We often read about the harmful effects of excessive phosphate intake, how to avoid products with high phosphate content in our diet – but what about washing, the detergents used? Why is phosphate-containing detergent dangerous?
Why are phosphates in detergents at all?
Sodium phosphate (also known as trisodium phosphate) was a common detergent additive in the past. It is highly soluble in water and is beneficial as a water softener or alkalizing agent for removing greasy and oily stains.
So is phosphate good or bad?
The so-called phosphonates are organic phosphorus compounds that help with the cleaning effect in lower concentrations. However, even the best medicine can become poison if used excessively.
The phosphate content in laundry detergent may be low on an individual level, but it adds up when it enters natural waters. Just think about it: according to data from the international organization A.I.S.E., households in the European Union used 17.9 billion euros worth of detergent in 2025!
Although phosphorus in phosphates is an important nutrient for plants, it occurs in very low concentrations in natural waters. Plants have adapted to this deficiency during evolution and only need a tiny amount of phosphorus for their growth. Thus, the small amount of phosphate present in the water is a limiting factor, inhibiting the overgrowth of algae.
However, larger amounts of phosphate, when entering living waters, cause increased algae growth. Algae are microscopic aquatic organisms that can produce energy from sunlight, just like plants. Their overgrowth or algal blooms (with discoloration depending on the type of algae) pose a threat to human and animal health due to the production of harmful toxins. They can reduce oxygen levels in the water, which can lead to the death of fish and other organisms and damage other parts of the ecosystem. Warmer water temperatures in the summer and excess nutrients (e.g. phosphates) from wastewater increase the risk.
Textile manufacturing and textile cleaning is a profession. Are you interested in its mysteries?
Due to the adverse environmental effects, the European Union limited the phosphate content of detergents from June 2013, capped at 0.5 g per wash, thus in principle banning their use.
Environmentally friendly detergents contain sodium carbonate (soda) instead of sodium phosphate, which is also an optimal alkalizing agent and also provides partial water softening.
In parallel, special attention is paid to the proper labeling of products, informing customers, and giving preference to biodegradable products.
Indication of phosphate content on the label:
- List of ingredients: The manufacturer must list the ingredients on the packaging. Phosphates are usually labeled as „phosphates”.
- Percentage ranges: If the phosphate content exceeds 0.2% by weight, it must be indicated. The labeling is mandatory in the following categories: less than 5%, 5% or more but less than 15%, 15% or more but less than 30%, and 30% or more.
- Phosphate-free labeling: Many manufacturers explicitly state that the product is „phosphate-free”.
- Alternative materials: In modern, environmentally friendly detergents, phosphate is often replaced by zeolites (sodium aluminum silicate), which are also listed among the ingredients.
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Did you know? : At DS Fresh, we use phosphate-free, biodegradable products.
It is worth taking a look at the advertised products on store shelves, many of which contain phosphate.
Sustainability and environmental protection are important to us, as well as protecting the health of our colleagues, so we use EU EcoLabel and Dermatest certified products that do not contain any phosphates – and chlorine or other hazardous substances either.
Every drop of water matters to us! And to you?
Csaba Kutasi - textile chemist, industrial engineer, forensic expert and professional writer
- He has worked in the domestic textile industry for decades in management and quality management positions.
- He also does significant work as an instructor and note-taker, and is a committed supporter of the training of professional recruits.
- He has been an active member of the Textile Technical and Scientific Association since 1969, and his work has been recognized with several professional awards – including the MTESZ Memorial Medal.
How can I tell if a detergent contains phosphates?
Check the ingredient list on the packaging. The terms “phosphates” indicate their presence, while a “phosphate-free” label is a reliable choice.
If the EU has restricted phosphates, why do I still encounter them?
Regulations limit their quantity but do not always fully ban them. Some products may also be imported or contain other phosphorus compounds.
Are phosphate-free detergents just as effective?
Yes. Modern formulas (e.g. soda, zeolites) clean effectively while being more environmentally friendly.