Welcome to the Detergents Home Page
This page provides guidance and information on the UK implementation of Regulation European Community (EC) No 648/2004, which came into force on 8 October 2005.
Regulation 648/2004 on Detergents
As a Regulation (as opposed to a Directive) 648/2004 is “directly applicable” and applies throughout the European Union on its own, without the further need for domestic United Kingdom (UK) legislation.
However, domestic legislation will be made setting out the process for handling derogation applications and to provide for enforcement measures - including criminal penalties for breach of Regulation 648/2004.
The Detergents Regulations 2005 have been introduced setting out measures to enforce Regulation 648/2004. They came into force on 8 October 2005.
Purpose and scope of the regulation
Regulations setting out the procedure for handling derogation applications will be introduced in 2010.
Detergents Latest News Highlight
Defra consultation on detergents October 2009
27 October 2009: Defra is consulting on an update to the 2005 Detergent Regulations. This update will include changes to derogation application procedures and the implementation of a ban on inorganic phosphates in domestic laundry cleaning products (DLCPs).
Regulation 648/2004: Procedures for Handling Derogation Applications
27 April 2006: A summary of responses to the consultation on the Government's proposals for the handling of derogation applications under articles 5 and 6 of Regulation (EC) NO 648/2004 on detergents is now available.
Detergents Guidance Document
12 July 2005: This document provides guidance on Regulation (EC) No 648/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on detergents, which comes into force on 8 October 2005.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 October 2005: Can't find the information you need. Read our Frequently Asked Questions on the new detergents regulations.