Skip to content 
Choosing the right laundry detergent can be overwhelming. Beyond the format (liquid, powder, or capsule), consumers often face the question: Should I choose bio or non-bio detergent?
At BookChem, we go beyond finished products—we specialize in supplying surfactants, emulsifiers, thickeners, and eco-friendly cleaning ingredients that power high-performance detergents worldwide. By understanding how bio and non-bio detergents work, brands and formulators can make smarter choices for cleaning efficiency, consumer safety, and sustainability.
What Is a Non-Bio Detergent?
Non-bio detergents clean without using enzymes. Instead, they rely on carefully formulated chemical ingredients such as:
- Surfactants – the key cleaning agents that lift dirt and grease. (Learn more about our surfactants)
- Builders – soften water and prevent dirt from re-depositing.
- Bleaching agents – help remove tough stains.
- Optical brighteners – make clothes appear whiter and brighter.
- Fragrances & preservatives – enhance freshness and extend shelf life.
These formulations are widely used, but sensitive skin reactions are usually linked to surfactants or fragrances, not enzymes.
What Is a Bio Detergent?
Biological (bio) detergents include all the same ingredients as non-bio but also contain enzymes—proteins that break down stubborn stains more efficiently.
- Protease – removes protein-based stains (milk, blood, sweat).
- Lipase – targets fats and oils.
- Amylase – removes starchy residues from food.
- Pectate lyase – helps with fruit and vegetable stains.
Because of these enzymes, bio detergents are effective even at low temperatures (20–40°C), saving energy and reducing environmental impact.
Which Cleans Better?
- Bio detergents: Effective at lower temperatures → energy saving + eco-friendly.
- Non-bio detergents: Perform well at higher temperatures but require more energy.
Scientific evidence shows no major difference in cleaning performance when both are used correctly. The choice largely depends on wash temperature and consumer needs.
Which Is Better for Sensitive Skin?
It is commonly believed that non-bio detergents are safer for sensitive skin. However, research indicates that enzymes are not the main cause of irritation—surfactants and fragrances are more likely responsible.
This means both bio and non-bio detergents can be suitable for sensitive users, provided the formulation uses mild, skin-friendly surfactants and low-irritation additives.
At BookChem, we innovate with renewable raw materials, RSPO-certified ingredients, and green chemistry processes to help brands design gentler yet high-performance cleaning solutions.
Conclusion
The key difference between bio and non-bio detergents is the presence of enzymes.
- Bio detergents: Enzyme-powered, effective at low temperatures, more sustainable.
- Non-bio detergents: Enzyme-free, sometimes preferred by sensitive users, but not necessarily gentler.
At BookChem, our mission is to provide science-driven, eco-friendly surfactants and cleaning ingredients that help brands create products balancing performance, safety, and sustainability. Whether your market requires enzyme-powered bio detergents or enzyme-free non-bio options, our surfactants and advanced formulations deliver proven results.
