10 Best Powder Laundry Detergents of 2024 (Tide, Arm and Hammer, and More)
Does your laundry smell a little funky even after pulling them fresh out of the washer? Perhaps it's time to change the products you use. Powder laundry detergents can pick up stains and odors, leaving your laundry feeling and smelling fresh and clean.
We've picked out some of the best powder laundry detergents, such as Tide's version, which can even address week-old stains. There are nine other options to choose from, with options including baby-safe ones and ones that work for both front and top loading machines and some for high-efficiency machines; plus we have a buying to help you select the most fitting detergent for your laundry needs.
Quick List - Top Powder Laundry Detergents
Arm & Hammer™
An Extra Boost Of Clean For Laundry And Household Surfaces
OxiClean™
Oxygen-Powered Solution For Tough Stains And Odors
Molly's Suds
Natural, Effective Cleaning With Earth-Derived Ingredients
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Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- 10 Best Powder Laundry Detergents
- No. 1Arm & Hammer™ | Arm & Hammer™｜Super Washing Soda Detergent Booster
- No. 2OxiClean™ | Odor Blasters Versatile Stain & Odor Remover
- No. 3Tide | Tide｜Original Powder Laundry Detergent
- No. 4Molly's Suds | Original Laundry Detergent Powder｜Unscented - 120 Loads
- No. 5Harris | Borax Laundry Booster and Multipurpose Cleaner, 1.5lb｜Unscented
- 5 more products
- Get the Most Out of Your Powder Detergent
- Tackle Laundry With These Helpful Products
- Amazon's Best Selling Powder Laundry Detergents
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
How to Choose a Powder Laundry Detergent - Buying Guide
Choosing a powder laundry detergent can be tricky due to the different types of washing machines and formulas. Our buying guide will help you determine what to look for so that you can make a confident purchase!
Match the Formula With Your Clothes
If you require extra stain removal, such as in the underarm area, a bleach-infused formula will eradicate stains. The bleach used in laundry detergents is often hydrogen peroxide or sodium percarbonate. Most white clothing is compatible with bleach.
Colored clothes should indicate if they can be bleached, but you can always opt for color-friendly bleach solutions. You can also look for surfactants that lift dirt from fabrics and ensure it's rinsed away. Common surfactants are sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and alcohol ethoxylates.
For an active lifestyle that results in sweat and odor, a powerful formula that removes dirt with an added scent replaces odors and makes your clothes smell fresh with every wash. If you choose to avoid fragrances, natural ingredients such as essential oils from flowers and herbs are an alternative.
Watch Out for Irritating Ingredients for Sensitive Skin
If you have particularly sensitive skin and find yourself itching after putting on clean clothes, going through the detergents ingredients list is a must.
Enzymes are often used in laundry detergents for their stain-removal properties, but they can trigger skin irritation on sensitive skin. A quick way to confirm this is to check if the detergent is bio or non-bio.
Biological detergents contain enzymes and work effectively, even in cold water. Non-bio detergents lack enzymes and are gentler for those with sensitive skin. Plus, you can find non-bio detergents made specifically for delicate fabrics like wool and silk.
You should also watch out for optical brighteners, as they could trigger an allergic reaction called contact dermatitis for those with sensitive skin. These chemicals absorb ultraviolet light and re-emit it as blue light, thus making your clothes appear whiter or brighter without actually removing dirt.
The most common compounds used as optical brightening agents in laundry detergents are anionic diamino stilbene (DAS) and distyryl biphenyl (DSBP).
We recommend going for a hypoallergenic laundry formula without fragrances to avoid skin irritation. You can head on over to the reviews to confirm if those with sensitive skin could use the detergent without issues.
Keep the Environment in Mind
Given that washing clothes is a frequently occurring task, you may want to consider a powder laundry detergent that keeps the environment in mind. Here are a few examples of how to make this chore more efficient and sustainable.
Sustainable Packaging, Refills, and Concentrated Formulas are Eco-Friendly Choices
Some powder laundry detergents come in plastic bottles or barrels. Keep the environment in mind and minimize waste by considering a refillable bottle or box. Because of their dry consistency, you can even find powder detergent brands that offer their refills in biodegradable carton boxes.
Another approach is to consider a concentrated or "ultra" formula wherein less water and detergent are needed to clean the same load.
Pick an HE Detergent for a High Efficiency Washer
Looking for the "HE" (High-Efficiency) symbol on the packaging is another option, especially if your washer is designed to use less water than older versions. HE detergents produce low suds and disperse quickly.
If you have an HE washer, then a HE detergent is required. Regular ones are too sudsy for HE machines and may lead to mold and odor buildup. Take note that a HE-detergent will work fine in a non-HE washer but not the other way around.
