速
GUIDE PRODUCT DETAILS & BRAND RESOURCE
®
We founded The Laundress New York Detergent and Fabric Care collection in 2004 because we were frustrated with dingy white T-shirts, faded denim, and prematurely worn pieces. The laundry products available in the marketplace left us unsatisfied and the only alternative, dry cleaning, left our clothes loaded with chemicals. Knowing our wardrobes were washable, we decided to research and develop our own laundry solutions—literally! With our carefully crafted Laundress products, washing our clothing became a delight, made even more enjoyable with fantastic tools and storage options. However, we faced similar frustrations cleaning our homes and office. Unwilling to use toxic cleaners and fed up with inferior natural cleaning products, we decided it was time to, again, make our own. From dish detergent to window cleaner, our Home collection has proven tough on dirt yet safe for you, your home, and the environment. Today, after ten years of “cleaning one person at a time,” we have created this comprehensive product details and brand resource for all things Laundress. We aimed to cover it all in this book: key product points such as when to use the Sweater Comb vs. the Sweater Stone, how to advise an allergy-prone customer, and useful how-tos that can be used as shelf talkers or for a sales promotion, such as “Bedding and Bath”. It’s all here. We continue to be busy here at The Laundress and are grateful for the ongoing support and spirited feedback from our savvy clients and customers. Happy laundering...and more!
Gwen Whiting & Lindsey Boyd The Laundress, Inc.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Laundry Products.......................................................3 About Our Scents....................................................16 Ingredients/Free Of.................................................21 About The Laundress/Meet the Founders.....................26
2.
LAUNDRY
SIGNATURE DETERGENT Everyday Laundering We developed this product for those who are serious about caring for their clothes and linens. For all-purpose laundering, our Signature Detergent is perfectly formulated to tackle all your laundry challenges, combining surfactants, color guard, and stain-fighting enzymes. Attributes: • Whitens, brightens, and preserves color • Fights stains • Highly concentrated | Up to 64 washes Ideal For: • Cotton, linen, blends, and durable synthetics • Everyday laundry, including clothing, sheets, and towels • Whites and all colors For Best Results: • Effective in all water temperatures and systems. • Wash whites, light colors, and heavily soiled cotton or linen items in hot water. • Wash darks, colors, and synthetic items in warm or cold water. Launder As Follows:
Classic Scent: Designed to be the ultimate clean laundry scent, Classic combines lily of the valley and jasmine with sweet musk, sandalwood, and a touch of citrus. Ingredients: Plant-derived anionic and nonionic surfactants, stain-fighting and cleaning enzymes (protease, amylase, cellulase, lipase), mineral-derived cleaning enhancers (borax, sodium gluconate, and calcium chloride), essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 32 fl. oz. | 0.5 fl. oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A.
4.
DENIM WASH Preserve Color & Soften We invest a lot in our denim, so it’s important to care for it properly. Our unique blend of detergent, fabric softener and color guard cleans and softens while preserving color, leaving your jeans feeling soft and looking finished. Attributes: • Cleans and softens • Preserves color • Highly concentrated | Up to 32 washes Ideal For: • White, dark, and colored denim • Perfectly worn-in jeans • Distressed, embellished, stretched, and raw denim For Best Results: • Effective in all water temperatures. • Wash colored denim in cool water and white denim in hot water. • When machine washing, we recommend using a Mesh Bag for embellished denim; turn items inside out. Launder As Follows:
Classic Scent: Designed to be the ultimate clean laundry scent, Classic combines lily of the valley and jasmine with sweet musk, sandalwood, and a touch of citrus. Ingredients: Plant-derived anionic and nonionic surfactants, plant-derived softener (canola-based), essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 16 fl. oz. | 0.5 fl. oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A.
6.
IRONING WATER Finishes & Freshens Inspired by our European friends, we love adding this product to our iron or steamer to create the ultimate fabric finish. Highly concentrated, this Ironing Water freshens as it adds scent, offering extra care that won’t go unnoticed. Attributes: • Creates the ultimate finish • Adds scent while removing odors • Safe for all fabrics and furnishings • Highly concentrated | Up to 64 uses Ideal For: • Ironing cotton, linen, and blends • Steaming silk, synthetics, wool, cashmere, and blends • Dress shirts, suit jackets, linens, bedding, and home furnishings For Best Results:
Classic Scent: Designed to be the ultimate clean laundry scent, Classic combines lily of the valley and jasmine with sweet musk, sandalwood, and a touch of citrus. Ingredients: Deionized water, essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 16 fl. oz. Made in the U.S.A.
