Last Updated 2/5/2025

The most effective & eco-friendly laundry detergents of 2025

Last Updated 2/5/2025
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Evidence based
Over 200 hours of research

Hi! I'm Rachael Johansson, a former environmental scientist now focused on home care, helping families make sustainable choices. I live in Oregon with my husband, two daughters, and our pets, Milo and Winston.

Rachael
B.S. Environmental Science
Member, NAEP
I'm Rachael Johansson brunette standing in a kitchen with hand on counter
WINNER
AEMBR Laundry Powder
4.9
RUNNER UP
Molly Suds
4.6
Charlie's Soap
4.3
Branch Basics
4.1
Tide All In One
3.9
Seventh Generation
3.6
Mrs. Meyer's
3.3
Arm & Hammer
2.9
Tide Pods
2.8
Cheer
2.4
Gain
2.3

In a perfect world, every load of laundry would come out fresh, clean, and stain-free without a second thought. But for most of us — especially those juggling busy schedules — laundry is just another chore in an already packed day. Add in concerns about harsh chemicals, lingering odors, and piles of bulky plastic bottles, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The LAUNDRY DETERGENTS I tested.

As a mom, I wanted a detergent that could handle tough stains, smelled amazing, and was safe for my family’s skin—without the harsh chemicals found in conventional brands. But I also wanted something eco-friendly, effective in all water types, and truly worth the hype.

Ready to see which one tops the list? Click here to jump to my top choice!

In action: my scorecard!

Laundry detergent has come a long way in the last few years. More and more people (myself included) are realizing that the stuff we’ve used for decades is packed with harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and ingredients that aren’t great for our skin or the environment. That’s why there’s been a huge shift toward eco-friendly, non-toxic detergents that actually clean without all the unnecessary additives. Instead of giant plastic jugs filled with watered-down formulas, we’re seeing highly concentrated powders, detergent sheets, and plastic-free packaging designed to be both effective and sustainable.

And with the rise of minimalism and cleaner living, a lot of people are ditching traditional detergents altogether and making their own at home using ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and Castile soap. The idea is that it’s cheaper, safer, and free from all the extra junk found in commercial brands.

But while DIY detergent is trending, many people quickly realize it’s not always the best solution. Homemade recipes often don’t dissolve well in cold water, can leave buildup on clothes over time, and don’t always have the stain-fighting power most families need. That’s why so many brands are stepping up their game, creating clean & simple detergents that work just as well (or better) than the chemical-heavy ones we grew up with.

Another big shift? Scent. People are tired of detergents that smell great in the bottle but disappear as soon as clothes dry. Luxury-scented detergents are becoming a huge trend, offering long-lasting, sophisticated fragrances that actually stick around. More than ever, people want a detergent that not only cleans but also makes their laundry feel fresh, soft, and a little luxurious.

With all of that said, here's how I went about evaluating how to rate every detergent I tested.

How I evaluated which laundry detergent is the best ✍️

✅ Stain removal power
✅ Odor elimination
✅ Gentleness on skin
✅ Eco-friendliness
✅ Scent & fragrance
✅ Total cost per load
✅ Ease of use
✅ Versatility (can it handle large loads?)

With a degree in environmental science and as a mom of 2 young children, I tried to balance my approach to rating each product. The factors above were ones that I felt could be easily rated and gave everyone something of value to consider when deciding which detergent to purchase. Don't ask me why I get so excited about doing these reviews!

I ran each product through a series of 5 laundry loads varying in size, complexity and materials. After each load, we'd inspect the laundry for cleanliness, stains, odor, fragrance, softness and other factors.

When it comes to price per load, I factored in what I call the 'total cost per load'. This means taking account for other products used in each cycle. For example, some detergents clean well, but leave your clothes not feeling soft, requiring you to use extra products to reach the desired result. While other detergents, like Aembr, doesn't require you to use additional softeners, saving a lot on cost per load.

Essentially, I looked for the products that lived up to their promise about the environment, kept my clothes clean & spotless while also not breaking the bank.

Just finished my first tests!

Below are all of my findings for each product, including what I liked and what I didn't like. Dive in and feel free to click on each product to shop it on their website or on Amazon. These are not affiliate links and the results below represent my findings and my honest opinion.

