In the 1960s and 1970s, a trend emerged in the laundry detergent industry, particularly in Europe, surrounding enzyme-based detergents. This came about as phosphates, once common in detergents, were phased out due to their harmful effects on the environment. Phosphates contributed to algae blooms and pollution in rivers, prompting manufacturers to find alternatives.
I once attended a lecture from a representative at Procter & Gamble who explained that this shift led to the decline of powdered detergents. The substitutes for phosphates made it challenging to create effective powdered formulas, which is why liquid detergents became more popular. He strongly recommended using liquid detergents instead of powders, though this may not be entirely true, depending on the brand.
During the 60s and 70s, enzyme-based detergents gained popularity as an alternative. One well-known brand from that time was Biz, though it has since been reformulated and possibly no longer contains enzymes. Enzymes in these detergents were promoted for their effectiveness but required cold water and long soaking periods, sometimes lasting between two and 24 hours.
This need for cold water and soaking may have influenced the marketing push for cold-water washing. Enzymes work best in cold water, and many detergents advertised for cold washes are enzyme-based. Personally, I’ve had good results using Pro Enzyme detergent, though there are other brands worth researching based on your preferences. The downside, of course, is the soaking time, which can be inconvenient for many people.
However, the benefits of enzyme detergents are clear. They can effectively remove stubborn stains like grass and blood, which regular detergents may struggle with or even set into the fabric. Enzymes break down these tough stains in a way that regular washing can’t.
Additionally, enzyme detergents became popular in Europe because they help save energy, as they don’t require hot water. They not only clean effectively but also help keep clothes bright.
For those willing to manage the soaking process, enzyme-based detergents are a powerful tool in laundry care. It might be worth considering for anyone looking for an eco-friendly and efficient solution.
