Powder vs. liquid detergent: Which is better for laundry?

Your laundry detergent might be why your clothes are still dirty after washing. One way you can solve this problem is by knowing how to differentiate the many types of laundry detergent. Keep reading to learn more about the main types of laundry detergent in this powder vs. liquid detergent guide. 

What is powder detergent? 

From the name itself, powder detergent is a detergent in powder form. It is made by mixing crude oil and sulfuric acid, producing surfactant molecules. These molecules are responsible for powder detergents’ cleaning power and stain removal effects. You can also find some other ingredients in powdered detergents, including:

• Builders - for enhancing the cleaning power of surfactants in hard water.

• Alkalies -  for boosting the stain removal effects of powder detergent.

• Anti-redeposition agents - for stopping dirt from going back onto clothes while washing.

• Laundry enzymes - for boosting the cleaning effects of powdered detergent when washing in cold water.

What is liquid detergent? 

Liquid detergent is a cleaning product made from petroleum and gas, also known as petrochemicals. The manufacturing process of liquid laundry detergent involves mixing dry laundry powder with water and solubilizers or chemicals that aid in dissolving powder detergent. 

Like washing powder, this detergent also contains wetting agents or surfactants. They help the liquid cleaning formula to spread and soak into surfaces better. 

Liquid vs. powder washing detergent: Which is the better choice for laundry?

Learn more about the distinct qualities and effectiveness of liquid washing detergent vs. powder as we compare each detergent based on different factors.

In terms of cleaning ability

Powder laundry detergent has a high pH level. When mixed with water, it creates an alkaline solution that helps clean off mud, dirt, and debris in your heavily soiled clothes. One downside of using washing powder is it leaves white flakes or streaks on clothes if you frequently wash them in cold water. 

Meanwhile, liquid laundry detergent is great for those who live in hard water areas. This is because liquid detergents contain water-softening agents that help prevent the minerals in hard water from reacting with the liquid cleaning formula. In simpler terms, liquid detergents help reduce soap scum and film on clothes. 

Another advantage of liquid detergents is that they readily dissolve in all water temperatures. On the contrary, you must still use hot water when washing clothes with powder detergent to maximize its cleaning power. 

In terms of ease of use

Both detergents are convenient to use since powder detergent comes with scoops, while liquid detergent comes with measuring cups.

However, washing powder can be messier when dispensing into washing machines. Another disadvantage of washing powder products is that they easily clump in hot and humid areas. This happens because the water molecules in humid air bind and glue the particles in powder. You must first dissolve the powder in hot water to ensure it mixes well with cold water.

Meanwhile, liquid detergent is easier to use because it contains water-soluble ingredients that help the liquid solution dissolve better in cold water and penetrate fabrics. This is much more convenient than washing with washing powder. You must first dissolve the powder since you can use it straight from the bottle without dissolving it first.

In terms of environmental impact

Since more people are now adopting an eco-conscious shopping behavior, biodegradable detergents are in demand more than ever. And when it comes to laundry detergents, washing powder is more sustainable than liquid detergents because most brands use easily recyclable cardboard boxes as packaging. 

In addition, washing powder has stable ingredients, so it has a longer shelf life than liquid laundry detergent. This helps reduce the risk of wasting your laundry detergent. Though, make sure to store it in a cool place to prevent the powder from clumping!

On the other hand, liquid detergent is less sustainable because it contains more complex chemicals to stabilize its liquid form. But the good thing about using liquid detergent is that it can help save you energy because it remains effective even when running the washing machine on a cold wash. 

In terms of color compatibility

Powder laundry detergent is suitable for washing white loads. Some washing powder brands contain bleach that can help brighten and remove dirt in white clothes.

For colored clothes, linens, and bedding, liquid laundry detergent is much better. It doesn’t contain brightening agents that can cause color fading. Moreover, liquid detergent provides a gentler clean because you can use it with cold water. 

In terms of stain removal

Powder detergents, like bio-washing powder, contain enzymes that can break down tough stains. This includes removing mud, grass, and dirt from your heavily soiled clothes. 

Meanwhile, liquid detergents, whether bio or non-bio, can help remove oil and grease stains. Their formula includes alcohol ethoxylates, which allows the liquid detergent to mix oil with water. This ingredient also helps liquid detergent to spread evenly on surfaces, making it great for pre-treating stains.  

However, if stains are still apparent after washing, hire some laundry experts to help you. They can ensure your white and colored clothes stay spotless after washing! 

In terms of cost

If you frequently buy in bulk, washing powder detergents are a good choice. Generally, they are more affordable than liquid laundry detergent because they usually come in cardboard packaging, which costs less.

Moreover, we mentioned earlier how powdered detergents have a more extended shelf. Unless exposed to moisture, they don’t expire quickly and have a shelf life of up to 9 months.

Conversely, liquid laundry detergents degrade faster, and you can easily overuse them. This might lead to higher costs if you don’t measure properly. 

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Do you feel unmotivated knowing you have a mountain of laundry waiting for you? Let the cleaning experts at Airtasker do the daunting task of washing your clothes for you! They can finish doing your laundry more efficiently as they have the expertise in choosing the right type of detergent for any fabric and material. With their help, you can devote extra time to activities that truly matter to you and your loved ones!