Was I wrong about laundry detergent sheets??

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Did you miss my original video? Check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pX_Pn6espqpjgrM

[@user-gs3fm2rh3j]

Sorry I was referring to your comment about us being able to use powder and they (Shelby) said they couldn’t use powder in their machine, adding water in advance to liquify it yourself would change those who need it pre-dissolved of any powder option , of course preferable choices are those without pvc😊

[@juliannewegesend-ako3545]

I still will never understand why you don't have more subscribers, you're incredible! So glad I found your channel

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you :)

[@nerys71]

Subscriber count is almost directly related to entertainment value she really doesn't have any entertainment value so she's never going to have very many subscribers That sucks because I believe information should be as prized as entertainment there are ways to work around that however Look at programs like the slow Mo guys action Lab crunch Labs the what's his name the the Mars Rover guy who Mark rober it just clicked If she wants to increase subscriber count and viewer account she'll need to figure out a way to package her information in a more entertaining shell without compromising the integrity of the information That's not an easy thing to do but it is possible

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

kinda harsh haha I like to think some of my videos are entertaining and I hope to make them more fun when I have more time but I do agree I with more people valued information! @@nerys71

[@nerys71]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist that was not intended to come off as harsh maybe a little blunt but that's normal for informational channels Information and entertainment are two different things The algorithm on KZbin does not favor information it favors entertainment the trick is to make the information entertaining that is very difficult to do

[@Sewmuchtodo]

I was a subscriber of Shelby’s when I first started my sustainable journey years back. At the time, she was one of (if not the only) eco-friendly channels with a large following. It wasn’t very long after that I realized her recommendations and “expertise” sounded paid for. Thanks for your research and sharing it for others to find! I found your video insightful and very eye-opening. Personally, I’ll be using up my sheets and then using an alternative. Looking forward to more of your content.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

That's how I felt too. I enjoyed her work back in 2018-2020 but then also realized her content is really just geared towards beginners and not folks later in their journeys either so i felt stuck. Thanks for watching!

[@Sewmuchtodo]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist BTW, I’ve been looking into the detergent concentrate by Tangie. I’d be curious to hear your thoughts on it.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@Sewmuchtodo I haven't heard of it so I'll have to do some research!

[@idowebwork]

Completely agree, if you make claims they need to be backed up with sources. And failure to leave those sources so others can check them is very problematic.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Yes! and I asked for them multiple times it's frustrating

[@crowgrl13]

I like Shelbi, but her not leaving her sources to begin with is bad, although it could be chalked up to an "oops" moment. But the fact that she hasn't fixed it ,even after all this time and people asking for them, is really problematic.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

That's how I felt! I respect her and her content as it helps people like me get into zero waste, but you need to cite sources for scientific videos!

[@LDM805]

​@@FrankGutowski-ls8jtRent free dude. Rent free.

[@testtesttest124]

23:25 recommendations disappear really quickly in the video: PVA-free paper - Meliora (comes in paper) - Molly's Suds - Oak and Willow - Rosey - Etee - Bestowed Essentials 23:29 PVA-free liquid - Dirty Labs (comes in aluminum*, a material that is mostly mined) - Clean Cult - Dr. Bronner's - Zero Co.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I meant for it to be pauseable but thanks for adding them here that is helpful!

[@niccyknickers]

One huge thing i learned at uni was that if you are going to make a comment, provide your rationale (i.e. cite your sources and evidence to back up your comment)! You do this all the time and i love it. It shows that you truly delve into the information out there and properly understand what you read. I have only ever watched a few of her videos, but i dont feel confident to hear what she has to say if she cant actively use her *i have a degree* brain.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

RIGHT! we all learned this in college, even us arts degree folks!!

[@jmsl_910]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalistcan't help but wonder where and when she she earned her associates degree

[@cactusdot]

I loved the commentary video Emma! I remember watching this video from Shelbi when it was released and thinking about the same things. I was looking forward to her addressing Thinx since she's worked with them/ promoted them heavily in the past. I think that's also why she didn't call out Blueland specifically in the video and kept it vague ("one company") because she has made sponsored videos with them previously. I've been tuning into her videos less because I've felt most her content has become repetitive and too frequently about something to buy. Frankly, I'm losing her trust when it comes to sponsored products... Also, thank you for talking about the degree vs. experience debate (6:37). It's been about 10 years now since Shelbi was in school and 1) info has changed dramatically since then and 2) you can't rely on a degree if you haven't been in the industry since then. I wouldn't consider her an environmental scientist at this point. She's an environmental educator, and one with a huge platform at that. I hope she takes the feedback (which is coming from a place of compassion and understanding the majority of times) and puts out more well-researched videos (with citations!) Anyways, I have more thoughts but I'll stop here lol. Thanks for the video!!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I feel the same about her content which works for a certain audience but no myself any more. Being a content creator in the sustainable space is so hard when it comes to sponsorships!! Thank you :)

[@randizimmermann1570]

This is such an interesting discussion! I live in an area that is renowned for having some of the best water treatment facilities in the country, so I use laundry sheets. I also have a high-efficiency washer that recommends NOT using powders and when I have used powders, it leaves an annoying residue on my clothes. I ALSO have extremely sensitive skin and have to be very careful about the detergents I use. Your choice of laundry detergent really depends on each person's individual circumstances and preferences. I DO think that BOTH influencers jumped to some conclusions and made some pretty blanket statements (Shelby regarding which detergent to use and Emma interpreting some of Shelby's statements - i.e. Shelby never said "nobody should use powder", etc.). It is frustrating that there isn't one 'correct' answer for any of these issues but that is the nature of sustainability for EVERYONE (both individuals and companies). Personally, I think that the primary feature of laundry sheets is the vast REDUCTION in plastic waste and the fact that their presence brings the issue top of mind for more people. We don't need a few people to be perfect environmentalists, we need billions of people to be imperfect and products are the same...

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

There is no one perfect swap for everyone that's for sure! I'm confused on the blanket statement you said I made about what shelby said...I mean, that's a direct quote from her. I totally agree with you, thank you for adding to the discussion! My main complaint with laundry sheets is the companies straight up lying to us. Not all of them, but a lot (see my original video )

[@aromaofhope]

I watched Shelbi's video and it was a comfort to me because I am using laundry sheets right now. But I agree that she should have shared her sources, especially since she said she would! Thank you for this update. At least you didn't tell us to use soap nuts! I can't get those things to work at all, lol.

[@razzledazzleboomerz]

I am curious (if you're reading this) what are your thoughts in soap nuts, Emma?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

If laundry sheets work for you, that's great! I just wanted to share the nuance that they aren't so black and white ;)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@razzledazzleboomerz I like them! I haven't used them in four years or so though so maybe my thoughts would change now that I do manual labor vs a desk job and my clothes need a depper clean

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt thanks for helping me make money :)

[@karinhart489]

I’m not an environmental scientist, either, but I am a good consumer who was trained by a parent who made sure we did our research 🔬 before making purchasing decisions. Thanks for putting your resources in your videos. I do appreciate your point in an earlier video to be guilt free to finish using up using the sheets you already have. Oh, I didn’t watch whoever that was’ video because I don’t care what they think since I’m getting enough good ideas to make changes from you channel. Keep going, commentary videos are ok in the mix. PS: I hope the companies with newer sheets that don’t have PVA send you some to review.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Thank you for your support! I agree, I'd love to try some out that don't contain PVA

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt thanks for the money :)

[@TheMRock888]

Thank you for providing options for HE washing machines! My last washing machine died due to powdered detergent and I've been afraid to use it again since, but I miss it! I feel like it was better for the environment than what I'm using now, so I'll check out the ones you recommended to see which one fits my situation best. Thanks again!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

omg really?? wow I hope these ones are legit. I wonder if theres a way to mix powder and water to make your own "liquid detergent" at home and if it's safer for machines?

