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What are Phosphates? The Importance of Phosphate Free Cleaning Products
- by Brodie Cook
Phosphates are chemicals used in many cleaning products. They help detergents and soaps work better at a certain cost.
But more people are now choosing phosphate-free options. These products are getting attention for being safer and better for the environment. They show how cleaning can improve without relying on phosphates.
What Are Phosphates and Why Are They Used in Cleaning Products?
Phosphates are chemical compounds made from phosphorus, a naturally occurring element that is necessary for plant growth. They can be processed into synthetic forms for use in cleaning products. These include detergents, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents and household cleaners.
Phosphates help break down grease, grime, and mineral deposits. This makes cleaning easier, especially in areas with hard water. They also stop soap scum from forming. Soap scum is the filmy residue left behind when soap reacts with minerals in hard water.
Another feature of phosphates is that they create foam. Many people think foam means a product is working well. This gives the impression of better cleaning, even if foam isn’t always necessary.
The most common phosphate is Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP). It’s used to boost cleaning power and make detergents work better in tough conditions. STPP has been a go-to ingredient in many products for its effectiveness
The Hidden Costs of Phosphates
Environmental Impact
Phosphates entering water systems act like fertilizer. They cause a quick overgrowth of algae, a process called eutrophication. This overgrowth creates algal blooms that cover the surface of lakes and rivers. These algae blooms block sunlight from reaching underwater plants, disrupting the ecosystem. They may also release toxins that harm aquatic organisms and wildlife, terrestrial animals, and humans. Together, these effects can significantly impact the balance of aquatic environments. As the algae die and decompose, they use up oxygen in the water.
Without oxygen, fish and other aquatic life can’t survive. This creates “dead zones,” where almost nothing can live. For example, the Gulf of Mexico experiences one of the largest dead zones in the world. It happens each year due to nutrient runoff, including phosphates, from rivers like the Mississippi. (source: Epa.gov The Effects: Dead Zones and harmful Algal Blooms)
Tourism and fishing in these areas suffer. Clean water is essential for these industries, and pollution drives people away. Algal blooms also make water unsafe for swimming or drinking, further hurting local communities.
Human Health Risks
The use of phosphates can cause problems for your skin and lungs. People who use phosphate-based cleaners often notice rashes or coughing. These chemicals can also make breathing harder, especially with regular exposure.
Drinking water with phosphates can also be a concern. These chemicals put extra strain on your kidneys and may lead to heart issues over time. Even small, repeated exposure can add up. (Source: WHO Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality, the PDF)
Phosphates get into drinking water in a few ways. Farms use fertilizers packed with phosphates, and rain washes them into rivers and lakes. Detergents and soaps add more phosphates to the mix. When these go down the drain, they reach wastewater treatment plants. Many plants can’t fully remove them, so they end up in our water. (Source: EPA Nutrient Pollution Reports)
Economic Impact
Phosphates are expensive to clean up. Cities must treat water to remove them, increasing costs for treatment plants. This leads to higher bills for taxpayers. Even then, it's hard to remove.
The costs don’t end there. Algal blooms from phosphate pollution hurt local economies. Businesses near lakes or rivers lose income when tourists stay away. Fishing industries also struggle when waterways become polluted.
Regulations and the Push for Phosphate-Free Cleaning
Phosphates in cleaning products have been a concern for decades. Many countries worldwide have started placing restrictions to protect water systems.
In the United States, states like Maine and Florida began limiting phosphates in the 1970s (already). By 2010, 17 states banned phosphates in dishwasher detergents. These detergents were targeted because they could contribute up to 34% of phosphates in wastewater.
The European Union began acting in 2004. They first required detergents to be biodegradable. Later, in 2013, phosphates were banned in laundry detergents. Dishwashing detergents followed in 2017. (Source: Wikipedia on Phosphates)
Australia also made changes. By 2014, more cleaning products sold there were phosphate-free. These changes helped reduce the impact of phosphates on water systems. (Source: Institute for Sustainable Futures)
Phosphate-Free Cleaners: Then vs. Now
When phosphate-free products first came out, they didn’t win over many users. They made less foam, which some people thought meant they weren’t working. Others complained about residue left behind on dishes or clothes. These early issues gave phosphate-free cleaners a bad reputation, even though they were better for the environment.
Over time, companies improved these products. Today’s phosphate-free options are much better. They clean just as well as traditional cleaners. They break down grease, soften water, and leave surfaces spotless. Brands like Lucent Globe have shown that you don’t need phosphates to get great results. These innovations prove that phosphate-free cleaning has come a long way.
How to Spot Phosphates in Cleaning Products
Phosphates can hide under many names. Look out for common ones like Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP) or others:
Common Phosphate Ingredients:- Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP) – Found in many detergents.
- Disodium Phosphate – Often used in dishwashing liquids.
- Tetrasodium Phosphate – Common in all-purpose cleaners.
- Phosphoric Acid – Found in some soaps and disinfectants.
Reading labels is key to spotting them. Check for products labelled “phosphate-free.” Certifications like “Made Safe” or “EWG Verified” can also help. These labels mean the product has been tested for safety. They ensure it avoids harmful chemicals, including phosphates.
Be careful with marketing terms. Words like “natural” or “green” don’t always mean safe. Some products use these labels to appear eco-friendly without meeting real standards. Always look for full ingredient lists and trusted certifications to know what you’re buying.
Alternatives to Phosphate-Based Products
We at Lucent Globe offer a range of cleaning products that are phosphate-free and safe for the environment. These products are made to clean effectively while being gentle on your home and the planet. Here’s a closer look at what they offer:
Alternatives to Phosphate-Based Products
We at Lucent Globe offer a range of cleaning products that are phosphate-free and without any bleach.
Our products are formulated with the planet in mind. Our packaging also reduces waste and avoids the use of plastic while our products maintain excellent cleaning performance without any harsh chemicals. With options to suit every need, switching to phosphate-free alternatives has never been easier.
Here’s a closer look at what we offer:
- These sheets dissolve easily in water to tackle tough stains.
- They are ultra-concentrated, hypoallergenic, and free from harsh chemicals.
- Perfect for all washing machines, including high-efficiency (HE) models.
- Available in fresh scent or fragrance-free options.
- Pre-measured sheets designed to leave dishes spotless.
- Work on tough grime and grease without leaving a residue.
- Free from phosphates and safe for all dishwasher models.
- Available in standard packs or bundles for larger households.
- Dissolve in water to create a powerful, eco-friendly cleaning solution.
- Ideal for countertops, appliances, and even bathroom surfaces.
- No harmful fumes, making it safe for use around kids and pets.
- Available in single packs or family-sized options.
- Quick-dissolving sheets that clean and deodorize toilets effectively.
- Made to tackle stains and odors without releasing harmful chemicals.
- Easy to use and septic-safe.
- These sheets reduce static and soften clothes naturally.
- Free from synthetic chemicals and fragrances.
- Available in unscented or lightly scented versions.
- Compact sheets that lather into a rich foam for gentle cleansing.
- Made with natural ingredients, leaving hands clean and soft.
- Perfect for travel or everyday use.
- Available in multiple scents or fragrance-free options.
How Phosphate-Free Choices Benefit You and the Planet
Our phosphate-free products offer more than just clean surfaces. They are a smarter choice for your home and community.
These products reduce the chemicals you bring into your home. Without harsh ingredients, they are gentler on your skin and safer for your family. They also avoid leaving behind residues, making everyday cleaning better.
Phosphate-free options also help support communities and the local environment. Cleaner water supports local tourism and farming. Choosing these products is a simple way to protect the spaces we all rely on.
