Phosphates are builders that help to boost the effectiveness of laundry detergents. Builders do this by neutralizing dissolved minerals in water, clearing the way for soap and detergent to do their jobs. A phosphate was the first builder introduced in the mid-20th century.

 

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Today, many manufacturers have reduced or eliminated the amount of phosphates in detergent products due to the environmental concerns of citizens and government regulators. Phosphates act as nutrients in lakes and streams, causing excessive plant growth and decay that decreases oxygen and kills fish.

To reduce this damage to the natural environment, other builders for mineral deactivation have been introduced. Product labeling contains information about ingredients, including phosphates. Experts consider products with a phosphate content of 0.5 percent or less to be environmentally benign.