[@maddyg4024]

Hey Emma!!😊 I like the commentary, unscripted version! I think it would be interesting to hear discussion collabs with other eco youtubers regarding topics such as this! Hope youre taking care of yourself😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'll be reaching out to some friends! most of my creator friends aren't on youtube tho :(

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt this is significant and so is the paycheck you're helping me get ;)

[@maddyg4024]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist your responses are amazing😂😂😂

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@maddyg4024 hahahaha thanks

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt i never said I hit the jackpot you fool. Once again, don't reply the same thing over and over unless your goal is to help get that number higher. See the first comment I replied to this topic on and GET A LIFE

[@HolisticTake]

Girl, you don't need to defend your position. You do good research and care about the environment. I trust you cause you care about biases and citing your sources. You are more of a scientist than most. Your videos rock!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you! I did get tons of questions on my last videos so I wanted to clear some things up and people asked for my response to her video

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt cool beans you're right no one cares about "DJT" and no one cares about your comments but you're helping me make money so thanks a lot pal!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt that's higher than average for me, I'm a small channel, so if anything something good happened, your comments actually help me get more views so keep em coming

[@magadiendor]

Damn, I feel like I have to choose between mom and dad because I genuinely appreciate both you and Shelby. I think you're right though, everything must be supported by proofs, nobody can be trusted "just because". Keep up the good work Emma!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

you do not have to choose! you can still watch us both, we each have our own areas we talk about, but just let this be a reminder that you should always double check what you hear online (even me).

[@sarahfourtner5751]

I can definitely say I was one of the people who suggested watching Shelby’s video. Not to tell you your wrong, but because there is so much information out there my brain finds it hard to keep straight and I really wanted more of a breakdown on your opinions of why laundry sheets were bad. I definitely appreciate you actually going through Shelby’s video and really working through all the points you had in real time with her video. All that to say that this video was very helpful, and I thoroughly appreciate your research and honesty.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you! I don't think my first video was wrong, do you remember exactly which part was wrong?

[@sarahfourtner5751]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist I was saying I wasn’t thinking you were wrong. I am very bad at sentence structuring, unfortunately. I get way to ahead of myself. I was saying in my previous comment that I wasn’t commenting Shelby’s video to say you were wrong. But I wanted you to give your opinion on what she said because I am not a scientist. And even though environmentalism intrigued me and I enjoy learning and keeping my contribution to landfill low I don’t understand the science terminology. So I’m sorry if it came across that I was trying to tell you your wrong because that was not my intention. My intention was to call light upon another perspective so you would hopefully talk about it in your in depth video.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@sarahfourtner5751 oh i see! no worries at all!

[@sloeginandsleep1170]

This video shows how a degree in something, doesn't eliminate good research. I know I gave some comments on that previous video on my experience as a scientist specifically working in ecological impact, but this is literally my job. I've dismantled 1000's of washing machines and dishwashers, tested hundreds of laundry detergents and have performed chemical analysis on pretty much all of the mainsteam and readily accessable eco ones in the aim of understanding the ecological impact on both the environment as a whole, I've tested the wastewater discharged into pretreatment streams and tested the effects on the appliances themselves....but I accept there are things I'm not an expert on everything, so if I don't know the answer, I go and find it. RE: Powders being harmful for HE machines and more damaging to the environent than laundry sheets?! I think you're right, she's prehaps missing the key issue here. Polyvinyl Acetate is not natural. It is a plastic. It doesn't biodegrade unless chemically treated to do so. It leaves residues in waterways, drainage channels and on everything it touches. Would you pour PVA glue down a drain? No, becuase thats a hideous idea....but that is what is effectively the chemical substrate used for laundry sheets. Just because something dissolves in water, doesn't mean it's gone away, it is just in a different form. Funnily enough how she describes powders as being bad for HE machines, 99% of europe use HE machines and powders in continental europe hold a 70% market share over liquids and pods, they don't seem to have an issue with powders damaging their machines or working poorly. As you pointed out, just because a particular detergent doesn't work well in your machine, this does not mean the detergent is causing problems in others. A lot of the issues with residue is simply some machines are better at rinsing than others, the powdery residue are some of the zeolites that haven't been flushed away, if your machine has the options to do so, add an extra rinse or increase the water level and that issue goes away. Ecological powders such as Ecover (Yes I know they are part of J&J, but a good example of a 'mainstream' eco detergent) contains natural zeolites from Analcime and Stilbite minerals which soften the water to allow the other ingredients to work more effectively, some contain enzymes which are created though bioengineering of surplus food stocks and biodegrade rapidly, oxygen based bleaching agents derived from sodium carbonate and limestone being combined together (and are soluble in this form), surfactants made from biodegradable plant oils and natural binders. Compare that to a laundry sheet that use PVA, petrochemical SLS, normally (but not always) synthetic polysorbate/Ethelyne oxide based detergents and lab derived fragrances. Being plastic free (but not really) isn't a defence when they contain that other guff. Good video!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

wow I really appreciate your expertise and input, thank you so much!

[@elsa_g]

I just went to find your previous comment and it was very insightful! Since you seem to have a lot of experience in this area, I wanted to ask what you think of (residential) ozone washing systems? I think one is called 03 waterworks for example. I tried doing research on it on google scholar and personal reviews, but ran into some people claiming it was a miracle cleaner that didn’t require and detergent, others saying it should be used in conjunction with other detergent products, and overall a lack of information on its efficacy against body oils/sweat which is what I was most interested in it for. (I’m trying to use more wool fabrics in place of synthetic, and having a cool-wash method of washing them without needing to mess with detergent would be convenient.) Have you seen these used, and if so I’d love to hear your thoughts on them. Thanks!

[@ronjatuovinen6907]

Personally I really like commentary videos, so I for sure will be viewing if you decide to make more! Also your commentary is very informative and respectful

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oooh what should I do next?

[@ronjatuovinen6907]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist personally I would really enjoy commentary on some content that is on denial about climate change, veganism or things like that. I always find myself in debates with people like this so hearing some comments and facts from you would be helpful

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@ronjatuovinen6907 i'm a terrible debater but i can do my best haha

[@marilynlewis4587]

You opened my eyes when it comes to using laundry detergent. I never knew that laundry sheet detergent contains PVA. I care about the earth, so I would like to to protect it a much as I can.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

great idea! here are some of my pva-free detergent recs:) kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5qmfKCVpL6eZrc

[@TranquilityChiba]

Honestly I dropped her ages ago when I found out she still watches Trisha paiten (I'm sorry of it spelt it wrong) claiming she was getting "better" while that person was ACTIVELY damaging communities I am part of. I'd personally love a deep dive into new laundry brands and such even with green washing. Because I'm currently looking for a sanitizing soap to use. Like I just saw laundry soap today that is now coming in refill cans. So new interest activated 😂. Edit: for spelling

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

curious! I'll have to make more laundry videos for sure!