🏆 The best laundry detergent we tried:

⭐️ WINNER ⭐️

AEMBR Laundry Powder

4.9

What I love:

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Zero harmful chemicals

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Highly effective stain & dirt remover

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Doesn't require fabric softeners

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Scents that compared to high end perfumes

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Leaves clothes feeling super soft

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Made in the USA 🇺🇸

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Natural formulations with simple ingredients

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Works well even with hard water conditions

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Hypoallergenic

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No need for dryer sheets or scent boosters

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Only need one scoop for even large loads

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No visible residues

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High end wooden scoop for precise measuring

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Low total cost per load

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Premium quality without premium price

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Discounts for subscriptions

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Third-party tested

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Recommended by Forbes and others

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Only product with perfect 5 star online reviews

What could be better:

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While priced at only 59¢/load, it wasn't the cheapest option

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Only available online

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Sometimes goes out of stock because of high demand

Overall Rating

I wish I could say that AEMBR really surprised me at how well it handled both light and heavy loads, but I have to admit that I had high expectations going in based on their stellar online reviews. Aembr is a powdered detergent made from really simple ingredients, but with a genius twist on laundry detergent.

Most detergents sacrifice effectiveness for eco-friendliness. Or they sacrifice eco-friendliness for scent or softness. Somehow the founder (a former doctor, turned founder) created a formula that checks all of the 3 boxes moms care about:

✅ It cleans super well
✅ It smells AMAZING
✅ It has no harmful ingredients for your kids or pets

(1) Cleaning Performance:
I ran it through over 5 cycles, throwing everything I could think of into to the washing machine and it handled it all perfectly with just a single scoop. I never found a single spot of dirt, stain or residue on my garments or towels.


(2) Softness:
One of AEMBR Laundry Powder's main features is that the founder claims you don't need to use laundry additives like softeners, scent boosters or even dryer sheets. I have to say, I was skeptical at first - especially on the last point about not using dryer sheets. But you know me, I had to put all of those claims to the test. I can safely say, it's true. The clothes were soft and smelled great without any additives. This is huge for us moms that feel like our laundry rooms are starting to be more cluttered than our bathroom counters before getting ready to go out for the night.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
I found no traces of phosphates, PVC or other environmentally harmful chemicals within their product and loved how transparent they were about their ingredients. AEMBR laundry powder is made with just 5 ingredients, but also comes in several amazing scents. They use essential oils that are specifically formulated not to be harmful on your skin or garments and the scent seemed to last for a lot longer than I expected.


(4) Total cost per load:
Of all of the laundry detergents we tested, Aembr was the most thoughtful in how they thought about the total cost per cycle. While the initial price for a bag of their powdered detergent isn't as cheap as you can find in the store or on Amazon, the total cost per load is hard to beat since you don't have to use any additional products like softeners or dryer sheets.

(5) Scents:
Aembr comes in 4 great scents and I have to say, of the ones we test, they all smell INCREDIBLE. It makes sense, since Aembr is also a candle company. If you look at their reviews, other customers mention how friends and family would ask what perfume they were wearing and they said it was just their laundry detergent.

Check Aembr Laundry Powder
Promo code TODAY10 [expires soon] gets you an extra 10% off


✭ What I loved
I haven't personally had great experiences with powdered detergents recently, so I was really looking for reasons not to like Aembr's formulations. However, they seem to have found the perfect blend of effectiveness, softness, smell and ease of use. Since Aembr is also a candle company, I really feel like they have nailed the science of making something that works, but also isn't bad for you - something a lot of the household name detergents haven't figured out yet.

Overall, the biggest factor for why I chose Aembr as my winner in this test was that I actually seemed to enjoy doing laundry. I didn't have to use a bunch of other products in each cycle. My laundry room doesn't feel cluttered. I know the ingredients are simple and won't irritate my kid's skin. And each load comes out of the dryer smelling incredible. It's really more of an experience than a simple detergent.

✭ What could be better
I wish the pouch came with more powder than just 50 cycles. With a household of 4, I find myself averaging about 2 cycles per day. I think it would be great if they offered a larger bag so I could stock up and have to store fewer pouches.

Aembr also seems to go out of stock of some of their scents due to high demand. Since their products are made in the USA (which I love), I'm hoping they can start to be more stocked up in the future so I can always get them when I'm running low.

