oLiquid Detergent vs Powder Detergent

Updated on July 24, 2012
M.S. asks from New York, NY
12 answers

For washing clothes, which do you like better? Liquid or Powder? And what brand do you use? I use liquid but I am thinking of trying powder. I have been having grease type spots on my clothes and I read it can be caused by liquid detergent. Any thoughts on this? (I just have a regular top load washer)

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So What Happened?

thank you all! I think I am going to try to make my own washing detergent =)

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S.B.

answers from Redding on

If you wash in cold water, the liquid is generally better because the water doesn't get warm enough to dissolve the powder detergent. You can also use the liquid detergent to pre-treat stains.

I've used both. I just prefer liquid and I've never had any problems with grease type spots. I don't even use expensive brands.

Best wishes.

1 mom found this helpful

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S.P.

answers from Los Angeles on

I recently switched over to liquid and I love it! my clothes feels cleaner and seems to keep the ''new look'' longer. Ive tried many detergents (powder and liquid) because I was being a cheapo but in the end I'm using Tide liquid. Also because I live in an apartment I use many types of washers (front loader,HE, and OG.)and with using Tide my clothes has come out consistently nice :)

1 mom found this helpful
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S.H.

answers from Huntsville on

I used to use liquid. I guess because my mom always did. Then I tried the Purex 3-in-1 sheets for a while. I really liked those, so easy!

But now, to save money, I make my own powder detergent. :) There are also recipes to make your own liquid detergent as well, but I thought the powder was easier! haha

1 mom found this helpful
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☆.A.

answers from Pittsburgh on

Liquid is better for your washing machine.
Powder should always be used in a dishwasher.
Go figure.
The powder laundry detergent turns to cement in a washing machine over time.
I like Tide.
(And Cascade.)

1 mom found this helpful
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L.L.

answers from Topeka on

To avoid the grease looking spots I always turn on water then pour the liquid letting it get sudsy before adding in the loads.Never use a colored liquid like ERA on top of clothes while water is running it leaves grease spots that will not come out don't know why this happens but it does even with the smallest of detergent

K.M.

answers from Chicago on

Liquid IS better for your machine - try cutting back on the amount and adding vinegar OR baking soda to your wash.

L.A.

answers from Austin on

Liquid because I only was in cold.

Remember to always place the detergent in the machine, before you add your clothes.

You may want to clean out your dorm in your washer and dryer to make sure there is not something causing the oil stains. I doubt itis the detergent causing the spots.

S.D.

answers from Phoenix on

always used liquid.... in the front load machine.... not sure about powder...sorry ( can you even use powder in a front load washer ?)

A.L.

answers from Dothan on

I haven't ever heard that liquid leaves grease stains on clothes. I used powder back in the day but now have for quite awhile, years in fact. Powder can leave a cake like residue in your pipes & in your washer itself, it is also harder on clothing than liquid.

I prefer Arm & Hammer.

Happy Tuesday!

J.P.

answers from Lakeland on

I like liquid the powder doesn't work well with an HE washer. Try putting the detergent in with just the water and let that mix before adding your clothes. If you have a front load or HE washer then use the dispenser so it mixes with water as it is sprayed into the washer.

There could be residue left in your washer causing the stains.

V.W.

answers from Jacksonville on

I'd be more likely to attribute "grease" stains to a fabric softener than a liquid detergent.

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K.D.

answers from Dallas on

It seems like everyone is using an HE washer these days, but I don't have one yet. If you don't either, I recommend adding the detergent to the running water so it can dissolve, then add the clothes. I prefer liquid because it mixes better. Whatever you choose, just make sure to add it to the water before the clothes are in. If you have an HE washer and have no choice to do that, then make sure you buy HE detergent. I love Tide but lately I have been buying the Costco Tide knock off and haven't had any problems.

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