Laundry detergents are available as liquids, powders, and pellets. A lot of them are highly concentrated in order to reduce the sizes of the plastics that are needed to make the bottles and the fuel needed by the delivery trucks.

When using any of the laundry detergents, it is highly recommended to follow the usage directions. Free form pouring has often been discouraged by experts because it might likely not lead to the best results.

It’s not bad, it makes sense since pre-treating is the secret to stain removal and the majority of detergents clean just fine.

Some specific brands are always outstanding in the cleaning competition. However, several folks stick to the same brand they have often used. And this is why we are putting down in writings these outstanding brands for you to make a choice among. They have been tested in several laundry labs and proven to be greatly effective. A lot of them clean well, smell best, and are available at affordable prices.

However, our test of over dozens of laundry detergents show that there are really differences meaning that not all laundry detergents get clothes absolutely clean. In testing the effectiveness of these laundry detergents, the following were used to stain the clothes:

• Tea;
• Chocolate;
• Blood;
• Grass;
• Clay;
• Red wine;
• Ice cream; and
• Body oil.

A severe test was carried out, evaluations and comparisons made in order to offer to you the best and latest laundry detergent types.

It should be noted that the right laundry detergent will not only keep your clothes clean, but it will offer them a great look.

The history of laundry detergents

Several people are wondering how we moved from ancient soaps to modern detergents. Herein is the answer. Throughout our civilisation history, the need for the efficient washing of the skin and clothes forcefully pushed a lot of inventors and scientist into deep research. This led to the invention of several types of substances that facilitated that need. However, modern detergents found had their existence only after the rise of chemistry and technology during the 20^th century. Most of our ancestors laid down their focus on the production of different types of soaps. It was in ancient Babylon that the first archaeological proof of the existence of soap was found. That dates back to over 4800 years ago. However, it was merely inscription found at the pots that were intended for the boiling of animal fat with ash. This inscription did not provide references of soap usage. Several evidences of soap’s wide spread usage was found in ancient Egypt. These evidences moved from exclusive baths to providing medicinal care for the skin and tool for the efficient washing of clothes. Biblical records from that time also makes mention of a personal hygiene and the use of oil and soap products. The Roman Empire brought to the height of popularity the use of soaps, oils and ash mixed gels. During this time, both the nobility and public used cleaning products regularly with several legends surrounding soap. Worth noting is that soap was by legend first discovered on Mount Sapo, this was a mountain were animal sacrifices were made, the fat from the sacrificed animals moved down and was collected into pools of soap. Nevertheless, the Roman Empire fell by the 5^th century AD and this led to the disappearance of the tradition of washing in Europe. In addition, this also brought about 1,000 years of uncleanliness, deadly plagues, and poor hygiene. One of the deadliest plagues ever experienced due to dirtiness was the Black Death during the 14^th century. However, public hygiene and cleanliness returned to Europe after the 17^th century. This brought the need for the creation of several new effective cleaning products.

It was during the First World War that one of the first instances of industrially made cleaning detergent was made. This was when Germany’s economy was strained and left without easy access to soap. The raise of several detergent brands was brought by the 1930s thanks to the commercially available routes for creating fatty alcohols. By then, the detergent brands produced with aim of industrial use. It was after the Second World War that several American War factories were converted for civilian use. By then, one of the most widely available products was tetra propylene which was used by these factories in producing home detergents.

By the 1950s in developed countries, soap was already displayed as an efficient means of cleaning clothes. One of the most popular detergents that was used by then was the alkylbenzenesulfonates. However, its inability to be biodegradable greatly forced its manufacturers to switch to Linear alkylbenzenesulfonates which were found to much more degradable. From thence hence forth, the detergent industry began growing in an exponential manner bringing rise to new ways of washing and reaching all the corners of the world. Below are some of the chief detergent related inventions for the past 60 years:

• Fabric softeners and automatic dish washer powders were created in the 1950s;
• Enzyme presoaks and preywash stain removers were invented in the 1960s;
• Liquid softeners and multifunctional products which are a combination of detergents plus softeners were invented in the 1970s;
• Concentrated washing powders and detergents that can could support cold water washing were invented in the 1980s;
• Ultra-fabric softeners, Aromatic gels, liquid detergents, and super concentrated powders were invented in the 1990s; and
• Green friendly products, biodegradable, all in one washing detergents, and water conservation washing machines were invented in the 2000s.

