Every cleaning product on the ReCircle refill bar is phosphate-free. We mention this on the labels and in the shop, but we don't always have time to explain what it means and why it matters. This is that explanation.
What phosphates do in cleaning products ¶
Phosphates are added to cleaning products, particularly laundry detergents and dishwasher tablets, because they soften water and help surfactants work more effectively. They bind to calcium and magnesium ions in hard water, which would otherwise interfere with the cleaning action. They work well. The problem is what happens to them after they go down the drain.
Why phosphates are a problem for waterways ¶
When phosphate-rich wastewater reaches rivers and lakes, it acts as a fertiliser for algae. Algae blooms rapidly, covers the surface of the water, blocks sunlight, and when it dies and decomposes, the decomposition process uses up oxygen in the water. This is called eutrophication, and it can kill fish and other aquatic life. Phosphates from agricultural runoff are the bigger contributor, but domestic cleaning products add meaningfully to the load.
What replaces phosphates in the products we stock ¶
The Miniml and Bio-D products we stock use a combination of plant-derived surfactants and chelating agents like MGDA (methylglycinediacetic acid) or citric acid to achieve the same water-softening effect without phosphates. They work well in most water hardness levels. In very hard water areas, you may need to use slightly more product or add a small amount of washing soda to the laundry drum.
Does phosphate-free mean less effective? ¶
In everyday use, no. The laundry liquid and washing-up liquid we stock clean as well as phosphate-containing equivalents in standard conditions. The one area where you might notice a difference is in a dishwasher in a very hard water area, where a phosphate-free tablet can leave more limescale on glassware. Adding a citric acid rinse aid (which you can refill at the shop) usually solves this.
If you want to read the full ingredient lists for any product on the bar, we keep printed sheets at the counter and the Miniml and Bio-D websites publish them in full. No hidden ingredients.