The Global Low-Foaming Detergent Market was valued at USD 2.34 Billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 3.89 Billion by 2029, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5% during the forecast period (2023–2029). This growth is fueled by rising demand for efficient cleaning solutions in industrial applications, increasing consumer preference for eco-friendly household products, and the push for low-water usage detergents amid water scarcity concerns in various regions.

As industries and households alike shift toward more sustainable and performance-oriented cleaning technologies, the focus turns to the innovators in low-foaming detergents that minimize waste, enhance machine efficiency, and reduce environmental impact. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Low-Foaming Detergent Industry—a blend of specialty chemical giants, surfactants experts, and formulation pioneers who are redefining clean across global sectors from textiles to food processing.

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🔟 10. Croda International Plc

Headquarters: East Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Specialty surfactants, bio-based low-foam detergents, and custom formulations

Croda International stands as a global leader in specialty chemicals, with a strong emphasis on sustainable surfactants that power low-foaming detergents. Their products are widely used in industrial cleaning, laundry, and personal care applications, ensuring minimal foam for high-efficiency washing machines and automated systems. Croda’s commitment to innovation has led them to develop plant-derived alternatives that meet stringent environmental standards while maintaining superior cleaning performance. This approach not only caters to the growing industrial demand but also aligns with global sustainability goals, making their solutions popular among manufacturers seeking greener options.

Furthermore, Croda’s R&D facilities across Europe and North America focus on optimizing foam control to enhance energy efficiency in cleaning processes. By reducing foam overflow and improving rinse cycles, their detergents help lower water and energy consumption, which is crucial in water-stressed areas. Their portfolio includes non-ionic surfactants that are biodegradable and free from harmful phosphates, addressing regulatory pressures in the EU and North America.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• 100% renewable raw materials targeted by 2030 for key product lines
• Partnerships with appliance manufacturers to test low-foam compatibility
• Investment in circular economy projects for detergent recycling

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9️⃣ 9. AkzoNobel N.V.

Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Key Offering: Surfactant blends, low-foam industrial cleaners, and eco-friendly detergent additives

AkzoNobel, a powerhouse in chemicals and coatings, excels in the low-foaming detergent segment through its surface chemistry division. Their offerings are tailored for demanding applications like metal cleaning, food and beverage processing, and textile washing, where excessive foam can disrupt operations. With a focus on multifunctional surfactants, AkzoNobel ensures that their products provide effective soil removal without compromising on safety or efficacy. The company’s global supply chain supports consistent quality, serving clients from automotive to hospitality industries.

In recent years, AkzoNobel has ramped up efforts to integrate bio-based ingredients into their low-foam formulations, responding to the rising call for sustainable alternatives. This innovation not only reduces the carbon footprint but also enhances product stability in hard water conditions, a common challenge in many markets. Their expertise in polymer chemistry allows for customized solutions that prevent redeposition of dirt, ensuring cleaner results with less product usage.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Development of phosphate-free low-foam detergents for environmental compliance
• Collaboration with NGOs on water conservation projects
• Goal to achieve carbon neutrality in production by 2050

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8️⃣ 8. Kao Corporation

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Household low-foam laundry detergents, fabric care solutions, and institutional cleaners

Kao Corporation brings decades of experience in consumer and industrial hygiene to the low-foaming detergent market. Renowned for brands like Attack and Biore, they produce detergents that generate minimal foam to suit modern front-loading washers, promoting energy savings and faster cycles. In the institutional space, their products are used in hotels and hospitals, where efficiency and hygiene are paramount. Kao’s emphasis on mild, skin-friendly formulations makes their low-foam options ideal for sensitive applications.

The company’s research into enzyme-enhanced low-foam detergents has revolutionized cleaning at low temperatures, reducing energy use by up to 30% compared to traditional high-foam products. This is particularly beneficial in Asia’s humid climates, where mold and stains are prevalent. Kao also invests in packaging innovations to minimize plastic waste, aligning with consumer demands for responsible products.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Biodegradable surfactants in 90% of detergent portfolio
• Programs to educate consumers on efficient washing practices
• Expansion of recycling initiatives in key Asian markets

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7️⃣ 7. Solvay S.A.

Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
Key Offering: Specialty surfactants, anti-foam agents, and industrial low-foam cleaning systems

Solvay is a key player in the chemical industry, providing advanced low-foaming detergent solutions for sectors like agriculture, oil and gas, and pulp and paper. Their Rhodafac and Geropon lines offer robust foam control, enabling efficient cleaning in high-throughput environments. Solvay’s global presence ensures rapid delivery and technical support, helping clients optimize their cleaning processes.

Because of their focus on green chemistry, Solvay has developed non-ionic surfactants derived from renewable sources, which break down quickly in wastewater systems without harming aquatic life. This innovation addresses the challenges of regulatory compliance in Europe, where effluent standards are strict. Additionally, their R&D emphasizes multifunctional additives that combine cleaning with antimicrobial properties, extending product life in disinfection applications.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Renewable feedstock usage increased to 25% in 2023
• Partnerships with water treatment facilities for eco-testing
• Commitment to zero-waste manufacturing sites

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Low-Foaming Detergent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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6️⃣ 6. Galaxy Surfactants Ltd.

Headquarters: Navi Mumbai, India
Key Offering: Surfactant intermediates, low-foam personal care and household detergents

Galaxy Surfactants has emerged as a vital contributor to the low-foaming detergent market, particularly in emerging economies. Their product range supports the formulation of concentrated, low-foam cleaners that perform well in varying water hardness levels common in India and Southeast Asia. With manufacturing facilities optimized for scalability, Galaxy supplies to both local and international brands, focusing on cost-effective yet high-performance solutions.

However, what sets Galaxy apart is their dedication to sustainable sourcing; they utilize palm oil alternatives and coconut-derived surfactants to avoid deforestation-linked supply chains. This not only lowers foam for efficient rinsing but also ensures the products are gentle on fabrics and skin. Their technical services team assists in customizing blends for specific applications, like laundry pods that dissolve quickly without residue.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• RSPO-certified sustainable palm oil usage
• Investment in water-efficient production processes
• Community programs for hygiene education in rural areas

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5️⃣ 5. Clariant AG

Headquarters: Basel, Switzerland
Key Offering: Foam control agents, eco-sustainable low-foam detergents, and textile auxiliaries

Clariant AG leverages its expertise in specialty chemicals to deliver cutting-edge low-foaming detergents for the textile and leather industries. Their Hostapon and Emulan series provide precise foam management, preventing issues in dyeing and finishing processes. Operating in over 50 countries, Clariant ensures their solutions meet diverse regulatory landscapes, from REACH in Europe to EPA standards in the US.

Furthermore, Clariant’s innovation pipeline includes bio-degradable polymers that enhance low-foam stability, allowing for longer shelf life and reduced packaging needs. In an era of circular economy, their products support closed-loop cleaning systems, where water is reused after treatment. This efficiency is particularly valued in water-intensive industries like food processing.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Climate-neutral production goal by 2030
• Development of allergen-free low-foam formulations
• Collaborations with industry associations for standard setting

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4️⃣ 4. BASF SE

Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Germany
Key Offering: Lutensol surfactants, low-foam industrial and consumer detergents

BASF SE, the world’s largest chemical producer, dominates the low-foaming detergent market with its comprehensive range of non-ionic and amphoteric surfactants. Used in everything from dishwashing to car care, BASF’s products excel in high-shear environments where foam control is essential. Their global R&D network drives continuous improvements, ensuring compatibility with the latest cleaning technologies.

The company’s push toward sustainability is evident in their Glucopon line of alkyl polyglucosides, which are plant-based and fully biodegradable, offering low foam without sacrificing cleaning power. This is crucial for meeting consumer demands in North America and Europe for “green” labels. BASF also explores nanotechnology to enhance dirt-repelling properties in low-foam fabrics.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• 50% bio-based products by 2030
• Water stewardship programs in manufacturing
• Life-cycle assessments for all detergent ingredients

Download FREE Sample Report:
Low-Foaming Detergent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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3️⃣ 3. Evonik Industries AG

Headquarters: Essen, Germany
Key Offering: Tego antifoams, specialty low-foam surfactants for personal and industrial care

Evonik Industries is renowned for its advanced materials, including low-foaming detergents that target niche markets like cosmetics and agriculture. Their Rewopal and Tegopren products provide exceptional foam suppression in spray applications, ideal for crop protection and surface cleaners. With a strong presence in Asia and Europe, Evonik tailors solutions to local needs, such as high-humidity performance.

