Best Laundry Detergent of 2026

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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Laundry detergent is an essential cleaning product in every household. It is designed to remove dirt, stains, and odors from clothing and other fabrics. There are different types of laundry detergents available on the market, including powder, liquid, and pods. Powder detergents are the oldest and most traditional form of laundry detergent. Liquid detergents are more convenient to use and often come in a variety of scents. Pods are the newest innovation in laundry detergent and offer a pre-measured amount of detergent for easy and convenient use. Whatever type of laundry detergent one chooses, it is important to follow the instructions on the label for best results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Unscented Laundry Detergent Cover #TOP 1
365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Unscented Laundry Detergent
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Tide 3-in-1 PODS Laundry Detergent, Spring Meadow Scent Cover #TOP 2
Tide 3-in-1 PODS Laundry Detergent, Spring Meadow Scent
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters Fresh Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent Cover #TOP 3
Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters Fresh Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Laundry Detergent

#TOP 1

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Unscented Laundry Detergent

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Unscented Laundry Detergent Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Concentrated Laundry Detergent, Unscented, 33 HE Loads, 50 Fl Oz

The 365 Whole Foods Unscented Detergent is designed with your sensitive skin in mind, offering a gentle formula that helps prevent irritation. This hypoallergenic detergent is free from added fragrances and dyes, making it a great choice if you prefer a clean, natural wash without artificial scents. You can also feel confident knowing it contains no harmful chemicals like phosphates, phthalates, or chlorine, which makes it safer for both your family and the environment. Plus, it’s USDA certified organic, so you’re using a product that meets strict organic standards. This detergent is ideal if you want a simple, effective, and eco-friendly laundry solution.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Light, pleasant fragrance
Free from harsh ingredients
Good value for money
Hypoallergenic formula
What We Don't Like
Occasional tough stains remain
Delivery can be slow
#TOP 2

Tide 3-in-1 PODS Laundry Detergent, Spring Meadow Scent

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Tide 3-in-1 PODS Laundry Detergent, Spring Meadow Scent Cover
Tide PODS laundry detergent pacs, 3-in-1 Stain Remover, Odor Fighter, Color Protector, 112 Count, HE compatible, Spring Meadow Scent

Experience the convenience of Tide 3-in-1 PODS Laundry Detergent in Spring Meadow scent. With concentrated detergent, stain removers, and color protectors in one pod, it can tackle 100% of common stains, even in cold water. No matter what kind of washing machine you have, it works well and can dissolve even in cold water. Plus, it has a refreshing Spring Meadow scent. Trust in America's #1 laundry detergent brand and get the clean you need with the convenience of Tide 3-in-1 PODS.

What We Like
Convenient single-use pods
Effective stain removal
Fresh, long-lasting scent
No measuring or mess
Works in cold and hot water
What We Don't Like
Occasional residue on clothes
Packaging lid difficult to open
#TOP 3

Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters Fresh Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent

033200975816
Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters Fresh Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent Cover
ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters Fresh Burst, 128 Loads Liquid Laundry Detergent, 166.5 Fl oz

The Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters Fresh Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent cleans 128 medium loads when used as directed. This HE laundry detergent fights tough odors, blasts away stains, and boosts freshness leaving your clothes looking and smelling their best. The laundry stain remover contains OxiClean Stain Fighters that force out stubborn stains and nasty odors such as food, grass, and grease. With trusted ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda and an odor fighter, this laundry detergent is formulated to deeply clean clothes and deliver lasting freshness. The Odor Blasters feature fights tough smells like body odor, sweat, and musty towels and leaves clothes with a lasting Fresh Burst scent.

What We Like
Odor removal effectiveness
Long-lasting fresh scent
Strong stain and dirt cleaning
Excellent value per load
Large bottle size options
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for sensitive skin
Clothes not extra soft
#TOP 4

Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap

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white
Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap Cover
Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid, Original Scent, 64 Loads, 80 FL OZ, Works on 100% of Common Stains, Laundry Soap, Liquid Laundry Detergent

Get the deep clean and fresh scent you love with Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap. This liquid laundry detergent is America's #1 detergent brand and is designed to clean, freshen, whiten, and brighten your clothes. With Smart Suds technology, this detergent cleans faster and rinses out quicker, even in cold cycles. It's infused with the Original Scent you love and is perfect for HE machines. Simply measure with the cap and pour into the dispenser to start your wash.

What We Like
Effective cleaning performance
Pleasant fresh scent
HE compatible
Good value size
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for tough stains
Occasional delivery packaging issues
#TOP 5

Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets

EB-01
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets Cover
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets Fresh Scent - 60 Loads Eco Liquidless Soap - Travel-Friendly for Hot & Cold Cycles, Tackles Tough Stains & Odors - Gentle on Skin, 30 Ct

Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets offer a powerful clean for your clothes while being gentle on sensitive skin. They are hypoallergenic, vegan, bleach-free, paraben-free, and phosphate-free. These Eco Sheets are compact and lightweight, which saves space in your laundry room while reducing your carbon footprint. The plastic-free packaging dissolves in water, and you won't have to throw away bulky plastic containers that take up to 1000 years to decompose.

