Function

• Both natural and synthetic laundry detergents clean clothing and linens by breaking down soil and stains on the fabric and washing them away. Both are effective in doing so.
  
  

Types

• Natural and synthetic laundry detergents come in liquid and powder forms. With natural laundry detergent, you have the option of buying completely organic detergent, though many synthetic detergents are made using some organic ingredients.
  
  

Ingredients

• Natural detergents are made using plant-based soaps and environmentally friendly, biodegradable enzymes and natural fragrances (if any). Synthetic detergents contain surfectants, phosphates, bleach or bleach alternative (all used for removing dirt), chemical fragrances and dyes.
  
  

Benefits

• Natural detergent may be safer for those with sensitive skin or allergies, is better for the environment, and does not leave chemical residue in your garments. Synthetic detergent contains chemicals, but those chemicals are formulated to make cleaning your laundry faster and easier.
  
  

Considerations

• You always have the option of making your own laundry detergent, which puts you in control of which ingredients go into the mix. Homemade laundry detergents almost always contain more natural ingredients and are more economical to boot.