Original Liquid Laundry Detergent
Tide Original is the best-selling laundry detergent in the US. It comes in a plastic HDPE jug that is rarely recycled due to detergent residue. The formula contains synthetic fragrances (which may include phthalates), optical brighteners, and surfactants with aquatic toxicity concerns.
How scores are calculated
Materials (40%): How plastic-free the product is — raw materials, construction, and coatings.
Packaging (20%): Is the product packaged in plastic? Is it recyclable?
Transparency (20%): Does the brand disclose ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing?
Durability (20%): How long does it last? Longer-lasting products reduce plastic waste over time.
This is a rating of this specific product only — not the company. Other products from this brand may score differently.
Last updated: April 8, 2026
Tide's synthetic fragrances contain phthalates and VOCs. The plastic jug contributes to microplastic pollution. Optical brighteners persist in waterways.
Why We Rated It This Way
Tide cleans clothes effectively, but the plastic packaging and synthetic fragrance chemicals are unnecessary. Laundry strips deliver equivalent cleaning without the plastic or fragrance concerns.
Chemical & Health Analysis
Each chemical of concern is broken down below — what it is, where it comes from in this product, what it does to the body, and who is most at risk.
Synthetic fragrances (phthalates)
Laundry detergent
Endocrine disruption, respiratory irritation
All health claims are based on published, peer-reviewed research from the NIH, WHO, IARC, and peer-reviewed journals. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
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