[@ambermazmanian2695]

I've heard from multiple repairmen that you shouldn't use powder in HE washers because it clogs them and will shorten their life. Which is why its SO HARD to find an eco-friendly detergent.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

really? Even if the powder is formulated for HE machines? Ugh I need to do some more deep dives I suppose

[@ambermazmanian2695]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist FRAUGHT! I am paralyzed by this choice! 😂

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

right!! @@ambermazmanian2695

[@Joemil271]

Depends on your water. If you have a water softner no problem . Be advised that liquids contain oils that not great either

[@user-gs3fm2rh3j]

You can premix water to your detergent to liquify it in advance and keep it in a jar to add what you need now in liquid form as you need, but it would be one advance step for us to do.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

but it still contains PVA and is not necessary to do

[@conqueringlifestbr3810]

While I agree that "safer" is a middle step, it has been difficult to get the internet to give me laundry things that don't use PVOH/PVA unless I switch to powder. Having extremely hard water where I live, I've not been able to get any powders to function well. At what point is "safer" acceptable?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I mean safer is ALWAYS acceptable but we should always strive for the best, which is obviously hard to come by. But this is why I say if you have to pick between just two options, TIde and sheets, sheets are clearly the better option

[@1Hope4All]

​@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalistdo you have a list of good laundry sheets that I could use that do not use PVA?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yup at the end of the video, I think I time stamped it @@1Hope4All

[@SergeantSudsLaundryPowder]

No PVA Laundry Deturgent 1 box Borax 1 large box Baking Soda 1 ?24 oz? tbl Salt 1 box washing soda Mix in a trash bag, store in a sealed container... ❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woah nice! @@SergeantSudsLaundryPowder

[@SalsaNube]

I really liked this video, and agree on the sources I missed as well. I learned a lot from Shelby, but have to admit, I found some of her videos a bit more on a one side perspective only. Not all, just some. But then, I take them with a grain of salt and do my own search. Also, I leave in Europe so anyway need to find out many things on my own, as we differ a lot. That being said, I have to add/ask three things: 1) your script might have been great, but this "live" reactions are honestly way better-love this stile! 2) why just one blooper?! 3) you look very good! And love the shirt! With a tree that looks a bit like a pinecone, so it really suits you! Cheers! And you are deifentely a good researcher!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the commentary style. Hahahaha I only had one blooper that felt good enough. I love my tree shirt thank you :)

[@SalsaNube]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt I believe people can think highly about themselves - we are all worth of it. That being said, one can agree or disagree with her thoughts, and the most important thing is to be able to do your own research, have a constructive dialogue and mutual respect. Cheers!:)

[@joscelynreyes9993]

I hope that one viewer sees this one too

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

hey i did :)

[@KS-jf2jf]

Excellent Emma! Investigate, be critical, ask questions, get educated. You rock! On laundry, I am thinking I will stop using any detergent, perhaps some baking soda. How about the soap nuts. I got those as a gift. What do you think is the best option? I love how you say that we should strive for best 💪 Also, if one uses a lot less of everything then that in itself is sooo much better! As a frugalista I use a laundry powder by putting a little in a jar, add water and voila I have liquid detergent for maybe a penny / load. Keep up the awesome work!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Right now, my stance is powder in paper is the best option if your machine can handle powders. My clothes get really stinky so I can't just use water or baking soda. I'll keep digging!

[@KS-jf2jf]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt This is a great channel for people who aim to lead more sustainable lives. In fact using nothing at all for regular laundry (not sweaty stinky sports and muddy wear!) and allowing the agitation and water do the job is very effective. Try it - even a chemist such as yourself might be surprised 😉 Scientifically, you might be surprised! It offers a repeatable result 👍Otherwise, just searching for most sustainable solutions for me and my family is my goal, no matter what Masters Degree I hold.

[@KS-jf2jf]

@@FrankGutowski-ls8jt peace,man. Sounds like you got it all figured out. Good for you! And good for Emma, more traction on her channel!

[@friendly_herb]

I actually really like using EcoNuts! But you need to make sure they’re sourced sustainably. That actually might be a nice info video to make :) Also, full disclosure, I have a top-load washing machine without a window, so I can’t see how much the water actually suds up when using them. However, my clothes always come out clean without scent and therefore, I keep using it

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I used those in the past and love them too! I'm not sure how to find ethically souced ones though...

[@friendly_herb]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist I believe the actually brand EcoNuts does ethically source them!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@friendly_herb oh awesome!

[@freyakitten243]

​@@friendly_herbbut they are made in China..so that makes them a no for me.

[@kjm5980]

I have seen some articles online stating that powdered laundry detergent can clog an HE machine. Funny to me since I have used Dropps and some of the items, like the fabric softener amd oxi booster are just powder in a PVA pod. Half the time if I used cold water the pod skin would not even dossolve! How is that better? I was wondering if, like I used to do with the Dropps, can you mix the powder detergent in a small container of warm water to dissolve and then add to your washing machine? Almost like making your own liquid detergent.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Right! My biggest issue with dropps is they didn't dissolve for me. I did that to get rid of my dropps and it definitely worked better

[@tericulp3837]

We have a conventional septic system on the property where I live, as do all of our neighbors since the city sewer system does not service our area. I have never had our septic inspected for presence of microbes and suspect it could be costly to do so. For us we must err on the side of caution. I appreciate your research and rebuttal and follow up. I think you approached it fairly and openminded.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

we all have to use our best judgement for sure! Thank you :)

[@ourfamilyaccount]

Just today saw a ad on TV for those products. I'm curious of its performance. I'm still using liquid brand but I'm willing to switch if it does a phenomenal job. Glad I saw your video, I'll hit play now.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

They're okay, I had a hard time getting most brands to dissolve fully

[@NaviO.o]

I was recently suggested this video and tbh dont know who you or shelbi are. However, i wanted to watch it because my brother and sister started raving about sheets and i was curious about your title. I actually make my own powder detergent which can also be turned into a liquid detergent and i have found it to be soooo nice. Also makes it like .9-11 cents a load. I made it around May of last year and have used about 140 loads with maybe half of it still left. Its awesome. And safe for septics, which was a happy coincidence; i just wanted something cheaper that worked well and was good for sensitive skin. Would recommend to anyone wanting detergent where you know where its coming from. Box of Borox Big box of Baking Soda Box of Washing Soda 2 Bars of Zote or Naptha Soap (finely shredded) 1 container (purple one) of OxiClean -you can remove this since it has plastic if you are more concerned about that and it should still work. I personally use it because i reuse the oxi container as my main small container which holds 56 loads and i refill. Its how i keep track of how many loads im actually using with my entire mix i made and so far i have only refilled it twice in almost a year and a half. Optional- Scent beads. I find these useless tbh and a waste of money so i dont use them. My clothes smell fresh/clean without them Mix it all together and you can look up videos to turn it into liquid or use it as powder (i think you use overall same amount in concentrate if liquid). I like the powder and it CAN leave soap shavings stuck to clothes if you apply directly to the drum if using cold water (which is why many liquify it). Once i added to the tray (if you have one) instead of the drum, this problem disappeared for me and i can use on any temperature. I did have the same problem across 2 different washing machines. 2Tbs of powder is more than enough per LARGE load Happy making! 😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I love that!! I'll have to try it when I'm not living in an RV haha thanks for sharing

[@juliaparry-hill7509]

Thank you for this video. I was so sad when I saw the previous video because I have enjoyed using laundry sheets. But, you have convinced me to go back to powder. Now, I just have to find one that is affordable, cruelty free, vegan ingredients and septic safe!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I LOVE Meliora! Check them out :) meliorameansbetter.com?sca_ref=4747255.DvudG0Wmyg&

[@pondboy3682]

Thanks for this! I'm coming off a really bad week as my skin detected the PVA in my eco sheets via my bedding. I'm extremely sensitive to several plastics.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oh no!!

[@catherinekittykat]

Great! Thanks! Definitely need recommendations for best detergent.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

it's at the end! and I also mentioned I have 3 detergent reviews on my channel :)

[@1Hope4All]

So what is the best option for laundry sheets?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

like if you're going to choose laundry sheets which one should you choose? My favorite is Kind and I have reviews a lot of sheets brands in the past (check out my reviews on the channel). Or are you asking which is the best option that is NOT a laundry sheet? In that case, my PVA free recommendations are at the end of the video

[@ivyclara9782]

I am currently using Moliora powder detergent in my he washer. I have no problems with it.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I need to try it!

[@ashleyanderson4821]

Same here! No problems with all my black & colored clothes, no slime, no gross in the washer. ❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@ashleyanderson4821 that's great!