STIFFEN UP Natural Starch Prepare to fall in love with ironing (yes, really!) thanks to this natural cornstarch solution. Unlike grocery starches, our fresh-scented, non-aerosol spray is formulated to avoid buildup while adding a light to moderate hold with a crisp finish. Attributes: • Provides body to fabrics • Reduces time spent ironing • Adds a higher resistance to soils and wrinkles • Avoids buildup while adding a light to moderate hold Ideal For: • Cotton, linen, blends, and some synthetics • Dress shirts, linens, and sheets • Ironing and steaming For Best Results: While pressing or steaming, spray items from 6 inches away. Classic Scent: Designed to be the ultimate clean laundry scent, Classic combines lily of the valley and jasmine with sweet musk, sandalwood, and a touch of citrus. Ingredients: Deionized water, cornstarch, essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 8 fl. oz. Made in the U.S.A.
8.
WOOL & CASHMERE SHAMPOO Wash & Preserve We are absolute fanatics about the proper care for our beloved sweaters. Made from a combination of cedar extracts and a concentrated shampoo base, this formula cleans and preserves the natural components of yarns. Yes you can (and you should!) wash your wool and cashmere items. Why dry clean when you can provide better care for your woolens at home, minus the toxins and extra cost? Attributes: • Safely and effectively cleans wool and cashmere • Preserves natural lanolin oils, keeping yarns soft • Naturally repels bugs and moths • Highly concentrated | Up to 32 washes Ideal For: • Items labeled “dry clean” • Wool, cashmere, merino, mohair, blends, and more • Sweaters, scarves, hats, outerwear, down clothing, bedding, pillows, and throws For Best Results: • Wash wool and cashmere in cold water. • If machine washing, use a delicate or woolen cycle and Mesh Bag. • Lay flat to dry in a natural shape. Do not use the dryer. Launder As Follows:
Cedar Scent: Designed for the care of wool and cashmere, Cedar is a modern take on the traditional woody scent combining sandalwood, orange, and rose with a base of cedar. We love cedar’s natural moth-repelling properties! Ingredients: Concentrated blend of plant-derived anionic and nonionic surfactants, essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 16 fl. oz. | 2 fl. oz. | 0.5 fl. oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A.
DELICATE WASH Silks, Synthetics & Blends We know how tricky it can be to care for delicates. From lingerie and other items labeled “dry clean” to silk blouses and scarves, this special formula removes perspiration, body oils, and stains while cleaning and preserving fabrics. Why dry clean when you can provide better care for your delicates at home, minus the toxins and extra cost? Attributes: • Cleans and preserves delicate fabrics • Removes perspiration, body oils, and stains • Highly concentrated | Up to 32 washes Ideal For: • Items labeled “dry clean” • Silk, synthetics, spandex, polyester, nylon, rayon, acetate, blends, and more • Lingerie, bras, hosiery, blouses, scarves, and dresses For Best Results: • Wash silk and delicates in cool or warm water. • If hand washing, do not soak silk longer than 30 minutes. • If machine washing, use a delicate washing cycle and Mesh Bag. Launder As Follows:
Lady Scent: Designed for delicates, Lady combines herbal and citrus notes of rich amber, bergamot, lavender, and musk. We love the natural antibacterial properties of this complex and unique blend. Ingredients: Plant-derived anionic and nonionic surfactants, stain-fighting and cleaning enzymes (protease, amylase, lipase), mineral-derived cleaning enhancers (sodium gluconate and calcium chloride), essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 16 fl. oz. | 2 fl. oz. | 0.5 fl. oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A. 10.
SPORT DETERGENT Activewear & Swimwear We want to smell fresh—both during and after a workout. Whether you cycle, swim, run, or Om, this formula works tirelessly to keep activewear in top form, helping to remove perspiration, body odor, and stains. Attributes: • Removes perspiration and body odors • Fights stains • Highly concentrated | Up to 32 washes Ideal For: • Nylon, spandex, cotton, synthetics, and more • All performance fabrics, including moisture-wicking clothing • Removing chlorine, salt, and sand from swimwear For Best Results: • Effective in all water temperatures and systems. • Wash cotton and heavily soiled items in hot water. • Wash all other fabrics in warm or cold water. • Hang dry or tumble dry on low heat to avoid shrinkage or damage to elasticity. Launder As Follows:
Sport Scent: A fresh, crisp blend of leafy greens, orange, rose, eucalyptus, and jasmine with undertones of musk. Ingredients: Plant-derived anionic and nonionic surfactants, stain-fighting and cleaning enzymes (protease, amylase, cellulase, lipase), mineral-derived cleaning enhancers (borax, sodium gluconate, and calcium chloride), essential oils, and fragrance. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 16 fl. oz. | 0.5 fl. oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A.
