Doing laundry is a daily or weekly chore for every household, and choosing the right detergent is essential to ensure your clothes are effectively cleaned.
Currently, the two most popular types of detergents are powder and liquid detergents. They differ in state: powder detergent is solid, while liquid detergent is liquid.
Specifically, powder detergent is usually a fluffy white powder with blue and red granules and a mild scent. On the other hand, liquid detergent is liquid, often blue, white, or pink, and has a stronger fragrance.
So, which is better, powder or liquid detergent? To answer this question, experts have analyzed various factors and come up with the pros and cons of each product.
Pros and Cons of Powder Detergent
Pros:
Powder detergent is usually more effective at tackling tough stains than liquid detergent. According to Whirlpool, a well-known American corporation with over 100 years of experience in home appliances, powder detergent contains powerful cleaning compounds that effectively remove tough stains like clay or mud. The special composition and formula of powder detergent, with its strong surfactants, help break down stains quickly.
In addition to cleaning everyday stains, powder detergent can also handle special stains like blood, tea, and red wine, making your clothes look like new. Powder detergent is also usually more cost-effective than liquid detergent.
Cons:
Solubility: Powder detergent may not dissolve completely when machine washing, especially in cold water. This can reduce cleaning effectiveness and damage the washing machine. Undissolved detergent can also cling to clothes, causing skin irritation.

Powder detergent may not dissolve completely when machine washing, especially in cold water.
Skin Irritation: Powder detergents often contain alkaline components that can cause a mild burning sensation and skin irritation with prolonged contact. This can make your hands dry, red, or chapped, especially for those who frequently do laundry.
Fabric Protection: Powder detergent contains strong cleaning agents and, therefore, may not protect clothes as well as liquid detergent. Clothes washed with powder detergent may be more prone to scratches and may not feel as soft.
Pros and Cons of Liquid Detergent
Pros:
Liquid detergent, being liquid, dissolves more easily in water and is less likely to irritate your hands. The cleaning agents in liquid detergent are usually milder, helping to protect your clothes better and maintain their longevity compared to powder detergent. Clothes washed with liquid detergent often feel softer.
Liquid detergent is particularly effective in removing grease stains. Jennifer Ahoni, North America Fabric Care Scientific Communications Lead at Procter & Gamble, states, “Most liquid detergents contain ethoxylated alcohols, which are very effective at removing grease stains.” Liquid detergent is also suitable for both hand and machine washing, offering more convenience than powder detergent.

Liquid detergent dissolves easily and is gentler on your hands.
Cons:
Cost: Liquid detergent has a higher production cost than powder detergent, which may be a consideration for some consumers. The amount of liquid detergent needed may also be larger due to its less concentrated formula, increasing costs and impacting the environment.
Tough Stain Removal: While liquid detergent is excellent for grease stains, tough stains like ink or mud may require extra effort and special treatment to remove completely.
In conclusion, each type of detergent has its own pros and cons. Powder detergent is a good choice if you prefer hand washing, dealing with tough stains, and saving costs. Liquid detergent is a better option if you want to protect your clothes and frequently use a washing machine.
The Magic of Mixing Laundry Detergent and Salt: Unveiling Surprising Benefits to Save You a Fortune
By combining laundry detergent and salt, you’ve stumbled upon a dynamic duo that tackles a myriad of household challenges. This unlikely pairing packs a powerful punch, offering solutions that extend beyond the laundry room. Get ready to unlock a whole new world of practical possibilities with this unique blend!