This content was originally published on OldHouseOnline.com and has been republished here as part of a merger between our two businesses. All copy is presented here as it originally appeared there.
For most people, laundry detergent shopping involves reaching the aisle, being bombarded by a huge number of brands, getting overwhelmed by the variety, and finally purchasing the brand that they have been using for years. A large part of the population is loyal to the brand that their parents used, and they do not want to go through the hassle of having to review the latest products and make a decision. Well, we’re here to tell you that it may be time to rethink your decision and give other brands a chance.
In today’s day and age, even a single brand provides several types of laundry detergents, all of which claim to have different formulas that target different purposes. Some are available in powder form, while others come in liquid bottles or capsules. Some are designed to remove tough stains, while others claim to keep your clothes soft. Also, a few brands are now providing hypoallergenic detergents that are designed specifically for sensitive skin. Another cause of concern is how environmentally friendly the detergent is, which can be a deal breaker for some individuals.
We have shortlisted the leading laundry detergents to make deciding a little bit simpler for you.
Laundry Detergent: A Buyer’s Guide
The Different Types of Laundry Detergents
It is important to keep your specific needs in mind before you’re able to decide on the type of laundry detergent that will be suitable for you. Here, we have mentioned the features and the pros and cons of each type of detergent, so you can make an informed decision.
Powder
Laundry detergents are most commonly found in powder form and are a popular choice among many consumers because they tend to be more affordable. You can find powder detergents in different quantity packets, so you can choose one depending on your laundry load. When buying a powder, make sure it comes with a scoop that allows you to measure a specific amount.
The packaging should come with specific instructions that guide you about the amount to use because each detergent is different in terms of concentration. If you add too little, the powder may not clean effectively, which means you will probably need to rewash your clothes. Adding too much can cause overflows in the machine and also lead to wastage. Another drawback of powder is that the small molecules can stick to the insides of your machine’s drawer, so you will need to clean it regularly.
Liquid
Liquid laundry detergents are becoming more and more popular because they can be convenient, especially for high-efficiency machines. They are a good option for washing both white and bright-colored clothing because most of them are free from bleaching agents.
Also, liquid detergents provide the most gentle wash when compared to powders and capsules.
They will keep your clothes, including delicate ones, in good shape for longer. They won’t stick to the insides of your machine drawer, unlike powders.
But, the major drawback to liquid detergents is that they tend to be more expensive than powders. Just keep in mind that stain removal properties vary widely between brands, so you will need to try different brands before finding an appropriate one.
Capsules
Capsules – or detergent pods – are relatively new to the laundry detergent market. The concept is to provide a specific amount of detergent in each capsule so you don’t have to go through the hassle of having to measure it each time. They mostly consist of liquids and are effective for washing both whites and colors. Even though they tend to be expensive, you can be sure that you won’t be wasting any product. You should keep in mind, though, that this means you won’t have any flexibility in terms of adding or reducing the amount of detergent to your machine.
Essential Ingredients To Look For in Laundry Detergents
A lot of people recommend looking at the ingredients list before you purchase laundry detergent. But, before you do that, you should know what those ingredients exactly are so you can decide whether you would prefer having them in your detergent or not. We have shortlisted a few ingredients that we believe every laundry detergent should come with.
Enzymes
Enzymes are absolutely essential for stain removal. If your clothes often get stained by things like ketchup, tea, milk, grass, dirt, or blood, make sure that the detergent you purchase comes with enzymes. Just like they are needed to break down materials in our bodies, they are also needed to break down stains. They can be a bit irritating on sensitive skin, however, so make sure you purchase one that consists of gentle enzymes.
Surfactants
Surfactants are added to detergents to allow water to penetrate into the fabric easily. They do this by lowering the surface tension of water, which, in turn, can help get rid of items like oil and grease.
Builders
Builders are essential if you have hard water in your area – this type of water can make it difficult to remove stains. Builders are designed to raise the alkalinity of the water so it can penetrate clothing easily. In a way, builders are included to help surfactants work better.
Brighteners
Brighteners are included in detergents to maintain the color of your clothes. They are a good option for whites and bright colors that can get faded easily. Just keep in mind that their purpose has to do with the appearance of clothes and they won’t actually remove dirt. Brighteners are not essential per se, because they can irritate people with sensitive skin.
