Clean clothes are a must for everyone, so you can find many detergent types and brands in stores. However, have you ever wondered which type is best? Most people don’t give much thought to the liquid vs. powder detergent debate, but understanding the pros and cons of both will help you have decent clothes washing experiences with noticeable results.
Liquid Vs. Powder Detergent
Cost
Laundry detergent can be expensive, especially if you prefer popular name-brand products. You can expect powdered detergent to be slightly less costly than its liquid counterpart.
Powdered clothes detergent usually comes in cardboard packaging, which helps keep the product weight and transportation costs low. Liquids in sturdy plastic bottles are heavier and harder to transport, so manufacturers pass the additional charges to consumers. The average to wash your clothes with powder detergent is $0.12, and $0.47 if you use liquid soap.
Washing Machine Type
Modern, high-efficiency washing machines work better with liquid detergents. Powdered soaps can clog these appliances, which affects their cleaning abilities and energy efficiency. When considering liquid vs. powder detergent, check what kind of washer you have.
Front-loading machines also work best with liquid laundry soap. Filler ingredients in powders that don’t always dissolve completely can leave residue in these washing machines and your clothing. However, top load washers can accommodate laundry detergent of any form.
Accurate Measurements
Both types of laundry detergent come with measurement tools to ensure you use the right amount of soap for each load. The handle and easy-pour spout make it easy to measure the appropriate amount. However, it’s also easy to make a mess or spill too many loose granules from a box of powdered detergent into the washing machine.
With the right amount of care, you can accurately dose your laundry with either detergent type using a scoop or measuring cup. Using too much soap in front-loading or high-efficiency washing machines can wear down the tub seal and aluminum support holding the basket where you place the clothes.
Stubborn Stain Removal
One of the best options for removing stains on clothes is liquid detergent. Since the active ingredients don’t need to dissolve in cold water, you can use it to spot-treat a garment before putting it in the washing machine. To use a powder detergent, you must first mix it in water to create a paste and smear it on the stubborn stain.
That doesn’t mean powder detergent lacks cleaning power. Potent active ingredients like alkylbenzene sulfonate are in powdered soaps that are excellent for cleaning mud, blood, and grass stains.
Using liquid detergent for stain removal and pretreatment is easier and more convenient. Liquid detergent is also great for hand washing clothes.
Head to the N. Ft. Myers LaundroMart for Superior Laundry Services
No matter your stance on the liquid vs. powder detergent debate, you can be confident your garments and linens will get clean at the N. Ft. Myers LaundroMart. Our 5,000+ square foot facility includes new efficient washing and drying machines for self-washings. Commercial washing and drop-off and pick-up service are also available. Call 239-995-0260 for more details.