Detergent Guide: Types, Ingredients, and Uses

Detergent is a staple in every household, and understanding its types, ingredients, and uses can make a big difference in keeping your clothes and home clean.

There are several types of detergents available, including liquid, powder, and single-dose packets.

Liquid detergents are popular for their ease of use and ability to dissolve quickly in water.

Powder detergents, on the other hand, are often preferred for their cost-effectiveness and ability to remove tough stains.

Single-dose packets are convenient for travel or small loads of laundry.

Some detergents contain enzymes that break down protein-based stains like blood and grass, while others use optical brighteners to make clothes appear whiter and brighter.

Optical brighteners work by reflecting light and making fabrics appear more vibrant, but they can also cause skin irritation in some people.

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Detergent is a word with a rich history, derived from the Latin adjective detergens, which means to wipe or polish off.

The word detergent can be defined as a surfactant or a mixture of surfactants with cleansing properties when in diluted solutions.

In everyday language, detergent typically refers to synthetic cleaning compounds, not soap, even though soap is also a detergent in the true sense.

Detergents are used to remove unwanted substances, or "soils", from a substrate, such as clothing.

The ability to remove these soils is called detergency.

Surfactants are the backbone of detergents, and they come in four main types: anionic, cationic, non-ionic, and amphoteric. Anionic surfactants are the most common, making up about 6 billion kilograms of annual production for domestic markets.

Anionic surfactants are further divided into two varieties: those with branched alkyl groups and those with linear alkyl groups. Branched alkyl groups are poorly biodegradable and have largely been phased out in economically advanced societies.

Cationic surfactants, on the other hand, have a quaternary ammonium group that's positively charged, but they generally have poor detergency.

Detergents are formulated products used for cleaning, made up of mixtures of various chemical components.

Surfactants are the main functional component in detergents, responsible for achieving a good cleaning performance.

Detergents also typically include water and auxiliary materials, such as builders and enzymes, to help with the cleaning process.

These auxiliary materials often serve to enhance the effectiveness of the surfactants and improve overall cleaning performance.

Builders, for example, help to remove mineral deposits and water spots, leaving surfaces cleaner and shinier.

Here's an interesting read: Green Cleaning

Surfactants are classified into four broad groupings, depending on the electrical charge of the surfactants. These classifications are crucial in understanding how detergents work and their effectiveness.

Anionic surfactants are the most common form, with an estimated 6 billion kilograms produced annually. They have a lipophilic portion and a hydrophilic sulfonate group, making them excellent at cleaning.

Typical anionic surfactants include alkylbenzene sulfonates, which have been largely phased out due to poor biodegradability. Bile acids, such as deoxycholic acid, are also anionic surfactants produced by the liver to aid in digestion.

Cationic surfactants have a quaternary ammonium group, making them positively charged. However, they generally have poor detergency, making them less effective than anionic surfactants.

Non-ionic surfactants have uncharged, hydrophilic headgroups, making them a popular choice for many detergents. Examples include polyoxyethylene-based surfactants like Tween and Triton, as well as glycosides like octyl thioglucoside.

Amphoteric or zwitterionic surfactants have a net zero charge, making them unique in their properties. An example is CHAPS, which has a specific pH range where it exhibits zwitterionic properties.

Powders are a type of laundry detergent that come in a powdered form. They tend to clean soil-based stains like mud, clay, and peat better than liquids.

Powder detergents often contain sodium percarbonate, which is delivered most effectively in powder form and rarely found in liquid detergents. This ingredient is particularly effective at tackling stains from tannins and other natural pigments.

Some newer powders are designed to dissolve rapidly and completely, making them a convenient option for washing clothes. However, they can be a challenge to dispense neatly.

Powder detergent is sometimes considered to be harsher on fabrics, causing dyes to fade more easily. But according to fabric care experts, color fading in laundry washed with powder detergent is likely due to residue from using too much detergent.