Check Aembr Laundry Powder
Promo code TODAY10 [expires soon] gets you an extra 10% off

RUNNER UP

Molly Suds

4.6

What I love:

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Effective cleaner

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No harmful chemicals

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Softens naturally

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Pre-measured to eliminate overdosing

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No visible residues

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Gentle on sensitive skin

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Concentrated doses

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No residue in cold water

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Lots of loads per bag (up to 120 in the larger sizes)

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Made in the USA

What could be better:

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Available scents aren't impressive

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Struggles with tough stains

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Didn't dissolve fully in one load

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Scents didn't linger for long

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Clothes began to have odor after 5th wash

Overall Rating

Molly Suds is a great option and is my runner up for this year's results. The rating I gave it was 4.6. Here's the breakdown;

(1) Cleaning Performance:
Overall, the cleaning ability of the Molly Suds was above average in comparison to the other products I ranked. I didn't notice any residue and it didn't struggle with extra large loads. You might need to bring out the big guns like a stain treatment spray for super intense stains, but overall I was really pleased with the cleaning power.



(2) Softness:
Like Aembr, Molly Suds doesn't require you to use additional products to soften your clothes - a huge bonus! All five of the loads we tested came out feeling just as soft as we expected and this product scored high in that category.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
As you can see above, Molly Suds has a very natural formulation, with only 4 ingredients listed on their packaging - none of which contain harmful agents like phthalates, mutagens or carcinogens.

(4) Total cost per load:
The per load cost of Molly Suds was one of the lowest on the list, since the product doesn't require additives like softeners. However, I do feel like Molly Suds could use a boost in the scent category and would recommend including a scent booster in each cycle.

(5) Scents:
This is the category which really hurt the overall score for my runner-up. Most of the scents offered are very generic and boring - but the real issue I found is that the scents didn't seem to last long. In fact, after the 5th load, I noticed that clothes would have a dingy, non-clean smell to them. When I checked other's experiences in reviews online, I noticed similar complaints.

I would recommend going with the unscented option and then using a scent booster product in each cycle to solve for this problem. Of course, that then means that you may be introducing PFAS and chemicals and as for me, no thanks.

Charlie's Soap

4.1

What I love:

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Large quantity per bag

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Effective cleaner & stain remover

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Gentle on sensitive skin

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Dissolves well

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Handles cold water loads easily

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Hypoallergenic

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Low cost per load

What could be better:

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No scent offering

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Not completely non-toxic

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50 LB. bag on the pricey side

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Plastic packaging

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Zipper pouch had issues

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Cheap scoop

Overall Rating

Charlie's Soap is a solid choice and ranked third in my test of laundry detergents this year. I gave it a 4.1 overall rating. While it’s eco-friendly, cost-efficient, and excellent for sensitive skin, it did have a few areas where it fell short, especially in terms of scent and tackling heavy stains. Here's how it performed across my test categories:

(1) Cleaning Performance:
I tested Charlie's Soap on five loads, ranging from lightly soiled clothes to heavy stains, and it did a decent job overall. Everyday dirt and odors were no problem, even on workout clothes. However, I noticed it struggled with set-in stains like grease or mud. If you’re dealing with tougher messes, you’ll likely need to pre-treat with a stain remover, which adds a step and cost to your routine. That said, for standard loads, it delivered clean and fresh results without any residue.



(2) Softness:
One of Charlie’s Soap’s strengths is that it leaves clothes feeling naturally soft, even without fabric softeners or dryer sheets. My towels, sheets, and everyday clothes all came out feeling great. For me, this is a major win since I love simplifying my laundry routine, and Charlie’s doesn’t require extra products to achieve that soft, comfy finish.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
This product is marketed as eco-friendly, and for the most part, it lives up to the claim. The ingredient list is straightforward and free of dyes and synthetic fragrances, which makes it ideal for sensitive skin. However, some reviews I came across raised concerns about the inclusion of ethoxylates—an ingredient linked to potential health risks like reproductive harm. While it’s not a dealbreaker for everyone, it’s worth keeping in mind if clean ingredients are a top priority for you.

(4) Total Cost Per Load:
At about $0.16 per load, Charlie’s Soap is one of the most economical options I tested. You only need a small scoop for each cycle, and since it doesn’t require extras like softeners or scent boosters, the overall cost stays low. However, if you find yourself needing a stain treatment for tougher messes or a scent booster for fragrance, that could bump up the cost.

(5) Scents:
Similar to our 2nd ranked product this year, scent is the category where Charlie’s Soap took the biggest hit. It’s fragrance-free, which is great for those with allergies or sensitivities, but if you like your laundry to have that lingering fresh scent, this product doesn’t deliver.

Even clothes that had noticeable odors (think gym gear) came out clean but scent-neutral. Personally, I’d recommend adding a natural scent booster if you want your laundry to smell like it’s fresh off the line.