[@kayleemcelveen5821]

I appreciate the discourse and you revisiting the topic 👌

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you!!

[@laureinatoler7919]

Hi. Thank you for this. Where can I find your sources? I don’t see them

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I don't have sources for this since it was just commentary on Shelbi's video but check out my first video in the pinned comments for original sources

[@DoctorsSong]

Did I hear you say you're in Spokane WA? I just drove home from there yesterday. I've tried laundry sheets, and even found some that are more affordable. But then it seems like they skyrocket in price. So when I found out that PVA was a form of plastic I was done. I am on a limited income. I do not have the funds to keep trying new products hoping that they will be what they claim to be. I've gone back to a bottle laundry detergent but it's from a company I trust (Biokleen in case anyone is wondering) and it's ultra concentrated. I don't even use the recommended amount so it lasts even longer. I am a Type 1 Diabetic, and as anyone with a medical device knows, that invovles a TON of single use plastics for keeping things sterile. I want to be able to reduce my plastic usage as much as I can and to help offset the plastic I do use to manage my illness. That's why I watch channel's like yours, I'm looking for affordable sustainable options I can try. It's discouraging that companies have no qualms in lying to get a sale.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Spokane for sure! I have chronic migraines so I understand the medical waste and talk more on this topic in a few weeks. We can only do so much and shouldn't stress necessary medical waste. Totally agree if anything comes from this discussion it's that it's sad what some brands have done (not all)

[@TGIFEveryDay]

Hey Emma! So glad that you did this video!! I watch a lot of her videos and I’ve always been frustrated by her lack of sitting any sources. She has never at least in any videos that I’ve seen had any useful links!!! In addition her previous video her “ Dropps” actually have PVA’s in them!! I haven’t been able to find ANY so called eco friendly sheets or tabs that’s don’t have PVA’s in them. I’m so tired of greenwashing!! Apparently my new word of the year!! Thanks for all your great info!! Welcome to Washington!! We’re on Olympic Peninsula!!❤🌎

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I agree, I don't recall seeing any sources ever on Shebli's channel and it's upsetting esp when she is using science in her videos. Omg so jealous of you it's lovely over there!

[@TGIFEveryDay]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist You guys should totally come over and take a look around!! The rain forest is amazing!!! It’s called the Hoh Rain Forest! You guys would love it!!! ❤️🌎

[@kleptomelly]

I commented on her video that I had tried to look into the pva issue but seemed to find information articles from specific companies about their own products. At the time that her video came out i was not able to find any 3rd party sources. I was also waiting for her to post about where she was getting her info from. Unfortunately her sources still aren't posted. Ive been following her for many years but it makes it hard to trust the information when there isn't transparency. Edit: and im still using dropps because I figure its better than some alternatives but i could do better.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I felt the same! I would love to read the articles she "cited" for myself and continue to learn!

[@reissval]

I think all of the caveats that had to be stated about biodegrading the laundry sheets makes the case for not using them. Like you, we loved our laundry sheets when we first got them (unlike Dropps, which we disliked quite a lot) and I had hoped that it would be a viable plastic-free option. But it's not. And, like you mentioned, there are better options out there that should get consideration. We've tried Dirty Labs and liked them. We're currently using Meliora powder and LOVE it. I highly recommend anyone making the switch from plastic jug detergent to give a powder like Meliora a try.

[@reissval]

@@findingagain I'm pretty sure that claim about powders damaging washers is just a rumor. I haven't seen any credible sources on it, just people making the claim that they heard from their cousin's roommate's aunt etc.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

exactly my thought too!

[@anaferreira1958]

What’re your thoughts on the pva petition blue land is doing? Do you still think that is good even if they’re biased? Also idk if it’s just me but I think Shelby deleted her video I can’t find it. Thank you for your follow up! Been waiting to see it 😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Yes, I still think it's good. Maybe their motives are a little off, but I DO think that PVA needs to be studied and regulated more. Thank you!

[@ctdr156]

I have tried hey Sunday and Earth breeze they just don’t work very well at getting whites white or stains out, I want them to work. I do not like the big jugs but I do like clean clothes.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

very true!

[@baharpiena9246]

I have not seen any 'sheets' in the Netherlands yet as alternitive for laundry soap. I need to see your other video about the laundry sheets too.

[@pippilangkous3755]

Robijn heeft wasmiddeldoekjes. En via internet zijn ze ,van andere merken ook te koop.

[@baharpiena9246]

@@pippilangkous3755 Oké, nooit gezien. Gebruik vaak wasmiddel van Ecofair. Weet jij of daar ook plastic onderdelen in zitten in de merken die je noemt?

[@pippilangkous3755]

​​@@baharpiena9246k heb geen idee of er plastic in zit .maar als je op de site van AH bij dit product kijkt staat er onder bij de product info wat er in zit.ik gebruik zelf waspoeder. In de webshop van Leven zonder afval zijn deze sheets/doekjes ook te koop.

[@Saligator79]

We wash in much cooler temperatures in North America. 15-40 degrees C is our norm. We also use much more water in our larger machines. Powders fell out of favor as a result. Stick with your powders.

[@cobalt-teal9589]

we def know which version of detergent uses more petroleum overall. Some manufacturers can claim to use recycled plastics in their containers but where did those come from to begin with? Maybe detergent sheets aren’t totally plastic-free, but they’re the lesser evil. For what it’s worth, Earth Breeze claimed their strips are greywater-compatible, so maybe *some* brands are safe bets. Now my only problem is that most brands of detergent strips are manufactured in China, and the other options tend to be expensive. At least Earth Breeze said they plan to move production stateside. Gotta look up options when my bag of detergent powder runs low.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

they're less bad than tide sure but they aren't the best which I talk about towards the end. I wish they were made domestically too!

[@dropbear4973]

So what laundry detergent do you recommend that smells good and gets the clothes clean?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I've been loving Meliora!

[@RunningShoes88]

Thank you for this video! I can’t wait for the follow up. 😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

this IS the follow up hahgaha did you have any specific questions I can answer in a future video?

[@ambermazmanian2695]

Which Shelbizleee video is this referencing? Thanks in advance!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

she took it down and I'm not sure why but the title had something along the lines of "environmental propaganda" in it?

[@rebeccapustulka7162]

I really like your videos. I also watch Shelby and Becca. I do have an issue with the sponsored videos regardless of who puts them out- hard to be unbiased in my opinion. Powder vs sheets- what pollutes more? Micro plastic from the PVA or the carbon emission from shipping the much bigger and heavier powder?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I guess that depends on your personal ethics. For me, I'd rather reduce microplastics cause emissions are easier to fix via green energy, shopping local, etc. It's super nuanced for sure!

[@jauffins]

Hi - new fan, so apologies if I'm missing something - she cited her PVA source as being EPA guidelines. Is that not a source? I've been watching a bunch of your videos to try and find a more eco friendly alternative to laundry pods, and was all geared up to order some laundry sheets but now I have no idea where to turn lol Also, w/r/t septic tanks and microbes - there are additives that people who own septic tanks, add on a regular basis (examples can be found in a quick Google search) so that's probably not a concern for septic tank users.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

she "cited" that one source by quoting it, but none of her sources are truly cited in her description or comments last I checked. Just like when writing a research paper, you can't just quote, you have to add your works cited at the end to prove the research and give other researchers a place to start. Yes! I thought I mentioned that? but still, you can either buy microbes plus the sheets or just go for a cheaper and just as eco option

[@Demonkittyredeyes]

Definitely would love a new laundry detergents reviewing video if you can! While I’m on a big city septic system for now plans are in place to be moving further out sooner than not so any information you can provide would be very helpful. I’ve heard good things about Dirty Labs, Melorie and Tangie so it would be great to learn a bit more about the pros and cons of each

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'm still working through old stuff so I'll get there eventually! I've reviewed Dirty Labs and love it!

