The Best Laundry Detergents of 2023

Laundry detergent can be a lot like advertising for products. We see colorful ads all the time and assume that all laundry detergents work the same. But what about serious stains?

Laundry detergent is one of the most-used household products, but it’s not always the best choice when it comes to stains. In fact, some detergents are more harmful than helpful when it comes to cleaning clothes. So what’s the best laundry detergent for stains? Here’s a list of the top five tips to keep your clothes looking and smelling fresh.

Best laundry detergent for stains

What to look for in a laundry detergent for stains

When you are looking for a laundry detergent that will be effective in removing stains, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind. The first is that you will want to find a detergent that is specifically designed for removing stains. There are many brands on the market that make detergents for this purpose, so you should have no trouble finding one that meets your needs.

The next thing to consider is the type of fabric that you will be washing the clothing items in. Some fabrics are more prone to staining than others, so you will want to choose a detergent that is designed for the specific type of fabric. For example, if you are washing delicate items, you will want to use a detergent that is designed for delicate fabrics.

Finally, you will want to pay attention to the instructions on the label of the detergent. Many times, the best way to remove a stain is to pre-treat it with laundry detergent before washing it. This will help to ensure that the stain is removed before it has a chance to set into the fabric.

Here are some of the best laundry detergents for stains:

There are many different laundry detergents that claim to be effective at removing stains. Some popular options include:

  1. Tide Plus Bleach Alternative Liquid Laundry Detergent: This detergent contains enzymes that help to break down and remove stains, as well as a bleach alternative that helps to brighten and whiten clothes.
  2. OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover: This detergent is specifically designed to tackle tough stains, and it contains a powerful blend of enzymes and oxygen bleach to help remove a wide variety of stains.
  3. Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent: This detergent is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. It is effective at removing stains and is safe for use on all fabric types.
  4. Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Laundry Detergent: This detergent is formulated with powerful stain-fighting enzymes and is effective at removing a variety of stains, including grass, red wine, and chocolate.

Ultimately, the best laundry detergent for stains will depend on the specific types of stains you are trying to remove and the fabric of the clothing you are washing. It may be helpful to try a few different options to see which works best for your needs.

1. Tide Oxi Multi-Purpose Stain Remover

Tide Oxi Multi-Purpose Stain Remover is a liquid stain remover that is designed to be used on a wide range of stains, including food, grass, and red wine stains. It contains a powerful blend of enzymes and oxygen bleach that helps to break down and remove stains. To use Tide Oxi Multi-Purpose Stain Remover, you can simply apply it directly to the stain, scrub it in with a brush or sponge, and then rinse it off with water.

It is safe for use on most fabrics, but it is always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure that it does not cause any discoloration or damage. You can also follow the instructions on the label for specific usage instructions and precautions.

Pro and cons

Here are some pros and cons of using Tide Oxi Multi-Purpose Stain Remover:

Procons
Effectively removes a wide range of stainsMay not be as effective on certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains
Easy to use and apply directly to stainsMay cause discoloration or damage to certain fabrics if not used correctly
Safe for use on most fabricsSome people may be sensitive to the ingredients in the product, such as enzymes or oxygen bleach
Can be used in the washing machine or as a pretreatment for stains
The product may be more expensive than other stain removers on the market.

As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area. It is also a good idea to consider any potential allergies or sensitivities you may have to the ingredients in the product before using it.

2.OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover

OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover is a liquid stain remover that is designed to be used on a wide range of stains, including food, grass, and red wine stains. It contains a powerful blend of enzymes and oxygen bleach that helps to break down and remove stains. To use OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover, you can simply apply it directly to the stain, scrub it in with a brush or sponge, and then rinse it off with water.

It is safe for use on most fabrics, but it is always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure that it does not cause any discoloration or damage. You can also follow the instructions on the label for specific usage instructions and precautions.

Some potential pros of using OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover include its effectiveness at removing a wide range of stains, its ease of use, and its safety for use on most fabrics. Some potential cons include the possibility that it may not be as effective on certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains, and the possibility that it may cause discoloration or damage to certain fabrics if not used correctly.

It is also worth noting that some people may be sensitive to the ingredients in the product, such as enzymes or oxygen bleach. As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area.

Pro and cons

Here are some pros and cons of using OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover:

Procons
Effectively removes a wide range of stainsMay not be as effective on certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains
Easy to use and apply directly to stainsMay cause discoloration or damage to certain fabrics if not used correctly
Safe for use on most fabricsSome people may be sensitive to the ingredients in the product, such as enzymes or oxygen bleach
Can be used in the washing machine or as a pretreatment for stainsThe product may be more expensive than other stain removers on the market.

As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area. It is also a good idea to consider any potential allergies or sensitivities you may have to the ingredients in the product before using it.

3. Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent

Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent is a plant-based laundry detergent that is formulated to be effective at removing stains and cleaning clothes. It is made with biodegradable and plant-based ingredients, and it is free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.

To use Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent, you can simply add it to the washing machine according to the instructions on the label. It is safe for use on most fabrics and can be used in both high-efficiency and standard washing machines.

Some potential pros of using Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent include its effectiveness at removing stains and cleaning clothes, its plant-based and biodegradable ingredients, and its lack of synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. Some potential cons include the possibility that it may not be as effective at removing certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains, and the possibility that it may not be suitable for use on certain types of fabrics.

It is also worth noting that the product may be more expensive than some other laundry detergents on the market. As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area.

