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Frequently Asked Questions

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Below you will find the most frequently asked questions about our products and Ecover as a brand. Can't find an answer to your question? Ask them here...





General Information

Do you carry an anti-bacterial range?

To keep bacteria at bay we have 2 options, we either kill all bacteria dead, which isn’t ideal, or we remove the ‘food’ or ‘biofilm’ as it’s known on which bacteria lives off. The reason why anti-bacterial isn’t ideal for a clean healthy home is because it kills everything, even the bacteria which naturally occurs on our hands and skin, bacteria which in turn protect us from pathogenic bugs and the like. Instead, remove the food on which these unwanted bacteria live such as kitchen-surfaces and the toilet-rim and presto! You’ll have a clean and healthy home. What’s more our products are safe to use throughout the kitchen and other food preparation areas.

Use by Date

It’s true, even cleaning products have a use by date! All of ours keep for at least 18 months, which allows plenty of time for the product to work its way to your home and sit under your sink for a while as you use it. The production date can be traced by the batch number which every product carries. New EU legislation also means that we have to have a use by date printed on our personal care products.

Are Ecover products suitable for vegans and vegetarians?

Nearly all Ecover products are suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. The only exception is our Camomile and Marigold Washing Up Liquid which contains Milk Whey (for its hand softening properties). This is a natural by-product of the dairy industry. But we have a vegan alternative to this product available – give Lemon & Aloe Vera Washing up Liquid a try instead.

Is Ecover suitable for my Septic Tank?

Yes. If you have a septic tank at home then you should be using products which can fully degrade just like Ecover. Reason being that in your septic tank there is an anaerobic environment which efficiently decomposes or mineralises waste, and to keep it healthy you need to ensure you don’t upset it with nasty chemicals. So with Ecover’s range of plant-based and mineral ingredient products and a maintenance clear out now and then you’ll have happy septic tank which will last for decades and possible a lifetime.

Bio and non bio - What is the difference?

It’s a common misconception that Biological is bad and Non-Bio is good. The fact is that they’re both great for cleaning, but for different reasons... The difference is one uses enzymes, but which one? Non-Biological laundry products don’t contain enzymes and here at Ecover to boost our Non-Bio Powder’s performance we add our friendly oxygen bleach which helps to bleach out stains such as grass and tea. However not all stains are ‘bleachable’, particularly those which are protein or fat based such as blood and egg. To tackle these stains it’s Biological that you need. Ecover’s Biological Washing Powder, Bio Laundry Liquid and Stain Remover contain enzymes to really beat these trickier stains.

Batch Numbers - Where can I find the batch number?

On our bottles the batch number can be found on the back of the neck, on powders and boxes it is usually stamped on the bottom or on the back near the barcode. It is a printed series of numbers and will look different to the main text of the label. We keep samples of each finished batch for 2 years in our lab, so the batch number allows us to check against this and retrace the steps of each and every ingredient back to its producer.

Is Ecover Healthy?

Many people consider Ecover to be a healthier choice for their home and family (than conventional brands). It’s because we don’t put anything in our formula that we don’t believe to be the best possible choice – for you,your family and our environment. Our formulas are created using plant based and mineral ingredients, combined with mild fragrances.

They are formulated by people who are passionate about creating a product which does good in people’s homes and which doesn’t harm the environment. This means that our products are considered more gentle on every level – yet they still compete with the big brands in terms of performance.

How do you quantify ‘healthy’?

To us, health is a qualitative factor rather than quantitative.

We don’t believe that people should be regularly sanitising their homes with products that contain harsh ingredients like bleach and anti-bacterial agents.

Products which have very strong smells which you need to leave the room because of. Products which make you cough or make your eyes water or make your skin itch or feel dry after using. Products which you worry are left behind on your surfaces. These are the concerns people have and that is why they switch to Ecover.

We also don’t believe people should be using products with ingredients made using irreplaceable fossil fuels and unsustainable palm oil.



Our Green Credentials

Is Ecover B-Corp certified?

Yes! Ecover is a proud founding B Corp in Europe.

B Corp is to business what Fair Trade is to coffee. The B Corp certification measures companies on their social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency.

Through rigorous assessment, our B Corp status puts us in a small but growing group of like-minded pioneering companies who think there’s more to business than just making money.

Is Ecover Leaping Bunny approved?

Yes. We’re proud to be Leaping Bunny certified and display the Leaping Bunny logo on our products. The Leaping Bunny certification is the international gold standard and most trusted stamp of approval for not testing on animals.

