Is Arm Hammer Laundry Detergent Toxic

Is Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent Toxic?

Arm & Hammer is a popular laundry detergent brand known for its use of baking soda to remove stains and brighten fabrics. While baking soda is generally considered safe, concerns have been raised about the potential toxicity of other ingredients in Arm & Hammer detergents.

One ingredient of concern is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which is a surfactant used to create suds. SLS has been linked to skin irritation, eye damage, and organ toxicity in animal studies. However, it is important to note that the amount of SLS in Arm & Hammer detergents is relatively low, and it is not likely to cause adverse health effects when used as directed.

Another potential concern is the presence of optical brighteners in Arm & Hammer detergents. Optical brighteners are chemicals that absorb ultraviolet light and emit visible light, making fabrics appear brighter. However, some optical brighteners have been linked to skin irritation and allergic reactions. The specific optical brighteners used in Arm & Hammer detergents have not been evaluated for safety, so their potential toxicity is unknown.

Overall, the toxicity of Arm & Hammer laundry detergent is likely to be low when used as directed. However, individuals with sensitive skin or allergies may want to consider using a detergent with fewer potentially toxic ingredients.

Here are some tips for reducing the potential exposure to toxic chemicals from laundry detergent:

Use a detergent that is free of SLS and other harsh chemicals.
Avoid using optical brighteners.
Wash clothes in cold water to reduce the release of chemicals.
Do not overload the washing machine, as this can increase the concentration of chemicals in the wash water.
Rinse clothes thoroughly after washing to remove any residual detergent.