Getting Rid of Tough Stains
When your clothes are filled with tough stains, doing laundry can seem like the most difficult chore. There are a lot of stains that can be extremely stubborn, including ketchup, tea, oil, grease, and sweat. For activewear, we recommend using detergents that are designed specifically for washing gym clothing because they can more effectively get rid of sweat stains and odor. For other stains, you can use a regular detergent, but you may want to follow a few tips that can help remove them better.
Sometimes, increasing the temperature of the water can do wonders. High temperatures can help break down oil and other stains, making it easier for the machine to get rid of them. Just make sure that you check the care label and do not raise the temperature above the recommended amount.
You can also try adding more detergent than normal. This can wash clothes better, especially when washing large loads. Do not add too much detergent though, as you will just be wasting your money. There is a limit to increasing the amount of detergent, after which you will see no improvement.
If none of these tips are working, try spot-treating and pre-soaking your clothes. Rub a small amount of detergent on the stains and soak the piece of clothing in water for about 30 minutes before throwing it in the washer.
Comparing the Most Sought-After Laundry Detergents
Tide Laundry Detergent
– Best Overall
Tide’s Ultra Oxi Laundry Detergent is an unscented and concentrated laundry detergent that comes in liquid form, or a bag of 26 pods. The 92-ounce bottle provides approximately 59 loads, and the cap has dosing directions that allow you to measure the quantity of the detergent. There are five bars, with detergent up to bar one being suitable for medium loads, bar three being suitable for large loads, and bar five being suitable for high-efficiency full loads. The washing process is very convenient as you just need to add your clothes, pour the measured amount of detergent into the dispenser, and turn the washer on.
Additionally, Tide claims that this laundry detergent provides 10 times more cleaning power because it comes with pre-treaters that are designed to remove even the toughest stains.
The concentrated formula means that each drop contains less water and more cleaning agents, which, in turn, provides better cleaning power. This also means that a lesser amount of detergent will be consumed, so this bottle will last you longer than other, non-concentrated formulas. Just keep in mind that you must follow the care instructions mentioned on the label if you want to keep your fabrics well-protected. This laundry detergent made it to the top of our list due to its convenient pouring spout and ability to remove even the toughest of stains.
Pros
- Long-lasting concentrated formula
- Labeled cap for convenient measurements
- Pre-treaters help remove tough stains
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
Puracy Laundry Detergent
– Eco-Friendly Choice
This Puracy Liquid Laundry Detergent is an incredibly useful and eco-friendly way to clean your clothes. Its formula is developed by MDs and PhDs and is verified to be free of sulfates, bleach, and all other aggressive chemicals. It is perfect for those who have sensitive skin or allergies – no harsh chemicals to irritate your skin! The detergent is also 100% plant-powered, biodegradable, vegan, gluten-free, and never tested on animals. Plus, it’s also certified cruelty-free!
Not only is this a great option for those seeking hypoallergenic laundry detergents but also a plus for people who care about reducing their carbon footprint. This detergent comes in a pouch with almost zero plastic content and requires 90% less energy and water to produce than its counterparts. You’ll get 192 loads per pouch, allowing you to do your laundry without having to mess with bulky containers. This detergent is suitable for washing delicate fabrics like microfiber towels as well as dark clothing without any risk of fading.
Pros
- Easy-to-use pump bottle
- Contains actual surfactants and enzymes, including lipase
- Gentle scent that is enough to be pleasant but not overpowering
Cons
- Pump sometimes leaks after use
Soak Laundry Detergent
– Great for Sensitive Skin
The Soak Laundry Detergent offers a unique and interesting approach to doing laundry. This product is formulated to be a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate garments, such as lingerie and fine fabrics. It’s an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin, as the scentless formula removes odors and cleans without the use of harsh chemicals. It also has a special feature that helps protect fibers from fading because of fading caused by washing.