[@Demonkittyredeyes]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Awesome, looking forward to it! I hope Shelbi also does an updated laundry video too; I think both of you are great creators. I did think the tone of the video was a bit harsh; I generally give creators the benefit of the doubt where possible and I think it’s important to not attack each other too harshly in the sustainability movement - you know how comment sections can get I’m sure, and we need to pull & work together these times more than ever. I honestly thought both your video and Shelbi’s worked well together as I got similar information out of both - the only thing that changed for me was deciding not to use/endorse blueland since I think they did make a scummy move, similar to the laundry sheets companies with their lying/misdirecting. But that’s just my two cents ☺️ hope you have a great weekend!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@Demonkittyredeyes thanks for the input! You thought my video was harsh? Why? I'm always open to feedback and appreciate your kindness

[@Demonkittyredeyes]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Of course! Overall, the informational content I think wasn't unnecessarily harsh but that the way the video started out/the premise of having to respond because of other comments, the focus on comments maybe being deleted/the idea of being ignored deliberately by Shelbi, and (unfortunately) the natural emotive edge that seems to naturally come with doing a direct pause-and-response style video all contributed to an overall harsh tone. I honestly don't think you meant the video to be like that, 100%; its only an issue when other people read into it & then some of them go and amplify that to other creators that it can become an issue.

[@seansull]

Ok but what about tide pods? Tide pods are made using PVA. would you rather use PVA *and* a massive plastic container or would you rather use one with a small amount of PVA? Which one do you think is better for the environment 🤔 this is a real question btw I’m genuinrly asking

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

this is why later on in the video (I suggest you watch it all :)) I talk about how, yes, these sheets are a step in the right direction, but it's not a tide pods vs sheets debate. It's a scam that these brands lied and there are truly better options than BOTH tide pods and sheets which I, again, suggest at the end of my video :)

[@racheljames9187]

As a scientist myself, it's good for people to remember that scientists aren't qualified to comment uncredited beyond their very limited scope of expertise... otherwise they are not speaking from their own experience but just relying on an examination of credible sources like everyone else. A science degree isn't magic, I have three of them (mine are in health science, but I work in environmental science in the waste management sector). The few studies I read after your video indicated that there's a potential for release of PVA as it wasn't fully broken down from the treatment process at the locations studied, and the environmental impact of this is currently unclear. Not all waste goes through tertiary treatment (in my state, I've heard that some very old streets sewage lines were plumbed into the storm water network instead... I believe it, historic map mistakes happen and sometimes only come to light years later, and those few residents probably have absolutely no idea that their waste isn't being treated at all). Authorities like EPAs are sometimes bound by needing to wait for evidence to take action, rather than taking precautionary approaches and restricting people's freedoms when the evidence isn't yet conclusive. The best anyone can do here is do their own research using credible (peer reviewed) scientific articles written by authorities on chemical breakdown in different wastewater treatment systems.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

wow thank you for highlighting this! And your insight is very valuable here, thank you !

[@nightshade8538]

Hi! Im just wondering, what laundry detergent do you use? You have a bunch of vids on laundry detergents but what do u think was the ultimate for u? Effective wise and cost wise? Please and ty so much for reading or answering!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

none of the ones I've tried so far I'm going to use for life...but out of them, my fav has been Dirty Labs!

[@gilashroot8697]

Ok, I totally love you ❤. This is the style and thoroughness I appreciated in your first video that I was drawn to. In addition, I do not think it was your speed, but your passion that makes your videos valuable. I actually agree with your conclusions and the research that you used. Well done for your research and listing your research sources. My opinion PVA is not worth it. This could cause a risk for everyone else if they are not being broken down properly. Please do not come at me. I have no idea about the other KZbinr. I am not commenting about anyone except this video and this KZbinr. Excuse my ignorance. What is an HE washing machine? Thank you, I also learned a new, super great word (embarrassingly), caveats. Cannot believe that I have a research degree with ever having learned that word (does that make my degree invalid 😂? No, it does not, just like it does not make your video unreseached because you are not a academially qualified scientist Mmmm) 😂😂😂.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you for your support! SOrry, I should've broken down the acronym, it means High Efficiency. Caveat is my favorite word ahhahahaha

[@fwebster6226]

Zero sources from her clip - totally agree with you

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I wish there were sources!

[@lynnettawilliams2138]

So what kinda laundry detergent are u using

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'm still working through some sheets at the moment, I had so many stockpiled and throwing them away is more wasteful, but this winter I want to review a bunch of powders and find my fav!

[@denisemarie485]

I did see her video and she should have had sources there to back her up. I have never used the sheets. When it comes to cleaners, I always check the Enviromental Working Group to see which brands are certified or at the very least get top grades. I love being zero waste as much as possible but unfortunately not all companies do that. I now use Attitude liquid which comes in a plastic bag with a disspenser tucked into a cardboard box. I also only use products that actually can do the job because many do fall short of that. I do struggle with cleaning products because I want to be zero waste but I also want to be toxic free for workers, humans, animals and aquatic life. I think no matter what, we should never stop researching as new brands will always continue to come out. Thanks for another great video Emma! ❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

You're so right no one can be perfectly zero waste!

[@angiemire]

What about diy detergent sheets using water soluble paper

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

interesting I'm not sure how that would work but work a try

[@freyakitten243]

My kid if heading to college and we will be sending sheets for laundry (pods are no longer allowed as they are ruining the machines). I don't eant a brand from China and kooking for the most environmentslly and holistic sheet that still cleans great...any suggestions? Clean People?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I don't know off the top of my head and all I would do is google it...I'm sure there is a brand out there!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

but just cause something is made in china doesn't make it not eco :)

[@freyakitten243]

​@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalistEco is one aspect of buying power but I'm not spending my money in China either

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'm curious as to why if you don't mind sharing@@freyakitten243

[@freyakitten243]

If possible I want to support American company's or at least companies who have similar values. It's not about a group of people, more about governments and how they treat their people.@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist

[@Anna-pd6dc]

What was the PVA free brand?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I don't recall off the top of my head but I think I screenshotted it in the video where I talked about it

[@STLTHMC]

Thank you for telling the truth about companies who green wash. I too live in spokane, on the West Plains actually. I'm currently battling Fairchild Air Force (DOD) and the Spokane International Airport, because they contaminated thousands of private wells with pfas Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The last thing we need is more contaminants on our private property leaching into our wells) my sole source drinking water. Geez I try to do the right thing for the environment and it just keeps getting worse.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

ugh that makes me so angry! the DoD always be poisoning someone ughhhh

[@1Hope4All]

I use Molly's Suds powder. But the dust! 😭 Which is why I want to switch to a laundry SHEET. But I want one made without PVA.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

It does make me sneeze sometimes haha. There are a few out there these days that are made without PVA and I plan to review some this winter!