STAIN SOLUTION Removes Old & New Stains We know how frustrating tough stains can be—from red wine and coffee to pit stains and more. Whether you’re rescuing a brand-new shirt or reviving your antique bedding and heirlooms, just one drop of this powerful solution safely removes stubborn stains, old and new. Attributes: • Safe for all washable fabrics • Color-safe; effective on both whites and colors • Highly concentrated | Up to 200 uses Ideal For: • Old stains, including yellowing, armpit stains, and discoloration over time • Tannin stains, including red wine, juice, and coffee • Protein stains, including bodily fluids, blood, breast milk, and baby formula • Grease, oil, salad dressing, and dirt For Best Results: • Pre-treat before laundering. • Apply directly on stain(s). • For stubborn stains, pretreat item and soak in hot water before laundering. (Use tepid water for silk, wool, or blood stains.) • Soak and repeat as needed. Launder as normal with any of The Laundress products. Unscented: Solution is Unscented for use with all Laundress products. Ingredients: Concentrated blend of plant-derived anionic and nonionic surfactants. Free Of: Petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 16 fl. oz. | 2 fl. oz. | 0.5 fl. oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A.
12.
ALL-PURPOSE BLEACH ALTERNATIVE Brighten Laundry & Home Cleaning We love to give our laundry and home an extra boost of clean. This nontoxic, biodegradable, and fragrance-free alternative to chlorine bleach works wonders to safely remove dirt, stains, and odors. Add to the wash cycle to whiten and brighten clothes—it’s safe for colors. You can also use this single product to clean your entire home—floors, tiles, sinks, surfaces, and more. Attributes: • Removes stubborn stains and deodorizes • Color-safe bleach • Highly concentrated | Up to 128 uses For Laundry:
For Home:
Unscented: All-Purpose Bleach Alternative is Unscented for use with all Laundress products. Ingredients: Chlorine-free oxygen bleach (100% sodium percarbonate). Free Of: Chlorine bleach, petroleum, SLS, phosphate, phthalates, dye, and animal by-products. Available In: 32 oz. | 0.5 oz. Packet Made in the U.S.A.
14.
ABOUT OUR SCENTS
Ahhh, the Smell of Fresh Laundry When we founded The Laundress, our goal was to create the ultimate washing experience. We were just as committed to developing the very best-smelling products. We imagined scents that were fresh yet natural, rich yet subtle, and unique yet widely appealing. After many hours in The Laundress Lab, we’re confident we’ve hit the mark. To create each Laundress scent, we blend a selection of our favorite essential oils and fragrances. Each is complex, like a well-made wine, with top, middle, and bottom notes that provide a lasting nose in your laundry. Each of our scents is carefully paired with select Laundress products based on its ideal uses and natural properties. What Is Fragrance? A physical mixture of essential oils, resins (materials pulled from plants, flowers, stems, roots, and seeds), absolutes (essences extracted with solvents), and naturally identical molecules. The Laundress uses a combination of essential oils and naturally identical molecules to provide a light, fresh scent to our products while maintaining the safest, most stable scent structure. The essential oils that we use also have cleaning and antibacterial properties to enhance our products. Fragrance 101 Aromatic Essential Oils – materials derived from flowers, stems, roots, leaves, barks, seeds, and fruits. Such as: eucalyptus, lavender, cedarwood, orange Resins – materials exuded from a plant. Such as: oakmoss, myrrh, labdanum Absolutes – essences extracted with solvents from a plant. Such as: rose, fir, orange blossom Synthetics – scent molecules that are identical to those of essential oils, but without the allergens and inconsistencies of essential oils. Such as: geraniol (synthetic rose note), hedione (synthetic jasmine note) What Is a Fragrance Pyramid? Perfume is described in a musical metaphor as having three sets of notes, making the harmonious scent accord. The notes unfold over time, with the immediate impression of the top note leading to the deeper middle notes, and the base notes gradually appearing as the final stage. These notes are created carefully with knowledge of the evaporation process of the perfume. Top Notes – the initial burst, not long lasting. Such as: citrus, fruit, herb notes Middle Notes – the heart of the fragrance representing the scent’s signature character. Longer lasting than the top. Such as: flowers, herbs, spices, marine notes Base Notes or Bottom – these notes are at the bottom and hang on. They are usually heavy so they last the longest. Such as: wood or sweet notes like vanilla or musk
TOP MIDDLE BOTTOM 16.
cedar Designed for the care of wool and cashmere. Not your typical cedar scent, our Cedar combines fresh woody smells with sweet notes and spice. Topped off with hints of orange, lavender, rose, jasmine, and lily of the valley, this scent is subtle and well rounded. We love cedar's natural properties for repelling moths and critters.