Cruelty Free International (CFI) maintains the Leaping Bunny standard for products, and they work with research organisations to identify alternatives to animal testing. CFI has 100 years of experience educating and inspiring consumers, companies and governments to respect and protect animals.

Is Ecover a member of RSPO?

Yes. Ecover is a member of RSPO – the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil – and we purchase RSPO certified palm oil and palm kernel oil to account for all palm oil used in our products. RSPO creates global standards for the growing, harvesting and producing palm oil sustainably.

By working across the entire supply chain from soil to shelf, RSPO ensures that palm oil production meets strict environmental and social standards.



Ingredients & Formulation

What is the Eco-Cert?

Eco-Cert is a third-party standard that ensures that cleaning products and detergents are made with naturally derived ingredients.

The certification assesses each ingredient and supplier and includes an annual onsite audit of our factories.

What makes Ecover ecological?

Ecover uses a holistic approach to ensuring that we make our products with people and the planet in mind.

We have strict standards for our ingredient selection and measure more than a dozen attributes of each ingredient including biodegradability, skin irritation, eye irritation and aquatic toxicity.

Our packaging is made from a unique blend of 75% plant based plastic made from sugarcane and 25% post-consumer recycled plastic. And we make our products under a plant roof in our beautiful and efficient factory in Belgium..

What does bio-based mean?

Bio-based means that the ingredients are made using plants. Making ingredients from plants means that they’re renewably sourced instead of using finite ingredients like petroleum. We also use bio-based materials in our packaging with 75% plant plastic from sugarcane.

What is aquatic toxicity?

Aquatic toxicity is the study of how human activities affect our water systems – rivers, lakes and oceans.

We measure aquatic toxicity to ensure that our products will not be harmful to aquatic life like algae, fish and other living organisms.

Is Ecover biodegradable?

Yes. All the raw materials we use are biodegradable according to international standards and none of our dyes are persistent.

If you have a Septic Tank, then you should be using biodegradable products to keep in nice and healthy.

What’s Ecover’s criteria for choosing ingredients?

We evaluate every ingredient to make sure it works for people and the planet.

Every ingredient is assessed on more than a dozen attributes including biodegradability, skin and eye irritation, and aquatic toxicity. Wherever possible, we aim to source plant-based ingredients and readily available minerals instead of petroleum-based ingredients.

Where do you source your ingredients?

We aim to source ingredients as locally as possible.

By sourcing ingredients local to our factories, we can reduce transportation impacts. Many of our ingredients are sourced within Europe. Some ingredients are not yet available locally – that’s why we continue to pioneer new ingredients and innovations that will allow us to produce ingredients locally.

Does Ecover test on animals?

No. We’re one of over 600 companies worldwide who are proud to be Leaping Bunny certified – which is why we display the Leaping Bunny logo on our products.

The Leaping Bunny certification is the international gold standard and most trusted stamp of approval for non-animal tested consumer products, issued by Cruelty Free International (CFI).

CFI is the leading organisation working globally to consign animal experiments to the history books. Educating, challenging and inspiring others across the globe to respect and protect animals, they work tirelessly to investigate and expose the reality of life for animals in laboratories, challenge decision-makers to make a positive difference for animals, and champion better science and cruelty free living. With a history spanning over 100 years, CFI is a widely respected authority on animal testing issues and frequently called on by governments, the media, corporations and official bodies for advice or expert opinion. They have inspired generations of politicians, decision-makers and compassionate people to make a difference for animals used in experiments.

Find out more about an organisation that’s passionate about helping businesses to demonstrate that their products are cruelty free

What are enzymes and how do you use them?

Yes we do.

Enzymes have useful properties to help our products work better, for example they break down certain stains from fabrics. Almost all conventional washing powders contain enzymes. It’s hardly possible to achieve a good washing result without them. There’s a two-fold benefit to using them: you get a cleaner wash and they have a lower burden on the environment, because you only need to use a tiny amount and they reduce the need for surfactants. If 1% to 2% of the product is made up of enzymes, you can reduce the amount of surfactants required by 10 times! We typically use naturally occurring enzymes like protease and amylase that work on both protein and starch stains. In recent years, some suppliers have modified their production processes. Today, the enzymes we buy are created through a micro-organism that has undergone modification solely to increase its enzyme producing capacity. There is no modification of the enzymes produced and the micro-organism is not modified to do what it’s not designed for. Nothing is modified in any way that would not occur naturally!

Do Ecover products have a shelf life?

It’s true, even cleaning products have a use by date! All of ours keep for at least 18 months, which allows plenty of time for the product to work its way to your home and sit under your sink for a while as you use it. The production date can be traced by the batch number which every product carries. New EU legislation also means that we have to have a use by date printed on our personal care products.

