Wow, this is the first I’m seeing a non-plastic detergent bottle…cool?

Let’s compare: On the right, we have a 100% recycled plastic cap and bottle made from #2 plastic, which happens to be one of the more “appealing” recoverable plastics from the recycling stream.

On the left, we have an outer container made from cardboard, which is excellent.  It has the same cap as the one on the right, but what’s inside?

As it turns out, there’s a plastic bag of sorts inside… and chances of that getting recycled are much less.

Left side: recyclable outer and top, plus a questionable inner.

Right side: recyclable bottle and cap.

If you haven’t tried making your own detergent yet, I suggest giving it a try.  All you’ll need is a bar of soap, washing soda, and a 5 gallon bucket.  Save money and materials.

My first attempt at it sucked, but with the following batches I’ve gotten better at it.

Seventh Generation appears to be making a genuine effort to reduce their impacts, but with the inner bag most certainly being an item that will hit the landfill, I’d rather stick with the completely recyclable plastic bottle instead.

Above that, going for plastic free over the long haul and saving money and materials while you’re at it seems the best option to me.