Branch Basics

4.0

What I love:

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Gentle on skin

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Eco-friendly ingredients

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Multi-purpose use

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Softness without additives

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Transparency

What could be better:

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Struggles with heavy soiling

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Fragrance-free

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Dilution feels inefficient

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Highest cost per load

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Underwhelming on whites

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Odors start to seep through

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Requires extra steps

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Struggles with hard water

Overall Rating

Branch Basics secures the fourth spot in our lineup with a solid 4.0 rating. While it offers a natural and eco-friendly approach to cleaning, there are areas where it doesn't quite measure up to the top contenders.

(1) Cleaning Performance:
Branch Basics utilizes a concentrate-based system, allowing users to mix different cleaning solutions from a single product. While this versatility is commendable, some users have reported that it struggles with heavily soiled laundry and stubborn stains. In my tests, I found that for regular, everyday laundry, it performed adequately. However, for tougher stains, I often had to pre-treat or rewash items to achieve the desired cleanliness.



(2) Softness:
One of the standout features of Branch Basics is its gentle formulation. Clothes consistently came out feeling soft, even without the use of additional fabric softeners. This is a significant advantage for those looking to minimize the number of products used in their laundry routine.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
Branch Basics prides itself on its clean and simple ingredient list. The concentrate is plant and mineral-based, free from harmful preservatives, fragrances, and common allergens. This transparency is reassuring for those with sensitivities or those looking to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
The concentrate model offers cost-effectiveness, as a single bottle can be used to create multiple cleaning solutions. However, for laundry purposes, I found that achieving satisfactory results often required the addition of their Oxygen Boost product, especially for whites and heavily soiled items. This necessity can increase the overall cost per load. Additionally, the upfront cost of purchasing the concentrate and necessary bottles might be a consideration for some.

(5) Scent Power:
Branch Basics is entirely fragrance-free, which can be a double-edged sword. While this is beneficial for individuals sensitive to scents or those who prefer unscented products, others might miss the fresh aroma typically associated with clean laundry. Personally, I found myself adding a few drops of essential oil to the rinse cycle to achieve a light, pleasant scent.

Tide

3.9

What I love:

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Strong stain removal

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Convenient & easy to find everywhere

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Dissolves well in all temperatures

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Long-lasting scent

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Pre-treatment not always needed

What could be better:

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Includes phosphates, sulfates and optical brighteners

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Strong artificial scent

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Plastic packaging

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Higher cost per load because of required additives

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Not eco-friendly

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Doesn't soften well

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Irritates sensitive skin

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Fades colors faster than other detergents

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Breaks down fabrics over-time

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Not allergy friendly

Overall Rating

Tide All-In-One is a mainstream, convenient detergent that gets the job done for most laundry needs, but it has some drawbacks that held it back in my rankings. The cleaning power is strong, especially on stains, and it’s easy to use, but it comes with some trade-offs: higher cost per load, reliance on synthetic ingredients, and a strong artificial scent that some may find overwhelming. Here’s how it performed in my five-cycle test:

(1) Cleaning Performance:
Tide brand detergents were the strongest performers when it comes to raw cleaning power. It handled the toughest cycles easily and I couldn't find much to complain out when I tested it against dirt, stains and odors. It did a great job with hard water and cold water cycles as well. The drawbacks for Tide comes in our other categories, but if you don't care about those other factors and just need a strong detergent, you probably won't find better for everyday use than Tide.

One thing to keep in mind is that Tide uses optical brighteners to make clothes look cleaner, even if they aren't necessarily getting a deeper clean.



(2) Softness:
Tide on its own doesn’t leave clothes particularly soft. If you’re used to skipping fabric softeners, you might notice your clothes feeling stiffer over time. I found that towels, in particular, lost their fluffiness after multiple washes without a softener. This means that while it is an effective cleaner, you’ll likely need to add a fabric softener or dryer sheets, which increases cost.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
Tide is not the brand you buy if you want “clean” ingredients. It’s full of sulfates, phosphates, optical brighteners, and synthetic fragrances—basically, a cocktail of chemicals that coat your clothes and stay there. I don’t have super sensitive skin, but after a few washes, I started feeling a little itchy, especially with my workout gear. If you or your kids have eczema, this is probably not the detergent for you. And environmentally? Let’s just say this is not the most planet-friendly option out there.

(4) Total Cost Per Load:
Tide seems affordable upfront, but let’s is it really when you think about the total cost per load / cycle? It doesn’t soften clothes particularly well, so you’ll probably need a fabric softener or dryer sheets. The scent is strong, but if you like a fresher, less “artificial” smell, you might want a scent booster.