The detergent works hard to get your clothes clean without leaving behind any residue or colorings. It safely penetrates fibers to get deeply into fabrics, cleaning away dirt and grime without leaving behind any residue. The unique Canadian-made formula protects delicate fabrics and keeps colors vibrant while still removing dirt and odors. This product will leave your clothes feeling softer than ever before while also giving you peace of mind, knowing that it is free from harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Natural conditioning of fibers through lanolin and extracts
- No rinsing needed for some washes
- Phosphate-free, perfect for sensitive skin or sensitive noses
Cons
- Squeeze bottle can get messy
KIND LAUNDRY Laundry Detergent
– Best for Sensitive Skin
Wash your clothes in a gentle and sensitive laundry detergent with the KIND LAUNDRY Laundry Detergent. As the name suggests, it is super kind to your skin and doesn’t contain irritants or potentially harmful chemicals that can cause inflammation for you or your family. The all-natural laundry soap has plant-derived ingredients so you can be guaranteed this detergent is organic and free of harsh ingredients.
No more messy measuring cups or sticky pods; with this product, you get sheets that are pre-cut and pre-measured to prevent over-spillages and messes on your hands as you do laundry. Wash all types of fabrics, from clothes to sheets and blankets with this versatile soap. The waterless sheets are compact and lightweight, so they can be easily stored and used whenever by whomever.
Pros
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Easy to use
- Dissolves easily
Cons
- May not clean tough stains
Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent
– Most Environmentally Friendly
Boasting a powerful triple enzyme formula, the Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent is another fragrance-free laundry detergent that will efficiently get rid of tough stains. It is an environment-friendly option because the brand is climate-pledge friendly; so, if you are looking for a brand that’ll do less harm to the environment, this laundry detergent should be your pick. It is EPA-safe and the packaging has been made with recycled materials as well, which can help add to your confidence about this product’s eco-friendliness.
This plant-based, USDA-certified liquid laundry detergent is suitable for both standard and high-efficiency machines, making it a popular choice among different consumers. If you want your laundry detergent to have a pleasant smell, you can choose from the lavender and geranium blossom and vanilla options, with the fragrance-free option being perfect for those with sensitive skin because it is hypoallergenic. A baby fresh scent alternative is also available, which is ideal for washing children’s clothing. And, because this bottle consists of 40 ounces, this pack of two will definitely last you a significant amount of time.
Pros
- Biodegradable, EPA-safe, and USDA-certified
- Suitable for standard and high-efficiency machines
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Too small for some
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
– Suitable for Workout Clothes
If you are looking for a detergent that can efficiently wash your workout clothing by removing sweat stains as well as odor, the ACTIVE Wear Laundry Detergent is ideal for you. The formula has been made scientifically using natural plant-based enzymes. These enzymes are ideal for removing different kinds of scents, including body odor that can accumulate in your fitness and gym clothing. Even better, the ingredients of this detergent are free from harmful substances like SLS, phosphates, septic, and gluten, while the plant-based ingredients mean it will keep your gym wear in good shape.
The laundry detergent comes in a powdered form and the concentrated formula will provide 90 loads, so it’s sure to last you a while. If you go to the gym regularly, it is a good idea to invest in this laundry detergent because it won’t deteriorate the quality of your clothes. There aren’t even any artificial fragrances in this detergent, which makes it suitable even for people who have sensitive skin. One scoop is enough for high-efficiency machines and small loads, but if your clothes are heavily soiled and you need to wash a large load, you can add two scoops. You can also soak your clothes in a mixture of warm water and this detergent for 30 minutes to get rid of tough stains.
Pros
- Removes sweat stains and odor
- Made with plant-based natural ingredients
- Helps maintain your clothes’ quality and flexibility
Cons
- Zipper closure is not ideal for sealing
All Laundry Detergent
– Most Concentrated
The All Liquid Laundry Detergent made it to our list due to its two-times concentrated formula, which can provide double the cleaning power in a single drop. This detergent has been recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians, which means that it is suitable for individuals, including children, who have sensitive skin. Despite being concentrated, this detergent will not irritate the skin, so you can purchase it with confidence. Suitable for both standard and high-efficiency machines, the company recommends using hot water to remove stains in one wash. Otherwise, you may need to rewash your clothes if the stains are too stubborn. For tough stains, you can rub a small amount of the detergent directly onto them before washing.
The 82.5-ounce bottle will provide 110 loads, while the 80.1-ounce bottle provides 90, which means you’ll get a good amount of use out of this laundry detergent. The formula is designed to get rid of a range of different allergens, which include seasonal irritants, dog and cat dander, and various types of pollen. It is also free from any perfumes and dyes and other harmful ingredients like phosphates, so you won’t have to worry about the quality of your fabric. For additional convenience, the cap comes with lines that will allow you to measure medium and large loads conveniently, and the pouring spout is designed to prevent excess liquid from coming out.
