Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.
For individuals living in areas with hard water, the challenges of doing laundry are well-known. High levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium found in hard water can cause clothes to become stiff, dingy, and scratchy. Fortunately, there is a range of laundry detergents that are specifically formulated to address the issues caused by hard water.
With a variety of options available, it may be difficult to find the best of the best hard water laundry detergents. This article has compiled a list of the 14 best hard water laundry detergent in 2023. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information to make an informed decision on which laundry detergent to select for hard water needs. Whether you are dealing with stubborn stains, unpleasant odors, or simply want to maintain their clothes' quality, the article covers it all.
14 Best Hard Water Laundry Detergent in 2023
20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Laundry Detergent Booster
Clean People. Laundry Detergent
Rockin' Green Hard Rock Laundry Detergent
Mrs. Meyers Clean Day 64 fl. oz. Rain Water Liquid Laundry Detergent
Nellie's Laundry Soda
Arm & Hammer 33200-01001 Powder Laundry Detergent
Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty 10x Free Liquid Laundry Detergent
ECOS Plant Powered Liquid Laundry Detergent with Stain-Fighting Enzymes
all Clean & Care with Keratin and Vitamin E
9 Elements Liquid Laundry Detergent
Molly Sudd’s Bulk Laundry Detergent from Thrive Market
Kirkland Signature 146 Loads Ultra Clean Free & Clear He Liquid Laundry Detergent
Oxi Clean Laundry Detergent, High Def Clean, HE, Sparkling Fresh
What can I use for hard water in my laundry?
If you are dealing with hard water in your laundry, there are a few things you can use to help combat its effects. First and foremost, you can use a laundry detergent that is specifically designed for hard water. These detergents contain ingredients that are effective at removing minerals and preventing them from re-depositing on clothes.
You could also add a water softener to your laundry, either in the form of a liquid or powder, to help neutralize the effects of hard water. Another option is to use vinegar or baking soda as a natural water softener. Adding a cup of vinegar or half a cup of baking soda to your laundry can help remove mineral buildup and make your clothes feel softer.
Overall, the best approach is to use a combination of these solutions to get the best results for your hard water laundry needs.
Best Ingredients in a Laundry Detergent for Hard Water
The best laundry detergent ingredients for hard water are those that effectively remove mineral buildup and prevent it from redepositing on clothes. Some of the most effective ingredients for this purpose include:
Enzymes - These are proteins that break down organic compounds, such as dirt and sweat, which can trap minerals in fabrics.
Sodium carbonate - Also known as washing soda, this ingredient is a powerful water softener that can help remove mineral buildup and prevent it from redepositing on clothes.
Sodium citrate - This ingredient acts as a chelating agent, which means it binds to minerals in the water and prevents them from reacting with other compounds in the detergent.
Zeolites - These are naturally occurring minerals that can act as water softeners and help prevent mineral buildup.
Surfactants - These are the primary cleaning agents in laundry detergents and help to break up dirt and grime so that it can be washed away.
Optical brighteners - These are chemicals that absorb UV light and emit it as visible light, making clothes appear brighter and whiter.
Overall, the best laundry detergent for hard water will contain a combination of these ingredients to effectively remove mineral buildup and keep clothes looking and feeling their best.
What are the signs of hard water in a home?
There are several signs that you may have hard water in your home. Here are some of the most common ones:
Soap scum - If you notice a buildup of soap scum on your sinks, tubs, and showers, it may be a sign of hard water. The minerals in hard water can react with soap to create a sticky, unsightly residue.
Stiff or scratchy clothes - If your clothes feel stiff or scratchy after washing, it may be due to mineral buildup from hard water. The minerals can make fabrics feel rough and uncomfortable.
Spots on dishes and glasses - If you notice spots or streaks on your dishes and glasses after washing, it may be a sign of hard water. The minerals can leave behind residue that is difficult to remove.
Reduced water pressure - Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your pipes, which can lead to reduced water pressure over time.
Dry skin and hair - The minerals in hard water can strip moisture from your skin and hair, leaving them feeling dry and itchy.
Short lifespan of appliances - Hard water can cause mineral buildup in appliances like water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers, which can shorten their lifespan and lead to costly repairs.
If you notice any of these signs, it may be worth testing your water to determine if you have hard water and taking steps to address it if necessary. Now that you know more about hard water, what to look for and how to curb hard water issues with your laundry, here are more details about the 14 best hard water laundry detergent in 2023:
1. Loni Labs Bio Detergent
Image courtesy Loni Labs
Bio enzyme laundry detergent is a laundry solution that boasts many eco-friendly features. The product is proudly manufactured in the USA and comprises non-toxic, bio-based ingredients. Its hyper-concentrated formula is designed to be used with HE washers, and it is hypoallergenic, making it safe for use with sensitive skin and even babies and pets.
Loni Labs Bio Detergent is both vegan and cruelty-free. This laundry detergent stands out from traditional laundry detergents due to its utilization of natural ingredients and enzymes, which effectively target and eliminate tough stains without the use of harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances. By choosing this laundry detergent for hard water, you can enjoy a laundry solution that is not only effective but also safer for both your household and the environment.
2. 20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Laundry Detergent Booster
Image courtesy Walmart
The versatile 20 Mule Team Borax is a natural mineral found in various parts of the world, with numerous applications that can enhance cleaning, laundry, gardening, DIY crafting, and more. Its affordability makes it an attractive option to upgrade any space in your home.
From tidying up your pet's area, to pre-soaking laundry to tackle stubborn stains, or even as a bathroom cleaner, the possibilities of using Borax are endless. For more than a century, 20 Mule Team Borax has been a trusted item in millions of households worldwide. It can provide that extra boost to your laundry or freshen and cleanse your home, making it an indispensable multi-purpose solution for any household.