Types of Laundry detergent

 

Types of Laundry detergent

 

Over the years, laundry detergents have evolved to three types namely:

 

• Liquid laundry detergent;
• Powder laundry detergent; and
• Laundry detergent packets or pods.

 

Liquid laundry detergents are specially formulated to be effective in pre-treating stains. Liquid detergents are also reputed for dissolving very easy for a better laundry experience. They also represent the easiest form to measure for your laundry activities.

 

If your occupation requires you to work in dusty and ground environments or your children have their clothes dirtied by the soil, the powder laundry detergent will best clean them. This is because they easily remove ground-in stains. When compared to liquid laundry detergents, they are less expensive. Most of them require hand agitation when soaked in water. The last type is the laundry detergent packets or pods which often come readily available in single-use packets. Such detergents are very convenient for use. It should be noted that they turn to be much more expensive that the other two types.

 

Reviews of laundry detergent: Tide Free and Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent

 

Several liquid laundry detergents in the world are made to contain dyes and perfume but this liquid laundry detergent was formulated and designed without any dyes or perfumes, yet effective. It stands out as one of the best laundry detergent for sensitive skins. It works effectively to clean all your clothes and give them a nice look and long lasting protection. In addition, it is dermatologist tested. It has the powerful ability to remove all the grease and stains thus allowing your clothes perfectly clean. Worth noting is that it quickly and easily removes dirt resulting from food, ground, tea, milk, red wine, blood, body sebum, and sweat. With no dies or perfumes, it features an outstanding cleaning that is quite gentle to your whole skin. It works extremely great even on heavily soiled and stained clothes. It features a special design for all sensitive skins.

Ingredients: Water, Citric acid, Borax, Ethanolamine, Alcoholethoxy Sulfate, Calcium Formate, Amylase, Protease, Dimethicone, Lauramine Oxide, Laureth-9, Diquaternium Ethoxy Sulfate, Ethanolamine, Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Salt, andDisodium Diaminostilbene Disulfonate.

Caution:

• It is harmful if swallowed;
• Eye irritant;
• Keep out of reach of children;
• If swallowed, give a glass of water and call a physician;
• Flush with water in case of eye contact; and
• Do not reuse its packet for dispensing other liquids or beverages.

Pros:

• Free of dyes and perfumes;
• Dermatologist tested;
• 32 loads;
• No phosphate contains; and
• Gentle to use even for ultra-sensitive skins.

Cons:

• None.

Customer reviews:

This liquid laundry detergent is starred 4.5 out of 5 stars for its effectiveness in laundry detergent reviews on Amazon.

Looking at the tons of positive customer reviews, we can find some customers who report that this detergent cleans cloth diapers perfectly. They attest that it leaves no stain on a cloth after it has been washed. Some also appreciate its tiny sized bottle. For these reasons, they recommend this product to other users.

Other customers after using, came to conclusion that it meets more than their expectations and works just as it is being advertised. Some testify that this detergent is worth full lifetime loyalty and its price is amazingly interesting when compared to others.

Nevertheless, some customers still in laundry detergent reviews found that the Tide merits just 1 star out of 5. They discourage anyone from purchasing it as they report that it has a horrible ‘’April Scent’’. In addition to complaining that it is highly perfumed, they add that it is like halitosis mixed with grand ma’s perfume. They report that even after washing their bedsheets with a scentless detergent, they could still smell it. However, they agree that Tide is a great liquid laundry detergent but its scent is too horrible to withstand.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Meyer’s Clean Lemon Verbena Liquid laundry detergent

 

This is one of the biodegradable liquid laundry detergents that is highly gentle and safe on your precious clothes. It contains surfactants which are special and essential oils and stain combating enzymes all aimed at cleaning your clothes to more than your expectations. Worth admiration is the fact these surfactants are eco-friendly. It is highly concentrated and its ingredients are 98% naturally derived. It is free from animal derived ingredients, phthalates, parabens, artificial colours, DEA, MEA, and optical brighteners.

