Comparing Laundry Detergents: How to Choose

Liquid detergents are a popular choice since they can be used as a stain pretreater and are convenient for bulk dispensing. When using liquid detergent, you have more control over the dosage than when you use laundry detergent pods. However, liquid detergents may be commonly overused so consult your washing machine’s user manual for the recommended detergent amount. You can also get liquid detergents, like Swash® Laundry Detergent¹, that are designed to use less and still give you the results you want. The Precision Pour Cap prevents overloading and waste for extra dosing convenience.

Also, note that it is important to use high-efficiency laundry detergent if you have a high-efficiency washing machine.

One reason many reach for powder is that it’s usually more affordable. With powder laundry detergent, you can control the dosage more so than with laundry detergent pods and powder laundry detergent has better hard water cleaning performance than liquid. Unlike liquid, powder doesn’t always fully dissolve, especially with cold cycles, potentially leaving small granules of detergent on clothes and in the washing machine. One way to prevent this is by using a warm-water cycle and to make sure you’re not using too much. Another benefit is that powder laundry detergent can be used to make a paste to pretreat stains. Keep in mind, though, that powder laundry detergent also can’t be used in bulk dispensers, while liquid detergent can.

Laundry pods are one of the most convenient options because you just toss them into the washing machine drum, add the load and run your cycle. Even easier, they are proportioned and filled with concentrated ingredients, saving both time and space. On the downside, they are usually the most expensive option especially if you have to use more than one for larger loads, and they can't be used with bulk dispensing. There’s also a chance that the pods won’t fully dissolve if used improperly. If you’re looking for similar dosing precision and convenience but want to skip pods, consider something like Swash® detergent¹, which is designed to pour the exact amount you need for each load.

High efficiency detergent, or HE detergent, which is low sudsing and quick dispersing, is especially designed to work in front-load machines and top-load machines that can run low-water wash cycles. By producing fewer suds and encapsulating dirt and dyes quickly, soils aren’t likely to redeposit on clothes. To ensure that the detergent you’re using is made for your high efficiency washer look for the HE symbol.

Choosing the right detergent for sensitive skin means avoiding ingredients that can irritate your skin such as dyes, fragrances, and preservatives. Many brands will label these products “scent and dye free”, “free and clear” or “hypoallergenic”.

If you are a pet owner then you’re likely used to washing everything your pet uses from blankets to toys to bedding. Since pets can be extra sensitive to smells and certain dyes you may want to choose a laundry detergent that’s fragrance and dye-free. There are also some pet-specific detergents that can help neutralize pet odors.

If you have pets and are looking to achieve a clean you can see, explore the Maytag^® Pet Pro washing machines. These washing machines for pet hair² remove 5x more pet hair with the Pet Pro Filter. You can even spot treat, rinse or soak clothes with the built-in faucet and get more water when you want it with the Deep Fill option.

Sport laundry detergents are specifically formulated to clean technical fabrics. Since sweat and dirt are more likely to build up in workout clothes, sport laundry detergents are designed to work harder and help reduce odor-causing bacteria.

If you run out of laundry detergent, there are homemade alternatives that can work in a pinch. Many of these detergent recipes use ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and borax. While this may work quickly, it’s important to note that DIYing a detergent may void the warranty on your appliance since it could run the risk of damaging the machine. Check the user manual before using this method. Always make sure to check the care tags on your laundry items as well before choosing a detergent or wash method.