Does Ecover contain SLS?

Yes we do and here’s why. SLS and SLES are both surfactants: the active ingredients of cleaning products that allow dirt to be removed more easily. There’s a lot of misinformation out there about SLS/SLES but it’s an ingredient we feel confident using. Here’s why: SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) and SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) are surfactants that have many great properties, both for cleaning and for the environment. First, they’re derived from plant oil, such as coconut oil, which means they meet our objective to use plant-based ingredients. Second, they are quickly biodegradable. And, third, they have excellent performance properties that give you the clean you expect. So in short, SLS and SLES meet our stringent criteria for health, safety and environment.

Do you use phosphates?

No we don’t, it’s our raison d’être

It’s actually where it all started for Ecover, back in 1979 when we launched the first-ever phosphate free washing powder.

We don’t and have never used phosphates in our product because they have a negative environmental impact to our waterways.

Is Ecover Anti-bacterial?

No it’s not, and here’s why.

To keep bacteria at bay we have two options, we either kill all bacteria dead,, or we remove the ‘food’ or ‘biofilm’ as it’s known on which bacteria lives. The reason why anti-bacterial isn’t ideal for a clean healthy home is because it kills everything, even the bacteria which naturally occurs on our hands and skin, bacteria which in turn protect us from pathogenic bugs and the like. Instead, remove the food on which these unwanted bacteria live such as kitchen-surfaces and the toilet-rim and presto! You’ll have a clean and healthy home. What’s more our products are safe to use throughout the kitchen and other food preparation areas.



Our Packaging

Is Ecover packaging recyclable?

We evaluate every ingredient to make sure it works for people and the planet. All our bottles and packaging is recyclable, this is very important to us as we’re not fans of landfill.

What is PlantPlastic?

PlantPlastic is another of our World Firsts.

It is the plant-based polyethelene (PE) plastic that we use in our bottles. Our bottles contain a mixture of PlantPlastic and post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR). By using PlantPlastic and recycled plastic, we greatly reduce the carbon footprint of our packaging. Using PlantPlastic also allows us to use a renewable material – sugarcane – instead of petroleum.

Healthy for our planet and future generations.

What are the warning labels on your products?

Please don’t worry there’s nothing to worry about. Our products haven’t changed.

The symbols are from new legislation from the European Union and United Nations that’s designed to provide people with consistent, simple to understand information about chemicals found in different types of products. It has lowered the threshold for levels of certain ingredients that require warning labels on how to handle them safely and the new warnings refer to highly unlikely scenarios – for example if you got concentrated product in the eye. All our ingredients are safe and should not cause any irritation if used as stated on the label.



Our Dishwashing Products

Is Ecover washing up liquid good for sensitive skin?

Yes it is. It’s a firm favourite for that very reason.

We asked for a team of independent dermatologists to carry out a clinical test on our products to double check we walk the talk when we say this is ‘suitable for sensitive skin’. It’s worthwhile noting that although the tests showed our products are ‘suitable for sensitive skin’, that it’s not possible for any manufacturer to guarantee against the risk of an allergic reaction which can be caused by sensitivity to one or more of the ingredients.

If you’re sensitive to fragrance, try the Ecover ZERO range which is fragrance free and Allergy UK approved.

Do Ecover Dishwasher Tablets contain phosphates?

No. We don’t and have never used phosphates in our products.

It’s actually where it all started for Ecover, back in 1980 when we launched the first-ever phosphate free washing powder.

Another World First.

What temperature should I use for the dishtabs?

Dishwashers can be temperamental things.

For our Dishwasher Tablets we recommend using at 45 º – 55 º for optimum performance. This is usually your ‘eco’ setting.

What happens if my dishes come out cloudy?

To help remove white residue from your glasses and dishes, we recommend a good wash with vinegar. Just add a full glass of vinegar to the dishwasher around 30 minutes into the full cycle (dishwashers do a pre-rinse so adding the vinegar in the beginning will not give a good results). Be careful when you open the dishwasher mid-cycle. The dishwasher will stop but it takes some time before the spray arms stop spinning.

Can I use Ecover Dishwasher Tablets to clean silver?