Evonik’s dedication to safety and efficacy shines through in their silicone-based anti-foams, which are non-toxic and effective at low concentrations, minimizing environmental release. They also invest in AI-driven formulation to predict foam behavior, speeding up product development. This technological edge helps clients reduce operational costs in large-scale cleaning operations.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Silicone recycling initiatives to close material loops
• Bio-compatible surfactants for marine applications
• Reduction of VOC emissions in production

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2️⃣ 2. Stepan Company

Headquarters: Northfield, Illinois, USA
Key Offering: BioSoft surfactant series, low-foam laundry and hard surface cleaners

Stepan Company specializes in sulfonated surfactants that form the backbone of many low-foaming detergents in North America. Their products are staples in commercial laundries and janitorial services, offering robust cleaning with controlled foaming to prevent machine backups. Stepan’s focus on scalability allows them to serve both small brands and global corporations effectively.

In response to market trends, Stepan has expanded into methyl ester sulfonates from vegetable oils, providing a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based options. These low-foam detergents perform well in cold water, supporting energy conservation efforts. Their quality control measures ensure consistency, which is vital for formulators relying on reliable supply.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Vegetable oil-based surfactants exceeding 40% of portfolio
• Energy-efficient manufacturing upgrades
• Support for industry-wide biodegradability standards

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1️⃣ 1. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.

Headquarters: Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA
Key Offering: Specialty gases and surfactants, low-foam cleaning agents for electronics and pharma

Air Products and Chemicals leads the low-foaming detergent market with innovative solutions for high-tech industries like semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. Their Tomadol and Chemax lines deliver ultra-low foam for precision cleaning, where even minimal residue can cause failures. As a pioneer in industrial gases, they integrate oxygen-based enhancements to boost cleaning efficacy without added foam.

Their sustainability ethos is embedded in water-soluble polymers that enable recyclable cleaning systems, reducing wastewater volume. Air Products’ global infrastructure supports just-in-time delivery, minimizing storage needs. Their R&D in Asia focuses on adapting products for tropical climates, ensuring stable performance year-round.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Hydrogen-powered production facilities
• Zero-discharge water systems in key plants
• Partnerships for carbon capture in chemical synthesis

Read Full Report:
Low-Foaming Detergent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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🌍 Outlook: The Future of Low-Foaming Detergents Is Greener and More Efficient

The low-foaming detergent market is experiencing rapid evolution. While traditional high-foam products persist in some regions, investments are pouring into eco-compatible formulations, advanced surfactants, and smart delivery systems that promise lower resource use and higher performance.

To delve deeper into the USA market, it was estimated at USD 750 Million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 1.2 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2023 to 2030. In China, the market is projected to grow from USD 450 Million in 2023 to USD 850 Million by 2030, with a CAGR of 9.2%. Europe follows suit, increasing from USD 600 Million in 2023 to USD 1.0 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.5%.

This report provides a comprehensive view, including revenue forecasts from 2018-2029 and sales in kilotons, with the top five companies holding approximately 45% market share in 2022. Key segments by type—non-ionic (leading with 55% share), amphoteric, and cationic—show strong growth, especially non-ionic reaching USD 2.1 Billion by 2029 at 8% CAGR. Applications span departmental stores, hypermarkets, superstores, pharmacies, and online sales, with online surging due to e-commerce.

Regionally, North America dominates with advanced adoption, while Asia-Pacific leads in volume due to industrialization. Competitor analysis highlights revenues and shares, with profiles underscoring recent mergers like BASF’s acquisitions for bio-surfacants.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

• Expansion of bio-based low-foam products in Europe and Asia
• Regulatory mandates for reduced phosphates and azo dyes by 2030
• Digital tools for customized detergent formulations
• Strategic alliances between chemical firms and appliance makers

Read Full Report:
Low-Foaming Detergent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies profiled are not only powering efficient cleaning—they’re leading the sustainable transformation of the detergents industry, ensuring a cleaner future with every wash.

Chapters in detailed reports cover market overviews, competitive landscapes, segment analyses by type and application, regional breakdowns, key player profiles, capacity assessments, dynamics, supply chains, and conclusions—equipping stakeholders with actionable insights for growth.