Powder detergents are often priced lower than liquids and pods, typically costing less than 20 cents per load. They can be found in plastic film bags or eco-friendly cardboard boxes.

Here's a rough guide to the amount of powder detergent you should use for different load sizes:

Old-fashioned powder detergents are still available in some markets, particularly in Latino communities. However, they don't clean as well as liquids and pods, and you can't pretreat clothes stains with powders.

Liquids are the most popular form of laundry detergent, and for good reason - they can be measured exactly and their doses are easily adjustable.

They work well in all water temperatures, including cold, which is a big plus for those who prefer to wash their clothes in cold water.

Liquid laundry detergent is especially good at tackling oil- or grease-based stains, as it can penetrate oily stains and fabric better than powder detergents can.

Most liquid detergents contain stain-busting enzymes, which make them more effective at cleaning stains than nonenzymatic detergents.

Nonenzymatic detergents, on the other hand, rely primarily on surfactants and are similar to castile or other oil-based soaps.

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They clean fine in warm water, but don't clean as effectively in cold water as enzymatic detergents do.

They can also leave soap scum and other residues in the machine, which can be a real pain to clean up.

Liquid detergents are a great choice for those who want a hassle-free laundry experience, but they may not be the best option for those who are looking for a more eco-friendly solution.

Some liquid detergents contain stain-busting enzymes, while others do not, so it's worth checking the label to see what's inside.

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Pods are a convenient option, but they have their downsides. They're easy to use, just toss one in your machine and you're done, but they sacrifice some cleaning power compared to liquids.

Some pods, like Tide Pods Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent, are good cleaners, but not as well-rounded as our top picks. They did a good job overall of removing or lessening a variety of stains, though not quite as well as our powder and liquid picks.

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Tide Pods Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent is a good option if you prefer pods, but it's not perfect. It's a good cleaner, but it fell short in removing the most challenging stains, especially a combination of animal fat and dye and used engine oil.

You can't pretreat stains with pods, nor can you precisely measure the amount of detergent you want in the same way you can with liquids or powders. This might be a drawback for some people.

Tide Pods Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent is scent-free, which is a plus for those with sensitivities. Many of the pods we tested had strong scents, so this is a nice change of pace.

The packaging of Tide Pods Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent is secure, with a childproof package and a bittering agent that would cause someone to spit it out quickly if unintentionally ingested. This is an important safety feature, especially for households with children or older people.

The price per load of Tide Pods Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent is 34¢ for an 81-count package. This is a reasonable price, but it's not the cheapest option out there.

For your interest: Is Purex a Good Laundry Detergent

Dyes can be a problem in laundry detergents, causing allergic reactions and skin irritation.

They can also disrupt the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances.

Some dyes can be harsh on skin, so it's best to avoid them altogether.

By not using dyes in your laundry detergent, you'll be creating a safer and healthier cleaning option for yourself and your family.

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Household cleaning is a major application of detergents, and these products are commonly available as powders or concentrated solutions.

One of the key components of household cleaning detergents is surfactants, which help to reduce the surface tension of water and make it easier to clean surfaces.

These detergents may also contain foam regulators, builders, bleach, bleach activators, enzymes, dyes, fragrances, and other additives to enhance their cleaning power.

Here's a breakdown of some common components found in household cleaning detergents:

Laundry detergent sheets are a popular eco-friendly alternative to traditional liquid detergents. However, their cleaning power falls far short of other detergents, scoring lower than even the lowest-scoring liquids and pods in tests.

They're typically made from plastic-free sheets of concentrated detergent held together by resin and paper that dissolve in water. But despite their claims of being free of chemicals, they often contain fragrances, dyes, and other ingredients that can be irritating to some people.

Laundry sheets are widely available online, some even by subscription, but few brands have made it to store shelves. They come in lightweight cardboard packaging, which is a more environmentally friendly option.