Pro and cons

Here are some pros and cons of using Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent:

Proscons
Effectively removes stains and cleans clothesMay not be as effective at removing certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains
Made with biodegradable and plant-based ingredientsMay not be suitable for use on certain types of fabrics
Free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicalsThe product may be more expensive than other laundry detergents on the market
Safe for use on most fabrics

As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area. It is also a good idea to consider any potential allergies or sensitivities you may have to the ingredients in the product before using it.

4. Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Laundry Detergent

Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Laundry Detergent is a liquid laundry detergent that is formulated with powerful stain-fighting enzymes to help remove a wide range of stains, including grass, red wine, and chocolate stains. It is safe for use on most fabrics and can be used in both high-efficiency and standard washing machines. To use Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Laundry Detergent, you can simply add it to the washing machine according to the instructions on the label.

Some potential pros of using Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Laundry Detergent include its effectiveness at removing a wide range of stains, its safety for use on most fabrics, and its compatibility with both high-efficiency and standard washing machines. Some potential cons include the possibility that it may not be as effective at removing certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains, and the possibility that it may not be suitable for use on certain types of fabrics.

It is also worth noting that the product may be more expensive than some other laundry detergents on the market. As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area.

Pro and cons

Here are some pros and cons of using Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Laundry Detergent:

Proscons
Effectively removes a wide range of stainsMay not be as effective at removing certain types of stains, such as oil or grease stains
Safe for use on most fabricsMay not be suitable for use on certain types of fabrics
Compatible with both high-efficiency and standard washing machinesThe product may be more expensive than other laundry detergents on the market

As with any cleaning product, it is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on a larger area. It is also a good idea to consider any potential allergies or sensitivities you may have to the ingredients in the product before using it.

How to use laundry detergent for stains

Before you start, check the care label on the item of clothing. This will give you important information on the fabric content and how to wash it. You might also want to do a patch test on a small, hidden area of the garment to check for colorfastness.

There are a few different ways you can use laundry detergent to remove stains:

  1. Pre-treatment: You can apply a small amount of laundry detergent directly to the stain and rub it in gently with a brush or sponge. Allow the detergent to sit on the stain for a few minutes before washing the garment as you normally would.
  2. Add to the wash: You can add the laundry detergent to the washing machine along with your clothes. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label for the correct amount of detergent to use based on the size of your load and the water hardness in your area.
  3. Use as a spot cleaner: You can also use laundry detergent as a spot cleaner by diluting it with water and applying it to the stain with a brush or sponge. Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water after treating the stain.

It is always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using a laundry detergent on a larger area, as some detergents may cause discoloration or damage to certain fabrics. It is also important to follow the instructions on the label and to consider any potential allergies or sensitivities you may have to the ingredients in the detergent.

How to prevent stains when using laundry detergent

When laundry detergent is used incorrectly, it can cause stains on clothing. Often, these stains are difficult to remove and may require special treatment. To prevent this from happening, follow these simple tips:

  • Read the label on your laundry detergent before using it. This will help you to understand the proper way to use the product.
  • Pretreat any areas that are likely to stain with a prewash solution. This will help to remove any potential stains before they have a chance to set.
  • Be sure to use the correct amount of laundry detergent for the size of your load. Using too much detergent can cause residue that will attract dirt and cause staining.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

The best laundry detergent for sensitive skin

If you have sensitive skin, it is important to choose a laundry detergent that is formulated to be gentle on your skin. Some options that may be suitable for sensitive skin include:

  1. Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent: This detergent is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals, making it gentle on the skin.
  2. Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent: This detergent is formulated to be hypoallergenic and is free from dyes and perfumes, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin.
  3. All Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent: This detergent is formulated to be hypoallergenic and is free from dyes, perfumes, and enzymes, making it gentle on the skin.
  4. Ecover Laundry Detergent: This detergent is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and enzymes, making it gentle on the skin.

It is always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using a new detergent, and to follow the instructions on the label for the correct amount of detergent to use based on the size of your load and the water hardness in your area. If you are still experiencing irritation or other adverse reactions after using a laundry detergent, you may want to try a different product or consult with a dermatologist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to removing stains effectively, Tide Ultra Stain Release and Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin stand out as top contenders. These laundry detergents have proven their mettle in stain removal and have garnered praise from numerous sources. Choose the detergent that best suits your needs and bid farewell to stubborn stains. Enjoy fresh, clean clothes with confidence!

FAQs

How often should I pre-treat stains before washing?

It is recommended to pre-treat stains as soon as possible, ideally before they set in. The sooner you take action, the better the chances of successful stain removal.

Can these detergents be used for both colored and white garments?

Yes, these detergents are suitable for both colored and white fabrics. However, always follow the instructions on the detergent label and test on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on delicate or colored garments.

Are these detergents safe for use in high-efficiency (HE) washing machines?

Yes, all the detergents mentioned in this article are compatible with HE washing machines. They are formulated to work efficiently in both traditional and high-efficiency machines.

Do these detergents have any fragrance options?

Yes, most of these detergents offer a variety of fragrance options to suit individual preferences. Check the product packaging or manufacturer’s website for available fragrance options.

Are these detergents environmentally friendly?

Some of the detergents mentioned, such as Method Stain Remover, prioritize eco-friendly formulations. If environmental friendliness is a priority for you, look for detergents with eco-friendly certifications or claims.

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As the founder of Clean It Spotless, I am Melissa Walker, a leading expert in removing tough stains from fabrics, carpets, and upholstery. With over 10 years of experience in the cleaning industry, I have developed my own natural, non-toxic stain-fighting formulas that lift stains while preserving the integrity of the underlying material. My stain removal tutorials are widely read online, and I have appeared on local TV segments demonstrating my techniques. I also present popular stain removal workshops at community centers and schools.