Powder, liquid, pods, tablets... These are the four major types of laundry detergents on the market. But that's not all; there are numerous others.
The next time you go shopping for detergent, you'll know the benefits, drawbacks, and key facts about each type. Perhaps you'll come across something better suited to your laundry routine.
In this blog we will discuss the comprehensive guide to the various types of detergent and the key factors to consider.
Retailers may advertise laundry soap and laundry detergent. But what's the distinction?
Both soap and detergent clean your clothes, but they do so in different ways.
Laundry detergent contains more synthetic compounds, such as sulphates derived from petroleum, optical brighteners, dyes, perfumes, phosphates, and other substances. They may also contain biodegradable ingredients, such as enzymes, but the entire mixture will not be biodegradable.
On the other hand, laundry soap, also known as eco-friendly or natural detergent, is composed of a fat and oil mixture. You can make your own laundry soap or purchase it from a store. Although not as effective as laundry detergent, it is natural, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly. However, this is improving over time.
The main difference between the types of laundry detergent is their physical form rather than their ingredients. Laundry detergent and laundry soap are both available in these forms.
You may pick between them based on the sort of washing machine you have.
A top-loading washing machine 15kg, for example, can take all sorts of detergents, although certain washing machines require specific detergents.
1. Powder
Powder detergent is a great suggestion because it is one of the least expensive options. It is usually packaged in a recyclable cardboard or tin box.
It is one of the less expensive options, containers that can be recycled, excellent for stain removal, whitens and brightens clothes, and many of them contain oxygen bleach, which is not found in liquid.
2. Liquid
Many people enjoy using liquid detergents. They're simple to use, effective, and come in a wide variety of styles.
It is excellent for pre-treating stains before the washing cycle, simple to dissolve in the cycle, effective in all temperatures, helps in cleaning up spills easily, and the carton can get wet. Also, colour, white, and dark options are available.
3. Pods
Laundry pods are a simple and convenient form of laundry detergent. It is the best recommendation if you're new to laundry or travelling.
It's ideal for travelling because you can only take what you need, and it doesn't cause a mess. Many of them have multiple functions, such as stain removal, odour removal, colour brightener, and detergent. And because they are more concentrated, you are not paying for a product that is primarily water. One of the most important features are: long storage life, the coating degrades naturally, and pre-measured pod form is convenient.
4. Tablets
Laundry tablets are a less common alternative to laundry pods. They are very similar, but in a slightly different shape. They typically lack a protective coating and do not contain liquid or gel. Instead, they are powdery, like a dishwashing tablet.
For pods, the characteristics are pre-measured and handy, excellent for travel, even to the laundromat, they don't make a mess and there are numerous options for people with sensitive skin.
5. Laundry balls
Laundry balls, also known as laundry eggs, are a new phenomenon in the laundry room. You can put this laundry ball in the washing machine, and it will clean your clothes without causing any toxins.
Furthermore, depending on the product, you can reuse these up to 210 times. It is the most environmentally friendly, zero-waste option available. They also work extremely well. We've had ours for several months and couldn't be happier with the results.
6. Hypoallergenic Detergents
People who suffer from allergies or asthma should use hypoallergenic laundry detergent. Typically, these detergents have been dermatologically tested and certified as skin safe.
They are typically free of common allergens like enzymes and fragrances. If you had allergic reactions to your previous detergent, look for a hypoallergenic alternative
7. Biological Detergents
Enzymes in biological detergents break down tough stains. However, because they are not as gentle as other types of detergents, we do not recommend using them on baby clothes or if you have sensitive skin.
8. Non-Biological Detergents
Biological enzymes are not present in non-biological detergents. This detergent is gentler on your skin and clothing. However, because enzymes are missing, they may not be as effective at removing tough stains.
9. Eco-Friendly Detergents
In the end, Eco-friendly detergents resemble laundry soaps. They don't have as many harsh chemicals as regular detergents. To clean your clothes, they primarily use plant-based ingredients.
It can be difficult to choose between the various types of detergents. But now that you understand the main differences, as well as the benefits and drawbacks, you'll be able to find your ideal match.