10 Best Powder Laundry Detergents
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Arm & Hammer™ Arm & Hammer™｜Super Washing Soda Detergent Booster | | An Extra Boost Of Clean For Laundry And Household Surfaces | |
2 | OxiClean™ Odor Blasters Versatile Stain & Odor Remover | | Oxygen-Powered Solution For Tough Stains And Odors | |
3 | Tide Tide｜Original Powder Laundry Detergent | | Powerful Stain Removal, Even On 7-Day-Old Stains | |
4 | Molly's Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder｜Unscented - 120 Loads | | Natural, Effective Cleaning With Earth-Derived Ingredients | |
5 | Harris Borax Laundry Booster and Multipurpose Cleaner, 1.5lb｜Unscented | | Versatile Cleaner That Enhances Laundry And Tackles Household Tasks | |
6 | Rockin’ Green Active Wear Detergent Platinum Series | | Tough On Stains And Odors While Extending Activewear Lifespan | |
7 | Gain Gain｜Original Powder Laundry Detergent | | Lifts Dirt And Locks In Freshness For Six Weeks | |
8 | ACTIVE Activewear Laundry Detergent | | Engineered To Eliminate Odors From Activewear Fabrics | |
9 | Charlie's Soap Natural Powder Laundry Detergent | | Concentrated, Residue-Free Cleaning for Sensitive Skin and the Environment | |
10 | Seventh Generation Seventh Generation Inc.｜Laundry Detergent Packs｜Free & Clear | | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free Detergent Packs for Sensitive Skin and Effective Cleaning |
Arm & Hammer™Arm & Hammer™ ｜ Super Washing Soda Detergent Booster
An Extra Boost Of Clean For Laundry And Household Surfaces
Beyond laundry, this washing soda is useful for cleaning a variety of hard surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. It can be applied to surfaces such as stainless steel, sinks, and even garage floors. Additionally, it serves as an effective tarnish remover for silver, brass, and copper. With its natural, pure ingredients—sodium carbonate and water—Arm & Hammer™ Super Washing Soda provides a simple, multipurpose cleaning solution trusted since 1874.
Oxygen-Powered Solution For Tough Stains And Odors
In addition to laundry, OxiClean™ Odor Blasters is suitable for removing odors and stains from hard surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom, and beyond. It is a versatile cleaner for various household needs, including pet bedding and team uniforms. The formula is tough on dirt yet gentle on fabrics, making it safe for regular use without the risk of color fading. This 5-pound container is designed for frequent use on both large and small cleaning tasks.
Powerful Stain Removal, Even On 7-Day-Old Stains
Tide Original Powder Laundry Detergent is designed to remove tough stains, even those that have set for up to 7 days. Formulated with Acti-Lift Crystals and HE Turbo technology, this detergent is optimized for use in both regular and high-efficiency (HE) washing machines, making it highly effective in delivering clean, fresh laundry. Tide's formula is trusted by washing machine manufacturers and is recommended as the #1 brand for maintaining the performance of your machine.
Tide Original Powder includes a blend of cleaning agents such as sodium carbonate, enzymes, and fluorescent brighteners to tackle dirt and stains while maintaining fabric quality. Easy to use with clear dosing instructions, it ensures effective cleaning for various load sizes. Safety is emphasized, with proper storage guidelines provided to keep the detergent out of reach of children. Its formula has been tested for safety and efficiency, making it a reliable option for household laundry care.
Molly's SudsOriginal Laundry Detergent Powder ｜ Unscented - 120 Loads
Natural, Effective Cleaning With Earth-Derived Ingredients
This detergent is free from synthetic chemicals, including phosphates, chlorine, and petrochemicals. For optimal results, it is recommended to use warm or hot water, with an option to dissolve the powder in hot water for cold washes. The product is also compatible with natural cleaning aids, such as vinegar for pH balance and an oxygen whitener for extra stain removal. Molly’s Suds adheres to strict ingredient integrity, making it a safer option for household laundry.
HarrisBorax Laundry Booster and Multipurpose Cleaner, 1.5lb ｜ Unscented
Versatile Cleaner That Enhances Laundry And Tackles Household Tasks
This borax powder serves as a multipurpose cleaner for various household tasks, including cleaning countertops, glass, grout, toilets, and more. Its mineral-based formula helps remove grime, mineral deposits, and tough stains without artificial fragrances. The resealable bag ensures ongoing freshness, and the included scoop simplifies measurement for consistent use. This product can also be used to freshen drains, dishwashers, and carpets, making it a versatile addition to any cleaning routine.
