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In today's market, there are countless laundry detergents to choose from, each with their own set of promises and claims. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which detergent is the best fit for you and your family.
That's why we've turned to Consumer Reports to help narrow down the field. After thorough testing and analysis, they have released their list of the 16 best laundry detergents of 2023. From eco-friendly options to tough stain fighters, this list covers a range of detergents to fit any laundry need. Let's dive into the top picks and find the perfect detergent for you.
16 Best Laundry Detergent Consumer Reports of 2023
Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy 10x Duty Power PODS Laundry Detergent Soap Pods
Persil Laundry Detergent Liquid, Active Scent Boost
Gain Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap Plus Aroma Boost
Downy Rinse & Refresh Laundry Odor Remover And Fabric Softener
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets
Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent Ultra Concentrated Clean Scent
BLUELAND Laundry Detergent Tablet Starter Set
ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid, 200 Loads
9 Elements Lemon Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent
Grove Co. Care & Renew Liquid Laundry Detergent
Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent
Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Laundry Detergent Pods
Safely Everyday Laundry Detergent Calm
Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear
Babyganics 3X Baby Laundry Detergent
What is the best laundry detergent?
Determining the best laundry detergent can be subjective and dependent on individual preferences and needs. However, some factors that can contribute to a laundry detergent being considered the best include its ability to effectively clean clothes, its scent and hypoallergenic properties, its affordability, eco-friendliness, and whether it is suitable for high-efficiency machines.
Other factors may also come into play, such as its packaging, ease of use, and overall value for money. Ultimately, the best laundry detergent will depend on the consumer's unique requirements and priorities.
The 16 best laundry detergent consumer reports of 2023 included in this article are based on what the average consumer has provided for feedback over the years for the best laundry detergent.
What are the different forms of laundry detergent on the market today?
There are several different forms of laundry detergents available on the market today. Here are some of the most common types:
Liquid laundry detergent.
This is the most common form of laundry detergent and is available in a variety of scents and formulations. Liquid detergent is convenient to use and can be used for both machine washing and hand washing.
Powdered laundry detergent.
Powdered detergent is another popular option, and it is often used for heavy-duty cleaning. It can be used for machine washing and is often preferred for certain types of fabrics, such as whites and cotton.
Single-dose laundry detergent.
This is a relatively new type of laundry detergent that comes in pre-measured packets or pods. Single-dose detergent is convenient and easy to use, but it can be more expensive than other types of detergent.
Laundry detergent tablets.
These are similar to single-dose detergents, but they come in tablet form instead of pods. They are also pre-measured and easy to use, but they can be more expensive than other types of detergent.
Laundry detergent bars.
These are solid bars of detergent that can be rubbed directly onto stains before washing. They are convenient for travel and can be used for hand washing or machine washing.
Eco-friendly laundry detergent.
There are also several eco-friendly options available, including detergents that are plant-based, biodegradable, and free from harsh chemicals. These types of detergents are typically gentler on the environment and on your skin.
What makes a laundry detergent eco-friendly?
Eco-friendly laundry detergents are designed to be better for the environment than traditional laundry detergents. Here are some of the features that typically make a laundry detergent eco-friendly:
Plant-based ingredients.
Eco-friendly laundry detergents often use plant-based ingredients instead of synthetic ones. This can reduce the amount of harmful chemicals that are released into the environment.
Biodegradability.
Eco-friendly detergents are designed to break down easily in water and soil, which reduces their impact on the environment.
No phosphates.
Phosphates are often used in traditional laundry detergents, but they can be harmful to aquatic life when they enter waterways. Eco-friendly detergents are typically phosphate-free.
No artificial fragrances or dyes.
Eco-friendly detergents may use natural fragrances or be fragrance-free altogether. They also may use natural dyes or be dye-free, which reduces the amount of synthetic chemicals that are released into the environment.
Low-water formulas.
Some eco-friendly detergents are designed to be used in cold water or in smaller amounts, which can help to conserve water.
Minimal packaging.
Eco-friendly detergents often come in packaging that is made from recycled materials or is recyclable itself. They may also use minimal packaging to reduce waste.
Overall, eco-friendly laundry detergents are designed to be better for the environment and can be a good choice for people who are looking to reduce their environmental impact. Now that you know more about laundry detergent options and types, here are more details about the 16 best laundry detergent consumer reports of 2023:
1. Loni Labs Bio Detergent
Image courtesy Loni Labs
Loni Labs Bio enzyme laundry detergent represents an eco-friendly substitute to conventional laundry detergents. Its composition comprises natural ingredients that leverage the potency of enzymes to dissolve and eliminate stubborn stains from clothes.
As opposed to regular detergents, this detergent does not incorporate severe chemicals or synthetic scents, making it a more secure and healthier alternative for users and the environment alike.
2. Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy 10x Duty Power PODS Laundry Detergent Soap Pods
Image courtesy Amazon
Tide’s Hygienic Clean Heavy 10x Duty Power PODS laundry detergent soap pods provide a comprehensive clean for all your household loads. The pre-measured detergent capsules contain powerful but gentle ingredients that dissolve dirt and grime quickly, so you can enjoy the convenience of not having to measure or pour out liquids.
The detergent pods are designed to be as efficient as possible, with a triple enzyme formula that tackles the toughest of stains and odors while also providing deep cleaning power for all fabrics. And because they’re pre-measured, there’s no risk of over-dosing or wasting any soap or water.
3. Persil Laundry Detergent Liquid, Active Scent Boost
Image courtesy Amazon
Persil’s Laundry Detergent Liquid and Active Scent Boost provide an effective clean while also leaving clothes smelling fresh and fragrant.