Pros:

• Great and appealing scent;
• Safe;
• Stain fighting;
• Concentrated; and
• Effective.

Cons:

• Pricey.

Customer reviews

In Laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, this liquid laundry detergent is stared 4.3 out of 5 stars for its effectiveness in combating stains. In addition it features several positive customer reviews with very few negative ones.

Some customers reported of being impressed of the way this liquid laundry detergent combats stains and dirt. They attest of it doing just more than they expected.

Other customers report that it smells quite great as a soap but does not last long n their clothes.

Still in Laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, other customers complain of the scent of this detergent being too strong as it remains on clothes even after washing. Others find that the design of the container makes pouring a mess. Others complain of still having stains and sweat smell on their towels and favourite t-shirts after washing them with this so called stain fighter.

Reviews of laundry detergent: Persil Clean 2-in-1 Liquid laundry Detergent

 

With this liquid laundry detergent, there is just no need to spend a single second worrying about the stains in your favourite clothes. It tends out to be the best for any serious man or woman to purchase for their daily house hold use because it possesses the ultimate power to remove different types of stains on your clothes. It does this without leaving behind any residue. As it was previously mentioned, it is really the best for everyday use especially when it has to do with your white clothes. Invented with chief aim of cleaning, it has 10 dimensions of clean which are as follows:

• Fiber care;
• Whitening;
• Clean rinsing;
• Anti-greying;
• Brightening;
• Clean fresh scent;
• Cold water cleaning;
• Odour fighting; and
• Long lasting freshness.

Pros:

• Easy to use;
• Effective; and
• Gets grease and stains out.

Cons:

• Strong scent. 

Customer reviews

In laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, this detergent is starred 4.3 out of 5 stars for its effectiveness. In addition, it also features a lot of positive customer reviews with very little negative ones.

Some customers find that its scent is wonderful and it does just more than their expectations when it comes to cleaning their favourite clothes. In addition, others find it relatively cheaper yet it is effective just as those of the higher end price.

Other customers attest that this liquid laundry detergent does a fantastic job in removing even the thickest of stains. They also testify that this product features a higher concentration of cleaning strength.

Still in laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, other customers find that this detergent should be given just two stars as they reported being greatly disappointed with the soap. However they attest that it does not smell like grand ma’s perfume.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Biokleen Liquid Laundry detergent

 

This is one of the best laundry detergent for sensitive skin that is capable of effectively removing even the toughest stains, grease, dirt, and unpleasant odours in your cloths. It was made to be gentle enough to be used for hand washables, delicate fabrics, and cloth diapers. It contains natural cleaning plant based surfactants, extracts of citrus, and grapefruit seeds. This natural plant based surfactants are well reputed for cleaning the hardiest stains. This best laundry detergent for sensitive skin does not only clean your favourite cloths perfectly, it does this without leaving even the least residues than can irritate skins or ruin fabrics. It is quite gentle enough and rinses clean delicate fabrics.

Pros:

• Has a pleasant and appealing scent;
• Cleans all normal loads well;
• Easy to use;
• Best for any sensitive skin;
• It is 3 times more concentrated;
• It has very simple instructions;
• Nice to use for washing pet beds; and
• Very efficient in removing stains.

Cons:

• Expensive.

Consumer reviews

In Laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, this detergent is starred 4.5 out of 5 stars for its effectiveness and reliability as the best laundry detergent for sensitive skin. In addition, it features several positive customer reviews will only a few negative customer reviews.

Customers who are allergic to certain perfumes that are added in some laundry detergents report positively that they find ease using this one for its perfume is just so wonderful and pleasant. These same customers do not only attest that it is highly concentrated, but also attest that it works much as advertised. Thus they recommend this as the best laundry detergent for sensitive skins.

Other customers reported positively that after they had made a long search for the best, they met with this detergent which they found effective and reliable in keeping their clothes clean. They also appreciated it for being eco-friendly.