Pros
- Dermatologist and pediatrician-recommended formula
- Concentrated enough to remove different allergens
- Unscented and dye-free
Cons
- Not be ideal for removing odors
Gain Laundry Detergent
– Most Versatile
The Gain Laundry Detergent is a liquid detergent that comes in a pack of two. What sets it apart from alternatives is that it is compatible with all kinds of washing machines, even older models. Also, you can wash your clothes in cold water using this detergent without worrying about the stains or smell remaining. The +AromaBoost technology gives this laundry detergent a very fresh and pleasant scent that most people love, and the ingredients list is filled with highly effective enzymes, pre-treaters, and surfactants, meaning that you can remove even the toughest stains with ease.
Most importantly, this laundry detergent is designed to get rid of odor, leaving your clothes smelling amazing. With this liquid detergent, you also won’t have to worry about the quality of your clothes deteriorating because it will keep the color and fabric refreshed after each wash. In fact, the company claims that it can provide up to six weeks of freshness in your clothing after washing until you wear them. For your convenience, the cap comes with marked bars that allow you to measure the detergent according to the size of your load. As the cherry on top, an eco-friendly box is available if you want to cut down on purchasing plastic.
Pros
- Fresh, long-lasting smell
- Compatible with many washing machines
- Infused with highly effective cleaning agents
Cons
- Spout shape may cause leakage
Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent
– Dermatologist-tested Formula
If you often find your skin getting irritated by the slightest of cleaning items, Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent is suitable for you. Its hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested formula has been designed specifically for sensitive skin because it is free from perfumes, preservatives, and dyes. Also, this detergent has been certified 100% safe by SkinSAFE, has been clinically tested four times, and has been verified by healthcare professionals.
Despite being gentle on the skin, this detergent is extremely concentrated, with two times the cleaning power in a single drop when compared with other brands. This means that it is tough on stains along with being skin-friendly. But, because it is unscented, you can feel confident that your clothes will remain clean without any strong odor. The 144.5-ounce bottle will provide approximately 107 loads, and you can also choose from bigger options including 150, 210, and 255.2 ounces. This detergent can provide efficient cleaning in cold water as well as hot, the bottle is recycle-friendly, and it’s effective in both standard and high-efficiency machines. Half a cap is sufficient for medium loads, especially if you are using cold water and want to save energy. For heavily soiled loads, however, using a cap full is recommended.
Pros
- Approved by dermatologists and healthcare professionals
- Long-lasting concentrated formula
- Hypoallergenic, gentle, and skin-friendly
Cons
- Bottle may leak during shipping
Seventh Generation EasyDose Laundry Detergent
– Most Scents
Last but definitely not least, the Seventh Generation EasyDose Laundry Detergent comes with an ultra-concentrated formula that is designed to get rid of tough stains easily. The patented compression chamber technology ensures that you can measure the exact amount each time. All you need to do is flip the bottle and give it a firm squeeze. One squeeze equals one load, so make sure you are not squeezing it multiple times – this way, only a limited amount comes out, preventing wastage. Also, you won’t have to go through the hassle of pouring the detergent into a cap and measuring it.
Since the formula is extremely concentrated, you only need a very small amount to provide a thorough cleaning. Even more, the 23-ounce bottle – which provides up to 66 loads – is extremely compact, lightweight, and easy to store. Its ingredients are equipped with advanced enzymes that can fight even the most stubborn stains including those of ketchup, chocolate, dirt, and grass. And, since no dyes, fragrances, or artificial brighteners are included, this detergent will be gentle on your skin. The best part about this laundry detergent, however, is that it comes with multiple scent options. Other than the unscented option, the scents include alpine falls, rose, tropical grove, fresh lavender, mango and mandarin, and ultra power plus, allowing you to choose your favorite from a huge variety.
Pros
- Auto-dosing technology for exact measurements
- Comes in multiple scents
- Compact packaging for added convenience
Cons
- Doesn’t come with instructions
People Also Asked
Q: Do eco-friendly laundry detergents exist?
