Repsol YPF

ne of the basic ingredients of detergents is phosphates, substances which on feeding algae in shallow waters can lead to an excessive increase in its growth – a phenomenon known as “eutrophication”- and endanger the fish and aquatic plants which live in this ecosystem. For this reason, several European countries such as Austria, Switzerland and Germany have forbidden the sale of detergents containing phosphates or limited the percentage of this ingredient that they can contain, in order to reduce the amount of phosphate accumulated due to sewage dumping in rivers and reservoirs. 

Meanwhile, various components of detergents and toiletries such as shampoos can have a long life once they are converted into sewage, which is why  they end up being very harmful when they build-up in the ecosystem. 

Which products should I choose?

In this situation, in addition to the environmental legislation in each country, consumers have the opportunity to reduce the environmental impact of sewage. They just have to choose environmentally-friendly products in shops and supermarkets... How can they be identified?

A reliable label is the European Eco-label. This is a logo featuring a flower that the EU awards to those products which fulfil certain environmental protection conditions. There are over 250 products that now have it, from campsites to cleaning products. Ecological and biodegradable detergents, as well as other cleaning products are a good option for responsible consumers. 

The EcoBall

However, in addition to the aforementioned products, there is one that merits particular attention due to its singularity: this is the EcoBall. It is a ceramic ball which is placed inside the washing machine and allows consumers to do without detergent. As simple as that. Used on a daily basis, it has an estimated life of three years, as such in addition to a considerable reduction in pollutant waste it represents a large saving for the consumer. 

Although these apparently miraculous properties can seem suspicious, the explanation for such exceptional results is based in science. It is hidden in the ball’s ability to ionise the water in the ceramic materials of which it is composed. This alteration of the chemical composition of the water strengthens its clothes washing function and enables a saving of up to 90% in detergent use and 100% in softener use. Furthermore, since it does not contain detergents it prevents rashes and allergies, removes micro-organisms, protects fabrics and prevents them from discolouring and enables the use of cold water, with the associated energy saving.

Maintaining the ball is as simple as putting it in the sun for an hour per month, so that it can preserve its properties. 

Some cleaning recommendations

In any case, irrespective of the cleaning product you buy, it is advisable to remember a few simple tips in order to reduce consumption and pollution when doing the washing. 

Before doing the washing, separate clothes according to colours, fabric types and how dirty they are. This will allow you to get the most out of the washing conditions, in other words, the cycle, the temperature and the detergent dose. Coloured, synthetic and lightly soiled garments can be washed at a lower temperature than white, cotton and very dirty clothes. 

Lastly, it is not recommendable to use the washing machine containing just a few items of clothing. Some washing machines consume the same amount of electricity and water irrespective of the washing load, which is a waste.

Related articles:

- Steam cleaners 

- Ecological vacuum cleaners