Do laundry pods work as well as liquid detergent?

Laundry pods can work just as well as liquid detergent, but not all are created equal. The most effective options contain a high concentration of cleaning agents (even higher than their liquid counterparts), allowing you to achieve the same result with a smaller amount of soap. 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.

What happens to the plastic casing after they run through a wash cycle?

Most laundry pods have plastic casings made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The substance is water-soluble, meaning it dissolves when it comes into contact with water. (You'll want to store your pods in a cool, dry place to make sure they don't dissolve prematurely .) 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.

Are laundry pods bad for your washer?

Laundry pods aren't bad for your washer. The only concern is if the casing doesn't dissolve properly, as it could potentially leave gooey blobs in your drum. If you see this, remove them before your next load, and if it keeps happening, we recommend trying another brand or switching back to liquid detergent.

Can laundry pods stick to clothing?

When laundry pods aren't dissolving properly (whether because the drum is too full or the water is too cold), the PVA casing might stick to your clothes in the wash. To prevent this, get in the habit of putting the detergent pac in first before adding water or clothes. This will give it the best shot at dissolving completely.

The 11 Best Laundry Detergent Pods of 2022

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

The 11 Best Laundry Pods of 2022 — The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

Pre-portioned detergent pods take the guesswork out of measuring soap, prevent sticky spills, and cut down on the time you spend in the laundry room. Just toss one in your washer, set the cycle, and you're on your way.

We researched the most popular laundry detergent pods available today, evaluating effectiveness, formulation, scent, and value. Our top pick, the Tide Pods Laundry Detergent Soap Pods, are 3-in-1 packs that get clothes clean while eliminating tough odors and fighting stains.

Here are the best laundry detergent pods.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Tide PODS Laundry Detergent Original Scent at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Purex Mountain Breeze 4-in-1 Pacs at Amazon

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Best Scent:

Gain Original Flings Laundry Detergent at Amazon

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Best Unscented:

Method Laundry Detergent Packs at Amazon

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Best Natural:

Grab Green 3 in 1 Laundry Detergent Pods at Amazon

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Best for Sensitive Skin:

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent Packs - Free and Clear at Amazon

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Best for Activewear:

Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean 5-in-1 Power Paks at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Babies:

Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Detergent at Amazon

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Best for College:

all OXI Mighty Pacs at Amazon

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Best for Cold Water:

Woolite Clean & Care Pacs at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
Why Trust The Spruce?

4.9

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 42 pods | Scent: Original | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Brightens and whitens clothes
Dissolves in any water temperature
90 percent active ingredients

What We Don't Like

Could irritate sensitive skin

What do buyers say? 90% of 36,200+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 5 stars.

When Tide Pods launched in 2012, many people got their first taste (not literally) of laundry pacs. Serving as a tipping point for the now-massive demand, they're still the best option overall. Filled with 90 percent active ingredients, you can count on a high concentration of clothes-cleaning and stain-lifting power.

They dissolve quickly in hot, warm, or cold water, making them suitable for regular loads, delicates, and heavy soils. What's more, these laundry pacs work to protect your colors, keeping your brights bright and your whites white. And the undoubtedly fresh floral aroma of Tide's original scent doesn't hurt either.

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 58 pods | Scent: Mountain Breeze | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Affordable price
Clean rinse
Dissolves in any water temperature

What We Don't Like

Pods can be ruined if bag gets wet

Laundry pods typically cost a little more per load than liquid detergent—you're paying for convenience—but with budget-friendly Purex, you'll shave off at least a few cents per load.

These powerful pacs contain a concentrated portion of low-sudsing soap that washes clothes efficiently and rinses completely clean. We also appreciate that they dissolve in any water temperature.

Flings! + Aroma Boost 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pacs

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 81 pods | Scent: Original | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Scent is long-lasting
Dissolves in any water temperature
Compatible with all washing machines

What We Don't Like

Could irritate sensitive skin

If fresh-smelling clothes are what motivates you to do laundry, get a whiff of Gain Original Flings Laundry Detergent pacs. The brand's original scent is citrusy and floral with a hint of fruitiness—and you can count on it to last for up to six weeks after washing.

But your laundry won't just smell fresh. These concentrated soap pods clean your clothes and linens effectively and lift stains while they're at it.

