Why are phosphates bad in laundry detergent?

Phosphates in detergent refers to the use of phosphates as an ingredient in a detergent product. The disadvantage of using phosphates is that they remain in wastewater and eventually make their way to a natural body of water. While phosphates are low toxicity, they instead cause nutrient pollution and feed the algae.

Why are phosphates harmful?

Phosphates carry into waste systems and are hard to break down by ordinary wastewater processing systems. As they carry into streams, lakes and rivers, they increase algae growth and subsequently decrease the oxygen that is needed for healthy aquatic life, and contribute to the pollution of water bodies.

Are phosphates banned in laundry detergent?

Modern laundry detergents no longer contain phosphates due to a ban passed in 1993. The law, however, did not apply to dishwasher detergents, many of which still contain phosphates; some states are moving to ban (or at least limit) phosphates in such detergents.

What is a phosphate free detergent?

A Phosphate-free detergent reduces the amount of phosphate wastewater treatment plants must clean up. Phosphate-free laundry detergent is always best for laundry.

Is Tide detergent phosphate free?

Procter & Gamble announced this week that it will eliminate phosphates from all of its laundry detergents — which include brands such as Tide, Ariel, Cheer, Gain, Ace and Bold — by the end of 2015.

What replaced phosphates in detergents?

zeolites
Phosphates are used as builders in laundry and dishwashing detergents. They effectively dissolve dirt and soften the water by reducing the amount of metal ions. There are now several alternatives to phosphates in detergents on the consumer market, including zeolites, citrates and polycarboxylates.

Is phosphate Good or bad?

While consuming small amounts of trisodium phosphate is safe, eating foods rich in phosphate additives on a daily basis could harm your health. High phosphate levels have been linked to kidney disease, intestinal inflammation, decreased bone density, heart conditions and even premature death.

Does Tide Free and Gentle have phosphates?

It’s so gentle, in fact, that it’s been recognized by both the National Eczema Association and the National Psoriasis Foundation as a recommended detergent. It’s also phosphate-free, so it’s better for the environment.

Is OxiClean phosphate free?

The Good News: OxiClean is described by some as an “environmentally friendly, natural” product. I was thrilled to find that OxiClean contains two active ingredients: Sodium Percarbonate and Sodium Carbonate. There are no phosphates or bleach, which are two of the worst environmental offenders in most laundry products.