Fresh Pamplemousse (Grapefruit), Nutmeg, Eucalyptus, and Hints of Lemon Branch Rose Absolute, Lavender, Violet Leaf, Jasmine and Hints of Warm Spices
Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Labdanum, Musk, Warm Patchouli with a Hint of Evergreen
CEDAR-SCENTED PRODUCT Wool & Cashmere Shampoo
classic Our signature scent is for everyday laundry - the ultimate "clean laundry". Classic is designed for the complete start-to-finish experience - from soap to starch. A combination of 12 different ingredients, this blend offers notes of lily of the valley, jasmine, lavender, and ylang ylang, with undertones of sweet musk, sandalwood, rose, and spice. You'll also find a touch of citrus and oakmoss.
Marine, Ozonic Fresh Air Notes with Sparkling Lime Zest Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, Cyclamen, Geranium, Lavender, Ylang-ylang
Oakmoss, Incense Notes, Sandalwood, Patchouli, and Musk
CLASSIC-SCENTED PRODUCTS Signature Detergent Denim Wash Ironing Water Stiffen Up 18.
lady This addictive scent is designed for washing delicates. A complex blend of ingredients creates a unique scent of herbal and citrus. At first, you'll find notes of grapefruit, apple, bergamot, basil, tea tree, rosemary, and lavender. Then finishes with woody notes of amber, rose, sandalwood, cedar, and musk. We love the natural antibacterial properties of tea tree and rosemary.
Grapefruit, Bergamot, Lemon, Basil, Star Anise, Green Notes Rose Absolute, Lavender, White Jasmine, Herbs of Rosemary and Tea Tree Guiacwood, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Musk, Amber and Evergreen Notes
LADY-SCENTED PRODUCT Delicate Wash
sport The scent of champions! From stinky gym shorts to chlorine-soaked swimsuits, Sport keeps your activewear smelling fresh during (and after!) your workout. The green and fresh-air notes of eucalyptus, pine, apple leaf, rose, ylang-ylang, and lavender will add a kick to your step. We love the natural antibacterial properties of eucalyptus and lavender.
Marine, Fresh Air, with Hints of Crisp Apple and Clean Orange Flower Geranium, Eucalyptus, Ylang-ylang, Lavender and Rose Notes
Earthy Sandalwood with Clean Evergreen Notes
SPORT-SCENTED PRODUCT Sport Detergent
20.
INGREDIENTS Alcohol (aka Ethanol) – An organic chemical solvent with exceptional cleaning and antibacterial properties. The Laundress Fabric Sprays contain alcohol for the antibacterial properties, while at a level that is still safe to use on all fabrics and surfaces. Bleach Alternative (Oxygenated Bleach/Non-chlorine Bleach) – Sodium percarbonate is the chlorine-free oxygen bleaching system we use. Oxygen bleach releases active oxygen into the wash water to produce a gentler bleaching (oxidizing) action than chlorine bleach. This system is color-safe, whitens and brightens fabrics and removes stubborn stains and deodorizes by converting soils into small particles, which are later removed by the detergent and carried away in the wash water. It works gently and safely on almost all surfaces and washable fabrics. Water temperature affects the bleaching rate of non-chlorine bleach, which is accelerated by hot water. As water temperature decreases, bleaching time must be increased. Cleaning Enhancer (aka Builder) – A material that enhances or maintains the cleaning efficacy of the surfactant, typically by the binding and deactivation of hardness minerals/ions in the water, which then allows soils and stains to be more easily removed. Builders also function to supply and supply alkalinity and buffer pH in order to assist in cleaning. The Laundress uses several types of mineral-based cleaning enhancers: • Borax (aka Sodium Borate) – A natural mineral-based builder that also works to stabilize the cleaning enzymes. • Sodium Gluconate – A corn-derived builder that acts as a pH buffer while preventing the breakdown of the cleaning enzymes. • Calcium Chloride – A natural mineral-based builder that also works as an enzyme stabilizer. Color Guard – A blend of ingredients incorporated into a three-dimensional polymeric structure that effectively removes soils and micro fibrils throughout the washing process. The Laundress uses color guard in our detergents to keep clothes bright and lasting longer. Enzymes – Large biological proteins that serves as highly selective catalysts to speed up the breakdown of soils and stains, which are