
  • Deep-cleaning power of ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda
  • Clean burst scent leaves laundry smelling fresh
  • Low-suds formula ensures a clean rinse
  • Works in all machines and all temperatures

7. Eco-Friendly Mls Laundry System: Patented Alternative Detergent.

Introducing the revolutionary MLS Laundry System, the only non-detergent laundry technology in existence that has two United States Patents and has been proven in Independent Laboratory Testing to clean as well as chemical laundry detergent. Unlike other laundry balls or washer ball products, this patented technology is truly different and has never been seen before. The MLS Laundry System is safe and gentle, making it better for your health and the environment. It is especially safer for babies and children, and can even help those with allergies or MCS. The MLS prevents petrochemicals from absorbing into the skin and being breathed in from clothing all day long, and prevents chemicals from getting into the water supply and environment.

The MLS Laundry System is powerful and effective, providing detergent-free cleaning action that is economical, environmentally safe, and very easy to use. One package of two Laundry System units can be used over and over again for many years, eliminating the need to keep buying expensive bottles of detergent every few weeks. This makes it great for saving money, especially in drought areas where you can bypass the rinse cycle since there are no chemicals, saving 20-40 gallons of water per wash and the energy to run it!

Using the MLS Laundry System is easy, as it works in any kind of washing machine. Simply place the MLS units and your clothes in your washing machine and turn it on. For front loaders, put the MLS units in pants pockets. Though they are magnetic, they do not have to stick to the drum to work, and will work in front and top loading machines. However, please note that the MLS replaces laundry detergent only. The use of pre wash spot-remover sprays, bleaches or additives such as fabric softeners can be used with the MLS.

But how does it work? The MLS System works under a unique means of water maintenance through direct application of magnetic force. The system assists the water to pull out the dirt, grease and odors from the fibers of your clothes without harmful chemicals that break down the fibers of your clothing. Water has long been known as the "universal solvent". The MLS System incorporates powerful, specially calibrated magnetism to help alter the basic nature of water and increase its natural solvency. This powerful technology is not only patented, but also independently proven and safe for use.

Pros

  • Patented and independently proven to clean as well as chemical laundry detergent
  • Safe and gentle, better for your health and the environment
  • Economical, environmentally safe, and very easy to use
  • Lasts for years and comes with a limited lifetime and an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Works in any kind of washing machine

Cons

  • – Does not replace the use of pre-wash spot-remover sprays, bleaches or additives such as fabric softeners

8. Clear Pack: 90 Eco Laundry Detergent Pods

The Seventh Generation Washing Detergent Formula is a powerful quadruple-enzyme formula that effectively fights tough stains, leaving clothes fresh and clean. It is a fast-dissolving laundry detergent powder pack that works in both high-efficiency (HE) and standard machines. This laundry detergent is an EPA Safer Choice Certified Product, designed with safety in mind.

The Free & Clear Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Pacs are specifically made for sensitive skin, with 0 percent fragrances, dyes, or artificial brighteners. It is a USDA Certified Biobased Product, with 94 percent of plant-based ingredients. This laundry detergent is gentle on clothes and tough on dirt, leaving no residue behind.

Seventh Generation cares for the environment and the next seven generations. They offer a range of laundry products including liquid laundry detergents, laundry powder, dryer sheets, and stain remover products.

Pros

  • Powerful quadruple-enzyme formula that fights tough stains
  • Fast-dissolving laundry detergent powder pack works in both HE and standard machines
  • EPA Safer Choice Certified Product, designed with safety in mind
  • Free & Clear Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Pacs are specifically made for sensitive skin, with 0 percent fragrances, dyes, or artificial brighteners
  • USDA Certified Biobased Product, with 94 percent of plant-based ingredients

9. Platinum He Laundry Detergent: Pro-Strength, 5 Gallons

The Ultra-fresh laundry detergent is designed to effectively clean heavily soiled laundry while also brightening and whitening fabrics. This detergent is free from harmful ingredients like bleach and phosphate, and leaves clothes with a refreshing fragrance.

Each sturdy 5-gallon detergent bucket comes with a child-proof pull-up spout and a free pump for easy dispensing. With up to 640 loads per bucket, this detergent offers an economical choice compared to other similar products. It is suitable for use in both regular and HE washing machines, and is recommended for all septic systems.

Pros

  • Effectively cleans heavily soiled laundry
  • Brightens and whitens fabrics
  • Free from harmful ingredients like bleach and phosphate
  • Leaves clothes with a refreshing fragrance
  • Comes with a child-proof pull-up spout
  • Includes a free pump for easy dispensing
  • Economical choice with up to 640 loads per bucket
  • Suitable for use in both regular and HE washing machines
  • Recommended for all septic systems

10. Liberty Pumps P382le41 Pro380 Series Simplex Sewage System, Gray

Introducing the Liberty Pumps, a top-of-the-line pumping solution that is proudly made in the United States. With its superior quality and reliable performance, it has become a preferred choice for many homeowners and professionals alike. Its powerful motor is designed to handle even the toughest pumping tasks with ease, making it a versatile option for a wide range of applications.