What We Like
Eco-friendly packaging
Space-saving storage
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective cleaning
No measuring or spills
What We Don't Like
Adjustment for sheet size
Slightly higher price per load
#TOP 6

ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda 55 oz

033200030201
Multi
ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda 55 oz Cover
ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda Household Cleaner and Laundry Booster, 55 oz Box

The ARM & HAMMER Washing Soda is a versatile household cleaner that helps you tackle tough stains and odors naturally. This 55 oz box contains a fragrance-free and phosphate-free powder that neutralizes unpleasant smells without overpowering scents, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean. When added to your laundry, it boosts your detergent’s effectiveness by up to 15%, helping you achieve brighter and cleaner clothes, especially with stubborn stains like mustard and blood. Besides laundry, it works great as a general cleaner for indoor and outdoor hard surfaces such as sinks, bathtubs, and garage floors, making it a handy all-purpose cleaning tool for your home.

What We Like
Exceptional stain removal
Multi-purpose household cleaner
Long-lasting value
Boosts laundry detergent
Eco-friendly formula
What We Don't Like
May require gloves for sensitive skin
Unclear dosage for some users
#TOP 7

LA CORONA Daroma Laundry Bar Soap 5 Pack

LA CORONA
Daroma-mar-200g-5pk
7 Ounce (Pack of 5)
LA CORONA Daroma Laundry Bar Soap 5 Pack Cover
Daroma Laundry Bar Soap with Detergent, Ocean Scent (Aroma de Mar), 200g, 5 Pack

The LA CORONA Daroma Laundry Bars offer a convenient solution for hand washing and removing stains from all types of fabrics. With a refreshing ocean scent, your clothes will come out smelling clean and fresh after every wash. The bars feature a dual-action formula that combines traditional soap with detergent, giving you extra cleaning power to tackle tough dirt and stains effectively. This value pack includes five bars, each weighing 200 grams, providing plenty of cleaning product to handle your laundry needs. Whether you’re treating stains or washing delicate items, these laundry bars make the process easier and more effective.

What We Like
Effective stain removal
Fresh ocean scent
Dual-action cleaning formula
Value pack of 5 bars
#TOP 8

Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads

037000418306
linen
Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads Cover
Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads, 84 fl oz, Tide Laundry Detergent, Clean Laundry Detergent

The Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent offers a deep clean that is gentle on your skin, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Dermatologist recommended and hypoallergenic, this liquid detergent is free of dyes and perfumes. It comes with a cap that makes measuring easy and precise, and it can be used for medium, large, or HE full loads. Simply fill the cap to the appropriate level and pour it into the dispenser to start the washer.

What We Like
gentle for sensitive skin
no dyes or perfumes
effective cleaning power
suitable for babies
works in cold water
What We Don't Like
packaging issues
higher price
#TOP 9

Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent

033200975823
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent Cover
ARM & HAMMER Liquid Laundry Detergent, Clean Burst Fresh, 170 fl oz, 170 Loads, HE Laundry Detergent Liquid

Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent is a concentrated HE detergent that cleans 170 medium loads with 2X powerful stain fighters, blended with baking soda, and a just-washed clean fragrance. Its clean-rinsing, low-sudsing formula won't block HE machine sensors, making it an effective choice for both standard and HE washers.

What We Like
Fresh long-lasting scent
Effective stain removal
Good value for money
Works in HE machines
Gentle for sensitive skin
What We Don't Like
Occasional packaging leak
Some stains not fully removed

365 by Whole Foods Market Concentrated Laundry Detergent Lavender Citrus

365 by Whole Foods Market Concentrated Laundry Detergent Lavender Citrus Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Concentrated Laundry Detergent, Lavender Citrus Scent, 66 HE Loads, 100 Fl Oz

The 365 Whole Foods Laundry Detergent offers a large 100-ounce bottle that lasts through many washes, making it a cost-effective choice for your laundry needs. Its fresh lavender citrus fragrance leaves your clothes smelling clean and pleasant after every wash. Designed to handle 66 high-efficiency loads, this detergent is perfect if you want to do multiple loads without constantly repurchasing. Plus, it uses plant-based cleaning ingredients, giving you a powerful yet eco-friendly option that is gentle on fabrics and the environment. This detergent works well with all washing machines, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues.

What We Like
Plant-based ingredients
No harsh chemicals
Effective cleaning power
Pleasant lavender scent
Good value for size
What We Don't Like
Mixed fragrance opinions
May not kill bacteria
Buying Guide Image

Choose the Best Laundry Detergent for Your Needs

The Importance of Choosing the Right Laundry Detergent

When it comes to doing laundry, choosing the right detergent can make all the difference. Not only can it affect the cleanliness of your clothing, but it can also have an impact on the health of your skin and the environment. So, how do you choose the best laundry detergent for your needs? Here are some tips to consider:

Determine Your Laundry Needs

Before you start shopping for detergent, it's important to think about your laundry needs. Do you have a lot of heavily soiled items that require extra cleaning power? Do you have sensitive skin that requires a hypoallergenic detergent? Do you want to use an eco-friendly option that is biodegradable and safe for the environment? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your options and find the best detergent for your specific needs.