A: Unfortunately, no laundry detergent is fully environmentally friendly. This is because all laundry detergents contribute, at least in some way, to harming the environment. The dirty water produced after washing your clothes flows into natural water streams, and most brands manufacture detergents in plastic packaging, which is not biodegradable. Even though some brands have taken the initiative of using eco-friendly packaging, they are not as convenient for consumers, who generally still prefer plastic packaging. The most we can do is try to recycle these containers to prevent them from ending up in landfills. Some brands are more environmentally friendly than others because they do not contain ingredients that can be particularly harmful like phosphates. If you want to make sure that the brand you are purchasing from is environmentally friendly at least in some sense, look for the EPA certification.
Q: Are all laundry detergents safe for sensitive skin?
A: Not all laundry detergents are suitable for sensitive skin because some ingredients can be irritating. If your skin is extra sensitive, we recommend using unscented laundry detergents because fragranced ones can sometimes cause an allergic reaction. Also, brands are not required to list down the ingredients they add for fragrance, so you won’t be able to tell if the detergent includes an ingredient that you are allergic to. It is a good idea to look for detergents that are hypoallergenic because they tend to be skin-friendly and are least likely to cause allergic reactions. For added confidence, look for certifications by renowned organizations like the USDA. Some brands even provide recommendations from dermatologists, which is good as long as they are credible. Also, if you want a detergent that is safe for washing your baby’s clothes, always look for pediatrician recommendations. Babies have extra sensitive skin, so you don’t want to take the risk of exposing them to ingredients that can be harmful to them.
Q: How much laundry detergent should I use?
A: Even people who have been washing clothes for a long time do not have the right answer to this question. Elders will tell you that you will get better at measuring the detergent with experience, but it can be difficult to decide where to start. The ideal option is to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer, as they are formulated keeping the exact ingredients in consideration. To find the sweet spot, you will need to experiment a few times with different detergents and different types of clothing. You should keep in mind that other factors can have an impact on the amount of detergent you use, the most important one of them being the type of fabric. Additionally, the more detergent you use, the more suds will be created, which means that excess detergent will lead to too many suds that won’t contribute to cleaning. Since these extra suds will not pick up any dirt, they will appear clean and the machine will detect these and assume that the wash cycle is over, leaving your clothes dirty. Using too little, however, may not wash clothes effectively, leaving behind stubborn stains that will become even more difficult to get rid of. Excess detergent can also build up in your washer as residue, and once it accumulates, it can be damaging because it can cause blockages. This can reduce the life of your washer drastically.
Q: What are high-efficiency laundry detergents?
A: High-efficiency laundry detergents are designed to be used in high-efficiency washing machines, which are relatively new in the market. These detergents are low-sudsing and quick dispersing, which can be beneficial in terms of removing stains and releasing soils. The advantage of these types of detergents is that it freshens clothes and can even increase their life. And, since high-efficiency washing machines use less water, they can disperse dirt and other dyes quickly without redepositing them on your clothes. If you have recently invested in a high efficiency washing machine, make sure you are using a detergent that is compatible with the machine. Using regular detergent in a high-efficiency machine will produce too many suds, which can, in turn, increase the washing time and even cause an overflow in the machine. If you have a standard washer, you can use a high-efficiency laundry detergent, but you will need more detergent than usual. This is because a standard machine uses more water than a high-efficiency one. Also, when using a high-efficiency laundry detergent, always follow the instructions and dosage provided by the manufacturer closely for the best results.
Q: Do I need to use fabric softeners when I wash my clothes?
A: A lot of people use fabric softeners when washing their clothes just out of habit, without having complete knowledge of what it does. The fact of the matter is that fabric softeners do not contribute to cleaning your clothes in terms of removing dirt, stains, and odors. The purpose of fabric softener is to make your clothes soft and provide them with an additional fragrance. It can also help avoid wrinkles and static when you remove them from the washer, which means ironing your clothes becomes easier. Some people are of the view that fabric softeners can damage their clothing, especially when it comes to sportswear. We recommend avoiding fabric softeners when washing activewear and towels because they can interfere with the flexibility of such clothing. When it comes to regular clothes, fabric softener will not damage your clothes, provided you dilute it and use it properly. To answer the question, you do not need fabric softeners per se, but you can use them if you enjoy the extra softness and coziness along with the pleasant fragrance. You can also look for a laundry detergent that comes with fabric softener ingredients so you can enjoy the perks without having to invest in a separate product.
