Best Laundry Detergents 2026: Top-Rated Cleaning Power & Value

Best Laundry Detergents 2026: Top-Rated Cleaning Power & Value — hero image

Get the cleanest clothes with our expert-tested laundry detergents. From powerful stain fighters to gentle formulas for sensitive skin.

Quick Comparison

#1 Editor's Pick
Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent Tide
Best for best overall performance
Price $16 – $22
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#2 Ranked #2
Persil ProClean Liquid Laundry Detergent Persil
Best for best stain fighting
Price $14 – $19
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#3 Ranked #3
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Arm & Hammer
Best for best value for money
Price $8 – $12
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#4 Ranked #4
All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent All
Best for best for sensitive skin
Price $10 – $14
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#5 Ranked #5
Seventh Generation Free & Clear Seventh Generation
Best for best eco-friendly option
Price $11 – $16
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#6 Ranked #6
Gain Original Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent Gain
Best for best for long-lasting scent
Price $12 – $17
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#7 Ranked #7
Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean Liquid Kirkland (Costco)
Best for best bulk value
Price $18 – $24
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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#8 Ranked #8
Downy Liquid Laundry Detergent Downy
Best for best for fabric softening
Price $13 – $18
Rating ★★★★½ 4.5/5
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Rank Product Best For Rating
#1 Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent Tide Best overall performance ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#2 Persil ProClean Liquid Laundry Detergent Persil Best stain fighting ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#3 Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Arm & Hammer Best value for money ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#4 All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent All Best for sensitive skin ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#5 Seventh Generation Free & Clear Seventh Generation Best eco-friendly option ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#6 Gain Original Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent Gain Best for long-lasting scent ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#7 Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean Liquid Kirkland (Costco) Best bulk value ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon
#8 Downy Liquid Laundry Detergent Downy Best for fabric softening ★★★★½ 4.5/5 View on Amazon

Detailed Reviews

Buying Guide

Key Factors to Consider

Stain Removal Power

High

Look for enzymes (protease, amylase, lipase) that break down protein, starch, and grease stains effectively.

Skin Sensitivity

High

Choose fragrance-free, dye-free formulas if anyone in your household has sensitive skin or allergies.

Water Temperature

Medium

Cold-water formulas save energy and prevent shrinking, while hot water activates traditional detergents better.

Cost Per Load

High

Calculate price per load rather than price per bottle. Concentrated formulas often offer better value.

Environmental Impact

Medium

Plant-based, biodegradable formulas with minimal packaging reduce environmental impact.

⚠️ Things to Avoid

  • Using too much detergent which can leave residue
  • Mixing different detergent types in the same load
  • Storing pods where children can reach them
  • Using fabric softener on athletic wear or towels

Budget Tiers

💰 Budget

$0.05-0.15 per load

Basic cleaning power, may struggle with tough stains, simple packaging

💎 Mid-range

$0.16-0.25 per load

Good stain removal, variety of scents, works in cold water, brand reliability

👑 Premium

$0.26-0.40 per load

Superior stain fighting, specialized formulas, premium fragrances, concentrated formulas

Frequently Asked Questions

How much detergent should I use per load?
Follow package directions, but generally 1-2 tablespoons for liquid or 1 pod for standard loads. More detergent doesn't mean cleaner clothes.
Can I use regular detergent in HE machines?
No, use only HE (High Efficiency) detergent in HE machines. Regular detergent creates too many suds and can damage the machine.
What's the difference between liquid and powder detergent?
Liquid works better in cold water and on grease stains. Powder is more economical and better for ground-in dirt and outdoor stains.
Do I need fabric softener with my detergent?
Not necessarily. Some detergents include softening agents. Fabric softener makes clothes softer but can reduce absorbency in towels.

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