CAS#: 151-21-3
CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) numbers are unique identifiers assigned to every chemical substance, ensuring accurate identification across the industry.
What is it?
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is an anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. As one of the most widely used and thoroughly studied surfactants in the cleaning industry, SLS has been employed in household and personal care products for decades due to its exceptional cleaning power and foaming properties.
What does it do?
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate functions as a powerful primary surfactant that excels at removing oils, greases, and protein-based soils—making it particularly effective for athletic wear and performance fabrics. SLS is known for its excellent foaming abilities, which contributes significantly to its cleaning performance. The rich foam helps mechanically lift and remove dirt particles, including both oily residues (like body oils and deodorant) and particulate matter (like dust and soil). SLS is versatile and works effectively in both soft and hard water conditions, maintaining consistent cleaning power regardless of water mineral content.
How is it made?
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is produced through a process called sulfation. Lauryl alcohol (derived from coconut or palm kernel oil) is reacted with sulfur trioxide to create lauryl sulfate, which is then neutralized with sodium hydroxide to produce sodium lauryl sulfate. Modern production methods ensure a high-purity surfactant that is both effective and suitable for use in formulations designed for sensitive applications.
Ingredient Safety Profile
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognized as a safe ingredient by leading environmental and health organizations:
- EPA Safer Choice Approved Ingredient: SLS meets EPA's criteria for safer chemical ingredients when used in appropriate formulations
- Recognized by EWG: SLS is acknowledged by the Environmental Working Group's safer ingredient standards
- Extensively Studied: One of the most researched surfactants with decades of safety data
- Biodegradable: Breaks down readily in the environment
- Effective Against Athletic Wear Soils: Specifically selected for its superior ability to remove body oils, sweat, and deodorant residues from performance fabrics
- Works in All Water Conditions: Maintains cleaning power in both hard and soft water
Important Note: While Sodium Lauryl Sulfate itself is recognized as a safe ingredient by EPA Safer Choice and EWG standards, Heritage Park Activewear Laundry Detergent is not yet EPA Safer Choice Certified or EWG VERIFIED as a complete product formulation.
What product is this ingredient in?
* Not yet EPA Safer Choice Certified or EWG VERIFIED