Washing machines make our lives a lot easier. Basically, we just put the clothes there and that's it. However, there are always some options to take. It is necessary to choose the right program, but there is something else that is even more important, because it can save us money. So what is the best type of detergent for your washing machine?
This is the best detergent for your washing machine!
The capsules
Like dishwasher capsules, laundry capsules contain liquid (and sometimes powdered) cleaning ingredients inside a dissolving film and are designed to be added directly to the washing machine drum. When the capsule hits the water, the film dissolves, releasing the cleaning ingredients into the wild world of dirty clothes.
Aside from the obvious convenience factor, many people consider laundry pods superior to liquid detergents because they come pre-measured.
In fact, capsules not only perform better because they are measured correctly, but also because they have more concentrated cleaning ingredients.
Furthermore, laundry capsules can save space. If you live in a tiny apartment and don't have much storage space, a box of the right laundry capsules can replace fabric softener, a box of detergent and other stain removers.
But you will pay more for this washing machine detergent
Of course, laundry capsules are by far not superior to regular detergents in every way. They are much more expensive than liquid and powder detergents. Some can cost up to 50% more. Powder detergents are the most economical, followed by liquids and then capsules.
And while there is a definite convenience factor in your pre-portioned packaging, that convenience also limits you. With liquid and powder detergents, you have much more control. If you want to make a very small load, for example, you can choose a small amount of detergent with the powders and liquids.
With capsules, if you have an extra large load of laundry, you may have to use two – and that can get expensive if you do a lot of large loads. On the other hand, if you have a small load of delicate laundry, you are limited to the amount of detergent already in the capsule, which is probably excessive. Sometimes this can lead to chemicals building up on your clothes.
It is also not possible to pre-treat stains with capsules as is done with liquid detergents. As they are meant to simply be thrown into the dishwasher, this means you will have to buy something extra to pre-treat stains. And if you hand wash delicates, you'll also need something to do it with.
Powder detergent
The obvious advantage of powdered laundry detergent over capsules and even liquid laundry detergent is cost. Powdered detergent is cheaper and can be more environmentally friendly than other options because it requires less packaging and less water.
If you want to be truly environmentally friendly, you can make your own powdered detergent or refill it at a zero-waste grocery store.
Some people find powdered detergent easier to measure than liquid laundry detergent, which can also save you money since you will always use the exact amount you need.
The biggest problem with powder detergent is that it doesn't always dissolve completely in washing machines, especially if you wash your clothes in cold water. To use powder detergent to treat stains, form a paste with hot water and apply it to blood stains, clay stains or mud and dirt stains.
Liquid detergent
Liquid laundry detergents are more expensive than powder versions but cheaper than capsules. They don't leave residue on your clothes, regardless of the water temperature.
Liquid detergent is also a convenient option for washing clothes by hand, as you don't have to wait for the detergent to dissolve like you do with powder or capsule detergent.
A male hand pouring detergent liquid from a green bottle with blank label – editable mockup template
Liquid detergent is also useful for removing stains and is particularly effective at removing grease and oil stains. To use liquid detergent to remove stains, simply apply a small amount of detergent before washing as a pre-treatment.