Rockin’ GreenActive Wear Detergent Platinum Series
Tough On Stains And Odors While Extending Activewear Lifespan
Rockin’ Green Active Wear Detergent Platinum Series is designed to tackle tough stains and odors, especially those from sweat and bacteria, with its plant-based enzyme formula. This powder detergent cleans and refreshes activewear, protecting high-tech fabrics like microfiber and maintaining their breathability and moisture-wicking properties. The extra-concentrated formula requires only one tablespoon per load, lasting for up to 90 washes. It works effectively in both standard and HE machines, ensuring a thorough clean for all types of fabrics.
Free from harsh chemicals like bleach, dyes, and parabens, this detergent is gentle on sensitive skin and safe for babies. It is also environmentally friendly, made without optical brighteners, SLS/SLES, and other synthetic additives. In addition to cleaning workout gear, it promotes a greener lifestyle with its vegan, cruelty-free formulation, making it a conscientious choice for families seeking both effective cleaning and eco-consciousness.
Lifts Dirt And Locks In Freshness For Six Weeks
The detergent is available in various load sizes, with different measuring recommendations depending on the size of the load. Its versatile formula pairs well with other Gain products like scent boosters, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets, allowing users to enjoy the same fragrance throughout their laundry routine. The ingredients include common cleaning agents like sodium sulfate and sodium carbonate, along with fragrance and brightening agents for an effective and aromatic clean.
Engineered To Eliminate Odors From Activewear Fabrics
Designed for workout clothing, ACTIVE detergent is compatible with all popular activewear brands and fabrics like leggings, sports bras, and jerseys. It works well in cold or warm water, offering flexibility in washing preferences. By addressing the challenges of odor retention in synthetic fibers, this detergent extends the life of activewear and keeps workout clothes fresh between uses.
Charlie's SoapNatural Powder Laundry Detergent
Concentrated, Residue-Free Cleaning for Sensitive Skin and the Environment
Charlie’s Soap Natural Powder Laundry Detergent is a super-concentrated, biodegradable formula designed to clean clothes without leaving behind residue. Free from harmful chemicals like dyes, parabens, phosphates, and synthetic fragrances, it is gentle on sensitive skin and hypoallergenic. The detergent is also compatible with both high-efficiency and standard washing machines, and it cleans the washer itself with every use. Just one tablespoon per load is sufficient, making it highly efficient for daily laundry needs.
With an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Safer Choice certification, Charlie’s Soap prioritizes eco-friendliness by using natural, biodegradable ingredients. It effectively breaks down dirt and grime while rinsing completely, helping to maintain clean laundry, washing machines, and even city drainage systems. Safe for all temperatures and washing cycles, it ensures a thorough clean without the need for additives like fabric softeners, making it ideal for those seeking an environmentally responsible laundry solution.
Seventh GenerationSeventh Generation Inc. ｜ Laundry Detergent Packs ｜ Free & Clear
Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free Detergent Packs for Sensitive Skin and Effective Cleaning
Formulated with plant-based and mineral-based ingredients such as sodium carbonate, coconut oil, and enzymes, these detergent packs clean thoroughly without leaving harmful residues. They are Leaping Bunny Certified, ensuring cruelty-free production, and the water-soluble film around the packs dissolves easily during washing. Ideal for those seeking an environmentally conscious and skin-safe option, this detergent offers reliable cleaning performance without unnecessary additives.
Get the Most Out of Your Powder Detergent
Powdered detergents are one of the most effective options for tackling stains and dirt, and they're very economical per load. However, they can pose issues if not used properly. They don't respond well with cold water and may not dissolve completely, thus weakening the cleaning properties.
If you have a top loader, put the powder directly into the drum before the clothes to ensure it dissolves properly and avoid white residue getting stuck on your clothes. If residue is still a problem, try mixing the powder with hot water first before adding it into the drum.
Meanwhile, front-loading washers often have a detergent drawer. This can quickly accumulate detergent and water residue and requires periodic cleaning. Lastly, HE washers use a different amount. Be sure to read the instructions carefully since too little powder will be ineffective while too much will result in overflow or residue.
Tackle Laundry With These Helpful Products
Are you looking for more products to make washing and drying your clothes easier? Here are a few more suggestions to get you started!
Top 5 Powder Laundry Detergents
No. 1: Arm & Hammer™｜Arm & Hammer™｜Super Washing Soda Detergent Booster
No. 2: OxiClean™｜Odor Blasters Versatile Stain & Odor Remover
No. 3: Tide｜Tide｜Original Powder Laundry Detergent
No. 4: Molly's Suds｜Original Laundry Detergent Powder｜Unscented - 120 Loads
No. 5: Harris｜Borax Laundry Booster and Multipurpose Cleaner, 1.5lb｜Unscented
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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