What is the difference between bio and non-bio laundry detergent?
The main difference between the two most common varieties of detergent comes down to the enzymes in the product, but here is a more detailed guide.
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The difference between bio and non-bio detergents
Bio detergents contain enzymes which make it easier to break down the dirt that builds up in your clothes.
These enzymes work to rid your laundry of common stains, such as food, grass, sweat and grease.
According to popular cleaning brand Smol, once these stains are broken down, they are much easier to lift and wash from your clothes.
Essentially bio products make stain removal a quick and easy task.
Smol also explained that this type of detergent is best used on mid to low temperature washes (30-40 degrees).
If the wash is too hot, it may cause the enzymes to denature and therefore not work as effectively.
Alternatively, non-bio detergents do not contain enzymes.
This can be a better option if you suffer from sensitive skin.
Although this type of detergent doesn't contain the same stain removing enzymes, it can still be just as effective and leave your clothes fresh and stain free.
You may just need to use a slightly higher temperature to assist the cleaning process.
How to hang out your washing on the line and do no ironing, folding or sorting when it's dry
The benefits of the different detergents
The main benefit of using a bio detergent is that the enzymes improve and speed up the stain removal process.
The enzymes also allow for you to effectively wash your clothes at a lower temperature which makes for a more cost-efficient method.
However, non-bio products are recommended to those with more sensitive skin or allergies, as you are less likely to suffer from any irritation.
It is also preferable when washing delicate fabrics such as silk and wool, reports The Cleaning Collective.
These types of materials contain proteins which the enzymes in bio detergents can damage.
Non-bio is also recommended for children, who again may have more sensitive skin.
Smol's guidance explains that it is still effective at killing germs and bacteria while also remaining gentle and delicate on young skin.
What to buy
According to SuperSavvyMe, the Fairy Non-Bio range has been voted the best laundry detergent brand for sensitive skin.
Its products have been dermatologically approved by the Skin Health Alliance and are appropriate for adults and children alike.
Laundry tips
Catherine Green, sustainable cleaning expert at smol shared her laundry tips.
How often should you be remaking your bed?
When it comes to your bed, maintaining a hygienic sleep setup can actually improve your sleep quality, helping you start every day better.
Most people shed 500 million skin cells per day and a lot of that ends up in bed for dust mites to feed on. And those with asthma or allergies might see symptoms worsen by sleeping on dirty sheets!
You want to be washing your sheets once a week - or every 10 days if you don't suffer from allergies and wear nightclothes. Bedding builds up with sweat, skin cells and oils quickly, even if it doesn't look dirty.
Using an effective detergent like smol's will still give you a great clean on a 20°C cycle - that's better for the planet and your energy bills!
What temperature do smol recommend then?
For your regular weekly washes I recommend washing most loads at 20°C for 30 minutes. It's gentler on fabrics, slashes energy use, and still delivers excellent stain removal with the right detergent. A colder wash can actually be more effective if you opt for a bio detergent as its enzymes need cooler water; too hot and they lose their ability to digest stains. A wash at 60°c (unless you have silk sheets) every now and again can help kill off dust mites and other nasties.
What's the difference between bio and non-bio detergent?
Bio detergents contain enzymes, which are especially good at breaking down tough stains like food, grass, or sweat. It's best used in mid to low temperature washes (ideally between 20-40°C) as anything hotter can cause them not to work effectively.
Non-bio skips the enzymes, which in turn makes it more suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Although non-bio doesn't contain enzymes, it's still great at removing stains and keeping your clothes clean, you just may need to use a slightly higher temperature setting to aid with the cleaning process.
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