It does well on everyday stains, but for tougher messes, you’ll still need a stain remover. By the time you add all that up, you’re spending way more per load than you would with a simpler, higher-quality detergent that doesn’t need all the extras.

(5) Scent Power:
Oh boy. If you love strong, long-lasting scent, Tide’s got you covered. However, the scent is the artificial kind. I'm sure you can all but smell it if you clothes your eyes right now. It just smells like chemicals to me. If you’re even mildly sensitive to fragrance, this detergent might feel like a personal attack. If you prefer a more luxurious or cozy smell, this one isn't for you.

Seventh Generation

3.7

What I love:

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No optical brighteners or harsh chemicals

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Softens clothes naturally

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Above average for cleaning power

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Below average total cost per load

What could be better:

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Weaker on stains

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Requires pre-treating

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Mild scent doesn't remove odors well

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Easy to over-dose

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Packaging not very thoughtful

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Didn't whiten whites well

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Struggles with really tough cycles

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Not great for hard water

Overall Rating

Seventh Generation's EasyDose Ultra Concentrated Laundry Detergent is a compact and eco-friendly option that aims to simplify your laundry routine. With its innovative dosing mechanism and plant-based formula, it offers a convenient solution for those seeking a more sustainable approach to laundry. However, while it has its strengths, there are some areas where it may not meet everyone's expectations. Here's the review;

(1) Cleaning Performance:
In my experience, this detergent handles everyday laundry tasks reasonably well. Regular loads come out clean, and it seems to manage light stains without much trouble. However, when it comes to tackling tougher stains or heavily soiled items, it doesn't quite hit the mark. I found that pre-treating stains or running an additional wash cycle was often necessary to achieve the desired level of cleanliness. For those with active lifestyles or kids prone to messes, this might be a bit of a drawback.



(2) Softness:
One thing I appreciated about this detergent is that it leaves clothes feeling soft to the touch. Even without the use of fabric softeners, my laundry came out with a pleasant, gentle feel. This is a definite plus for those who prefer to avoid additional laundry additives.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
Seventh Generation is known for its commitment to transparency and environmentally friendly ingredients, and this detergent is no exception. The formula is plant-based and free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and artificial brighteners. For individuals with sensitive skin or those looking to minimize exposure to harsh chemicals, this is a reassuring aspect.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
The EasyDose bottle is designed to provide 66 loads per 23.1 fl oz container, which seems economical at first glance. However, considering its struggles with heavy stains, you might find yourself using more detergent per load or incorporating additional stain removers, which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, while the compact bottle is convenient, it comes at a higher price point compared to some traditional detergents, potentially impacting its value proposition.

(5) Scent Power:
This detergent is available in both scented and unscented versions. I tried the Fresh Lavender scent, which was pleasant but notably subtle. After washing and drying, the scent was barely noticeable on the clothes. If you prefer a strong, lingering fragrance in your laundry, this might not meet your expectations. On the flip side, for those sensitive to strong scents, the mild fragrance could be seen as a benefit.


Mrs. Meyer's

3.3

What I love:

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Mostly natural ingredients

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Essential oils for fragrance

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Naturally softens well

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Nice variety of scents

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Concentrated formula

What could be better:

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Struggles with tough stains

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Synthetic fragrances mixed in

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Over-dosing is too easy

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Above average cost per load

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Doesn't brighten whites well

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Mixed online reviews

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Inconsistent cleaning results

Overall Rating

I had high hopes for Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day because, let’s be honest, those cute labels and garden-inspired scents totally suck you in. It’s a decent detergent, especially if you’re someone who loves a strong, lingering fragrance, but it didn’t blow me away. While it handles everyday laundry just fine, I found it struggled with tougher stains and didn’t quite live up to its “clean” branding once I dug deeper. Let’s break it down.

(1) Cleaning Performance:
For everyday laundry, like lightly worn clothes or bedding, Mrs. Meyer’s does an okay job. My regular laundry loads came out looking clean enough, but when it came to real-life messes—like my kid’s grass-stained jeans or my partner’s greasy work shirts—it just didn’t cut it. I found myself reaching for a stain remover or having to run things through a second wash. If you’re dealing with anything beyond light dirt, you might be in for a bit of a letdown.