Still in laundry detergent reviews, some customers report negatively that this product often comes leaking after it has been shipped implying that its container is not strong enough. However, they highly appreciate its scent.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Arm and Hammer

 

This is the most cost-efficient detergent. It should be noted that price is the base line factor for several families. So it is not surprising that this detergent features a lot of positive reviews on Amazon. Worth noting is that 57% of its users give it 5/5 stars for its efficiency. In addition to its excellent money value, its users are also tilted to its reasonably long-lasting gentle and fresh scent and effective cleaning ability. It was formulated with baking soda. This is one of the efficient laundry detergents that was carefully formulated to power out all odours and give cloths a new and fresh appearance. Even on protein-based stains like grass and egg, it works extremely well. It does not cause any unusual wear or tear on the fabric which is often the case with several expensive detergents.

Pros:

• You get more detergent for less money;
• Household option for multiple week-end washes;
• The best option to save money;
• Possesses the natural freshening power of baking soda; and
• Has a smell of fresh linen.

Cons:

• It struggles with tough stains.

Customer reviews

In Laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, several customers appreciate the price of this detergent, its cleaning power, and appealing scent. For these reasons, they highly recommend it to anyone who wants an affordable family size laundry detergent.

Other customers report being disappointed as they received and found that the bottle was much smaller than they expected it to be. However, they appreciate its appealing smell.

Reviews of laundry detergent: Ecover Zero

 

Here comes one of the best natural laundry detergents that is highly eco-friendly. It contains a plant-based fabric softener that functions quite well on natural fibres. It features a biodegradable formula. It is packaged in a bottle that is made with recycled plastic. This natural laundry detergent is not only eco-friendly, but it is also formulated to be used effectively even in cold water. This means that it is energy efficient as well. However, when you need to remove stubborn stains, warm water is recommended. 

Pros:

• Completely free of dyes or fragrance;
• Dermatologist tested;
• Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin; and
•  Cleans cloths quite well.

Cons:

• According to EWG, this so called natural laundry detergent is formulated with suspected hazards to the environment.

Customer reviews

In laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, this natural laundry detergent is starred 4.3 out of 5 stars. In addition, it features several positive customer reviews with only a few negative reviews.

Some Amazon customers report to have earlier carried out research before purchasing this natural laundry detergent and it worked up to their expectations after purchasing it. They attest that they will keep on going for it again and again.

Nevertheless, some customers reported that they will return back this product as they purchased it when some reviewers said it did not contain methylisothiazolinone. But for their greatest surprise when it arrived, the label openly showed that methylisothiazolinone was part of its ingredients.

Reviews of laundry detergent: Gain Liquid Laundry Detergent

 

Coming from one of the best brands, this detergent has an original scent that combines the following sniff-tastic elements: Lemon, orange, green twist, and blossoms with modern fruits. If you are in search of the best laundry detergent with the most amazing scent experience, then search no more. It is regular washer compatible and He compatible. It quickly lifts away dirt thereby keeping your cloths always clean. It has an amazing and strong scent that keeps your laundry smelling even after two week.

Pros:

• Amazing scent;
• Superior cleaning ability; and
• Effective.

Cons:

• Strong odour.

Customer review

In laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, this detergent is starred 4.5/5. In addition, it features several positive customer reviews and some few negative customer reviews.

A good number of customers attest that it leaves their cloths absolutely clean with a long lasting and appealing odour. In addition from testifying that it smells fantastic, they highly appreciate its ability to remove stains thus are recommending it to anyone who needs an effective detergent.

Other customers attest it cleans well just like other detergents but its scent disappointed them as they were expecting a stronger scent that what it has.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Charlie’s Liquid Soap Laundry detergent

 

This is the best liquid natural laundry detergent for washing your cloths such as cotton, silk, waterproof gear, high-tech microfibers, and wool. It cleans all odours and stains on your cloths perfectly. It is safe to be used not only for your cloths but also for the environment thus eco-friendly. It caters for your cloths by giving them a fresh appearance. It is made with non-toxic substances.

Pros:

• Great scent;
• Inexpensive;
• No perfume;
• Cleans effectively; and
• Reliable.

Cons:

• None.

Customer reviews

This natural laundry detergent is starred 4.7/5 on Amazon in laundry detergent reviews. In addition, it features several customer positive reviews alongside few customer negative reviews.

Several Amazon customers attest to have found this natural laundry detergent to be the first that does not cause allergic reactions. They complaining of previously experiencing itching with other types, but since they purchase this one, they have not had such horrible experiences again.

