Is PVA harmful to plumbing systems or appliances?

I have seen online comments from plumbers and appliance repairers suggesting that undissolved polyvinyl alcohol can wreak havoc in the internal mechanism of systems and appliances. They recommend that you not use laundry products containing PVA. Doing so could result in an expensive repair or replacement.

Is PVA harmful to clothes?

I have seen online comments from detergent pod users describing how a plastic film believed to be PVA sticks to their clothes. It is impossible to remove it, resulting in the need to purchase replacements. If you do use detergent pods, make sure to follow the directions.

Yes, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a type of plastic. Since it dissolves in water, it's different than what typically comes to mind when we think of plastic. That's why it's earned the nickname "liquid plastic."

Are laundry pods better than liquid?

There are definitely pros and cons to both pods and liquid detergent; one is not necessarily better than the other. For many consumers, the primary draw of laundry pods is that they're quicker and easier to use than liquid detergent—you just grab a pod and pop it in the washing machine. They also tend to be less bulky than liquid. That said, the PVA in the pods could be leaching microplastics into our environment. Until we have more conclusive research, you'll have to decide for yourself whether or not you think pods are better than liquid.

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Are Laundry Pods Bad for the Environment? (PVA Plastic 101)

By Jeanne Yacoubou, MS

Updated on September 02, 2024

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About Jeanne

Jeanne Yacoubou, MS is an experienced researcher and writer passionate about all things environmental. She's written extensively on renewable energy, sustainability, the environmental impacts of diet, and toxic chemicals in food, water, air, and consumer products. When she’s not tending her organic garden or hanging out with her three teens, Jeanne is blogging about the latest scientific reports on our climate crisis. Jeanne holds master’s degrees in chemistry, ethics, and education. In between her graduate work, Jeanne served as a high school science teacher in Benin, West Africa as a Peace Corps volunteer for over three years.