We researched laundry pods and evaluated each on cleaning power, versatility, and safety. Our top pick is Tide Pods Laundry Detergent Original Scent, because they’re reliable and extra-powerful, and they have an amazing fresh scent. Here are the best laundry detergent pods. It’s hard to beat the cleaning power of Tide. These pods come in the Tide original scent, which adds a familiar freshness to your clothes as it cleans. Each pod cleans just as well in cold water as in warm water, so they’re perfect for use on just about any soil level or stain you can create. They are also safe for both soft and hard water, as well as high-efficiency washing machines. Each pack comes with 42 pods, which isn’t as large as some other options on our list. These are still an excellent value, but expect to replenish your stash more often (or try buying in bulk) if you’re someone who does multiple loads of laundry every few days. The cleaning power is what really sets these pods apart. They are packed with the same detergent as traditional Tide, which has been making laundry detergent since 1946. Tide states that its pods clean 10 times as well as some more budget-friendly options. In our experience, that has proven to be true. Tide also leaves your clothes smelling fresh but not like chemicals. If you are sensitive to smells (no matter how pleasant), that may be an issue for you. For most, it is a welcome addition and one of the best things about Tide. Price at time of publish: $13 The scent isn’t as enjoyable as some others, although it is still fresh and clean. The real benefit from these pacs is that they take care of so much in one convenient little pod. Not only does that save you money, but it also saves a lot of time and work. The pods come in a package of 60, meaning fewer trips to the store to restock, as well. Price at time of publish: $20 The scents of the Grab Green pods are especially nice. You can choose from gardenia, lavender vanilla, vertiver, or unscented. Not only are the scents less harsh than their chemical counterparts, but the relaxing smell also lingers even after the clothes and linens are out of the dryer, folded, and put away. These pods are quite pricey, though, and you may need to use two for especially soiled loads. While our at-home tester liked the easy-close top of the bag, it doesn’t protect the pods from getting wet like a hard plastic container would. Price at time of publish: $19 You only need to use one pod per load, even for heavily soiled laundry. These pods can be used in HE machines as well as in warm or cold water. The price can fluctuate, based on whether you opt for a single container of 60 or a two-pack of either 66 or 67 each. With so many options, it can be tricky to figure out which is the best deal, but if you go through a lot of laundry in a week, a two-pack of detergent containers is always a welcome option. Price at time of publish: $31 These Mrs. Meyer’s pods are on the expensive side, but they keep your laundry smelling great days after being washed. For heavily soiled loads, expect to use two pods, which adds to the overall cost. If you love a particular scent (basil, honeysuckle, lavender, or lemon verbena), you can also get other Mrs. Meyer’s products in the same scent and enjoy it all around your home. Price at time of publish: $16 These pods come in a two-pack, so you can open one to use and keep the other tucked away. They have some stain-fighting ingredients but aren’t the best for tough stains like oil or red wine. For day-to-day use, however, they are ideal. Price at time of publish: $28 This formula works on the most common baby stains, including spit-up, breastmilk, formula, and anything that can be deposited into a diaper. They are also safe for use on cloth diapers and won’t leave a residue behind. These pods are a bit pricey, especially considering how often you will likely need to wash your baby’s clothes. But you can’t beat the convenience of a pod when you’re also balancing nap and feeding times. Price at time of publish: $21 These pods are a great value for a pack of 42. If you have pets or active kids, these are ideal for throwing in the laundry to get pet odors and sports smells out of any clothes. They are safe for both colors and whites, as well as HE machines. You may need to use two for very smelly, soiled, or large loads of laundry. Price at time of publish: $10
Washing Conditions
Before deciding on a pod, make sure it is safe to use in your washing machine. While many are compatible with high-efficiency machines, not all are safe for HE machines. If you have a septic system, look for ones that will not cause damage. It is also important to know how to use a pod. You should put it in the washer drum before you add your clothes unless your washing machine has a specific place for the pod (most do not).
Ingredients and Certifications
One of the biggest buzzwords in the laundry detergent world is “Free & Clear.” A detergent that is Free & Clear does not contain any fragrances, perfumes, or dyes, making it ideal for those with sensitivities. Also, consider the ingredients list for your pod as well as any chemicals that may be harmful to either you or the environment based on the EPA Safer Choice program’s recommendations.
Scent
Many laundry detergent pods are scented, often with fresh, floral, or plant-inspired scents. Some use chemically-derived fragrances while others rely on more natural ingredients like essential oils. Make sure that you like the scent that you choose since it will cling to your clothes, and also look for scents that are long-lasting.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. A mother of three, Katie is familiar with doing loads and loads of laundry as well as looking for ways to make her cleaning routine more efficient. To compile this list, she looked for pods that would get the job done, deliver a fresh scent, and had ingredients that she felt comfortable using. She also talked to longtime housekeeper Anne Knowing about what to consider when choosing a laundry detergent. It’s also crucial that the filmy pouches are water-soluble so they dissolve quickly in hot or cold water. Additionally, if you need to get rid of marks and deep soils, you’ll want to look for an option containing stain-fighting enzymes. After the casing dissolves, it rinses out and drains with the rest of the water in your washing machine. While there are some mixed opinions on the issue, PVA is thought to be biodegradable and not harmful to the environment.