(2) Softness:
This detergent does leave clothes feeling pretty soft, which I liked. I didn’t need to add any fabric softener, and my towels and sheets felt comfy and fresh. However, I did notice a few times that my skin felt a bit itchy, especially after wearing clothes washed in this detergent. If you’ve got super sensitive skin, you might want to keep an eye out for that.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
Mrs. Meyer’s markets itself as a natural and eco-friendly option, but when I took a closer look, I was a little disappointed. While it’s great that they use plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, they also sneak in some not-so-great stuff like synthetic fragrances and preservatives (hello, Methylisothiazolinone and Benzisothiazolinone). For a brand that’s all about being “clean,” this felt a bit misleading. If you’re really serious about avoiding chemicals, you might want to dig deeper.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
This detergent is definitely on the pricier side. At around $0.24 per load, it’s not the cheapest out there. And since it doesn’t tackle tough stains well, you might end up using more detergent or adding extra stain fighters, which bumps up the overall cost. I also noticed that the bottle design makes it easy to over-pour, so if you’re not careful, you could be burning through it faster than expected.

(5) Scent Power:
If there’s one thing Mrs. Meyer’s absolutely nails, it’s the scent. The fragrances are bold, long-lasting, and really enjoyable, especially if you love fresh, botanical-inspired smells. I tested Lavender and Lemon Verbena, and both left my laundry smelling noticeably clean even days after washing.

That said, while the scents are strong, they don’t have that high-end, luxurious feel like Aembr. There’s a bit of an artificial, soapy undertone that makes it clear this isn’t 100% from essential oils alone. If you love a detergent that makes your whole laundry room and closet smell amazing, you’ll probably enjoy it—just know that it doesn’t quite match the natural depth and complexity of higher-end fragrances.

Arm & Hammer

2.9

What I love:

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Pre-dosed pods to eliminate waste

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Low sudsing

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Solid cleaner for lighter loads

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Pre-dosed pods to eliminate waste

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Removed odors

What could be better:

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Leaves clothes feeling stiff

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Microplastics

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Dyes & Optical Brighteners

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Scent doesn't last

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Contains non-biodegradable ingredients

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Didn't dissolve well in newer washing machines

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Requires pre-treating stains

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Requires additional softeners

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Chemical scent

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Really tough on lighter fabrics

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Above average cost per load

Overall Rating

I was surprised at how low Arm & Hammer's Deep Clean ranked when I concluded my tests. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to the hype. While it handled regular loads decently, it struggled with heavier stains and left me questioning its "deep clean" claims. Let's break it down (since Arm & Hammer couldn't....she's got jokes! I'll be here all week).

(1) Cleaning Performance:
For my everyday laundry, like t-shirts and jeans, this detergent did an okay job. But when it came to my kid's muddy soccer uniform or those stubborn kitchen towel stains, it fell short. I found myself pre-treating stains and sometimes running a second wash, which was a letdown for a product boasting deep-clean capabilities.



(2) Softness:
I noticed that my clothes felt a bit stiffer than usual after using this detergent. Towels, in particular, lacked that fluffy softness I'm used to. It seems like adding a fabric softener is a must with this one, which adds an extra step and cost to my laundry routine.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
Arm & Hammer isn't exactly forthcoming about what's inside this detergent. The ingredient list is pretty vague, and I couldn't find detailed information about potential allergens or irritants. For those of us trying to be mindful of what we bring into our homes, this lack of transparency is frustrating.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
On the surface, the price per load seems reasonable. But considering I had to use extra stain removers and fabric softeners to get the results I wanted, the costs added up. Plus, needing to rewash items negated any initial savings. In the end, it didn't feel like great value for the money.

(5) Scent Power:
The scent is pleasant enough—fresh and clean without being overpowering. However, it didn't linger on my clothes for long. By the time I wore them, the scent had mostly faded, which was a bit disappointing since I enjoy a lasting fresh smell.

Tide Pods

2.8

What I love:

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Pre-dosed pods to eliminate waste

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Widely available

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Convenient to use

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Effective for light loads

What could be better:

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Poor performance on grass stains

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Overpowering artificial scent

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Harmful ingredients like PVA

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Lack of ingredient transparency

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Pod residue in cold washes

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Requires additional softeners

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Non hypoallergenic

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Safety risks

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Plastic casing doesn't dissolve fully in some large loads

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Microplastics

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Skin irritation

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Check instructions - typical loads require 2-3 pods

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Contains optical brighteners (fake brightening)

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Irritating

Overall Rating

Tide Pods are super convenient—just toss one in, and you're good to go. After spending some time with Tide Pods, I have to say, my experience was less than stellar. While the convenience of pre-measured pods is undeniable, several significant drawbacks make it hard for me to recommend this product.

(1) Cleaning Performance:
For regular loads, Tide Pods work fine. My clothes came out looking clean and smelling fresh. However, with heavily soiled items or stubborn stains, I noticed they didn't always come out completely clean. I found myself needing to pre-treat stains or run a second wash, which was a bit disappointing.