later removed by detergents in the washing process. Enzymes are classified by the type of soil they break down. The Laundress products use high concentrations of stain-fighting and cleaning enzymes to maximize efficiency. • Amylase degrades starch-based stains by breaking them down into carbohydrates. • Cellulase reduces the deposits of particulate soils like soot and clay while reducing the fuzz, pilling, and graying of cotton fabrics for more effective fabric and color care with each wash. The Laundress Darks Detergent contains a high concentration of the cellulase enzyme. • Lipase degrades fat-containing stains and oils such as salad dressing, body oils, grease, butter, sebum, etc. • Protease breaks down protein-based stains such as blood, milk, baby stains, formula, grass, eggs, etc. Ethanol (aka Alcohol) – An organic chemical solvent with exceptional cleaning and antibacterial properties. The Laundress uses ethanol in the home cleaning products for quick-drying and streak-free cleaning. Fabric Softener – A material that is added to laundry products to give fabrics a soft feel and smooth surface while reducing drying time, eliminating static electricity, and preventing wrinkling. Most grocery brands use tallow as the primary ingredient, otherwise known as animal fat. The Laundress uses a plant-derived, canola-based softener.
Fragrance and Essential Oils – A physical mixture of essential oils, resins (materials pulled from plants, flowers, stems, roots, and seeds), absolutes (essences extracted with solvents), and naturally identical molecules. The Laundress uses a combination of essential oils and naturally identical molecules to provide a light, fresh scent to our products while maintaining the safest, most stable scent structure. The essential oils that we use also have cleaning and antibacterial properties to enhance our products. Grease Cutter – A material that helps to remove grease and stuck-on debris from most washable surfaces and utensils around the home by binding to oily, non-polar grease molecules and allowing them to be washed away during the cleaning and scrubbing process. The Laundress products use a plant-derived grease-cutting agent in their home cleaning products for more efficient cleaning. Starch – Spray starch is generally used for cotton and linen, while fabric finish or sizing is made for synthetic fabrics. Aerosol starch sprays are made with propane and other unsafe ingredients and can be toxic and unsafe. Our non-aerosol product is made with a natural cornstarch and is designed to be used on cotton, linen, and synthetics. Producing a light-to-medium finish, our Stiffen Up also imparts body to fabrics, increases resistance to soils, and reduces ironing. Surfactants (aka Surface Active Agents) – Materials that change the properties of water by lowering the surface tension, thus enabling the cleaning solution to disperse more quickly and suspend soils while preventing them from settling back on the surface. The surfactants help to dissolve and remove dirt, soils, and stains. Most grocery brands use petroleumderived surfactants, which are harsh on people and the environment. The Laundress uses concentrated blends of biodegradable, plant-based surfactants that are derived from coconut and sugar in order to achieve superior cleaning performance. • Anionic Surfactants – Surfactants in which the hydrophilic (water-loving) portion contains a negatively-charged group. Anionic surfactants are excellent foamers and cleaners. • Nonionic Surfactants – Surfactants in which the hydrophilic portion holds no charge. Nonionic surfactants are excellent grease and soil removers and have good tolerance to electrolytes, which permits improved performance in water by resisting water hardness. Vinegar – An acidic liquid processed from the fermentation of ethanol. White vinegar is often used as a household cleaning agent because it is acidic and can dissolve deposits from smooth surfaces. For most uses, dilution with water is recommended for safety and to avoid damaging the surface being cleaned. Our Scented Vinegar is 100% pure vinegar that is boiled (distilled) to remove the “mother.” We love home cleaning with vinegar, as it is safe and effective for so many uses. We also use it often as an odor remover for fabrics, as it is safe for silk and wool (when we cannot use the Bleach Alternative).
22.