This pump is engineered with precision and built to last. Its durable construction ensures that it can endure the rigors of frequent use and heavy-duty applications. The Liberty Pumps is also designed with easy maintenance in mind, making it a convenient and hassle-free option for busy professionals.

The Liberty Pumps is a highly efficient pump that delivers exceptional performance while consuming less energy. This means that you can enjoy significant energy savings while still getting the job done quickly and efficiently. Its compact size makes it easy to install in tight spaces, making it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Pros

  • Made in the United States
  • Reliable performance
  • Powerful motor can handle tough pumping tasks
  • Durable construction
  • Easy maintenance
  • Highly efficient, consumes less energy
  • Compact size for easy installation

Best Laundry Detergent Septic Systems FAQs

Are there any eco-friendly laundry detergent options that are safe for septic systems?

Yes, there are many eco-friendly laundry detergent options that are safe for septic systems. With increasing awareness about environment conservation, many people are now opting for eco-friendly laundry detergents over conventional ones. These detergents are made using natural ingredients and are biodegradable, which means they do not harm the environment or septic systems.

Some of the popular eco-friendly laundry detergents that are safe for septic systems include Seventh Generation, ECOS, Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day, and Biokleen. These detergents are free from harsh chemicals, such as phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances, which can cause harm to both the environment and septic systems.

In addition to using eco-friendly laundry detergents, it is also important to follow the recommended dosage and avoid overloading the washing machine. This will help to prevent clogging of the septic system and ensure smooth functioning.

Overall, choosing an eco-friendly laundry detergent is a great way to protect the environment and ensure the safety of septic systems.

Can laundry detergent harm septic systems?

Yes, laundry detergent can harm septic systems if not used properly. Septic systems rely on bacteria to break down waste, and harsh chemicals in laundry detergents can kill the good bacteria, causing the system to fail. Some detergents contain phosphates, which can also harm septic systems by promoting the growth of algae in nearby bodies of water.

To minimize the impact of laundry detergent on septic systems, it's important to choose a detergent that is labeled as septic-safe and free of phosphates. It's also recommended to use a liquid detergent instead of a powder, as liquid detergents are less likely to clog pipes and cause backups.

Additionally, it's important to use the proper amount of detergent recommended by the manufacturer, as using too much can overload the septic system. It's also a good idea to spread out laundry loads throughout the week instead of doing multiple loads in one day, as this can also overload the system.

Overall, with proper usage and the right choice of detergent, laundry can be done without harming septic systems.

How often should septic tanks be pumped when using laundry detergent?

The frequency of septic tank pumping largely depends on the size of the tank, the number of occupants in the house, and the amount of water used. However, the use of laundry detergent can also impact the pumping frequency of a septic tank.

Laundry detergents contain surfactants that can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the septic system. As a result, it is essential to choose a septic-safe laundry detergent that does not contain harmful chemicals that can harm the septic system.

If you use a septic-safe laundry detergent, the pumping frequency of the septic tank should not be affected by the laundry. However, if you use regular laundry detergent, you should increase the frequency of septic tank pumping. It is advisable to pump the septic tank every two to three years if you use regular laundry detergent.

In conclusion, using septic-safe laundry detergent is crucial to maintaining a healthy septic system. It is also important to follow the pumping schedule recommended by the septic professional to ensure proper maintenance of the septic system.

What are the signs that laundry detergent may be affecting the health of a septic system?

One of the signs that laundry detergent may be affecting the health of a septic system is the presence of strong chemical odors coming from your drains. This could indicate that the detergent is not breaking down properly in your septic system and is causing a buildup of chemicals. Another sign is slow draining or backed up drains, which could be caused by a buildup of chemicals and other debris in the septic system. Another common sign is the presence of foam or bubbles in your toilet bowl, which could be caused by the detergent interfering with the natural bacteria in the septic tank. Over time, this can lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of the septic system, which can result in costly repairs and maintenance. To avoid these issues, it is important to use septic-safe laundry detergents and to limit the amount of chemicals and other harsh substances that are introduced into your septic system.

What types of laundry detergents are safe to use with septic systems?

When it comes to using laundry detergents with septic systems, it is essential to choose products that are safe and eco-friendly. Septic systems rely on a delicate balance of bacteria to break down waste, and harsh chemicals found in some detergents can disrupt this balance, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards.

One safe option is to use biodegradable and phosphate-free laundry detergents that are specifically designed for septic systems. These products are formulated to break down quickly and efficiently, leaving minimal residue in the system.

Another option is to use natural laundry detergents made from plant-based ingredients. These products are gentle on septic systems and the environment, while still effectively cleaning clothes.

It's important to avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, and other harsh chemicals that can harm the bacteria in the septic system. Instead, consider using natural alternatives like baking soda or vinegar to soften clothes and remove stains.

Overall, choosing the right laundry detergent is crucial for maintaining a healthy and efficient septic system. By opting for eco-friendly and septic-safe products, you can keep your system running smoothly and help protect the environment.

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