Unless stated otherwise by the producer (check the packaging), silver and silverplate is not dishwasher-safe. We recommend that such products are washed by hand using Ecover washing-up liquid.If you do want to take a chance, here are some tips: rinse off acidic foods like salad dressing or fruit and salt before loading as this can tarnish your cutlery .When loading the cutlery basket, avoid over packing your items to allow the water to rinse all surfaces. Avoid spilling dishwashing detergent directly onto your cutlery as this can cause corrosion. Remove cutlery at the end of the cycle to avoid it being left in a humid atmosphere which could cause corrosion/rusting. Don’t mix silver and stainless steel in the same basket as this can cause tarnishing and rust spots.

Why do my Ecover Dishwasher Tablets come with plastic wrappers?

The packages of our tablets are made of polypropylene (PP), a simple, stable and non-toxic plastic. Each pack weighs only 0.3 grams.

We know that the best choice would be a packing of biologically plastic, but at present this material is simply not stable or durable enough to use it for this purpose. Once a choice is available, you can rest assured that we switch!



Our Laundry Products

What’s the difference between bio and non-bio?

The main difference between bio and non-bio is the presence of enzymes. Enzymes in washing and cleaning products are able to break down all kind of difficult to remove stains such as blood, grass, egg, starch, jam, ice cream, pudding and many others and this at low temperatures and in a sustainable way. Enzymes are natural ingredients and readily biodegradable.

Can I use Ecover on wool and silk?

Yes. Try Ecover Delicate Laundry Liquid. It’s Woolmark and Apparel approved.

Ecover Fabric Conditioner can also be used on wool and silk. However, we’d recommend using a smaller amount than usual on your wool to help prevent pilling. Wool being so soft doesn’t need as much.

Does Ecover use optical brighteners?

In short, no we don’t.

Optical brighteners are chemicals that shifts blue light into white light making your clothes and linens look brighter or whiter (a mere optical effect).

Our powerful plant-based formulas will leave your clothes sparkling without the optical brighteners.

Can I wash reusable nappies with Ecover?

Yes you can. Any of our laundry products will do an excellent job in getting your reusable nappies perfectly clean and soft for baby.

Our formulas pack a powerful plant-based punch but is very kind against sensitive skin. For stubborn stains you can pre-treat with Ecover Laundry Liquid or our powerful Stain Remover



Our Household Products

Are your cleaners safe around food preparation areas?

Dishwashers can be temperamental things.

Yes. Our products are made with the health of your home in mind.

We carefully pick plant-based and mineral raw materials so you don’t need to worry about harsh residues left behind.

Try the Multi-Action Spray for those food preparation areas.

What surfaces can I use the All Purpose Cleaner on?

Tiled floors, kitchen tops, cleaning out the fridge. Any really. Just not unsealed surfaces. Remember to dose correctly, a small cap can go a long way.

Happy Cleaning

What product should I use for treated wooden floors?

Our All Purpose Cleaner will do the job with a lovely lemon scent and powerful cleaning results. Dose correctly though, wooden floors don’t like too much water.

What product should I used for sealed floors?

Our All Purpose Cleaner will do the job with a lovely lemon scent and powerful cleaning results.

Have you ever thought about what you clean your floors with if you have a dog in the home?



Health, Allergies & Senstive Skin

Is Ecover suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes it is. We asked for a team of independent dermatologists to carry out a clinical test on our products to double check we walk the talk when we say this is ‘suitable for sensitive skin’. It’s worthwhile noting that although the tests showed our products are ‘suitable for sensitive skin’, that it’s not possible for any manufacturer to guarantee against the risk of an allergic reaction which can be caused by sensitivity to one or more of the ingredients.

If you’re sensitive to fragrance, try the Ecover ZERO range which is fragrance free.

Is Ecover safe for washing baby's clothes?

Yes. Ecover is suitable even for sensitive baby skin, in fact many of our fans first discover Ecover when they have a little one.

It’s also a perfect partner for pre-washing new clothes.

If your baby’s skin is sensitive to fragrance, try the Ecover ZERO range which is fragrance free.

Does Ecover have a fragrance free range?

Yes. Ecover ZERO contains no fragrance and is approved by Allergy UK.

We have products across Laundry and also Washing Up.

If your baby’s skin is sensitive to fragrance, try the Ecover ZERO

Who is Allergy UK?

Allergy UK is the leading national charity dedicated to supporting the estimated 21 million allergy sufferers in the UK. They have given the big thumbs up to our Ecover ZERO range.

Are your product suitable for allergy sufferers?

Allergy UK approve our Ecover ZERO range.

However everyone is different and you should be clear on the allergens triggering your reactions.

You can find our ingredients lists on our product pages.

Find out more at www.allergyuk.org




If you have any other enquiries, you can send in your question either by filling in the form in the Contact Us page or send us an email at contactus@ecover.com.sg.

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