Ever stood in the laundry aisle, lost in a sea of detergent options? From liquid to powder, pods to eco-friendly choices – choosing the best laundry detergents can feel like navigating an uncharted ocean. But don’t worry, it’s simpler than it seems.
In this post, we’ll be going over some of the best liquid laundry detergents and powder detergent options that are available today. What makes them different from one another? Which type is the best for heavily soiled loads? Does laundry detergent expire?
For the answers, be sure to keep reading. We’ll be answering all of these questions in our best laundry detergents guide below.
Table of Contents
ToggleThe Best Powder Laundry Detergents of 2025
Powder detergents are generally cheaper than other types of laundry detergent. Here are some of our top-picks.
1. ACTIVE Detergent
ACTIVE Detergent is one of the best powder detergent that you can get – and for good reason. Not only is it made from natural ingredients, which makes it great for those with sensitive skin, but the concentrated detergent is powered by enzymes, meaning that it’s capable of removing dirt stains and odor-causing residue without the need for harmful chemicals such as chlorine bleach.
That’s not all, it’s also specifically formulated for activewear (thus its name). If anything, that’s one of the things that sets it apart from other detergents.
And it’s not just for clothes either. For example, you can also use it to wash your bath towels, or that favorite shirt of yours with an oil stain.
It also has excellent stain removing power compared to other laundry detergents.
2. Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent
Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent is another popular option. Not only will it leave your clothes looking bright and fresh, but it will also fill your laundry room with an inviting scent.
When tested against stubborn stains such as grass marks on white clothing items, Gain Original Powder also performed well; it helped lift off dirt particles while preserving the fabric’s original color integrity – giving back life to those once dull-looking whites.
3. Tide Powder Detergent
Tide Detergent is another big name when it comes to laundry products. Not only is it great for most stains (e.g. chocolate stains, red wine stains, you name it) but it also features multi-chamber technology, which makes it that much easier to use.
For one thing, there’s no need to pour anything. This means you won’t have to worry about there being any spills or messes.
It also smells great, which makes it ideal for those who are looking for something wtih a pleasant scent.
4. All Powder Laundry Detergent
All Powder Laundry Detergent is free of perfumes and clear of dyes, which makes it a good choice for those with skin sensitivities. Made with plant-based cleaning ingredients, it’s tough on stains yet gentle on the skin.
Not only that but it also contains enzymes for maximum cleaning power.
5. Ariel Powder Laundry Detergent
Ariel Powder Laundry Detergent features a concentrated formula that tackles persistent stains with the first wash. It also comes with a fresh scent so that your clothes will smell new each time.
Not only is it effective but it’s also safe for brightly colored clothes so you won’t have to worry about there being any fading. Plus, it’s economical, especially if you get the extra large bag.
The Best Liquid Laundry Detergents
Liquid detergents may require measuring, but offer excellent cleaning power and are great for removing stains. Here are some top choices.
1. Hex Performance Laundry Detergent
Hex Performance Laundry Detergent is a great choice if you’re looking for a liquid laundry detergent for your workout clothes.
Unlike regular detergents, it’s formulated to properly clean synthetic fabrics such as nylon, polyester, and spandex. Not only will it eliminate odor but it’ll also protect the fabrics from wearing down.
Hex Performance Laundry detergent also features a biodegradable formula and comes in a recyclable bottle. It doesn’t contain any heavy fragrances or irritants either so you won’t have to worry about it irritating your skin or nose.
2. Persil Proclean Stain Fighter Laundry Detergent
Persil ProClean Stain Fighter Liquid Laundry Detergent is a great choice if you’re looking at stain removers.
Powered by enzymes, it’s capable of breaking down stains for an exceptional deep clean. If anything, it’s a superior stain remover that can be used to remove all types of tough stains from grass stains to mud stains.
It’s also compatible with all types of washing machines, including high-efficiency models. On top of all that, it’s septic-safe, phosphate-free, and cleans effectively, even in cold water.
3. Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent + Aroma Boost
Gain Liquid Detergent + Aroma Boost is designed to lift away dirt, keeping your clothes smelling fresh. It also features scent capsules, which will continue to release scent during regular wear.
Not only is it compatible with HE machines, but it is also effective in cold water.
In fact, tests have shown that it has a better-staying power when it came to delivering a pleasant smell, compared to other types of liquid laundry detergent.
4. Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent
Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent comes with EasyDose Auto-Dosing technology, which ensures you use the right amount of detergent each time. Just flip the bottle, give is a squeeze and you’re good to go.
Featuring an advanced-enzyme formula,the laundry detergent is effective on even the most stubborn stains. Free of dyes, artificial brighteners, and synthetic fragrances.
5. Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Detergent
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Detergent contains twice the amount of stain fighters, which allows it to eliminate tough dirt and odors. Blended with Arm & Hammer Baking Soda, the concentrated formula also features a clean burst fragrance that will leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean.
