A concentrated liquid detergent utilizing a robust blend of non-ionic surfactants and biodegradable chelators for effective grease removal, enhanced with Sodium Bicarbonate for deodorizing.
The formulation relies heavily on a strong blend of non-ionic surfactants (three variations of alcohol ethoxylates) combined with Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). This combination is particularly excellent for removing grease, oils, and sebum from fabrics. The inclusion of Trisodium dicarboxymethyl alaninate (MGDA) provides effective, modern water softening (chelation) to boost surfactant efficiency. However, the rating is capped because the formula lacks enzymes (such as protease or amylase), meaning it will struggle to break down protein-based stains (blood, grass) or starchy foods compared to premium enzymatic detergents.
The ingredient list avoids harsh preservatives like methylisothiazolinone, which is a positive. However, it relies entirely on ethoxylated surfactants (SLES, alcohol ethoxylates), which can be irritating to skin and carry a risk of trace contamination with 1,4-dioxane (though usually low). The most significant negative factor is the inclusion of generic Fragrances, which acts as a catch-all term that may conceal phthalates or volatile allergens, making this unsuitable for highly sensitive skin or those with fragrance sensitivities.
This is a solid mid-tier detergent. It is chemically designed to be a workhorse on daily dirt and body oils thanks to a high load of surfactants and effective builders like Sodium Bicarbonate and MGDA. It is superior to bargain-bin detergents that consist mostly of water and fillers, but it falls short of top-tier status due to the lack of stain-fighting enzymes and the use of potential irritants in the fragrance blend.
This liquid laundry detergent features a formulation designed primarily for high-performance cleaning, particularly against oil-based stains. The ingredient list is dominated by a variety of ethoxylated alcohols (C12-15, C10-16, and C12-16). These are non-ionic surfactants, which are superior to standard soaps at emulsifying grease and oils without creating excessive foam. This makes the detergent highly effective for washing synthetic fabrics and removing sebum or food grease, even in cooler water temperatures.
To support these cleaning agents, the formula includes Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). While this is a standard anionic surfactant used to lift particulate dirt and create suds, it is milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). However, the standout ingredient for water conditioning is Trisodium dicarboxymethyl alaninate (MGDA). This is a strong, biodegradable chelating agent that acts as a water softener. It binds to mineral ions like calcium and magnesium found in hard water, ensuring that the surfactants can clean effectively rather than reacting with the water itself. This inclusion suggests a modern formula that is more eco-conscious regarding aquatic toxicity compared to older detergents using EDTA.
The addition of Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda) serves as a functional booster, providing mild deodorizing properties and acting as a pH buffer. Along with Sodium hydroxide, this ensures the wash water maintains the optimal alkalinity required to break down acidic soils.
Despite its cleaning potential, the product is not ideal for everyone. The presence of unspecified Fragrances is the most significant drawback for those with skin sensitivities, as fragrances are common allergens. Additionally, while ethoxylated ingredients are effective cleaners, some consumers prefer to avoid them due to environmental concerns regarding manufacturing byproducts. Overall, this is a strong detergent for general household laundry and tough stains, but it lacks the hypoallergenic profile necessary for sensitive skin or baby clothing.
π§ͺ Water / ζ°΄
Purpose: Acts as the liquid base and carrier for other ingredients.
Concerns: None.
Notes: The primary component of liquid detergent.
π§ͺ C12-15 alcohols ethoxylated / C12-15 ιθι
Purpose: Non-ionic surfactant used to break down grease and oil stains.
Concerns: May contain traces of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (potential carcinogens) depending on manufacturing purity. Harmful to aquatic life.
Notes: Effective in various water hardness levels.
π§ͺ C10-16 alcohol ethoxylate / C10-16 ιθι
Purpose: Non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier.
Concerns: Environmental toxicity to aquatic organisms; potential for byproduct contamination.
Notes: Provides wetting and cleaning properties.
π§ͺ C12-16 alcohols ethoxylated 7EO / C12-16 ιθι-7
Purpose: Non-ionic surfactant specifically tuned for stain removal.
Concerns: Standard concerns regarding ethoxylated compounds (biodegradability and byproducts).
Notes: The β7EOβ refers to the moles of ethylene oxide added.
π§ͺ Sodium laureth sulfate / ζζ‘ιθιη‘«ι Έι ―ι
Purpose: Anionic surfactant that provides foaming and effective cleaning power.
Concerns: Can cause skin irritation. Potential for contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing.
Notes: Also known as SLES; very common in personal care and cleaning products.
π§ͺ Trisodium dicarboxymethyl alaninate / η²εΊηζ°¨ι ΈδΊδΉι ΈδΈι
Purpose: Chelating agent that softens water by binding minerals, boosting surfactant efficiency.
Concerns: Generally considered a safer, biodegradable alternative to phosphates or EDTA.
Notes: Often referred to as MGDA.
π§ͺ Sodium bicarbonate / η’³ι Έζ°’ι
Purpose: Adjusts pH, helps remove odors, and acts as a mild abrasive/cleaning booster.
Concerns: None; generally recognized as safe.
Notes: Commonly known as Baking Soda.
π§ͺ Sodium hydroxide / ζ°’ζ°§ει
Purpose: Used to adjust the pH of the detergent to an optimal alkaline level for cleaning.
Concerns: Highly corrosive and caustic in its raw form, but usually fully neutralized in the final product.
Notes: Also known as Lye or Caustic Soda.
π§ͺ Fragrances / ι¦η²Ύ
Purpose: Adds a pleasant scent to laundry.
Concerns: Common cause of contact dermatitis and skin allergies. Specific chemical composition is often proprietary and undisclosed.
Notes: Can include phthalates unless specified otherwise.