What is the ETKO Organic & Natural Detergent Standard?
Developed specifically by ETKO, the Organic and Natural Detergent Standard is a comprehensive certification program that ensures domestic and industrial cleaning products (such as laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and surface cleaners) are produced with utmost respect for nature and human health. It was established to prevent the harsh chemicals found in conventional cleaning products from entering water systems and destroying ecosystems. By scrutinizing the entire lifecycle of detergents, from formulation to packaging, this standard aims to provide consumers with transparent, genuinely ecological products, free from "greenwashing" claims.
Key Technical Criteria of ETKO Detergent Certification
The ETKO standard offers two distinct categories based on product ingredients and the proportion of organic content used. The technical framework can be summarized as follows:
Certification Categories:
ETKO Organic Detergent: A specific minimum percentage of the agriculturally derived (plant-based) ingredients in the product formulation must come from certified organic farming.
ETKO Natural Detergent: All components in the product must be of 100% natural origin; however, there is no strict minimum for organic content. If organic ingredients are used, their percentages can be transparently indicated on the packaging.
Surfactants and Biodegradability:
Surfactants, the core cleaning agents, must be entirely plant-derived and rapidly, 100% biodegradable in nature. Petrochemical-derived surfactants (such as petroleum-based SLS or SLES) are strictly prohibited.
Prohibited and Restricted Substances:
The use of phosphates (which cause aquatic toxicity), chlorine-based bleaches, optical brighteners, EDTA, synthetic fragrances, and synthetic colorants is strictly banned in formulations. Scenting can only be achieved using pure, natural essential oils.
Animal Welfare and Packaging:
Finished products must never be tested on animals (Cruelty-Free).
Packaging must be made from recyclable materials, recycled plastics, or eco-friendly alternatives, and excessive packaging must be avoided.
Why Choose ETKO Organic & Natural Detergent Certification?
Today, consumers are questioning more than ever how the products they use at home affect their skin, the air they breathe, and the water that washes down the drain. This specific standard, created with ETKO's expertise, allows detergent manufacturers to prove their sustainability and health claims through independent auditing. A cleaning product bearing the ETKO certificate not only ensures a safe environment in the consumer's home but also clearly distinguishes your brand's ecological commitment from competitors in the market.