Not only that but the formula is also low-sudsing, meaning that you can use it with high-efficiency machines. Plus, it works in all temperatures.
The Best Laundry Detergents for Sensitive Skin
For those with sensitive skin, it’s important to choose a laundry detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals. For example, you might want to choose a dye free detergent.
Here are some of the best laundry detergents that you can get if you have delicate skin conditions.
1. All Free Clear Liquid Concentrated Laundry Detergent
This unscented laundry detergent is both hypoallergenic and dermatologist recommended, which makes it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
For one thing, this detergent was specially formulated to exclude ingredients that can trigger allergies or cause irritation.
2. Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin
Persil ProClean Sensitive is one of the best liquid detergents that you can get if you have sensitive skin. Dermatologist-tested, it features a gentle formula that’s perfume-free, yet capable of removing dirt and tough stains.
Compared to other detergents, it’s also hypoallergenic and free of dyes.
3. Eco Max Liquid Laundry Detergent
Eco Max Liquid Laundry Detergent features a plant-based formula that’s biodegradable with therapeutic-grade essential oils. Made with the highest quality ingredients, it’s low-foam and safe to use with standard and high-efficiency washing machines in hot or cold water.
The product is not tested on animals and does not contain any harmful chemicals including sulfates and optical brighteners.
4. Biokleen Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent
Biokleen Free & Clear is a plant-based laundry detergent that’s designed to eliminate tough odors and stains, leaving your clothes fresh and clean. Not only is the formula hypoallergenic but it’s also compatible with all washers- including high-efficiency models.
And since the laundry detergent is free of chemicals such as artificial fragrances, phosphates, ammonia, and chlorine, it’s safe for the skin.
5. Dropps Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent Pods
Dropps Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent Pods features a dermatologist-tested formula that’s perfect for those with sensitive skin – including those with eczema or psoriasis. Not only are they made of natural plant-based ingredients, but they’re also free of harsh chemicals such as fragrances, parabens, optical brighteners, preservatives, and dyes.
The fact that they’re pods also means that they’re super easy to use as they come pre-measured. Just toss it into the machine and it’ll automatically work its magic without damaging the fabric, whether you’re cleaning wool, silk, or cashmere.
The Best Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
Being kind to the environment doesn’t mean you have to compromise on cleaning power. Here are some of the best laundry detergents that you can get if you’re eco-conscious.
1. ACTIVE Laundry Detergent Sheets
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent Sheets are made of natural ingredients and come in compact sheet form. This makes them much more efficient for shipping compared to heavy, bulky liquid laundry detergents.
Additionally, all of the packaging is recyclable so it can be reused after the box is empty. Say goodbye to wasteful large plastic jugs!
2. Tide Purclean
Tide Purclean is an environmentally friendly detergent that cleans just as well as conventional Tide detergent, but with 65% plant-based ingredients and no dyes or brighteners.
It’s also formulated for both high-efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines, so it can handle any laundry load.
3. Grove Co. Laundry Detergent Sheets
Grove Co.’s Laundry Detergent Sheets are lightweight and compact, which makes them perfect for those who lack storage space or want an easy solution for travel.
Beyond convenience, they also offer strong cleaning power while reducing plastic waste since there’s no bulky bottle involved. Simply toss one sheet into your wash; it will dissolve completely, leaving behind clean clothes and zero residue.
4. Meyer’s Clean Day Liquid Laundry Detergent
Meyer’s Clean Day Liquid Laundry Detergent features a concentrated formula that’s effective yet gentle on your skin and clothes.
Made of plant-based cleaning agents, the biodegradable detergent does not contain any parabens, phthalates, optical brighteners, or artificial colors. Comes in various garden-inspired fragrances.
5. Botanical Origin Plant-based Laundry Detergent
Botanical Origin Plant-based Laundry Detergent is powered by four different types of enzymes and can deal with the most stubborn of stains. Free from dyes, brighteners, preservatives, and other harsh chemicals, it’s one of the best products that you can choose if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option.
Even the scents are inspired by nature – nothing is artificial. On top of all that, the sensitive formula is formulated for all water temperatures and all washers, including high-efficiency models.
Budget-Friendly Laundry Detergents
You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for a good laundry detergent, whether you’re looking at a liquid laundry detergent or laundry detergent sheets.
1. Arm & Hammer Clean Burst
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst is a wallet-friendly powerhouse that does an excellent job fighting grease stains.
There’s also Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent if you have sensitive skin but still need a bargain buy. It’s free of harmful chemicals and boasts great cleaning power for your clolthes.
2. Sunlight Free and Clear Liquid Detergent
Sunlight Free and Clear Liquid Detergent features a gentle, dye-free formula that will leave your clothes looking great while being gentle on your skin. It also boasts great brightening power, which makes it ideal for removing tough stains.
