A review covering the quantities and assortments of detergents, soaps and cleaning agents made in Poland (19962000) and in Western Europe (1994-2000). Polish detergents are traditional, with low percentages of active substances and high of builders. Major eco-hazards are specified: they are greater with traditional detergents than with concentrates and fluid boosters. The criteria to be applied in assigning the Polish eco-label, viz. "EKO-ZNAK" (approved 22 Feb. 2000), to textile washing agents are based on the 1996 Swedish ecological criteria(8)) adapted to Polish conditions. The EKO-ZNAK's criteria are compared with those used in EU. Nonpermissible (hazardous, toxic, etc.) components, maximum allowable contents of P, of inorganics slightly and easily soluble in water, nonbiodegradable organics, etc., critical dilution degree, and minimum packaging weight-perwash are specified. Evaluation of the washing and secondary effects, types of test textiles, reference washing agent, and calculation of agent's washability are described.