Doing the laundry might not be everyone’s favourite chore, but it has to be done.
Want to know the secret to make it more enjoyable? Finding the perfect laundry detergent.
How to Choose a Laundry Detergent
Choosing the right laundry detergent involves considering your washing machine type and laundry needs.
Understand Your Washing Machine Type
Most laundry detergents can be used for both front-loading and top-loading machines.
However, there are other detergents which are better suited for top loaders.
Consider Your Laundry Needs
- Stain Removal: If your laundry often includes stained items, go for a detergent known for its stain-fighting capabilities.
- Sensitive Skin: For those with sensitive skin, allergies, or conditions like eczema, hypoallergenic or fragrance-free detergents are the safest bet.
- Environmental Concerns: Eco-conscious consumers should look for biodegradable, plant-based detergents with sustainable packaging.
- Delicate Fabrics: Specialty detergents are available for silk, wool, and other delicate materials. They’re gentle and prevent damage to these fabrics.
- Colour-Safe Choices: Some laundry detergents are specially designed to retain the colour of clothes and prevent fading.
Powder vs Liquid Laundry Detergent
While powder detergents are often more economical than their liquid counterparts, they tend to have more cons.
Powder detergent
Generally, powder detergents tend to be cheaper on a per-wash basis compared to liquid detergents.
They have a longer shelf life and don’t degrade as quickly as some liquid formulas.
Powder detergents also often come in cardboard boxes or plastic tubs, which can be easily reused and recycled.
However, using powder laundry detergents can be messier than using liquid, and they don’t always dissolve completely in each wash.
You also can’t use powder detergents as a pre-treatment spot cleaner, unlike liquid laundry detergents.
Liquid detergent
Liquid detergents dissolve more readily in water, making them ideal for cold water cycles.
They’re suitable for various washing conditions, including hand washing or using in high-efficiency machines.
Liquid detergents are less likely to leave residues on clothes than powders in certain conditions.
But many liquid laundry detergents tend to be more expensive than powder detergents.
They also typically come in plastic containers, contributing to plastic waste if not recycled properly.
There’s potential for spills or leaks if the bottle isn’t sealed correctly.
The Top Laundry Detergents in Australia
Best Liquid | Best Powder | Best Sheets | Best Pods | Best Enzyme | Best Budget | Best Bulk | Best for Babies | Best for Delicates | Best Natural | Best Antibacterial | Best for Sensitive Skin | Best Homemade
Best Liquid Laundry Detergent: Cold Power Sensitive Pure Clean
Cold Power Sensitive Pure Clean liquid detergent offers a gentle yet effective cleaning solution.
Specially formulated for those with sensitive skin, this product boasts a hypoallergenic formula free from dyes and fragrances.
Its unique cold water optimisation ensures clothes get cleaned efficiently even in cold wash cycles, saving energy and preserving fabric integrity.
Cold Power’s liquid detergent is great for front loader washing machines.
Best Laundry Detergent Powder: OMO Sensitive Front & Top Loader Washing Powder
Omo Sensitive Washing Powder stands out with its powerful stain removal capabilities.
This detergent is designed to tackle a wide range of stubborn stains and still be gentle on clothes.
Omo’s formula penetrates deep into the fabric fibres, ensuring clothes come out looking pristine.
It’s also fragrance-free, making it hypoallergenic and suitable for all skin types.
Best Laundry Detergent Sheets: Tru Earth Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent
Go green with Tru Earth Eco-Strips.
These ultra-concentrated laundry strips are designed to provide a mess-free and convenient washing experience. They get our vote for the best travel laundry detergent!
Tru Earth Eco-Strips are biodegradable, hypoallergenic and free from parabens, making them safe for sensitive skin.
A perfect eco-friendly alternative that reduces carbon footprint with minimal packaging.
Best Laundry Pods: Omo Active Clean 3 in 1 Laundry Detergent Liquid Capsules
Simplify your laundry routine with Omo Active Clean 3 in 1 capsules.
These pre-measured pods encompass detergent, stain remover, and brightener, ensuring optimal cleaning in one easy step.
Suitable for both whites and colours, these pods dissolve quickly and leave no residue behind.
Best Enzyme Laundry Detergent: Cold Power Advanced Clean Cold Water Enzyme
Harness the power of enzymes with Cold Power Advanced Clean.
This formula uses cold water enzymes to ensure effective stain removal even in cold washes.
Ideal for preserving the lifespan of clothes, this detergent maintains vibrancy and texture while offering thorough cleaning.
Best Cheap Laundry Detergent: Vanish Napisan OxiAction Fabric Stain Remover Powder
For those looking for budget-friendly yet effective cleaning, Vanish Napisan OxiAction is the go-to.