And it’s also cost effective at under $10 a bottle.
3. Peromola Laundry Detergent Sheets
Peromola Laundry Detergent Sheets are a good choice if you’re on the go and don’t want to lug a whole bottle or box of detergent with you. While each box only comes with 32 sheets, it’s enough for 64 loads, which should be plenty if you’re traveling.
And like most laundry detergent sheets, they’re biodegradable and plant based. They’re also free of harsh chemicals such as phosphates and parabens.
4. Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy 10x Duty Detergent
Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy 10x Duty Laundry Detergent features innovative technology that allows it to get between the fibers to eliminate embedded dirt. Not only that but it’s also excellent at removing stains as it comes with 10 different concentrated cleaning actives.
Works in all types of washing machines and water conditions.
5. Tide Simply Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent
Tide Simply Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent has double the Oxi fighting power and is capable of attacking stains and eliminating odors. Use it for your laundry and it will infuse your clothes with a refreshing breeze scent.
Compared to other detergents, it’s also available at a low price-point, which makes it ideal for those who are on a budget. And like most Tide products, it works with both standard and HE washing machines.
Laundry Detergent Pods
Laundry Detergent pods are a game-changer in that they’re super easy to use. There’s no need to wonder how much laundry detergent you need to measure out; all you need to do is pop in one of the pods and you’re good to go.
There won’t be any spills or messes, which is something that can happen with liquid detergents or powder detergents.
Are Laundry Detergent Pods Effective?
Detergent pods pack quite the punch when it comes to cleaning your clothes. With concentrated laundry detergent in each pod, they are capable of tackling stains head-on and will leave your clothes looking fresh as new.
They’re also different from powdered detergents in that they dissolve completely in cold water. If anything, this ensures effective stain removal.
The Best Laundry Detergent Pods
Laundry detergent pods are an excellent choice for those who are looking for convenience. Price-wise, they may cost a little more but most would say that they’re worth it.
1. Tide Laundry Detergent Soap Pods
Tide Laundry Detergent Soap Pods are 3-in-1 pacs that come with concentrated detergent, stain removers, and odor fighters. Compatible with all washing machines, they will dissolve completely in a matter of seconds, whether you’re using hot or cold water.
Not only that but they will keep your clothes looking bright and colorful.
2. Gain Flings Laundry Detergent Pacs
Gain Flings Laundry Detergent Pacs contain three things: Gain detergent, Febreze Odor Remover, and Oxi boost. Compared to regular Gain Liquid Detergent, it also comes with 50 percent more scent, which means your clothes will smell fresh even when they’re out of the machine.
The pods also come in multiple scents including April Fresh, Moonlight Breeze, Spring, Blissful Breeze, and Super Fresh Blast.
3. Arm & Navy Plus OxiClean Power Paks
Arm & Navy Plus Power Paks are powered by OxiClean and are formulated to eliminate even the toughest of stains and odors. Not only will they freshen your clothes, but they’ll also whiten whites and brighten colors.
They also come with odor blasters that are capable of tackling the toughest of odors, such as those from musty towels or pets.
4. Amazon Basics Laundry Detergent Pacs
Amazon Basics Laundry Detergent Pacs are easy to use in that they will dissolve in any water temperature. They are also compatible with both standard and high-efficiency washers.
There are three different scents to choose from: Fresh, Lavender, and Free & Clear, all of which are free of phosphates.
5. Method Laundry Detergent Packs
Method Laundry Detergent Packs feature a plant-based, hypoallergenic formula that will not only clean your clothes, but will also brighten colors and whites. They also come with a refreshing Beach Sage fragrance, which is reminiscent of a morning stroll along a beach,
Another great thing about these packs is that they come in a safety-lock zippered pouch so they’re both convenient to use and easy to store.
Best Laundry Detergents – FAQs
What is the best laundry detergent for sensitive skin?
It’s best to choose a laundry detergent that’s free of dyes, sulphates, and other chemicals if you have sensitive skin. For example, you can choose ACTIVE detergent, which is made from quality plant-based ingredients.
What is the most eco-friendly laundry detergent?
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent Sheets, Tide Purclean, and Grove Co. Laundry Detergent Sheets are all good choices if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option.
Is there a difference between cheap and expensive laundry detergent?
Expensive laundry detergents don’t necessarily perform better. After all, the effectiveness depends on several factors, including its concentration, formulation, and specific ingredients.
In fact, they’re usually made in the same factories as the cheaper ones.
Having said that, some cheaper detergents may contain fewer enzymes or lesser-quality enzymes (to reduce production costs). At the end of the day, however, it balances out as you’d need to use more of the cheaper product to get the same results from a bigger, more expensive brand.
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