FREE OF Allergens – The Food and Drug Administration recognizes eight major allergenic foods and food groups as defined by the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 that may result in allergic reactions or cause adverse food reactions in individuals who display sensitivities to the items or their derivatives. These allergen groups account for 90 percent of all food allergies and include peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, crustacean shellfish, fish, wheat and its derivatives, and soy and its derivatives. The Laundress products do not intentionally contain or contact any of these known allergens, neither as a raw material nor during the manufacturing process of the product. Ammonia – Ammonia is an alkaline chemical compound used as a household cleaning ingredient. When dissolved in water, the toxicity of ammonia does not usually cause problems. However, ammonia is an irritant and it can negatively affect the skin, eyes, respiratory tract, and digestive tract. Exposure to ammonia can cause a burning sensation in the eyes, nose, and throat, lung pain, headaches, nausea, coughing, and rapid breathing. Ammonia should never be mixed with bleach as the consequences can be lethal. Animal Ingredients – The Laundress products do not contain any ingredients produced by an animal or animal by-products (from slaughtered animals). Therefore our products do not contain tallow, an ingredient derived from animal fat which is widely used in making soap. Tallow is most commonly used in bar soaps and fabric softeners; we use plant-derived ingredients instead. Animal Testing – All Laundress products are tested on Gwen and Lindsey, not on animals. Carcinogens – Carcinogenic materials refer to any substance, radionuclide, or radiation that is an agent directly involved in causing cancer. Carcinogens may increase the risk of cancer by altering cellular metabolism or damaging DNA in cells, which then interferes with biological processes and stimulates the uncontrolled, malignant division of cells resulting in the formation of tumors. The Laundress products do not intentionally contain any carcinogenic materials at a concentration high enough to be considered harmful. Chlorine Bleach – Bleach is a chemical that functions to remove color, whiten, and/or disinfect via the process of oxidation. Liquid chlorine bleach is commonly sold as an approximately 5.25% solution of sodium hypochlorite. As a laundry additive, liquid chlorine bleach removes stains, aids in soil removal, whitens, disinfects, and deodorizes. It cannot be used on certain stains such as rust, nor can it be used on certain fabrics such as silks, woolens, or dyed fabrics—it is not color-safe. It can weaken fibers and cause fabrics to deteriorate over time and can cause yellowing. It can also deactivate enzymes found in laundry detergents or laundry aids and may produce harmful acids or poisonous gases when mixed with cleaning products. The Laundress uses sodium percarbonate as a gentle, color-safe, chlorine-free oxygen bleaching system in its products to whiten and brighten throughout the home. Dyes and Colorants – Dyes and artificial colorants are any substances added to a product to change or alter the natural coloring. Pigments and other color additives are widely used in soaps and detergents for aesthetic effect, or in the case of blue colorant, to produce a bluing action on fabrics. The Laundress products do not contain artificial ingredients; therefore, the appearance may vary slightly from batch to batch. Formaldehyde – Formaldehyde is a chemical compound that can be useful as a disinfectant and antibacterial agent. Exposure to formaldehyde can pose a significant risk to human health and it is known to be a human carcinogen. Children are more sensitive to formaldehyde toxicity than adults, and overexposure to this chemical can result in negative respiratory and nasal symptoms. Formaldehyde is not typically added as a raw material in laundry and household products but can be generated as a by-product from the chemical breakdown of certain preservatives used in the product. The Laundress products do not intentionally contain formaldehyde or any ingredients that release formaldehyde through a chemical reaction. Some grocery brand cleaners (especially glass cleaners) contain formaldehyde.
Gluten – Gluten is a protein in grains, found in everyday foods such as bread and pasta. Though harmless to most individuals, gluten causes intestinal damage to people with celiac disease. The only treatment is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet and the use of gluten-free products. The FDA proposed regulation defining the term “gluten-free” for labeling purposes is currently before the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs for final approval. Under the agency’s proposed regulation, a food may be labeled “gluten-free” if it contains less than 20 parts per million. The Laundress products do not intentionally contain or contact this known allergen, neither as a raw material nor during the manufacturing process of the product. Parabens – Parabens are a group of chemicals that are often used as preservatives in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries due to their low cost and highly efficacious antibacterial and fungicidal properties. Parabens have a long history of safe use; however, some recent research has fueled a belief that parabens may be carcinogens. While no effective direct link has been established between parabens and cancer, there is a growing trend to utilize other preservative systems to avoid this controversy. The Laundress products do not contain parabens. Phosphates – Phosphates are salts that form alkaline solutions in water, assisting in the performance of detergents and soaps to soften hard water, remove scum, and clean more effectively. While phosphate detergents clean very well, they have been linked to environmental concerns which have resulted in the restriction of their use. The use of phosphates in laundry products has been prohibited in the United States since 1993; this ban has now extended to Europe. In addition, several states have restricted the use of phosphates in dishwashing detergents. The Laundress products do not contain phosphates. Phthalates – Most phthalates are additives to plastics which function to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. Some phthalates used in personal care products, particularly as fragrance components, are easily released into the environment because there is no covalent bond between them and the plastics they are mixed in. Phthalates that leach into food or evaporate into the atmosphere can cause adverse health effects, including developmental issues in children. