Bio vs non-bio detergent: What’s the difference, and which should you use?

Not sure whether to use bio or non-bio detergent? Here’s a simple, real-world guide to help you choose, especially if you are dealing with colours, whites, baby clothes, or sensitive skin.

If you have ever stood in the laundry aisle feeling totally confused by all the different detergents (especially the ones with fancy smells and clever names), you are not alone.

What is the difference between Bio and Non-Bio detergent?

The key difference is this:

• Bio detergent contains enzymes that break down stains.

• Non-bio detergent does not contain enzymes, making it gentler on skin and fabrics.

Those enzymes in bio products are brilliant for getting whites whiter — but they can also cause irritation for sensitive skin, and damage delicate fabrics over time.

When to use non-bio detergent?

We recommend non-bio for:

• Dark clothes and colours — it’s gentler and helps prevent fading

• Baby clothes — safer for delicate skin

• Sensitive skin or eczema-prone households

• Anything delicate like soft knitwear or cherished items

Don’t be fooled by nice smells! Just because a detergent smells beautiful doesn’t mean it’s non-bio. Unless it says non-bio clearly on the label, it isn’t.

When to Use Bio Detergent?

• Bio is best for whites and tougher stains, thanks to those enzymes.

• Use bio detergent when you want to:

• Brighten white shirts and bedding

• Pre-soak stained white clothes

💡 Top tip: You can soak white shirts in bio powder before washing them to boost the effect.

Powder or liquid – Does it matter?

Yes, a bit!

Use liquid detergent for darks and colours — it dissolves easily and won’t leave chalky marks.

Use powder for whites, especially when soaking. It often gives a deeper clean, thanks to bleaching agents.

Short cycles (like those 30-minute ones we all love) work better with liquid.

Common washing mistakes to avoid

• Using too much detergent – More soap doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. It can actually clog fibres and make rinsing harder.

• Washing too hot – Always check the care label. 40°C might feel right, but if it says 30°C, stick with it.

• Overloading the machine – Clothes need space to move. Overfilling = less agitation and less effective cleaning.

For families: If you’ve got a baby, sensitive skin, or just want to keep things gentle, non-bio liquid is a great all-rounder.

If you’re washing whites for the whole family — especially school shirts, towels or bed linen — add a bio powder to your routine when needed.

Always check the care label and if you are unsure about how to care for your garments, just come and see us at Farthings Dry Cleaners in Cambridge or Trumpington. We are always happy to take a look and advise.

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📍 Farthings Dry Cleaners Cambridge

143 Milton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1XE

📞 Call us: 01223 755180

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm | Sat 8:30am–3pm

🗺️ Get directions to our Cambridge Branch

📍 Farthings Dry Cleaners Trumpington

1 Anstey Way, Trumpington, Cambridge, CB2 9JE

📞 Call us: 01223 625310

🕒 Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm | Sat 8:30am–3pm

🗺️ Get directions to our Trumpington Branch

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✨ Who is Farthings Dry Cleaners? Farthings Dry Cleaners is known as Cambridge and Trumpington's most sought-after dry cleaners. It's the ideal home for your high-end garments preservation and alteration to be cared for, helping them last as long as possible and always making you look stunning. Trust Farthings — where your garments are cared for like couture.