This stain remover tackles even the toughest of stains without breaking the bank.
Its versatility makes it ideal as a pre-treatment or an in-wash solution.
Best Bulk Laundry Detergent: Biozet Attack Regular Laundry Powder Detergent
Buy in bulk without compromising on quality with Biozet Attack Regular.
This powerful detergent delivers consistent results even in large loads. Its unique formulation ensures deep cleaning, removing both visible stains and hidden dirt.
The bulk packaging offers both cost savings and reduced shopping trips.
Best Laundry Detergent for Babies: Pigeon Paraben-Free Baby Laundry Detergent
Ensure gentle care for your baby’s garments with Pigeon Paraben-Free Baby Laundry Detergent.
Specifically crafted for delicate baby skin, this detergent is free from harsh chemicals and irritants.
Its mild formula effectively cleans while preserving the softness of baby clothes.
Best Laundry Detergent for Delicate Fabrics: Koala Eco Laundry Delicate Wash
For the finest fabrics in your wardrobe, Koala Eco Laundry Delicate Wash offers gentle yet effective cleaning.
Harnessing the power of natural ingredients, Koala Eco ensures your delicate garments remain in pristine condition after every wash.
Its formula is imbued with the calming aroma of pure essential oils, leaving your clothes feeling fresh and soft.
Best Natural Laundry Detergent: Zero Co Laundry Liquid
Do your part for the environment and choose the eco-friendly Zero Co Laundry Liquid.
It is made with 100% natural ingredients, offering effective cleaning without harsh chemicals.
Packaged sustainably and free from harmful chemicals, it ensures both your clothes and the planet stay clean.
Best Antibacterial Laundry Detergent: Canesten Antibacterial and Antifungal Hygiene Laundry Liquid Rinse Lemon
Raise your hygiene standards with Canesten Antibacterial and Antifungal Laundry Liquid Rinse.
Infused with a pleasant lemon scent, this rinse not only combats bacteria and fungi but also leaves clothes smelling fresh.
It’s perfect for households wanting added protection.
Best Laundry Detergent for Sensitive Skin: Omo Sensitive Front & Top Loader Liquid Detergent
For those who prefer an unscented and hypoallergenic detergent, Omo Sensitive Front & Top Loader Liquid Detergent is the perfect match.
Its fragrance-free formula ensures clothes come out clean without any lingering scents.
It’s dye-free and fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with eczema or sensitive skin.
The Best Homemade Laundry Detergent
If you’re looking for a simple homemade laundry detergent recipe without borax or commercial chemicals, here’s a basic one using three natural ingredients:
- Bar soap (unscented or your choice of fragrance): You can use any natural bar soap like Castile soap or even a simple unscented soap.
- Washing soda (Sodium carbonate): This is a natural cleaner and can be found in most stores in the laundry aisle. It’s different from baking soda.
- Baking soda (Sodium bicarbonate): This helps deodorise and soften the clothes.
How to make homemade laundry detergent
Start by grating one bar of soap. The finer you can get it, the better it’ll dissolve in your wash water.
In a large container or bucket, mix the grated soap with 2 cups of washing soda and 2 cups of baking soda.
Store your homemade detergent in a sealed container to keep it dry.
How to use homemade laundry detergent
Use 2 to 3 tablespoons per load, depending on the size and how dirty the laundry is.
For particularly tough stains, add a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener and disinfectant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laundry Detergents
How much laundry detergent should you use per load?
You should follow the laundry detergent brand’s guidelines.
However, most detergents recommend 1/4 to 1/3 cup for a standard load.
What’s the best smelling laundry detergent in Australia?
Omo Active Clean Laundry Detergent is renowned for its fresh and long-lasting scent.
What is the best fragrance free laundry detergent in Australia?
Omo Sensitive laundry detergent and powder is not only free from fragrances but is also formulated to be kind to sensitive skin.
It’s dermatologically tested and is suitable for those with allergies and skin sensitivities like eczema.
Which laundry detergent should I use to remove blood stains?
Removing blood stains can be particularly challenging because of their protein composition.
Our cleaning experts recommend Zero Co Laundry Liquid because it is formulated with enzymes to remove stains.
Which laundry detergent should I use to remove oil and grease stains?
Grease or oil stains require a detergent to break down the oils and lift them away from the fabric.
Omo Ultimate Liquid and Dynamo Professional are two detergents known for their grease-fighting capabilities.
If you’re in a pinch, 1 to 2 drops of dishwashing liquid can be used as a pre-treatment for oil stains.
