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After many trials and errors, Ive finally found the best products for my laundry day routine.

collage of two Gain Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap Plus Aroma Boost on a light tan background

The Spruce

Ive used laundry pods that effectively lifttough set-in stainsand thebest eco-friendly detergentsthat leave myclothes and towels smelling freshand fluffy.

We also like that its compatible with all machines.

), fluffy bath towels, and even my couch’s cushion covers."

Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent + Aroma Boost displayed on a marbled surface next to folded washcloths

PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson

And if we had to choose just one to recommend, it would be the Bryt Laundry Detergent Sheets.

Our textiles came out cleaner and softer.

If youre not a huge scent person, youll appreciate how subtle the notes are.

Hand pouring Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent + Aroma Boost into cap

PHOTO: The Spruce

So we highly recommend having a pre-treatment on standby.

But when it comes to value, we think it’s unbeatable.

We also appreciate the label recommendation from dermatologists and pediatricians.

Hand holding Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent + Aroma Boost

We also like that there are several scent options, including fragrance free.

We know that plant-based or natural detergents are both gentler on the environment and your skin.

This detergent also has 20 percent more cleaning power and concentration to tackle tough stains.

Hand pouring Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent + Aroma Boost into cap

This liquid detergent performed the best at removing stains and leaving clothes and linens feeling fluffy and clean.

Dr. Kopelman explains that different formula types offer varying levels of convenience and effectiveness.

Can Laundry Detergent Expire?

Hand holding Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent + Aroma Boost

Surprisingly, yes, laundry detergent does expire!

This is crucial to avoid irritation and allergic reactions, she says.

Fragrance-free detergents also reduce the likelihood of skin irritation.

Tide PODS Laundry Detergent Soap Pods

PHOTO: Amazon

Detergents with minimal ingredient lists are often deemed better, as fewer ingredients generally mean fewer potential irritants.

But all types of detergent effectively clean your clothes when used properly.

More importantly, take note of the care instructions.

Person holding folded fabric above an open washing machine

The Spruce

Different fabrics require different temperatures and sometimes require hand-washing or dry cleaning.

Just be sure to wash all delicate fabrics on a shorter, less agitated cleaning cycle.

Washing machines come in two types:front-load and top-load.

Bryt Laundry Detergent Sheets

PHOTO: Amazon

While all front-load washing machines are high-efficiency (HE), not all top-load washing machines are.

HE machines requireHE detergents, which produce less suds and therefore require less water.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent displayed on a marbled surface next to a woven laundry basket

PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Kenedee Fowleris a writer for The Spruce who specializes in finding the best laundry care for your load.

She’s written articles on thebest detergent pods,wool dryer balls, andodor removers.

Hands opening a Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent box displayed on a stainless steel surface next to a laptop

PHOTO: The Spruce

Blue cup dipped into an open box of Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent

Person holding the Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent next to a laptop

A hand emptying a small amount of liquid on to a box drawn on fabric

Hand holding a blue measuring cup full of detergent powder above an open box of Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent

Hands opening a Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent box displayed on a stainless steel surface next to a laptop

Blue cup dipped into an open box of Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent

Person holding the Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent next to a laptop

A hand emptying a small amount of liquid on to a box drawn on fabric

Hand holding a blue measuring cup full of detergent powder above an open box of Gain Original Powder Laundry Detergent

All Free Clear Laundry Detergent displayed on a marble counter

PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Hand holding All Free Clear Liquid 2x Concentrated Laundry Detergent on marble countertop

PHOTO: The Spruce

Person pouring All Free Clear Liquid 2x Concentrated Laundry Detergent into cap

Hand holding All Free Clear Liquid 2x Concentrated Laundry Detergent on marble countertop

Person pouring All Free Clear Liquid 2x Concentrated Laundry Detergent into cap

Bottle of HEX Performance Laundry Detergent displayed on a marble counter

PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Hands pouring HEX Performance Laundry Detergent into a measuring cup

PHOTO: The Spruce

Hand holding HEX Performance Laundry Detergent

Person holding a stained gray t-shirt

Hands holding a bottle of HEX Performance Laundry Detergent

Hands pouring HEX Performance Laundry Detergent into a measuring cup

Hand holding HEX Performance Laundry Detergent

Person holding a stained gray t-shirt

Hands holding a bottle of HEX Performance Laundry Detergent

Seventh Generation Power+ Laundry Detergent Packs

PHOTO: Amazon

All Free Clear Liquid 2x Concentrated Laundry Detergent displayed next to child’s shirt on wood floor

The Spruce

Person holding Grab Green 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods bag next to open washing machine

The Spruce