Coming Clean About Detergent Labels

Some laundry detergents claim to be kinder on the environment, or to be hypoallergenic.

But the simple truth is that there is no govermental oversight on those claims. Consumer Reports recently tested 2 detergents, Simplicity Hypoallergenic Non-Toxic 2X and Seventh Generation Natural Powdered HE (HE refers "high efficiency" washers which use less water), both of which claim to be hypoallergenic -- but the warning labels caution that the detergents can cause eye, skin, or respiratory irritation.

image: http://www.annemcallister.com