[@1Hope4All]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Winter? I can't wait that long! 😭😭😭 🤣🤣🤣 I'll search for those. 👍🏼 PVA Free Laundry sheets in the search engine, I guess. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I'm just so busy right now! Google/Ecosia is always my go to anyway haha but I promise I'll get to it eventually! @@1Hope4All

[@freyakitten243]

Powder particles inhaled were shown to possibly increase the chance of lung cancer. Since my mom, a non- smoker, died from this, I stay away from all powders.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

even eco powders or just powders with toxins in them? @@freyakitten243

[@oxymoira]

I love laundry sheets .. lighter, come in cardboard packaging, easy to dose .. it can t be worse than the regular heavy stuff packaged in plastic 😜

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yes and I talk about that in the video if you'd like to finish it. They are better, but they're not the best and I think we should always strive for the best, ESPECIALLY the businesses. Again, as mentioned in the video, my problem isn't 100% the product, but that these companies lied and continue to lie about being safe and plastic free

[@nerys71]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist businesses will never strive for the best that is an oxymoron to the intent of a business it's never going to happen you need to just give up on that concept immediately because the two are like oil and water they are fundamentally incompatible The only time they're not incompatible is when the two objectives by coincidence happen to be the same The only way to get Good because best is also not achievable is to work from a regulatory angle you have to create the financial incentive to drive business toward better and good because business will always strive for highest profit lowest cost in a vacuum For example people say businesses and capitalism ruins waterways and this is not true lack of regulation ruins waterways businesses were ruining waterways per se because the water had no cost this is one of the reasons why we're in such a climate problem right now The damage we are doing has no cost so it's not factored into the business decisions Once we establish the cost such as creating the EPA and finding the living mother God s*** out of companies that ruin the water you can see what happened suddenly we have clean water :-) because now there's a cost and that cost has to be factored in The trick is to find a balance a balance between appropriate regulation and business profit that creates a solution that is better for everybody and good for the environment. You however must always remember the only people who pay taxes are those who cannot pass the tax on to someone else's a cost which means anything that increases the costs will always be passed on to the poorest in the community. Because they are the ones who cannot pass the increase onto someone else's a cost

[@imscanon]

What's this about period underwear? Are they bad?

[@mjbjornson6537]

I don't think so. I tried to find scientific articles on it myself and found nothing on testing. I am always wary on articles like news articles or organization websites

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Thinx has been the only brand to be called out and I need to do more research on them. I stick to other brands though

[@imscanon]

@@mjbjornson6537 I looked it up. Apparently Thinx was 3rd party tested and contains PFAS, which is a toxic chemical one does not want next to their hooha. They settled the lawsuit. Interesting. And it figures. lol We just can't have nice things that won't kill us can we? lol For me, it's just curiosity as I'm 60 so don't need them, but I like to know the intel in case I need to warn folks who need to know these things.

[@kimberlydamhoff7618]

Thank you!!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank YOU

[@SergeantSudsLaundryPowder]

I just found you... Great Points all around and Thank You for your service❤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you!

[@dominika1203]

I really like this video 😄 Thanks for speaking about laundry sheets as I use them myself and didn't know these facts about them 🙈

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you! I was a long time lover of sheets so it's sad I have to switch on be on the safe side!

[@dominika1203]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Yes, it's really sad. So many people in the world were using them 🙈 We were also using washing nuts or how you call them before. Also have to look into period underwear as I use it for a few years as well and heard some new facts yesterday 😅 Thanks for the reply 😊 Have a wonderful weekend 🖤

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@dominika1203 only Thinx has been accused of toxins, so far other brands I recommend are safe!

[@dominika1203]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Thanks for your reply; really appreciate it 😊 I have seen that video meanwhile and as I don't use that brand, hopefully I should be okay 😄 I live in Europe so I use Modibody, Wuka and Snuggs if you heard of any of them.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@dominika1203 yes I love modibodi and wuka so much!!

[@vegemitegirl1971]

Have you been hit with a YT strike for sharing part of Shelbi's video? (No need to answer that, just thinking out loud). I like how you refer to what is available in your area. I'm in a small Australian rural town. The best laundry detergent option for our specific needs is a triple conventrated liquid detergent from the brand EcoStore, and I use less than the recommended amount. A 480ml/16.3oz bottle lasts 2.5 months. I am able to recycle the bottle. A bottle costs AUS$7.5/USD$4.82 on half price sales. No, bulk stores are not really an option. Nothing within 90 minutes drive. No, I don't make my own, don't want to void warranty on machine, only to have to buy another machine through my own negligence.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

nope no strike, youtubers do this all the time, at least I've seen plenty of videos like this. I wasn't claiming it as my own content so. Yes always check locally, that's great!!

[@erintannehill]

I haven't gotten through your video, but when you mentioned biodegradable being an unregulated word, I had an idea. Could you do a video explaining what words are and aren't regulated so we can more easily identify the good products available to us?

[@erintannehill]

I'll nest my other thoughts within my original comment ;) So I don't trust Shelbi for many reasons. At first, I thought she was doing good for the zero waste world, but now I don't believe that. Typically when someone has so much controversy surrounding them, it is for a reason, and it typically isn't a good one. Because of her recommendation for Blueland cleaning products, I tried them and enjoyed them. However, I didn't do my due diligence when purchasing them and found out afterward that they contain sulfate and other ingredients that I disagree with, including fragrance. To say that I'm disappointed is an understatement because she is supposed to be a source I can trust and against those ingredients. [Also, your comments are nowhere to be found on her video, but I left my own requesting sources.] Companies are getting better at hiding things, making it difficult to make educated decisions about what products to purchase. For example, Blueland and Earth Breeze make it challenging to find the ingredients for their products and instead highlight what isn't included in hopes that you'll think their products are the best and most eco-friendly. I'm genuinely just frustrated with it all. I'm not throwing in the towel, but it's hard to keep changing when I feel like I'm always choosing wrong.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

omG YES I LOVE THIS IDEA! You seriously give me the BEST video ideas :)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

YES! I cannot stand when "eco" brands hide this information. It screams greenwashing. THank you for your comments!!

[@erintannehill]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Oh yay!! I'm so glad you love it! 😊

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@erintannehill :))

[@anaj7306]

Can you just tell me what to use for my laundry please? :D

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

well, everyone is different but my personal fav now is Meliora Laundry Powder: meliorameansbetter.com?sca_ref=4747255.DvudG0Wmyg&

[@maraminnow]

PVA is so stable it is being developed as a fluidized carrier for sludge in water treatment plants, if we can avoid it we should. Powders are not recommended for septic systems tho. clogging factor. The PVA beads house several kinds of bacteria that break down sludge and seem unaffected other than turning brown. Blueland signed a petition in Jan. 2023 asking for a switch to a gray box from the green circle for PVA on the EPA safer choices list. Who the heck is Blueland? Seeming like good guys? I am just trying to adjust to my aerobic septic system and cannot find info easily, it's all about the drain field septic systems. So many things NOT to use in a septic system.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

how interesting! I wish that was shown to me during my research. Wild how there isn't great info

[@TravelSoMuch]

Do you know why environmental KZbinrs don't talk about laundry EcoEggs? I bought several a couple years ago when they were discounted (before I even went zero waste) so I'm still using those, and I haven't heard anything bad about them, but I don't hear anything good about them either.

[@sophiejdalston]

I am in the UK where the eco egg originates, they were ok when I tried them but not great in hard water areas like mine and I realised at the end of the day the white balls they contain are concentrated powder detergent and that is how it works really, the ceramic balls don't really do anything except grind down the detergent ones, there is nothing in the egg design to close these off during the rinse and spin cycles so the detergent is released onto clothes in equal amounts all the way throughout throughout the cycle right up until the end. So your clothes will come out with small amounts of detergent residues on that will build up over time.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I guess cause we've never heard of them, at least, I haven't! What is it?

[@sophiejdalston]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist it is an egg shaped device that opens into two halves, you empty a bag of small ceramic balls (think baking beads) and a bag of compressed detergent balls into it, the ceramic balls never wear out pretty much but the detergent balls need to be refilled every few weeks. The egg has small vents in it all over where the crushed powder detergent (worn down by the ceramic balls) is released from. Both top loaders and front loaders the detergent is released throughout the cycle. In addition unless you only run a cycle every three days or less often than that giving time for the balls inside to dry fully, the balls inside the egg stay damp and eventually smell funky. In a hard water area the plastic on the egg goes really brittle after a few months too and it breaks. I would imagine there are issues with microplastics too from the ceramic balls constantly grinding against the surface of the egg.