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Consumer Federation of America (CFA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that average (total) human exposures to phthalates used in personal care products is well below the safe levels established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and declared “safe as used.” There are no phthalates in The Laundress products or ingredients. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – SLS is one of the most common anionic surfactants used in the cosmetics and household industries due to its low cost and excellent foaming characteristics. It is commonly found in a wide variety of products including toothpaste, shampoo, and bubble bath due to its exceptional thickening effect and ability to create lather. This ingredient has become a concern to many because it may cause skin and scalp irritation. The Laundress products do not contain SLS surfactants, but rather use the milder form of Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) in combination with other secondary surfactants that couple with SLES to reduce the irritation profile while maintaining high cleaning performance. Perchloroethylene – Also known as "perc," perchloroethylene is the dominant chemical solvent used by most professional dry cleaners because it removes stains and dirt from all common types of fabrics. Perc usually does not cause clothes to shrink, or dyes to bleed—it is not flammable, unlike solvents commonly used to clean clothes in the 1930s and ’40s. Since perc can be reused, it is cost-effective. Perc is a toxic chemical with both human health and environmental concerns. The extent of any health effects depends on both the amount and length of exposure. People exposed to high levels of perc, even for brief periods, may experience serious symptoms including fatigue, confusion, nausea, and skin, lung, eye, and mucous membrane irritation. Repeated exposure at high levels can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and mouth, and can cause liver damage and respiratory failure. The Laundress was created to reduce the need for dry cleaning (and reduce our exposure to perc). The other “green” dry cleaning alternatives have other toxicity issues. Petroleum – A petrochemical is defined as any synthetic compound composed in some part of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum. Conventional cleaning product manufacturers use petroleum to make the solvents and other cleaning agents. Petroleum is much less expensive than the natural plant-derived alternative, and has been known to cause both skin and scalp irritation. Natural cleaning surfactants are made with oils derived from plants; the most commonly used plant oil is coconut oil. The Laundress products do not contain petroleum-derived ingredients. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – VOCs include a variety of carbon-based chemicals that can form vapors at room temperature and may cause short-term and/or long-term adverse health effects. A wide variety of household, cosmetic, and cleaning products contain chemicals that can release organic compounds into the air during use and while in storage. The Laundress products do not intentionally contain organic compounds that may release VOCs into the air at a level that is harmful to human health. 24.
ABOUT THE LAUNDRESS More Clean for Your Money ELIMINATE DRY CLEANING Care for 90% of “dry clean” items with The Laundress, saving hundreds of dollars over time. MORE VALUE PER WASH Compared to both natural and grocery brands, our highly concentrated products use fewer ounces per load and therefore require less packaging, energy, and water. PRESERVE YOUR CLOTHING INVESTMENTS By taking excellent care of your clothes and correcting issues such as stains, fading, or pilling, The Laundress products extend the life of your wardrobe.
Clean & Green NONTOXIC & 100% BIODEGRADABLE The Laundress products contain ingredients that are plant-derived (no animal by-products), and all of our products are free of allergens, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), petroleum, phthalate, phosphates, parabens, and chlorine bleach. HIGHLY EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS Formulated with active ingredients—enzymes, color guard, and bleach alternative—that preserve fabrics and colors while targeting stains. NATURAL COLORS No artificial colors, dyes, or unnecessary additives.
Easy to Use IDEAL FOR EVERY HOME Suited to all machines, washing temperatures, and water systems (HE compatible). GET TIPS We’re passionate about helping our customers get the most out of our products with resources like our "how-to" videos, recipes, and laundry tips. WASH WITH CONFIDENCE Our products are formulated for all fabrics and colors, so there’s never a need to second-guess. 26.
GWEN WHITING
LINDSEY BOYD
Gwen is at the helm of design, product development, and production at The Laundress. When it comes to finding new and innovative ways to improve laundering and home cleaning, she’s not afraid to roll up her beautifully pressed, stain-free sleeves and get her hands dirty.
With her finger on the pulse of the retail industry, Lindsey serves as the resident sales and marketing expert for The Laundress. Over the years, she has forged a range of relationships with diverse sales partners throughout the world. Lindsey brings The Laundress experience to delighted customers near and far.
Constantly after the best of the best, Gwen finds inspiration in unexpected places such as a market in Provence, a bed and breakfast in the English countryside, and a cheese shop in San Francisco.
