The new detergent regulation adopted by the European Union marks an important turning point for the entire cleaning products sector. With the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2026/405, the European legislator replaces the historic framework set by Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004, which has been in place for more than twenty years.
This reform comes in a context of rapid market evolution, characterised by innovative formulations, diversified product formats, and growing expectations regarding sustainability and transparency. The objective is clear: to modernise the regulatory framework while strengthening consumer and environmental protection. The new rules will apply from 23 September 2029, allowing stakeholders time to adapt strategically.
A Modernised Framework Aligned with Market Developments
Since 2004, the detergent market has undergone major changes. At the time, the regulation primarily aimed to ensure the free movement of products within the EU, while setting rules on surfactant biodegradability and labelling. Although these objectives remain valid, they are no longer sufficient to cover the complexity of today’s products.
The new detergent regulation acknowledges these transformations. It incorporates technological innovations, such as products containing micro-organisms, as well as new distribution models like refill systems. It also responds to the growing digitalisation of product information by introducing tools adapted to current practices.
Expanded Scope of Application
One of the most significant developments in the new regulation is the broadening of its scope. While the 2004 framework mainly targeted mixtures containing surfactants intended for cleaning, the new definition better reflects today’s market reality.
The updated text explicitly covers innovative products—those containing micro-organisms, those that contribute to cleaning efficiency without being detergents in the traditional sense, and products intended to modify the smell of treated surfaces. Even specific applications, such as washing fruits and vegetables, are now regulated.
This expansion ensures greater regulatory coherence and reduces grey areas that previously existed.
Strengthened Environmental Requirements
Environmental protection remains central to the new regulation, but with a broader approach. While biodegradability requirements for surfactants are maintained, the legislator goes further by enabling similar criteria for other components.
This includes water-soluble polymer films used in certain capsules, as well as other organic or polymeric ingredients found in formulations. This evolution reflects increasing concerns about the persistence of certain substances in the environment and their long-term impact.
The regulation therefore embraces a more comprehensive view of the environmental footprint of detergents.
Integration of Micro-organism-Based Products
Among the most notable innovations is the introduction of a specific framework for products containing micro-organisms. These solutions, increasingly used in professional applications, had until now been insufficiently regulated.
The new text sets clear requirements to ensure their safety. The micro-organisms used must not be genetically modified (GMOs), must not be pathogenic, and must demonstrate antibiotic sensitivity. A minimum shelf life is also required.
Beyond these criteria, a mandatory risk assessment will apply, following methodologies to be established by the European Commission. This marks the emergence of a new regulatory area that will continue to develop in the coming years.
Clarified Responsibilities for Economic Operators
The new detergent regulation also clarifies the roles and duties of economic operators. Whereas the previous framework mainly focused on manufacturers, the new text takes a broader approach to the supply chain.
Manufacturers remain responsible for product compliance, technical documentation, and establishing the product passport. Importers must verify compliance of products placed on the EU market and ensure their contact details appear on the label. Distributors now have an explicit obligation to perform checks before making products available.
These responsibilities come with strengthened requirements for traceability and information retention, notably for a period of ten years. Additionally, products sold online must have an EU-based responsible economic operator to facilitate market surveillance activities.
The Role of the Authorised Representative
The regulation also introduces the concept of an authorised representative, who may be appointed by a manufacturer, particularly if established outside the EU.
This representative acts as an intermediary between the manufacturer and EU authorities. They may be tasked with holding technical documentation, responding to authority requests, and assisting with corrective actions where necessary.
However, it is essential to note that appointing an authorised representative does not transfer responsibility for compliance, which remains with the manufacturer. Moreover, manufacturers are not currently exempt from the requirement to have an address in the EU.
Increased Digitalisation of Product Information
The new detergent regulation fully embraces digital transformation by introducing innovative tools for product information management. Among them, the Digital Product Passport (DPP) represents a major advancement.
This passport centralises essential product information—composition, identification, and regulatory compliance. Accessible through a unique identifier, often via QR code, it aims to improve transparency and traceability across the product lifecycle.
The regulation also allows digital labelling to complement physical labelling. Certain information must remain on the packaging, particularly safety and identification details according to the CLP Regulation. Other information may be provided digitally, lightening physical labels while offering greater detail.
A Driver for More Sustainable Models
Beyond technical requirements, the new regulation promotes the transition toward more sustainable consumption models. It provides a supportive framework for the development of refill systems, which can significantly reduce packaging waste and plastic consumption.
This approach aligns with circular economy principles and broader EU environmental policies.
Preparing for the Next Steps
The new detergent regulation brings profound changes, with concrete implications for all industry stakeholders. With an expanded scope, new environmental requirements, increased digitalisation, and clearer responsibilities, companies will need to adapt their practices.
A transition period is planned to support this adaptation. Products placed on the market before 23 September 2029 may continue to be sold without time limits, while those still in the supply chain benefit from an additional year.
In this context, it is essential for companies to anticipate the regulation’s impacts now, ensuring compliance and leveraging the opportunities presented by this new framework.