[@sophiejdalston]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist I forgot to mention each refill of detergent balls comes individually wrapped in a small plastic bag.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@sophiejdalston doesn't seem very eco...maybe that's why creators are not talking about it

[@AngieG916]

Do you know the SAFEST & LEAST wasteful product? Instead of biodegradable do they have any compostable products? Please site your sources. Thank you.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

My best guess would be a powder that is made from plant-based materials. That's off the top of my head so I"ll do some more digging so I can cite my sources

[@livingplanetfriendly]

This is an excellent video! Thanks for breaking it down for us, I stand by your original resources and video as well!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you so much Maria :))))

[@BeccaDoesStuffYT]

Nellie’s makes an HE powdered laundry detergent too. I too have been on a journey of my own to find the best laundry detergent, and while using the EWG app I found Nellies to be the most eco friendly out of the detergents looked up.

[@miss_m_yt]

And Costco sells it!!!

[@BeccaDoesStuffYT]

@@miss_m_ytgood to know! That’s great

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

oh that's great! I need to try that app!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@miss_m_yt amazing!

[@jmsl_910]

100% w you on this. plus, WHERE did she earn her degree? sorry, but not all universities are equal. WHAT level of degree? associates? WHEN did she graduate? information changes...research gets updated.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Especailly since she isn't a practicing scientist...other than that year graduated and location don't really matter

[@judynoyes7971]

I’m glad I saw this, thank you. I changed to laundry sheets for environmental purposes and they made sense at 80 to pick lighter products. But I never researched it, though I’m aware we are lied or misled about everything. So thank you for opening my eyes to not falling for heart decisions, ones that make you think you are doing good. I will do research in the future. This occurred to me when I noticed a plasticy feeling residue on some of my clothes. I didn’t know the explanation but now I do. Even it that wasn’t what happened I learned a lot and living in an area that many homes have septic I will pass on that word in the future when applicable.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yay glad you enjoyed it!

[@joni1]

Are people still making there own homemade laundry detergent/soap? If so do you have any comments on them? Love your videos 🧺

[@Mandy0456]

I think homemade detergents are a great way to give appliance repair technicians a job 😅 they're rarely properly formulated to work well within your machine. There's probably some decent ones out there, but I wouldn't do it without heavy research

[@joni1]

I have just done some research and found out the soap needs friction to release the dirt while detergent just needs agitation. Also soap produces scum that plugs up the tubes on front loaders. Big reasons not to use homemade detergent which is really made with soap

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I want to try one day!

[@Saligator79]

Sheets are only better as far as packaging goes. It takes a wastewater treatment plant 28 days to break down PVA. None take the time. Powder is best for the environment, best for your washer, easiest to package safely.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

it's wild!

[@veveyolloo1773]

I'm really unlucky choosing who I subscribe... So funny to me. Second time some of those who I subscribe are having conflict... I love Shelby but I also like some of ur videos. I agree with some stuff but also kinda can make my own from it. Also I do my own research. I agree that she should list sources but also understand if she just forgot. I would not take it as claim that she's lying.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Yeah I never said she was lying! But I have asked about sources in the past with no response...again not saying she's lying it's just a shame is all!

[@19749red]

Wow what a great video! I’m a follower of you and Shelbi and it was helpful you provided more insight into such a nuances topic! Well done!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

thank you!

[@hayley2862]

What is the video being commented on?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Laundry sheets and PVA?

[@GeeklingNo1]

Hey so I'm currently looking for a laundry detergent to take to college with me. I know drops has the disolvable plastic but it's what im going to choose if I can't find an alternative. It needs to be affordable and reasonable to store/take to the wash room. I also don't want something with soap bc that lingers on clothes in the long run. Any suggestions for me?

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

If you're up for PVA, I recommend sheets over pods every day. the pods are very difficult to dissolve!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

check out my 3 reviews for more info on eco ish laundry detergents!

[@WildflowersCreations]

4:20 It's not just this video where Shelbizleee doesn't list her sources and most of the time doesn't even name them in her videos. It's one of the reasons I stopped watching her long ago.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

ugh that's really frustrating. Even when I ask for sources I'm ignored! If I accidentally leave out my sources and someone notices I edit the caption

[@TJJewett]

I think it's fair to be sceptical. I think the case is still out on PVA, but I think it's worth noting, both you and Shelbi referenced 55 microbs that break down PVA. to be more preceise, there are 55 KNOWN microbs that breakdown PVA. There could be more that are just not known, of course you can't really rely on an unknown factor to break down something we're adding to the environment. I do think there should be more transparency about which microbes are known to break down PVA and how those of us on septic systems can make sure we have them in our systems. NGL I did go into this video screaming at you from the previous video, hoping this would be a correction, but then I broke out the googles and realized you had some good points about PVA althought I still think you mischaracterize it as a microplastic when it isn't. Microplasticcs are non-water soluble solid plastic bits whereas PVA is water soluble which in part is what makes it so easy to break down, but you're right that it isn't 100% broken down just because it's disolved in the water. It can persist until it is broken down in the environment, so yeah if your water system doesn't have any known bacteria that break it down, it's just gonna go into rivers, lakes, and streams (that you're used to) and who knows what it's doing there. I would lean towards there being a good chance that most of these environments will host at least some bacterium that will break down PVA in the environment, thereby minimizing the harm, but it is still just an unknown. Suppposing everybody did add some PVA product to the water system, that could lead to an explosion of the bacteria that do break down PVA, but then there could also be unknown negative impacts from that bacterial explosion. We could be right back to phosphates causing algea blooms which I never fully understood the negative impact of Algea produces oxygen and is a carbon sink. why were phosphates causing algea blooms a bad thing? just because we find algea kind of gross? or did it harm flora and fauna populations? It's one of those things where I just trusted the experts and trusted that phosphates in detergents = bad. Sorry for the stream of consiousnes comment. Also, hello fellow Spokanite and non-practicing linguistics degree holder. I assume you're a Spokanite. You could just be visiting, but nobody who isn't from Spokane ususally ever is in Spokane.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

True 55 known microbes is important to note, thanks for that! I lived in Spokane for 6 months :) I agree, I don't agree that it is a microplastic and should issue a correction. While I think laundry sheets are a step in the right direction, I don't think they should be THE best option to consider.

[@TJJewett]

@@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist right ! I'm going to go back to your description and see which products you specifically recommend because I do want to move back to powder if that's better overall for the environment and my washing machine can handle the right type of powder. It's weird that it has to be so complicated

[@ktm9292]

I'm not an environmental scientist, but I am a scientist (social psychology) who nerds out on statistics. Her presentation reminds me of the articles I've read that make a certain amount of sense in the results but get a little overconfident in the conclusions. I would have been fine if her conclusion was more along the lines of, "if you're using sheets, call your local council or water treatment plant and ask what microbes they are using before you decide to repurchase." Also, always cite your references.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yes that's my biggest problem too. Instead it was a blanket statement that everyone can use them? we need to exercise caution with PVA at the least

[@ktm9292]

@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist Yes. This is especially important when communicating to a generalist audience who doesn't necessarily have the background to understand the implications of the earlier statements where things were qualified appropriately. When you're doing something like this, you need to not only be acting as a scientist to interpret the information but also a scientific communicator to convey the information appropriately.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

@@ktm9292 that is so true! you can't assume everyone else will look at or research data like this

[@Christina-sf4py]

It's a good point you bring up if ppl should still call themselves by their degrees. If you've been out of the field for a long time you may not be aware of current findings etc. *unfortunately we have to be careful even with popular youtubers as who knows what happens if they become accustomed to better financial conditions. Very sad but it happens.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

That's a fair point too!

