Comparing laundry detergents: finding the best option for you

Liquid detergents easily dissolve in both cold and warm water, making them a great option if you’re using wash cycles with different temperatures. The liquid state also makes them convenient for pretreating stains. However, liquid detergent is often highly concentrated, which can make people think they need more and cause them to use too much, so it’s important to consult your washer’s use and care guide and the detergent manufacturer’s instructions to determine the right amount. Some liquid detergents, like Swash^® Laundry Detergent,¹ come with a Precision Pour Cap, which makes it easy to add just the right amount.

Powder detergent is generally the most cost-effective option, as it can be easier and cheaper to both manufacture and transport than liquid detergent. It’s also fairly simple to measure out powder detergent, but be sure to check the dosing instructions provided as well as your washer’s use and care guide. When choosing between liquid or powder laundry detergent, keep in mind that powder detergent doesn’t always dissolve as well as liquid, especially in cold water. It can also leave behind residue or detergent stains on clothes when not fully dissolved.

Single dose detergent pods or packs are probably the most convenient to use, since they’re premeasured, have minimal packaging and can be easily added directly to the wash tub. However, they’re also generally the most expensive option and are only measured for an average load size. Be sure to keep detergent pods in a secure, dry place.

Detergent sheets or detergent strips are a relatively newer option, meant to be eco-friendly and help prevent overusing detergent. They’re meant to dissolve in the wash water, usually don’t contain plastic and are low-sudsing. Detergent sheets generally aren’t as thorough as liquid detergent and currently aren’t as readily available as other forms of detergent. Explore more sustainable laundry tips and detergent options.

If your family spends a lot of time outside or plays outdoor sports, you probably encounter a lot of stains like mud, grass, pollen and more. For grass stains, a detergent containing enzymes is likely your best bet. Enzyme detergents are usually liquid, but you can find powder detergent with the same properties. Powder detergent works well at cleaning mud, dirt and clay stains.

Enzyme detergents help break down stains like sweat, blood and body oils that can be difficult to remove. While liquid detergents can be more effective at cleaning oils and other body stains, there are powder formulations with enzymes available.

For grease or oil stains, you’ll probably want to reach for a liquid detergent—preferably one that contains enzymes to help target the stains. Again, check the list of ingredients, as powder varieties can also contain enzymes.

The best detergent for food spills depends on the type of food. For oil or tomato-based stains like salad dressing, mayonnaise, ketchup and tomato sauce you’ll probably want to use a liquid enzyme detergent. The same goes for chocolate spills—a liquid enzyme detergent will likely be a good choice.

If you have hard water, liquid detergent tends to work better for a thorough clean as the ingredients tend to be resistant to the minerals in the water. Powder detergent is still an option, but you may need to add more than an average dose for thorough cleaning. Consult your detergent’s dosage instructions for more information.

Detergents that are fragrance-free, dye-free or labeled as hypoallergenic are typically good options if you or someone in your family has sensitive skin. Liquid detergents are also less likely to leave behind residue that could cause irritation. Mild detergents like these can also be considered for washing baby clothes, as they tend to be gentle on skin.