(2) Softness:
I didn't notice a significant difference in the softness of my clothes after using Tide Pods. They felt about the same as with other detergents. If you're looking for extra softness, you might still need to use a fabric softener.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
Tide isn't very transparent about the specific ingredients in their pods. For those of us trying to be mindful of the chemicals we use, this lack of information is frustrating. It's hard to know exactly what's in them and if there are any potential allergens or irritants.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
Tide Pods are more expensive per load compared to traditional liquid detergents. While the convenience is a plus, the higher cost adds up, especially if you have a large household or do frequent laundry.

(5) Scent Power:
The scent left on clothes is notably strong, but not in a good way. It comes off as overly artificial and chemical-laden, lacking the fresh, natural aroma I prefer. The intensity of the fragrance can be overwhelming and may not appeal to everyone.

Cheer

2.4

What I love:

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Affordable

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No residue

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Gentle on fabrics

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Color protection

What could be better:

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Poor stain remover

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Tons of artificial dyes & optical brighteners

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Very dilute

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Feels low quality

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Lack of ingredient transparency

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Poor performance in cold washes

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Requires additional softeners

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Non hypoallergenic

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Artificial fragrance

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Doesn't dissolve fully in some large loads

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May require extra rinsing to remove all detergent

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Colors bled a bit

Overall Rating

After giving Cheer Color Guard a thorough run in my laundry routine, I have to say, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. I ended up rating it a 2.4 out of 5, and here's why:

(1) Cleaning Performance:
For everyday wear, Cheer Color Guard managed to keep my clothes looking decent. But when it came to tackling tougher stains—think spilled coffee or grass from the kids' playtime—it didn't quite cut it. I found myself needing to pre-treat stains or run a second wash, which was disappointing.



(2) Softness:
Post-wash, my clothes felt alright but not particularly soft. Without adding a fabric softener, some items, especially towels, felt a bit rough. If you value that cozy, soft feel, you might need to incorporate an additional softening agent into your routine.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
One thing that concerned me was the lack of detailed information about the detergent's ingredients. For those of us trying to be mindful of the chemicals we bring into our homes, this opacity is a significant drawback. It's hard to make informed choices when the full ingredient list isn't readily available.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
On the surface, the cost per load seems reasonable. However, considering the need for additional products like stain removers and fabric softeners to achieve the desired results, the overall expense adds up. In the end, it didn't feel like I was getting good value for my money.

(5) Scent Power:
The detergent has a fresh, clean scent that's pleasant but not particularly long-lasting. I noticed that the fragrance faded quickly after drying, leaving my clothes smelling neutral. If you enjoy a lingering fresh scent on your laundry, this might be a letdown.

Gain

2.3

What I love:

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Affordable

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No residue

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Gentle on fabrics

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Color protection

What could be better:

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Poor stain remover

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Feels low quality

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Lack of ingredient transparency

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Poor performance in cold washes

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Requires additional softeners

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Non hypoallergenic

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Artificial fragrance

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Doesn't dissolve fully in some large loads

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May require extra rinsing to remove all detergent

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Colors bled a bit

Overall Rating

I’ll be honest—Gain let me down. I went into this test expecting at least solid cleaning power with a long-lasting scent, but after five cycles, all I got was mediocre stain removal, a strong but artificial-smelling fragrance, and a detergent packed with ingredients that aren’t doing the environment (or my skin) any favors. If you’re obsessed with that signature Gain smell, I get it, but if you actually want your clothes to be clean, soft, and free of harsh chemicals, there are way better options.

(1) Cleaning Performance:
For light loads? Gain gets the job done. But the second I threw in anything remotely dirty—like sweaty gym clothes, kitchen towels, or my kid’s grass-stained jeans—it completely flopped. Stains barely budged, and I had to pre-treat almost everything just to get the results I expected. If you’re hoping for a “deep clean,” keep looking, because this ain’t it.



(2) Softness:
I expected Gain to leave my clothes feeling fresh and soft, but nope. Everything came out a little rougher than I like, especially my towels and workout leggings. I’d definitely need to use fabric softener to get my clothes back to feeling good, which means an extra step and extra cost every load.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
This is where things start getting a little shady. Good luck trying to find a full list of what’s actually in this stuff. Gain’s marketing leans on that “clean and fresh” vibe, but the formula is loaded with synthetic fragrances, dyes, and questionable preservatives. If you’ve got sensitive skin, allergies, or just don’t want your clothes coated in mystery chemicals, I’d think twice.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
Gain is low cost up-front, but once you factor in stain removers, fabric softeners, and re-washing, you’re actually spending more just to get decent results. Plus, it’s not concentrated, meaning you have to use more detergent per load compared to better-quality brands. The savings? Gone.