The new detergent regulation adopted by the European Union marks an important turning point for the entire cleaning products sector. With the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2026/405, the European legislator replaces the historic framework set by Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004, which has been in place for more than twenty years.
This reform comes in a context of rapid market evolution, characterised by innovative formulations, diversified product formats, and growing expectations regarding sustainability and transparency. The objective is clear: to modernise the regulatory framework while strengthening consumer and environmental protection. The new rules will apply from 23 September 2029, allowing stakeholders time to adapt strategically.
A Modernised Framework Aligned with Market Developments
Since 2004, the detergent market has undergone major changes. At the time, the regulation primarily aimed to ensure the free movement of products within the EU, while setting rules on surfactant biodegradability and labelling. Although these objectives remain valid, they are no longer sufficient to cover the complexity of today’s products.
The new detergent regulation acknowledges these transformations. It incorporates technological innovations, such as products containing micro-organisms, as well as new distribution models like refill systems. It also responds to the growing digitalisation of product information by introducing tools adapted to current practices.
Expanded Scope of Application
One of the most significant developments in the new regulation is the broadening of its scope. While the 2004 framework mainly targeted mixtures containing surfactants intended for cleaning, the new definition better reflects today’s market reality.
The updated text explicitly covers innovative products—those containing micro-organisms, those that contribute to cleaning efficiency without being detergents in the traditional sense, and products intended to modify the smell of treated surfaces. Even specific applications, such as washing fruits and vegetables, are now regulated.
This expansion ensures greater regulatory coherence and reduces grey areas that previously existed.
Strengthened Environmental Requirements
Environmental protection remains central to the new regulation, but with a broader approach. While biodegradability requirements for surfactants are maintained, the legislator goes further by enabling similar criteria for other components.
This includes water-soluble polymer films used in certain capsules, as well as other organic or polymeric ingredients found in formulations. This evolution reflects increasing concerns about the persistence of certain substances in the environment and their long-term impact.
The regulation therefore embraces a more comprehensive view of the environmental footprint of detergents.
Integration of Micro-organism-Based Products
Among the most notable innovations is the introduction of a specific framework for products containing micro-organisms. These solutions, increasingly used in professional applications, had until now been insufficiently regulated.
The new text sets clear requirements to ensure their safety. The micro-organisms used must not be genetically modified (GMOs), must not be pathogenic, and must demonstrate antibiotic sensitivity. A minimum shelf life is also required.
Beyond these criteria, a mandatory risk assessment will apply, following methodologies to be established by the European Commission. This marks the emergence of a new regulatory area that will continue to develop in the coming years.
Clarified Responsibilities for Economic Operators
The new detergent regulation also clarifies the roles and duties of economic operators. Whereas the previous framework mainly focused on manufacturers, the new text takes a broader approach to the supply chain.
Manufacturers remain responsible for product compliance, technical documentation, and establishing the product passport. Importers must verify compliance of products placed on the EU market and ensure their contact details appear on the label. Distributors now have an explicit obligation to perform checks before making products available.
These responsibilities come with strengthened requirements for traceability and information retention, notably for a period of ten years. Additionally, products sold online must have an EU-based responsible economic operator to facilitate market surveillance activities.
The Role of the Authorised Representative
The regulation also introduces the concept of an authorised representative, who may be appointed by a manufacturer, particularly if established outside the EU.
This representative acts as an intermediary between the manufacturer and EU authorities. They may be tasked with holding technical documentation, responding to authority requests, and assisting with corrective actions where necessary.
However, it is essential to note that appointing an authorised representative does not transfer responsibility for compliance, which remains with the manufacturer. Moreover, manufacturers are not currently exempt from the requirement to have an address in the EU.
Increased Digitalisation of Product Information
The new detergent regulation fully embraces digital transformation by introducing innovative tools for product information management. Among them, the Digital Product Passport (DPP) represents a major advancement.
This passport centralises essential product information—composition, identification, and regulatory compliance. Accessible through a unique identifier, often via QR code, it aims to improve transparency and traceability across the product lifecycle.
The regulation also allows digital labelling to complement physical labelling. Certain information must remain on the packaging, particularly safety and identification details according to the CLP Regulation. Other information may be provided digitally, lightening physical labels while offering greater detail.
A Driver for More Sustainable Models
Beyond technical requirements, the new regulation promotes the transition toward more sustainable consumption models. It provides a supportive framework for the development of refill systems, which can significantly reduce packaging waste and plastic consumption.
This approach aligns with circular economy principles and broader EU environmental policies.
Preparing for the Next Steps
The new detergent regulation brings profound changes, with concrete implications for all industry stakeholders. With an expanded scope, new environmental requirements, increased digitalisation, and clearer responsibilities, companies will need to adapt their practices.
A transition period is planned to support this adaptation. Products placed on the market before 23 September 2029 may continue to be sold without time limits, while those still in the supply chain benefit from an additional year.
In this context, it is essential for companies to anticipate the regulation’s impacts now, ensuring compliance and leveraging the opportunities presented by this new framework.