The detergent is designed to be both powerful yet gentle on fabrics, with a formula that works quickly to penetrate deep into fabrics and remove dirt, stains, and odors. Plus, the added scent boost leaves clothes with a pleasant, long-lasting aroma.
4. Gain Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap Plus Aroma Boost
Image courtesy Amazon
Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent boasts a unique ability to infuse clothes with the refreshing fragrance of the outdoors, providing a revitalizing scent experience that is unmatched. With the power of Oxi Boost and Febreze, this detergent offers excellent cleaning results, wash after wash.
Oxi Boost effectively eliminates deep-seated odors and stains, thanks to its highly efficient pre-treaters, surfactants, and enzymes. Compared to regular Gain powder detergent, Gain Liquid Laundry Detergent packs 50% more scent, allowing users to enjoy the invigorating aroma for up to six weeks following the wash.
5. Downy Rinse & Refresh Laundry Odor Remover And Fabric Softener
Image courtesy Amazon
Downy’s Rinse & Refresh Laundry Odor Remover and Fabric Softener is a great solution for those looking to eliminate odors from their laundry. The product removes up to 99% of odors, including smoke, pet, sweat, and musty smells.
This fabric softener also works as an effective detergent booster, helping to remove stubborn stains and dirt. Thanks to its unique formula, it leaves clothes feeling softer and smelling fresher for longer.
6. Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets
Image courtesy Earth Breeze
Earth Breeze is an eco-friendly laundry detergent that is formulated to provide results comparable to those of leading brand detergents. Specifically designed for individuals with sensitive skin, its hypoallergenic, vegan, bleach-free, paraben-free, and phosphate-free formula ensures that it is gentle on the skin. In addition, Earth Breeze boasts an innovative packaging design that saves space and minimizes waste.
7. Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent Ultra Concentrated Clean Scent
Image courtesy Amazon
Seventh Generation’s Ultra Concentrated Clean Scent laundry detergent is designed to provide a powerful yet gentle clean for all types of fabrics. The plant-based formula effectively cuts through grease and grime, leaving clothes soft and smelling fresh.
This ultra concentrated formula is also suitable for both HE and standard washers, as well as cold and hot water temperatures. Plus, the formula is free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, phosphates, and brighteners. All together, this bottom-of-the-line detergent offers an effective yet eco-friendly clean for all your laundry needs.
8. BLUELAND Laundry Detergent Tablet Starter Set
Image courtesy Blueland
BLUELAND’s Laundry Detergent Tablet Starter Set is an all-in-one laundry solution that provides a powerful clean while also being gentle on fabrics. The tablet formula quickly dissolves in both hot and cold water, making it suitable for even the most delicate of fabrics.
9. ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid, 200 Loads
Image courtesy Amazon
ECOS Laundry Detergent is a safer and eco-friendly alternative to traditional laundry detergents. Its hypoallergenic formula provides protection to fabrics, brightens whites, and guards colors, utilizing the cleaning power of coconut, a highly renewable resource with natural cleaning properties.
This effective yet gentle formula is suitable for all fabrics, even delicate ones, and it softens fabrics without the need for added fabric softener, saving both time and money.
10. 9 Elements Lemon Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Target
9 Elements Lemon Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent is a natural and effective laundry detergent designed to provide powerful cleaning results while also being gentle on clothes. The hypoallergenic formula contains no dyes, phosphates, or synthetic fragrances, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin.
11. Grove Co. Care & Renew Liquid Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Grove Co.
The liquid laundry detergent is formulated with potent, plant-based ingredients that gently and efficiently clean clothes while safeguarding their colors, preventing pilling, and reducing signs of wear, keeping them looking newer for longer. It is an ideal companion for the Grove Glass Laundry Dispenser, an innovative system that reduces plastic waste, ensuring that your laundry routine is kind to both your clothes and the environment.
12. Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Dirty Labs
Dirty Labs’ Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent is an all-natural, effective detergent designed to tackle tough stains and odors. The vegan formula contains a powerful blend of natural enzymes that break down soils and eliminate smells at the source.
13. Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Laundry Detergent Pods
Image courtesy Dropps
Dropps Oxi Plus pacs are the ultimate laundry detergent superheroes, capable of tackling even the toughest stains, persistent odors, and fading colors. With their powerful stain-fighting formula, they whiten and brighten fabrics while leaving them fresh and clean. These pacs are also incredibly convenient - no measuring or mess required.
Simply toss them in and go. Best of all, they leave your laundry smelling amazing wash after wash. Let Dropps Oxi Plus pacs lighten your next load and enjoy laundry that is both clean and hassle-free.
14. Safely Everyday Laundry Detergent Calm
Image courtesy Safely
Safely Everyday Laundry Detergent Calm is a gentle yet effective detergent that can be used on both regular and sensitive skin. It is safe for babies, toddlers, and those with allergies or asthma. The hypoallergenic formula is free from dyes and fragrances, so you won't have to worry about irritating your skin or the environment.
15. Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear
Image courtesy Amazon
Experience the powerful cleaning action of this concentrated laundry detergent, which contains 2x the stain-fighting power of leading bargain detergents. Thanks to its reduced water content, each bottle provides maximum cleaning power that is gentle on your skin.
This dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic formula is free from perfumes, preservatives, and dyes, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. Its concentrated formula ensures that you get more stain-fighting power in every load, leaving your clothes looking and feeling their best.
16. Babyganics 3X Baby Laundry Detergent
Image courtesy Amazon
The laundry detergent brand claims that consumers no longer have to choose between a detergent that's gentle enough for baby clothes and one that's effective at cleaning tough stains. Their formula is made without sulfates but still packs a punch with plant-derived and enzyme-based cleaning agents. The detergent is said to be ideal for parents dealing with a large amount of dirty laundry due to its effective stain-fighting capabilities and gentle formula.