Consider the Type of Detergent

There are several types of laundry detergents to choose from, including liquid, powder, and pods. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it's important to consider which one will work best for you.

Liquid detergents are easy to measure and can be added directly to the washer. They are also less likely to leave behind residue on clothes. However, they can be more expensive and may not be as effective at removing stains as powder detergents.

Powder detergents are generally more affordable and effective at removing stains, but they can be more difficult to measure and may leave behind residue on clothes if not dissolved properly.

Pods, or detergent tablets, are convenient and easy to use. They also tend to be more expensive and may not be as effective at removing stains as other types of detergents.

Look for the Right Ingredients

In addition to considering the type of detergent, it's important to pay attention to the ingredients. Some common ingredients to look for include enzymes, which help break down stains, and surfactants, which help lift dirt and oil from fabrics. You may also want to look for detergents that contain brighteners, which can help improve the appearance of clothes, and fragrances, which can leave clothes smelling fresh and clean.

It's also a good idea to avoid detergents that contain harsh chemicals, such as phosphates, which can be harmful to the environment and may cause skin irritation. Instead, opt for natural ingredients like plant-based oils and enzymes, which can be just as effective at cleaning and are better for both your skin and the environment.

Read the Label

Before making a purchase, be sure to read the label on the detergent bottle or box. This will give you important information about the ingredients, recommended usage, and any special instructions or warnings. It will also tell you how much detergent to use based on the size of your load and the water hardness in your area.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Ultimately, the best laundry detergent for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Don't be afraid to try out different brands and types of detergents to see what works best for you. Just be sure to follow the recommended usage guidelines and pay attention to any adverse reactions or issues you may experience. With a little bit of experimentation, you can find the perfect detergent for your laundry needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What not to use laundry detergent?

It is best to avoid laundry detergents that contain nonylphenol ethoxylate, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), phosphates, dyes, optical brighteners, 1,4-Dioxane, formaldehyde, and chlorine bleach. These ingredients can be harmful to the environment and may cause skin irritation or other health issues.

2. Does it really matter what laundry detergent you use?

The choice of laundry detergent is largely a matter of personal preference. The difference between different brands and types of detergent is often superficial, such as scent. It is suggested that you can choose the cheapest detergent that meets your needs.

3. Is liquid or powder detergent better?

Both liquid and powder detergents are effective for laundry. Powder detergent may offer a lower cost per load and is packaged in recyclable cardboard. Liquid detergent, on the other hand, can be directly applied to clothes as a pretreatment for tough stains without the need to mix with water.

4. Is any detergent okay to wash lead out of clothes?

To wash lead out of clothes, it is recommended to use a general detergent that contains surfactants. Additionally, using a phosphate-rich detergent can help ensure that no lead particles are left in the machine, which could potentially contaminate other clothes.

5. Why you shouldn't use a lot of laundry detergent?

Using too much laundry detergent can result in excessive suds, which may not effectively pick up dirt and can interfere with the washing process. The excess suds can lead the machine's sensors to detect the wash as clean, prematurely ending the cycle and potentially leaving stains on clothes.

Editor's Notes

During our laundry detergent research, we found 27 laundry detergent products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,257,945 customer reviews through our big data system to write the laundry detergent list. We found that most customers choose laundry detergent with an average price of $17.32.

The laundry detergent are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of laundry detergent, including 365 by Whole Foods Market, Tide, Arm & Hammer, Earth Breeze, LA CORONA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Laundry Detergent Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand 365 by Whole Foods Market Tide Arm & Hammer Tide Earth Breeze Arm & Hammer LA CORONA Tide Arm & Hammer 365 by Whole Foods Market
Item Form Liquid Pac Liquid Liquid Sheet Powder Bar Liquid Liquid Liquid
Scent Unscented Spring Meadow Fresh Burst Original Fresh Scent, 1 Pack Unscented Ocean Unscented Clean Burst Lavender
Unit Count 50.0 Ounce 112.0 Count 166.5 Fluid Ounces 80.0 Fluid Ounces 30.0 Count 55.0 Ounce 35.0 Ounce 84.0 Fluid Ounces 170.0 Fluid Ounces 100.0 Fluid Ounces
Material Type Free Unscented Phthalate Free Aluminum Free, Ammonia Free, Bleach Free, Phosphate Free Phosphate Free No Plastic Jug, No Parabens, No Phthalates, No Phosphates, No Bleach, No Dyes, No Optical Brighteners Phosphate Free, fragrance free Harsh Chemicals Dye Free, hypoallergenic Aluminum Free, Ammonia Free, Bleach Free, Phosphate Free phthalate free,fragrance free,phosphate free,dye free
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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