[@bettyhamm331]

You can’t buy. Them anywhere

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Yes you can there are tons of brands out there for sale

[@recycleonwednesdays]

I consider active research to be running experiments or using other primary research methods. I wouldn't consider someone who has a degree but works as an influencer/educator to be a scientist. It's a valuable role but a different one. Like you said, it would be odd and inaccurate if you called yourself a linguist. It was odd and inaccurate when former Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke referred to himself as a geologist. I'm not watching KZbin for rigorous science content. I'm watching for practical advice like how to talk to people at restaurants about reusable containers. I appreciate you as an educator.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

There sure is nuance in this title! Hey check out my zero waste with social anxiety if you haven't yet, it's precisely that topic ;)

[@GeeeAus]

“Why wouldn’t we get the best choice?” This is the Nirvana logical fallacy. The balanced choice may actually be the best choice. It’s unlikely that we are going to be able to make washing things a zero impact operation. If nothing else washing things in a way that is effective to remove soil results in oil, becoming emulsified with water and then entering wastewater. There is no perfect solution and the perfect is the enemy of the good which is the nature of the nirvana logical fallacy.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I never said it was possible to have zero impact with laundry or anything. The goal is least impact. I think we actually agree 100% haha

[@mintytuesday]

I used to really respect Shelby, but lately I've noticed she accuses those who disagree with her (and her sponsors) of spreading propaganda. I don't trust her opinion on Thinx either, they are another one of her sponsors. Thinx stated that PFAS was never part of their product "design", but they were independently tested for PFAS, they wouldn't have settled for 5 million if that weren't the case. And from personal experience, when I stopped using Thinx my period symptoms decreased dramatically.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

woah!

[@pennyj7694]

What is your favorite eco friendly laundry detergent? You never did say.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I don't have a fav cause I haven't tested any yet! I'm still working through my supply of "wasteful" ones. There were some recommendations at the end tho for plastic free powder to try and stay tuned for my laundry review pt 4 coming this spring!

[@AdrienneEESantiago]

I've been following this debate and I love how you do the real research! I have laundry sheets from before I ever watched your vids and I'll finish them up, but I don't know what I'm going to do next! I loved them so much ;_; I don't like the residue powder leaves(though that was big companies maybe eco powder is better) and find both powders and liquids messy. Apparently soap nuts can cause issues where they come from with people losing their resources in favor of the richer countries.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

there really is no one perfect option so we have to do our best! I'll keep researching :)

[@Jonworkout24]

Is this good for humans for the skin? Now alittle nervous about using the sheets. Thank you

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

I am not a health expert or a doctor. I would consult a dermatologist or do your own research

[@janem3575]

Thank you for your in depth video. You've obviously done your own research. And yes, those who don't leave their sources are either 1: lazy, or 2: the sources are controversial. Sorry, I don't think anyone without a PhD, is a scientist. Scientist is too broad a category. Scientist is a general term, those researching are very specialized in their niche. As such, they are involved in active research, meaning published in peer reviewed, academic journals. And hence, they will be keynote speakers for conferences in said industry and are truly subject matter experts. The nuances of the statistical analyses is achiles heel google university. The devil's in the details, did a study use appropriate methodology, power, etc. A lot of times, the statistically unskilled draw conclusions based on a study's abstract / conclusions from the author(s). That said, I am not a scientist, even with 2 undergraduate degrees. I treat Google and social media as a news headlines, ie, the latest and updated info available, then I deep dive into the literature.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

she doesn't even have a PhD, it's just a Masters. Those are some great points, thank you!

[@redwoodrebelgirl3010]

While I definitely, fully, strongly, & absolutely-- *_ABSOLUTELY!!!_* --encourage all of us to adopt the vey most environmentally respectful & sustainable lifestyles that we possibly can, from: minimizing, or cutting-out non-necessities ("use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without"), to recycling, to composting, to buying the most biodegradable, natural, non-toxic products we can possibly access (find, utilize, & afford), to growing & making as much of what we need, as we possibly can, ourselves, it IS worth mentioning that we have virtually no shot at saving & protecting Nature & Earth Mother-- _nor ourselves, for that matter_ --under capitalism. 💔 The BIGGEST, most INTEGRAL change we can make, in terms of protecting Nature, our precious, beautiful Mother Earth, our own lives, & those of the coming generations, is to make the change to an anarchist socialist system, AND to an anarchist socialist system which PRIORITIZES **LIFE** & the environmental sustainability which safeguards Life. When we use the Earth's resources & our labor SOLELY to produce things that: 1) meet the actual NEEDS of humans-- & other living beings _--not just whatever will make some corporation & "elites" more money,_ 2) take out the profit motive altogether (or, whomever manages to steal enough from the Commons, & hoard & maintains it through violence, will do so, in pursuit of more, & more, & more money-- _despite_ having _more than they could possibly spend in one lifetime,_ as we see now), 3) place the resources, wealth, power, & control back in the hands of THE PEOPLE, to be shared equally as & administered Justly & sustainably-- rather than in the grimy claws of corporations, the capitalists who run them, & the politicians who serve (only) their interests --by the most directly democratic means possible, & 4) make people ACCOUNTABLE & _UNABLE_ to oppress, exploit, enslave, abuse, & destroy Nature, our Earth Mother, humans, & other living beings, we can, finally-- _FINALLY!_ --build a(n economically, politically, legally, & socially) *JUST* world, which will _not only_ SURVIVE, but **THRIVE,** as will the people, & other living beings within this world. 💗 Capitalism *_*not only*_* DEMANDS-- as an _INHERENT, INESCAPABLE_ necessity for capitalism to even _EXIST_ --an underclass kept in perpetual lack, insecurity, & fear (so that we have, or see, no real choice, but to submit to wage-slavery & other types of slavery), capitalism also DEMANDS _infinite resources & expansion,_ in a world of _very finite_ resouces. *Capitalism is a death cult,* & destroys not only humans, but all other forms of Life, including Nature & the very planet upon whom we (& all other forms of terrestrial Life) depend for SURVIVAL. (For more information, check out-- iww.org !)

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

cool!

[@razzledazzleboomerz]

I enjoyed this video and I appreciate your commentary because you've brought up some really good points. Additionally, it seems like Shelbi is using her degree for clout and a foundation for "whatever I say goes" attitude. She should've provided sources and the fact she could possibly intentionally remove comments she doesn't feel like answering or she doesn't want public really harms her credibility as a person. Sure, I'm not trying to cancel her either because like Emma said, it's about the principles that Shelbi isn't living by. In all honesty, I actually unsubscribed Shelbi's channel because although she does have some good information, I feel like I cannot trust anything she says because of her sponsorship with a plastic company, her actions and her illogical reasoning NOT BACKED UP by sources. Thank you Emma for bringing this issue to light in terms of all the points you made. Yes, do your own research everyone, don't listen blindly to KZbin videos. Learn, take it with a grain of salt and then become more knowledgeable and learn who you can trust. And this you Emma for always providing sources. I deeply respect you.

[@razzledazzleboomerz]

For clarification, I unfollowed Shelbi because I do not personally support her priorities. Whether or not her intentions are good, I think that she's not credible and she's so deep, she will do anything for sponsorships/keeping sponsorships. Very muddle logic. Emma remains humble and scientific, truthful and honest. We need more people like her.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

yeah the plastic co sponsorship really put a bad taste in my mouth too. Always cite your sources, people!! and do your own research!

[@cherylmoser6383]

Hey, I recently started my journey to be more sustainable after watching several of your videos and another KZbinr that I really like a video of Shelby’s popped up and I clicked. Halfway through I stopped. It was a 50 ways for a beginner or something. I stopped watching because she was constantly recommending things to buy without saying anything about using what you have. Call me crazy but my first steps have been to stop buying stuff except for consumables.

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

agreed! buying less is always better but there is a place for eco swaps. For example I always recomened things like Who Gives a Crap TP since we all need toilet paper every day we might as well buy it more sustainably!