3. Clean People. Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Clean People
Clean People Laundry Detergent has been scientifically developed using clean ingredients to effectively remove stains and leave clothes smelling fresh. This detergent is compatible with all types of washing machines including top loaders, front loaders, and HE (High Efficiency) machines. It is also safe for use with septic tanks, making it a versatile choice for any household.
4. Rockin' Green Hard Rock Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Rockin’ Green
Rockin' Green Hard Rock Laundry Powder is an all-natural laundry soap powder that effectively removes tough stains and is specially formulated for use in hard water with high mineral content. With its powerful cleaning action, it eliminates dirt and prevents mineral deposits and residues while preserving the quality of your fabrics. There is no need for additional water softeners when using this product.
The laundry powder is made with plant-powered ingredients that are dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, making it safe even for babies. It is unscented and all-natural, and can be used on all fabrics. The enzyme-free formula is gentle on delicate clothes and is suitable for people with sensitive skin. With Rockin' Green Hard Rock Laundry Powder, you can trust that your clothes will come out clean and fresh without any harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
5. Mrs. Meyers Clean Day 64 fl. oz. Rain Water Liquid Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Home Depot
Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day laundry detergent has a biodegradable formula that uses gentle yet effective cleaning agents and provides a unique and refreshing scent for your home. The Rain Water scent is clean and invigorating, with drops of rainwater falling on leaves and filling the air. This concentrated laundry soap is tough on dirt and stains, yet gentle on clothes, thanks to its plant-derived surfactants and stain-fighting enzymes.
6. Nellie's Laundry Soda
Image courtesy Walmart
The Compact by Design initiative was developed to recognize products that may not appear substantially different but are designed to be more efficient. By removing unnecessary air and water, these products need less packaging and are more efficient to transport. This approach allows for small changes in product size and weight, resulting in considerable reductions in carbon emissions at scale.
7. Arm & Hammer 33200-01001 Powder Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Amazon
This laundry detergent contains 4 potent stain fighters and an activated baking soda deodorizer that together provide comprehensive cleaning for your clothes, resulting in brighter whites and vivid colors. It can be used in all types of washing machines, including HE machines, and is safe for septic systems. Additionally, it leaves a refreshing and clean scent that you'll love.
8. Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty 10x Free Liquid Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Walmart
Your clothes accumulate traces from everything you come in contact with - your diet, your whereabouts, and your activities. However, the dirt residue and body soils that linger on your clothes are often not visible, and just because you can't see them doesn't mean they don't exist.
Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy 10x Duty liquid laundry detergent is formulated to cleanse your fabrics at the microscopic level, effectively eliminating both visible and invisible dirt from your clothes. With this detergent, you can have the confidence of a thorough and trustworthy clean.
9. ECOS Plant Powered Liquid Laundry Detergent with Stain-Fighting Enzymes
Image courtesy Amazon
For tough and messy situations, ECOS has formulated their strongest laundry detergent yet. It utilizes natural enzymes to combat stubborn stains and effectively eliminate odors. In addition, the detergent incorporates potent cleaning agents derived from coconuts to ensure that every wash results in cleaner clothes, a safer environment for you, and a more sustainable planet.
This detergent has been certified by Safer Choice and is hypoallergenic, free of dyes, fragrances, and artificial brighteners.
10. all Clean & Care with Keratin and Vitamin E
Image courtesy Amazon
As the leading detergent brand in the USA for sensitive skin, all free clear is dedicated to providing clothes that not only look great but also feel comfortable on delicate skin. In addition to the familiar clean and comfortable clothes that all free clear is known for, their Clean and Care variant incorporates a new formula that features Keratin and Vitamin E.
This unique blend smooths fiber and enhances elasticity, promoting the longevity of your clothes. As always, Clean and Care is 100% free of perfumes and dyes, making it hypoallergenic. For the best results, pair it with all free clear fabric softener and dryer sheets to achieve both cleanliness and softness while reducing static cling.
11. 9 Elements Liquid Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Walmart
9 Elements Laundry Detergent is a plant-based cleansing solution that goes beyond mere cleanliness; it provides a thorough cleanse. Infused with vinegar, 9 Elements effectively removes residues such as hard water metals and dingy build-up that are left behind after every wash.
In addition to eliminating stubborn stains and odors, this detergent works to keep your whites white, all without the need for bleach. With 9 Elements, you can expect fabrics that are both deeply cleansed and refreshed.
12. Molly Sudd’s Bulk Laundry Detergent from Thrive Market
Image courtesy Thrive Market
If you're doing laundry regularly, it's a smart move to have Molly's Suds Bulk Laundry Powder on hand. This natural formula is unscented and free from harmful ingredients such as dyes, optical brighteners, chlorine, and parabens. With this laundry powder, you can trust that you're not introducing any unnecessary chemicals into your load.
13. Kirkland Signature 146 Loads Ultra Clean Free & Clear He Liquid Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Ebay
When you need a reliable, affordable detergent for large loads of laundry, the Kirkland Signature 146 Loads Ultra Clean Free & Clear He Liquid Laundry Detergent is the perfect solution. This formula contains powerful enzymes that break down dirt and stains while providing optimal cleaning performance in hot or cold water.
Additionally, this liquid detergent is free from fragrances, dyes, and optical brighteners. With its impressive cleaning power and budget-friendly pricing, this detergent will be a great addition to any wash day routine.
14. Oxi Clean Laundry Detergent, High Def Clean, HE, Sparkling Fresh
Image courtesy Amazon
Achieve clean and fresh-smelling laundry for the whole family with OxiClean Fresh Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent. This detergent can be used with any washing machine type, including high-efficiency machines, and is tough on even the most stubborn, dried-on stains. Additionally, it leaves garments and linens with a long-lasting, refreshing scent.
