Packaging plays a critical role in protecting both the environment and consumers. Designers and engineers at Graphic Packaging International have developed laundry detergent packaging that accomplishes both: a recyclable paperboard carton that protects laundry detergent pods (or other cleaning products) from moisture with a unique child-resistant closure. 

Until recently, U.S. brands and retailers who needed child-resistant packaging for laundry detergent pods had few options beyond plastic. Graphic Packaging, a global leader in sustainable consumer packaging, has addressed this gap. Its CleanClose™ paperboard laundry detergent packaging featuring patent-pending ChildBlock™ is certified for child-resistance according to U.S. 16 CFR 1700.20. This innovative solution reduces plastic and prioritizes child safety, while also delivering significant supply chain efficiencies. 

Developed in collaboration with Radienz Living, one of North America’s leading private label laundry detergent pod manufacturers, CleanClose with ChildBlock is engineered to be intuitive for adults to open, yet difficult for children. An audible “click” lets consumers know it is properly closed.  

“Securing certification under 16 CFR 1700.20 is a milestone for Graphic Packaging, and CleanClose with Child Block is one of the most significant packaging innovations of my career,” said Chuck Tarlton, new business development director at Graphic Packaging.  “Requirements for child resistance pushed our team to explore countless design variables. We had to meet stringent child safety requirements while also delivering cost effectiveness, recyclability, supply chain and manufacturing efficiency, and an outstanding consumer experience. We are excited to work with our partners at Radienz Living to bring this groundbreaking packaging system to consumers.” 

Tom McLenithan, vice president of research and development at Radienz Living, added: “We are deeply focused on delivering products that protect children and support environmental stewardship. We are proud to have partnered with Graphic Packaging in the creation of an innovation that delivers against so many of our goals and on our mission to create customer partnerships for life. This innovation offers customers a packaging solution made from paperboard that provides safety for children by meeting strict child resistance requirements. At the same time, it delivers reliability, efficiency, and cost optimization across the supply chain.”   

The highly customizable CleanClose pack holds up to 160 laundry detergent pods. Delivered flat for filling, the solution improves warehouse and transport efficiency. The number of filled packs per pallet is at least 10% higher than for plastic pouches, and the pack has been designed to withstand 400 pounds of top-load compression, enabling self-palletization and supporting club store supply chains. 

Made from paperboard with 50% recycled fiber content, CleanClose is recyclable in curbside paper waste streams and is prequalified as “Widely Recyclable” under the How2Recycle program.¹ 

CleanClose with ChildBlock demonstrates Graphic Packaging’s commitment to creating paperboard packaging solutions that are more circular, more functional, and more convenient than the plastic packaging they replace. 

¹ This package has been pre-qualified as Widely Recyclable by How2Recycle. The assigned label for on-pack usage may change due to product application, attachments, or other factors.