Bio vs Non-Bio Washing Powder - What is The Difference?

Bio vs Non-Bio - What's the difference?

There's plenty of types of washing detergent on the market nowadays. Bio and non-bio are some of the most common varieties that you will see when you're at the supermarket. But you may be wondering, what is the difference between bio and non-bio? Which should you use?

It might just seem like jargon but we're here to take you through the pros and cons of each.

In a nutshell, biological detergents contain enzymes which make it easier to break down the dirt that builds up in your clothes. Non-bio detergents don't contain these enzymes, making them generally kinder to sensitive skin.

The Benefits of Bio Detergent

The enzymes in biological washing detergent work by breaking down proteins. This improves and speeds up the stain removal process. Because of these enzymes, bio products will also perform better at lower temperature, which in turn helps to save money and energy as you can wash your clothes at a lower temperature and still get a good clean.

The Benefits of Non-Bio Detergent

Non-bio washing detergent tends to be the best choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies so as to avoid irritation. Many parents also choose to use non-bio when washing clothes for babies or small children to protect their naturally more sensitive skin.

Non-bio is also preferable when washing delicate fabrics such as silk and wool. These fabrics contain proteins which the enzymes in bio detergents can damage (in much the same way the enzymes break down a food stain). You'll probably find that these fabrics wear quicker if washed with bio washing products.

So which one should I choose? Bio vs Non-bio?

If you're not worried about sensitive skin and you’re not washing clothes for small children, bio will give you superior stain busting powers. When your children get a bit older and if they have no history of skin complaints, you will really appreciate that stain removal! Choose a high quality bio washing powder like Persil Bio Laundry Liquid or Ariel All-in-One Colour Pods and you shouldn't need to worry about using extra stain removers for most everyday stains.

If someone in your household has sensitive skin, allergies, is prone to eczema, or you have little ones, we’d recommend using a gentler non-bio washing detergent such as Fairy Non-Bio Laundry Liquid or Persil Non-Bio Washing Powder. You can then be confident that you’re protecting your family from potential irritated skin. If you still need stain removal, which is likely if you do have children, you could use an additional stain remover such as Astonish Fabric Stain Remover to spot clean stains or Vanish Oxi Action for those really stubborn marks. 

Remember that bio shouldn't be used for delicate items such as silk or wool, so the answer to non-bio vs bio really depends on what's going in your washing machine. Baby clothes or woollen jumpers? Grab the non-bio. Smelly gym kit or stained clothing? Bio is your best bet.

Browse the full range of laundry detergents at The Cleaning Collective.