Laundry detergent comes in many forms; pods, capsules, liquid, powers and now of course, laundry sheets (also known as laundry strips or laundry leaves). But there is also bio and non-bio detergent! What is the difference between bio and non-bio laundry detergents?

When it comes to choosing laundry detergent, we all have a personal preference of what we like and don’t like, what might reacte with our skin and what won’t. With so many laundry detergents to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you?

The main difference between bio and non-bio laundry detergent is whether or not the formula contains enzymes. Biological detergents contain enzymes and non-biological detergents do not. Biological detergents, because of enzymes help to break down fats, dirt and stains whilst washing.

What is biological laundry detergent?

Enzymes make up the biological element of laundry detergent. Enzymes are proteins that create chemical reactions to help breakdown food. Saliva contains enzymes, and is a great way to think of how enzymes work. Saliva contains special enzymes that help digest the starches in your food; amylase and lipase to name just two. It’s these natural enzymes that have inspired the cleaning power within WABLU laundry sheets.

Enzymes are used in laundry to break down dirt, which makes it easier to remove stains from fabric (clothing). While the enzymes found in traditional biological detergents are great at stain removal, they can in very rare cases cause mild skin reactions. If enzymes remain on clothing after washing and rub against your skin, people with sensitive skin may notice a mild reaction – however, this is rare.

What is Non-biological laundry detergent?

Non-biological is simply a laundry detergent without enzymes. Enzymes can be the cause of skin irritation and therefore for sensitive skin it is best to use a non-bio detergent. In most cases, non-bio detergent will use surfactants and a soap to clean laundry.

Bio vs Non Bio, Fragrance vs. Fragrance Free?

Wablu fragrance sheets (Spring Florals and Very Berry) contain natural enzymes, therefore they can be classed as a biological detergent. We use natural enzymes because they are biodegradable, gentler on your skin and do not harm the environment. Unlike traditional cleaning products that can contain harsh chemicals, natural enzymes break down into a harmless solution that is gentler to your skin and the environment. This makes them a great option for anyone looking to reduce their environmental impact but also want an effective clean.

Our sensitive sheets are fragrance-free sheets and are most definitely non-biological as no enzymes are present in the formulation. For our sensitive sheets we have removed the fragrance as this is a common cause of skin irritation. This formulation has been designed for those with delicate skin prone to outbreaks and delicate fabrics. The cleaning power is surfactants (soap) based, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. You may just have to use a higher temperature to ensure a good clean.

Which laundry sheet is best for me?

Now you know what the difference between bio and non-bio laundry detergents is, it really is personally choice. Bio and non-bio laundry detergent shouldn’t really apply to sheets, especially if you choose a brand with natural enzymes. Natural enzymes are much kinder to skin (and the environment), Wablu customers find they don’t react to the formulation – But you really have to try them for yourself!

Shop WABLU laundry sheets now!