We tested over 35 laundry detergents, including laundry sheets, to find the best options for removing stains and odors in cold water. The results showed that laundry sheets don't quite measure up to the rest.

In fact, laundry sheets were designed as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional detergents, but they don't quite live up to their claims. They're not as effective at removing stains and odors as other detergents, which can be a problem for people who want to save time and energy in the laundry room.

Household cleaning is a complex process that requires the right combination of chemicals to get the job done. Surfactants are a crucial component of household detergents, responsible for reducing the surface tension of water and allowing it to penetrate and lift dirt and stains more easily.

These detergents can be found in various forms, including powders and concentrated solutions. The formulations of these detergents are often complex mixtures of a variety of chemicals aside from surfactants.

Some common components of household detergents include foam regulators, builders, bleach, bleach activators, enzymes, dyes, fragrances, and other additives. These components work together to provide effective cleaning power while also ensuring the detergent is safe and pleasant to use.

Here are some common components found in household detergents:

If you're looking for a bleach alternative, some detergents come with oxi (or oxy), a color-safe bleach alternative.

These alternatives are highly rated in our tests, so pick one that suits your needs.

You can also add a mild oxidizing agent in powder form, such as Borax or OxiClean, when needed.

For those who care about the planet, there are some great options out there. Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent Free & Clear is a good choice, it's free from many potential irritants and comes in a recyclable aluminum bottle.

This detergent is also lightweight and recyclable, making it a more eco-friendly option. It's available in a starter set that includes a silicone beaker for pouring, which can even be thrown in the washing machine to clean it along with your laundry.

The Dirty Labs Free & Clear detergent has been verified by the EWG, and it performed the best among the EWG-verified detergents we tested. It's also fragrance-free, but available in scented versions for those who prefer a certain scent.

One thing to note is that the detergent can struggle with tannin stains (tea, coffee) and some blood stains. But overall, it's a strong cleaner that's worth considering for those who want a more sustainable option.

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Making and using homemade detergent is a great way to save money and reduce your environmental impact. To use homemade detergent, add it directly to the washer drum before loading the dirty laundry.

For standard top loaders, use 2 tablespoons for small loads, 3 tablespoons for medium loads, and 1/4 cup for large loads. For front loaders and HE washers, use 1 tablespoon for small loads, 1 tablespoon for medium loads, and 2-3 tablespoons for large loads.

When handwashing, use 1 tablespoon of homemade detergent for small loads.

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Making homemade laundry detergent is a great way to save money and reduce your environmental impact. Each batch makes enough for 80 loads in a high-efficiency washer or 27 loads in a standard washer.

The amount of detergent you use depends on the type of washer and the size of the load. For standard top loaders, use 2 tablespoons for small loads, 3 tablespoons for medium loads, and 1/4 cup for large loads.

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You can also use homemade detergent for handwashing, which requires just 1 tablespoon for small loads. It's best to make small batches stored in an airtight container to prevent clumping.

Here's a handy table to help you determine the right amount of detergent for your washer and load size:

Remember to add the detergent directly to the washer drum before loading the dirty laundry, and avoid using it in an automatic dispenser to prevent clumping.

Homemade laundry detergent effectively removes everyday soil from a load of laundry, but it's not always the best stain remover.

There are no active enzymes to break apart specific stains, so it's best to use an all-purpose stain remover and pretreat stains before washing.

These products work best to flush away stains from fabric fibers, and you can dab a bit of high-performing detergent on the stain before washing for similar results.

In fact, our ratings of liquid laundry detergents show that most work admirably as a pretreatment, so don't be afraid to give it a try.

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Interpreting labels can be confusing, but it's essential to choose a detergent that suits your needs.

Most major manufacturers claim their hypoallergenic formulas are free from dyes and perfumes, but this doesn't necessarily mean they're scent-free.

If you have sensitive skin, look for detergents that are specifically formulated for this purpose, and check the manufacturer's claims.