Other customers attest that it works even more than their expectations as it perfectly cleans all the dirt and stains on their cloths.

Other customers reported negatively that this detergent does not clean perfectly as it is advertised. They complained of greatly being disappointed as they expected it to work well but it did not. 

Reviews of laundry detergent: Earth friendly Eco 2x liquid laundry detergent

 

This is a hypoallergenic detergent that is highly concentrated to combat all stains and dirt from your favourite cloths. It features a built-in Lily and Magnolia fabric softeners that are highly gentle for your fabrics. Long lasing natural fragrance is left to your cloths by its highly concentrated formula alongside effective cleaning agents. This laundry detergent works well with cold or hot water. It is quite effective to be used in cleaning dishes. It can as well be used to soften hands.

Pros:

• It comes from a renewable plant extract;
• Fragrance with essential oil;
• Free of phosphate, Ammonia, chlorine, and palm oil;
• Biodegradable and recyclable packaging.

Cons:

• None.

Customer reviews

This liquid laundry detergent is starred 4.4/5 in laundry detergent reviews on Amazon. It also features several positive reviews and a few critical reviews.

Several customers attest that this detergent is highly safe to the skin. They also appreciate its smell and its ability to cure mild eczema. So many have classed this as the best detergent with great and superior cleaning abilities. In addition, they highly appreciate the fact that it leaves clothing with an appealing smell for long even after wash.

Other customers reported negatively about this detergent as they called for all who have a sensitive skin not to take on this detergent. This is because they experienced several weeks of discomfort and issues with this detergent.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Dreft Stage, Newborn Liquid detergent

 

This is a particular liquid laundry detergent that was formulated and brought out for the new born babies. It was carefully designed to be able to clean all fabrics while being soft and gentle on the baby’s skin. For more than 80 years today, this has been the number one choice for several caring mums. It is tough to remove stubborn stains while softening hands thanks to its hypoallergic formula.

Pros:

• Easy to use;
• Powerful;
• Great product;
• Efficient for years;
• Convenient;
• Simple user instructions; and
• Baby care.

Cons:

• A little costly.

It features a standard container size that will keep you covered for up to 64 full loads. Worth noting is that this baby detergent works both in standard and high efficient washing machines. However, you are free to use dreft products with any kind of washing you possess.

Customer review

For over 80 years today, several moms who care much for their kids have been using this detergent and have found it trustworthy and efficient. They attest it to be a highly formulated baby detergent.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Purex Mountain Breeze Laundry Detergent

 

This is a well and specially formulated liquid detergent that was designed with aim of combating the most stubborn stains and dirt in clothes such as food stains, grease, and grass stains. Your cloths are guaranteed to always remain clean and fresh.

Pros:

• Dye-free;
• All purpose for everyday;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Stain fighting;
• Unscented; and
• Brightens cloths with its dirt lift action.

Cons:

• None.

Customer reviews

This efficient laundry detergent is starred 5.0/5 in laundry detergent reviews on Amazon. One of her consumers reported to be highly impressed with it as it made it up to his expectations.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Wisk and Deep Clean Liquid Laundry Detergent

 

Formulated to deep penetrate inside your fabric and offer to you the best results in terms of cleaning. It cleans even beyond all visible stains. It seeks out and removes all trapped sweat alongside body oils in the clothes. Featuring an outstanding cleaning power, this is the best to purchase to maintain your clothes fresh and free from stains. In addition, it is not only safe to use but it is highly efficient.

Pros:

• Removes all stains;
• Inexpensive;
• Outstanding cleaning; and
• Works well in cold or hot water.

Cons:

• Low availability.

Customer reviews

In laundry detergent reviews on Amazon, this detergent is starred 3.3/5 for effectiveness. In addition, it also features several positive customer reviews alongside some few negative customer reviews.

A good number of customers after using this product attest that it is the best and that they will remain faithful to it. They highly appreciate its scent, cleaning ability, stain combating capacity, and its ability to freshen clothes.

