Bio vs non-bio detergent: Which is better for your laundry?

Are you wondering why your freshly washed clothes feel uncomfortable and itchy after wearing them? Your detergent could be causing this allergic reaction. Changing it might be the first thing on your mind, but before shopping for a new detergent, you must first know how the different types of laundry detergent work.

To help you decide, let us narrow your choices by comparing two of the most popular types of laundry detergents, bio vs non-bio detergents. Keep reading to find out which best suits you and your family to be safe from laundry detergent rash. 

What is bio detergent?

Bio or 'biological' laundry detergent is a powerful cleaning agent that contains enzymes, specifically, 

• Amylase for removing starch-based stains such as pasta and food sauce stains.

• Protease for removing in-based stains such as blood and sweat stains.

• Lipase for removing fat-based stains such as oil and water stains. 

These enzymes do not only help remove stains, but they can also break down odour-causing molecules, keeping your laundry smelling fresh. Moreover, this type of laundry detergent is biodegradable, so it easily dissolves after use. The only downside to using bio laundry detergents is that enzymes can damage the natural fibres of delicate fabrics.

What is non-bio detergent? 

A non-bio laundry detergent lacks biological enzymes, so they rely on other cleaning agents, such as surfactants and builders, to wash clothes. Surfactants help lift dirt and grease from clothes, while builders help soften the water to boost the detergent’s cleaning power.

The absence of enzymes in non-bio washing powders and liquid detergents helps reduce the likelihood of skin allergies because these enzymes can potentially irritate the skin. Not only that, but they also have less fragrance and colouring, which makes them great for washing baby clothes because babies have more sensitive skin than adults.

One downside of non-bio detergents is that they require higher temperatures or longer washing cycles to be as effective in removing stains as bio detergents.

Non-bio vs bio detergent: What is the difference?

Learn more about the difference between bio and non-bio laundry detergents to help determine which type of laundry detergent suits your family’s needs.

In terms of cleaning effectiveness

The cleaning effectiveness of a laundry detergent depends on the type of washing machine you use and how clean the washing machine is. 

But, to give you an idea, bio laundry detergents are more effective in cleaning clothes due to the presence of enzymes. These enzymes help break down dirt and oil into smaller particles, making it easier for the detergent to wash them away. 

Meanwhile, non-bio detergents usually require higher temperatures to match the cleaning power of bio-detergents. So, removing tough stains would be more difficult with non-bio detergents if you frequently wash in cold water.

In terms of stain removal

Bio detergents are more effective in removing stains because the enzymes act as catalysts to enhance and accelerate chemical reactions in breaking down stains. When dealing with stubborn stains, bio liquid detergents are particularly effective. This is because liquid detergent can dissolve and remove grease and oil stains easier in cold water. 

On the other hand, non-bio detergents have to make use of surfactants and other cleaning agents, such as builders, to remove stains. Surfactants help reduce the surface tension (or the invisible skin on water) to help the detergent penetrate the fabric fibres and remove stains. Meanwhile, builders remove calcium and magnesium ions in hard water to allow the surfactants to work their magic.  

Although surfactants and builders are also effective in removing stains, hot water is required to maximise the cleaning power of bio detergents. Sometimes, you may also have to pre-treat stains for heavily soiled laundry. 

In terms of allergenic potential

If you sometimes hand wash your clothes, you’re probably worried that your laundry detergent might cause skin reactions. The good news is that non-bio detergents have a milder formula that is gentler to the skin because they lack enzymes, which are present in bio detergents. 

However, enzymes in bio detergent are mild allergens. Studies show that enzymes can only irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system in raw form. After formulating them into laundry detergents, they’re generally safe and don’t cause skin problems or allergies.

Still, for those with sensitive skin, especially individuals with a history of eczema or skin allergies, the enzymes in bio detergents may lead to skin irritation.

In terms of fabric compatibility

Cotton fabrics with natural hollow fibres and synthetic fabrics with chemically produced fibres like polyester, nylon and acrylic are ideal for bio detergents.

Although keep in mind to avoid washing delicate fabrics such as wool and silk with bio detergents. This type of laundry detergent contains protease, which is an enzyme that specifically targets protein-based stains. Wool and silk are protein-based fabrics, which means bio detergent can damage their delicate, open-weave fibres. 

Non-bio detergents are also great for washing dyed fabrics and textiles. They don’t contain enzymes that may cause colour fading and bleeding, helping keep your coloured clothes vibrant even after multiple washes. 

If you're still unsure whether you should use a bio or non-bio washing liquid, seek help from laundry experts. With their expertise, they know the most effective and gentle methods to clean and care for your fabrics. Plus, they can give you tips and tricks on choosing the right type of laundry detergent and fabric conditioner for specific fabrics.

In terms of environmental impact

If you’re eco-conscious, you may be wondering whether a bio or non-bio detergent is sustainable. Generally, bio detergents are more eco-friendly because they contain biodegradable enzymes derived from natural sources (like fungi, yeast, and bacteria). Additionally, they’re made of plant-based ingredients such as palm, coconut, corn, and soybeans. 

Unlike non-bio detergents, you don’t need to use hot water when using bio-detergents. This helps reduce your total energy consumption and costs. 

On the other hand, non-bio detergents rely heavily on chemicals to boost their cleaning power, which makes them less eco-friendly. 

In terms of cost

The cost difference between bio and non-bio washing powders and liquid detergents can vary significantly by brand, region, and retailer. Generally, non-bio detergents are more affordable upfront because they don’t have specialised enzymes injected into their formula. Plus, adding these biological catalysts in bio detergents requires high manufacturing costs. 

However, bio detergents are more cost-effective in the long run because, as mentioned earlier, they remain effective even when used with cold water wash. Using them can help you save more on the energy costs. 

Simplify your laundry day with Airtasker

Now that you understand the difference between bio and non-bio detergents, it is time to clean and wash your dirty laundry! If you feel overwhelmed with the task and need expert help, consider contacting cleaning professionals at Airtasker. They can help ensure your laundry is always fresh and stain-free!