Avoid adding certain ingredients to your homemade laundry detergent, as they may do more harm than good.

Reading labels can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing a detergent. Labels can be confusing.

Some labels claim to be "gentle" or "eco-friendly", but what does that really mean? In reality, these labels often refer to the fact that the product has been tested on animals, not that it's better for the environment.

Others claim to be "biodegradable", but this doesn't necessarily mean they break down quickly in the environment. In fact, some biodegradable products can take just as long to break down as non-biodegradable ones.

Choosing a detergent should be easy, but labels can be confusing.

It's essential to look beyond the label and read the ingredient list to get a better understanding of what's in the product. This can help you make an informed decision about what's best for you and your family.

Additional reading: Is Liquid Dishwasher Detergent Better

When adding ingredients to your homemade laundry detergent, remember to avoid a few things that may do more harm than good.

Detergents claimed to be free of dyes and perfumes may still have a scent from the chemicals used to make the formula.

Some manufacturers claim their hypoallergenic formulas are suitable for sensitive skin, but it's essential to verify this information.

Manufacturers may not always be transparent about their ingredients, so it's crucial to read labels carefully.

Detergents that are not formulated for sensitive skin can still be used, but be aware of the potential risks.

Henkel is the manufacturer of several laundry detergent brands, including All and Purex. It's also the manufacturer of Persil, a leading European brand introduced to the American market in 2015.

Procter & Gamble is another major player in the laundry detergent market, with brands like Tide, which is the leading brand of laundry detergent, and Ariel, which is available in liquid, powder, and single-load Pods. They also own the Cheer brand, which was introduced to the American market in 1950.

Church & Dwight makes the Arm & Hammer detergent brand, which is available in liquid, powder, and single-load packs. Earth Breeze is a leading laundry detergent sheet brand that manufactures hypoallergenic, liquidless eco-strips free of plastic, fragrances, phosphates, phthalates, and parabens.

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Our testing process is rigorous and comprehensive, covering more than 80 detergents currently on the market. We use a colorimeter to measure color intensity and determine how much of the stains remain on each dry swatch.

We launder fabric swatches saturated with common stains like blood, body oil, and chocolate to detect real differences among detergents. The best detergents can remove most stains, but even they can't remove every stain completely.

Our lab results are conducted using cool water, as today's water- and energy-efficient washers are designed to operate using cooler water than traditional top-loaders. We test for effectiveness in removing stains, as well as how well detergents perform in hard water.

We wash the swatches twice in a front-load washing machine, using each detergent to see how well it performs. We don't use a dryer, as the heat can alter the stains and skew our results.

The worst detergents we've tested are barely better than water when it comes to removing most stains. Hard water can reduce the effectiveness of some detergents, which is why we test for that as well.

Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday Clean, a runner-up in our stain testing, performed consistently well in stain strip tests, removing more cocoa stains than any other detergent we tested.

Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday Clean came in a very close second overall to Tide Free & Gentle liquid detergent in our stain testing — so close that most people won’t notice an obvious difference.

It cleans about as well as our top liquid pick, removing more cocoa stains than any other detergent we tested, including our other picks.

Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday Clean performed consistently well in our stain strip tests, but it fell short on peat, butter, and wine stains.

It has a powerful, lingering scent that isn’t for everyone, and it was so overpowering that in our odor-removal tests, we found it tricky to distinguish between true odor elimination and the fragrance.

Persil detergent is available in an unscented formula, which performed just a hair below the original in our testing.

The concentrated formula of Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday Clean requires smaller doses of detergent per load than our other liquid picks, making it a great option for those who want to save space and money.

It has an especially useful measuring cap that is smaller than most and easy to dose with, making it less likely to break.

Persil detergents are made by Henkel, a German company, and were only introduced to the US in 2015, which may make it harder to find in some areas.

The price per load of Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday Clean is 22¢, which is a great value considering it comes in a 110-load bottle.