(5) Scent Power:
Alright, let’s talk about the scent. If you love the smell of Gain, you’re in luck—it clings to your clothes for days and even lingers in your closet. But personally? It’s way too strong and smells straight-up artificial. Unlike high-end or essential oil-based scents, this one just smells like a cheap air freshener. If you’re sensitive to overpowering synthetic fragrances, this is a hard pass.

Ecos

2.3

What I love:

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Plastic free packaging

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Sheets are easy to use

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Vegan & cruelty free

What could be better:

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Weak stain remover

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Clothes fill stiff

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Doesn't break down tough odors

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Poor performance in cold washes

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Can't be adjusted for small loads

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Leaves darks looking dull

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Poor on pet odors

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Not suitable for heavy loads

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Requires cycle additives like softeners

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Leftover residues

Overall Rating

I really wanted to love ECOS Laundry Detergent Sheets—the idea of a lightweight, zero-waste, plastic-free detergent that’s easy to use and good for the planet sounds perfect, right? Well… reality hit hard. After five test loads, I can confidently say that these sheets might be great for washing already-clean clothes, but if you’ve got actual laundry to do—stains, smells, kids' messes, workout gear—this just ain’t it. It left stains behind, my towels felt like sandpaper, and worst of all? I had to rewash multiple loads, which defeats the whole "eco-friendly" promise. If your clothes barely get dirty, maybe this works, but for the rest of us? Hard pass.

(1) Cleaning Performance:
For lightly worn clothes, ECOS sheets did an acceptable job. However, stains were a major problem. Grease, sweat, and food stains barely faded after one wash, requiring pre-treating and rewashing—which defeats the point of convenience. For athletic wear and heavily soiled items, these sheets simply weren’t effective.



(2) Softness:
After using these sheets, my clothes felt clean but not particularly soft. Without adding a fabric softener, some items, especially towels, felt a bit rough. If you value that cozy, soft feel, you might need to incorporate an additional softening agent into your routine.

(3) Transparent Formulations & Ingredients:
One thing that concerned me was the lack of detailed information about the detergent's ingredients. For those of us trying to be mindful of the chemicals we bring into our homes, this opacity is a significant drawback. It's hard to make informed choices when the full ingredient list isn't readily available.

(4) Total Cost per Load:
On the surface, the cost per load seems reasonable. However, considering the need for additional products like stain removers and fabric softeners to achieve the desired results, the overall expense adds up. In the end, it didn't feel like I was getting good value for my money.

(5) Scent Power:
The detergent has a fresh, clean scent that's pleasant but not particularly long-lasting. I noticed that the fragrance faded quickly after drying, leaving my clothes smelling neutral. If you enjoy a lingering fresh scent on your laundry, this might be a letdown.

Why I chose Aembr as the Best Laundry Detergent 🧐

At the start of this experiment, I set out to find the best laundry detergent that wasn’t just another mass-market product filled with harsh chemicals and artificial scents. I wanted something that truly cleaned clothes, smelled incredible, and was formulated with safe, high-quality ingredients. Bonus points if it was eco-conscious, concentrated, and didn’t require a pile of extra products like fabric softeners or scent boosters.

I ran each detergent through five test loads—from everyday laundry to tough stains, workout gear, towels, and even delicates. I paid close attention to cleaning power, softness, scent longevity, cost per load, and ingredient quality. The entire process took over 60 hours, and I continue to test new detergents and update my rankings.

Aembr was the clear winner. It cleaned better than anything else I tested, removed stains without extra boosters, and left fabrics feeling soft, fresh, and high-end. The scents are luxurious and long-lasting—a far cry from the synthetic, overpowering fragrances found in most big-name brands. No weird residue, no artificial junk—just clean, beautifully scented clothes.It’s proof that you don’t have to compromise.

Aembr gives you premium performance, safe ingredients, and a fantastic scent—without the unnecessary chemicals, plastic waste, or gimmicky marketing. If you’re looking for a detergent that actually delivers on its promises, this is it. is super competitive when compared to the others out there. It's a win-win.

Overall, I'm thrilled to have found such a great dishwasher sheet to replace the old chemicals I was using! I hope that you found this review helpful.

Check Aembr Laundry Powder
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