The EU has agreed new detergent rules that will reshape compliance requirements for brands, manufacturers and distributors selling into the European market.
The European Union has reached a provisional agreement to update its detergents and surfactants regulation. These changes are designed to make everyday cleaning products safer for people and the environment, while reducing duplication in existing rules.
The updated regulation will affect manufacturers, distributors and brands placing detergent products on the EU market. Here’s an outline of the key compliance changes and how they could impact your business:
What has changed in the EU detergents regulation?
The EU’s latest agreement updates existing regulations on detergents and surfactants with a series of new obligations that reflect scientific, environmental and market developments. Significant changes include:
Microbial cleaning products
The EU’s detergents and surfactants rules now cover microbial cleaning products and detergents containing microorganisms, which were previously outside the legislation. Safety checks will ensure these microorganisms are not pathogenic.
Biodegradability requirements
The European Commission will set stricter standards for the biodegradability of water-soluble films used in detergent capsules. It may also extend biodegradability criteria to other organic ingredients present in significant concentrations. This change could result in reformulation work for many products in the coming years.
Refill and bulk sales
The updated EU detergent regulation recognises bulk detergent sales and refill formats, reflecting changes in consumer behaviour. Refill stations must provide essential product information at the point of refill, even where digital labelling is used.
Detergent labelling and product information
Mandatory labelling will expand to include fragrance allergens and preservatives. Digital labelling is permitted.
The regulation replaces the EU declaration of conformity with a new ‘product passport’, making safety information easier to access for authorities, consumers and poison centres.
Market compliance for non-EU manufacturers
Detergents and surfactants manufacturers outside the EU will be required to appoint an authorised representative within the European Union. This representative will support compliance and act as a point of contact for regulators.
Animal testing ban
The agreement reaffirms the ban on detergents developed using animal testing. Only non-animal testing methods validated at EU level are permitted. Very limited exemptions may be granted by the Commission, but only where ingredients are essential, irreplaceable and scientifically justified.
What about phosphorus?
Phosphorus has long been restricted in detergents due to its impact on water quality. Under the revised regulation, the Commission will assess whether levels can be reduced further.
The assessment will consider both environmental benefits and the risk that lower phosphorus content could reduce cleaning effectiveness, leading to higher detergent use or hotter wash cycles.
How will regulatory changes affect detergent brands, manufacturers and distributors?
All businesses will need to ensure that product passports, labelling (digital and physical) and biodegradability requirements are in place to meet the EU’s agreed update to detergent regulations.
The regulation introduces further responsibilities depending on your role in the supply chain:
- Manufacturers in the EU must review formulations for biodegradability compliance, prepare updated documentation, and implement new labelling.
- Distributors and importers of non-EU products must confirm that an EU authorised representative has been appointed, and verify that all compliance documentation is ready before products are placed on the market.
- Brands selling under their own name carry overall responsibility for compliance, even if production is outsourced. They must be confident that their supply chains are meeting the new standards.
What’s next in the legislative process?
The agreement reached by the Council and Parliament is provisional. It must now be formally adopted by both institutions. Once adopted, transitional periods will be set before the new rules take effect.
However, detergent manufacturers, distributors and brands should not wait for deadlines to consider how the new detergent legislation will impact your business. Reviewing formulations, updating documentation and confirming authorised representative arrangements now will put your businesses in a stronger position when the new rules come into force.
How Hooley Brown can support detergent compliance
Hooley Brown can help detergent manufacturers, distributors and brands ensure your cleaning products are compliant and export-ready across international markets, including the European Union.
For example, we can serve as your designated EU Authorised Representative, managing regulatory obligations and acting as your official contact for European authorities.
Our compliance specialists can also:
- Develop and maintain your detergent technical documentation
- Conduct chemical risk and biodegradability assessments
- Ensure all mandatory labelling requirements are met, including digital and refill provisions
- Provide guidance on intersecting regulations, such as REACH and CLP
Book a free discovery call with our experts to ensure compliance with new EU detergent rules.
This blog provides general information on the revised EU Detergents and Surfactants Regulation, based on information published by the European Council in June 2025. For advice specific to your products, contact hello@hooleybrown.com.
Regulations can change. Always verify current requirements and seek professional advice for your business.
