Sodium Carbonate (Washing Soda): This is a powerful alkalinity builder. It softens hard water, binds to mineral deposits, and raises the pH of the wash water. This high pH environment opens up fabric fibres, allowing dirt, grease, and sweat to be released easily.
Sodium Percarbonate: This acts as a safe, colour-safe oxygen bleach. When it hits the wash water, it breaks down into hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate. This provides excellent destaining power, brightens dull whites, and sanitises fabrics without the fibre-degrading harshness of chlorine bleach.
The Surfactant Duo (Anionic & Non-ionic): This is the gold standard for modern eco-detergents. Anionic surfactants carry a negative charge and excel at lifting away mud, clay, and ground-in dirt. Non-ionic surfactants have no charge and are highly effective at breaking down oily foods, sebum, and body oils. Together, they suspend dirt in the water so it washes away instead of settling back onto your clothes.
Enzymes: These are highly specific biological catalysts. They target and chemically break down stubborn organic stains (like blood, grass, chocolate, and proteins) that standard soaps cannot shift.