However, some others report negatively about this product as they complain of a feeling that they were robbed. In addition, they believe this product should be starred 1/5 for effectiveness. They say on looking at the label they nearly believed it was original wisk, but it was not long that they felt disappointed.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Eco Me Liquid Laundry Detergent

 

Here features one of the best natural laundry detergents that is greatly pure in its composition. Although it is extremely tough on stubborn stains and dirt, it remains a safe, gentle, and best laundry detergent for sensitive skins. Even though it is fragrance-free, it was carefully formulated by experts to leave your laundry room with fresh and clean smell. This detergent is made from natural plant-based ingredients. Yet it is of great standard when it has to do with cleaning. It does not only smells great, it also assist you in saving your money.

Pros:

• Has natural and fresh scents;
• Perfect for those with sensitive skins;
• Free from phosphate, chlorine, and formaldehyde;
• Available in great natural scent;
• No dyes and colourants; and
• Highly effective in cleaning and removing stains.

Cons:

• It is not the best for those in search of a strong smell.

Customer reviews

It features a 4.0/5 stars rating in Laundry detergent reviews on Amazon. In addition, it also features several top customer reviews and a few critical customer reviews.

Several consumers attest that they decided to give this detergent a try due to the simplicity in its formulation and ingredients. Nevertheless, it worked up to their expectations as it operated in keeping their laundry room with a fresh smell and combatted all stains on their clothing. Thus they recommend this product for anyone who wants something that will work well in whole.

Nevertheless, some few customers reported negative that this product merits only 3/5 stars as it is decent but has some issues they do not appreciate. They complain of it not being as great in stain removal as advertised. However, they appreciate its simplicity and nice scent coming from natural plant sources.

Reviews of Laundry detergent: Seventh Generation Natural laundry detergent

 

Featuring here is another best laundry detergent for sensitive skin that is extremely hash on stains but very gentle and soft to your world. With no synthetic fragrances, optical brighteners, dyes, this is an outstanding natural laundry detergent that offers to you very great results in high efficient and standard washing machines. It works best I just all water temperatures thanks to its special formulation by experts in the domain. It is made with plant based premium ingredients. It is one of the best USDA Certified Biobased Product of 97%.

Pros:

• Dye-free;
• Synthetic fragrance-free;
• Works in all temperatures;
• Enzymes lift stubborn stains; and
• Reliable.

Cons:

• None.

Customer reviews

This natural laundry detergent is highly starred and appreciated by it consumers in laundry detergent reviews over the net.

Some customers highly appreciate this detergent for its simplicity in its ingredients and its natural scent. They also attest that they have highly sensitive skins and this product did well for them. They were also highly impressed that even after washing their cloths the detergent keeps on with its appealing smell. Thus they definitely recommend this product to anyone who has a highly sensitive skin and needs the best natural laundry detergent.

Nevertheless, some other few customers reported negatively as they were disappointed with this so called natural laundry detergent. They complained that it contains sodium lauryl sulfate which is one of the skin irritants. For this reason, they do not agree with it being a natural laundry detergent so do not recommend it for people with highly sensitive skins. However, they appreciate the other qualities of this laundry detergent like its cleaning ability and fresh scent it offers.

 

 

Factors to consider when purchasing laundry detergent

Type of laundry machine: Before purchasing any laundry detergent, always check to see if it is compatible with the type of laundry machine you have at home. If you are in possession of a high efficiency washing machine, make sure that you always use high efficiency detergent in order to prevent over foaming that can likely damage your machine. Always use regular laundry detergent for a regular washing machine to ensure that your clothes are properly cleaned.

Water temperature: It should be noted that certain detergents are best suited for different water-temperature cycles. An example can be observed with cold water detergents that are formulated to work best in cold water cycles. Always remember to check clothing label to pick out which washing cycle is recommended.

Sensitivity: Fragrance-free detergent, Dye-free detergent, and hypoallergenic detergent formulas are alternative choices for those who often experience sensitivities. In order to prevent your baby’s skin from being irritated, always choose baby detergent that is made specifically for washing infant clothes.

Eco-Friendly: These are detergents that are free from synthetic chemicals that are found in most laundry detergents.

Size: Worth noting is that laundry detergents are packaged in a variety of different sizes. So you should select the best detergent size that will provide you with the best value for your money, this you do while considering how often you do laundry.