Before founding The Laundress, Lindsey was the manager of U.S. sales for Chanel Ready-to-Wear, where she managed boutique and large wholesale accounts. Prior to her tenure at Chanel, Lindsey worked in product development and corporate sales for Brooks Brothers.
Prior to founding The Laundress, Gwen worked at Ralph Lauren as a senior designer for the Ralph Lauren Home Collection, a position she held for five years. Previously, she worked in Women’s Wear Design and Polo Store Development, also at Ralph Lauren. In her 20s, Gwen’s passion for fabric and fashion took her all over the globe, from India to Argentina.
MOST TREASURED ITEM FROM WARDROBE Both my grandmothers collected beautiful hankies. I have a special few, including one that features the lost art of handtatting. LAUNDRY PET PEEVE When people spill while at a restaurant and make the stain worse by treating it with water and napkins. The best thing to do (honestly!) is to enjoy a glass of wine and take care of it later. FAVORITE LAUNDRESS PRODUCT My favorite is our Stain Solution. I use it with every wash. When I say it gets everything out, I really mean everything. PROUDEST LAUNDRY VICTORY Every time I remove a tough stain, I experience a little victory! I can’t tell you how many times my friends have called me in the midst of stain crises and I’ve FedExed them a bottle of our Stain Solution. It never fails to save the day.
Creative and entrepreneurial from an early age, Lindsey previously designed and marketed her own line of T-shirts that were sold at stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Henri Bendel.
MOST TREASURED ITEM FROM WARDROBE My first Chanel jacket, bought in 2000—a timeless piece that I still wear, love, and wash. LAUNDRY PET PEEVE Wrinkled clothing! Unless it’s linen, in which case I give anyone a free pass. FAVORITE LAUNDRESS PRODUCT I really love our Delicate Wash, especially for silk dresses, blouses, and scarves. This is my “go to” product for 75% of my wardrobe, allowing me to bypass the dry cleaner. PROUDEST LAUNDRY VICTORY Removing an entire glass of wine from my sofa during a party. My friends watched in amazement as the stain came right out. Some new believers were born that day!
MEET THE FOUNDERS Gwen Whiting and Lindsey Boyd weren’t always international soap mavens, delighting fashionistas, value seekers, and environmentalists from New York to New Delhi. Many laundry cycles ago, they were young fashion enthusiasts, launching careers in one of the world’s best-dressed cities. As Gwen and Lindsey invested in building their wardrobes, they were confronted with the frustration of maintaining them: replacing prematurely worn items and paying painful dry cleaning bills. Gwen and Lindsey’s unique education and work experience helped them spot an opportunity to advance the world of fabric care. The two had met at Cornell University’s Fiber Science, Textile and Apparel Management and Design program and moved on to work in product development and retail management in the luxury-brand business—Gwen at Ralph Lauren and Lindsey at CHANEL. With this specialized knowledge and shared passion, they were positioned to make their mark in the world of fabric, garment, and home care.
Hanging the Cleaners Out to Dry
Thanks to their background in fiber science, they knew that 90% of their items labeled “Dry Clean Only” were actually washable. While their young-adult budgets seemed to be ever-shrinking, the body of information about the toxic hazards of dry cleaning continued to grow. Eliminating the need for dry cleaning became an integral component of their plan to master both the art and science of laundering.
Putting the “Care” in Fabric Care
Sure, Gwen and Lindsey wanted laundry products that would clean their clothes safely and effectively. However, they also wanted products that would care for their clothes. Sick of retiring their graying whites, their pilling sweaters, and their faded swimsuits after just a few wears, they dreamed of a long, beautiful life for their favorite pieces.
Enter The Laundress
Beginning in 2002, the pair spent two years researching and developing the very elixirs they longed for. Their results are the highly effective, toxin-free line of laundry and home cleaning products you find today—online and in stores around the world. Each product is carefully crafted to work its magic on a specific fabric or surface with outstanding results. With “dry cleaning” increasingly becoming a dirty word and everyone looking for ways to get the most out of each dollar, high-quality cleaning and clothing care products have become more and more popular, with The Laundress leading the way. A work of art built on science, The Laundress collection is sophisticated, eco-conscious, and easy to use. Gwen and Lindsey have been “taking the chore out of doing laundry” since 2004. 28.
Laundry List:
Laundry List:
30.
247 West 30th Street New York, New York 10001 Tel: (212) 209-0074 | Fax: (775) 213-7158 sales@thelaundress.com | www.thelaundress.com
This training guide is 100% recyclable.