5 Best Powder Detergents - May 2026

The bucket comes with 5 pounds of powder, which it recommends adding as a presoak before your main detergent does the heavy work.
It's especially effective at tackling sweat stains and smells—perfect for athletes.

CONS

Some noted that it has a strong, sometimes unpleasant smell.

Arm & Hammer

Powder Laundry Detergent, Crisp Clean

Most Economical

Our cleaning expert recommends this customer-favorite powder detergent, which comes in a bulk value size.

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PROS

Formula with baking soda boasts stain-fighting and whitening power over other detergents.
The 18-pound pail contains up to 290 medium loads.
Compatible with high-efficiency machines.
Septic-safe.
Clean scent.

CONS

Bulky tub.
A few reviews feel the fragrance is still too strong.

Molly's Suds

Natural Laundry Soap for Sensitive Skin

Limited Ingredients

Molly's Suds is a powder detergent that does not contain any unnatural chemicals.

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PROS

Seems to work well for those with eczema.
Made with five ingredients, including peppermint essential oil.
Can also be used in a paste as a pre-treatment for stains.
Clothes feel softer after use and have a long-lasting scent that is noticeable.

CONS

Since this is a powder form, it cannot be used in a high-efficiency washer soap dispenser.

Tide

Powder Laundry Detergent, Original

Trusted Brand

Clean 102 loads of clothes, linens, and other materials with this detergent, leaving them feeling fresh.

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PROS

Comes from a reputable laundry brand.
Keeps whites white and colors stay in their true form, wash after wash.
Has the fresh and pleasing scent of Tide.
Sensitive enough to use on baby clothing and cloth diapers to get them clean.

CONS

Some find the smell of this a bit overpowering.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews

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We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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First Reviewed

September 29, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Ade Hennis

Updated November 2024

Ready to buy now? Shop the best:

Best of the Best: Nellie's Laundry Soda
Best Bang for the Buck: OxiClean Odor Blasters
Most Economical: Arm & Hammer Powder Laundry Detergent
Limited Ingredients: Molly's Suds Original Laundry Detergent
Trusted Brand: Tide Powder Laundry Detergent

Consumers have an abundance of options when it comes to laundry detergents these days, ranging from pods to liquids. However, some people like to get back to basics and go with powder detergents. Luckily, there are a range of powders to choose from if this is what is most convenient for your laundry needs. Many of these are available in non-toxic and natural formulas, excluding the use of harsh ingredients or chemicals. These variations are great for those concerned with green living, have skin sensitivities, or have little ones that require a more gentle, yet effective, detergent. In addition, the tried and true detergent brands also make powders that come with their own set of strengths.

Best Powder Detergents

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

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