Downy Ultra Liquid Fabric Softener vs. Norwex Ultra Power Plus Laundry Detergent

Materials

• Dihydrogenated tallow dimethylammonium chloride (quat)
• Fragrance
• Preservatives

Common claims

• 24-hour freshness
• Softens and conditions fabric
• Static reduction

Concerns / watch-outs

• Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) can sensitize the airways and skin with repeated exposure
• Among the most heavily fragranced laundry products available
• Leaves a waxy residue on fabric that reduces moisture-wicking performance

Notes

Downy is one of the most frequently flagged laundry products in low-tox communities. The quat and fragrance combination is a double concern. Wool dryer balls are a straightforward replacement.

Cleaner alternatives

• wool dryer balls
• natural fabric conditioner

Materials

• Sodium carbonate
• sodium percarbonate
• plant-derived surfactants

Common claims

• No fragrance
• No fillers
• Works in cold water

Concerns / watch-outs

• Sold through MLM model — availability and pricing can vary

Notes

Clean, simple ingredient list with no fragrance or optical brighteners. One of the better concentrated powders if you can access it.

Cleaner alternatives

• charlies soap laundry
• mollys suds laundry powder