We unveil our amazing new formula and compostable bottle with the help of Seventh Generation R&D expert Cara B. and packaging guru Peter S.
How did Seventh Generation come up with the groundbreaking, compostable packaging for the new Natural 4X Laundry Detergent?
Peter: We worked with Ecologic, a real innovator in the world of sustainable packaging. We knew that a molded fiber shell would advance the work that we're doing to reduce our packaging footprint. The new bottle uses 66% less plastic than a typical 100 oz laundry form and is completely recyclable!
How do you recycle the packaging when you have used all the new 4X Laundry Detergent?
Peter: First, pop open the fiber shell by pressing on the side seam with your thumbs. Remove the liner and cap system and set aside, we'll come back to these in a minute. You can either recycle or compost the fiber shell. To recycle, flatten and include with your paper and cardboard for recycling in your curbside service, or bring to your local recycling facility. To compost, remove the label and either follow the directions for composting from your local composting facility or throw directly into your home compost system. To help it break down faster, you may want to tear the fiber shell into smaller pieces. To recycle the liner and cap system, remove the cap and rinse out the liner. The liner is #4 LDPE plastic, and can be recycled at local retailers who offer plastic bag recycling bins. The cap is #5 PP plastic, and you'll need to check with your local recycling center to see if they accept this kind of plastic. Also look for Gimme5 bins, which accept #5 plastics, and are available at most Whole Foods Market stores. For more information on the Gimme5 program, visit Preserve. If recycling is not available in your area, the cap may be disposed of in your regular garbage bin.
What's the secret to the new 4X formula?
Cara: Our new 4X detergent is formulated with multiple enzyme systems to fight a broad range of the toughest stains. Like our 2X, it shows outstanding performance on stains such as blood, grass, and spaghetti sauce and contains a new enzyme that helps to tackle even tougher stains, like chocolate pudding and salad dressing.
How many loads does it do, and does it work just as well in cold water as in hot water?
Cara: Our 4X laundry detergent is twice as concentrated as our 2X formulation, meaning that a 50 ounce bottle will deliver 66 loads -- the same number of loads as our current 100 oz 2X Laundry Detergent. This formula was developed to work in cold water, so you can use this with confidence on your washer's cold water setting, which we always recommend. Using cold water to wash your clothes is the best way to reduce our impact on the environment when we wash our clothes. For even more savings, line dry!
To find stores that carry our Natural 4X Laundry Detergent, click here.