The Best Smelling Laundry Detergent to Keep Your Clothes Fresh

Method Laundry Detergent Packs Free + Clear

Courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond

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Quantity: 42 pods per bag | Scent: Unscented | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

No dyes or fragrances
Hypoallergenic
Dissolves in any water temperature

What We Don't Like

Pricier than other options

For folks who prefer unscented detergents, we recommend Method Laundry Detergent Packs. These no-nonsense packets are filled with stain-fighting detergent and without any dyes or fragrances. The gentle formula is ideal for people with skin sensitivities (or anyone who likes to keep things simple).

These Are the 10 Best Laundry Detergents for Sensitive Skin

4.4

Grab Green Bleach Alternative Laundry Pods

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Grab Green 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods Review

Quantity: 60 pods | Scent: Lavender with vanilla | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Removes stains, cleans, and brightens
Available in a variety of fresh scents

What We Don't Like

Pods can be ruined if bag gets wet

If you're all about eco-friendly cleaning products, you'll appreciate Grab Green's 3 in 1 Laundry Detergent Pods. Each pre-measured pouch is filled with concentrated soap made from responsibly sourced ingredients. And you can bet they're free of synthetic preservatives, dyes, or masking agents.

Grab Green 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods — The Spruce / Katie Begley

What Testers Say

"Fortunately, Grab Green’s 3-in-1 laundry pods were up for every challenge we threw their way. We tend to need more than the recommended amount of liquid detergent to deal with our family’s laundry (especially with all-natural options), but these tiny pods packed some major cleaning power." — Katie Begley, Product Tester

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent Packs

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 45 pods per bag | Scent: Unscented | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

No dyes, fragrances, or artificial brighteners
Hypoallergenic
Plant-based formula

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note they don't dissolve well in cold water

We suggest Seventh Generation Free and Clear for those with sensitive skin. Made without dyes, fragrances, or artificial brighteners, these hypoallergenic laundry pacs are great for babies, kids, and anyone whose skin tends to react to harsh detergents. We also like that the plant-based formula dissolves quickly in hot or cold water.

The Best Green Laundry Detergents to Clean With Care

Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean 3-IN-1 Power Paks

Courtesy of Walmart

View On Amazon

Quantity: 40 pods per bag | Scent: Fresh Scent | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Deodorizes
Lifts stains
Brightens and whitens clothes

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note packaging is difficult to use

You'll be glad to have Arm & Hammer Power Paks on hand when it's time to wash your workout gear. Combining the brand's signature baking soda formula with OxiClean, these laundry pods not only clean effectively but also deodorize, lift stains, whiten, and brighten. In other words, your clothes will look and smell as fresh as the day you bought them.

Courtesy of Dropps

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Quantity: 36 pods per bag | Scent: Unscented | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Plant-based ingredients
Gentle
Unscented

What We Don't Like

Pricier than other options

If you have a little one at home, go with Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby. These unscented detergent pods draw on plant-based ingredients to gently yet effectively clean your fabrics. Without any harsh dyes, preservatives, or irritating fragrances, you won't have to worry about the formula causing a skin reaction.

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 60 pods per bag | Scent: Fresh Scent | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Dissolves quickly in any water temperature
Concentrated formula
Budget-friendly

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note packaging is difficult to use

all OXI Mighty Pacs are great for college students. Each pouch has the perfect portion of detergent, making it a little easier to do laundry in a dorm or apartment building.

They work in any water temperature, quickly dissolving and leaving clothes smelling oh-so-fresh. Plus, the tub of 60 is likely enough to last at least through a semester.

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 30 pods per bag | Scent: Not listed | Water Temperature: Formulated specifically for cold water

What We Like

Specifically formulated for cold water
Contains keratin to promote elasticity
Compatible with all washing machines

What We Don't Like

Pricier than other options

Some laundry pods don't dissolve as well as liquid soap in cold water, but with Woolite Clean & Care, you won't have to worry about that. These robust little pacs are specially formulated to work in cold cycles in both standard and high-efficiency washing machines.

Each one contains a teensy bit of keratin to promote elasticity and protect your clothes. When you drop one in the washer drum with your delicates, you'll have peace of mind knowing they'll be thoroughly cleaned but not shrunk, stretched, or faded.

Courtesy of Amazon

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Quantity: 62 pods per bag | Scent: Original | Water Temperature: Dissolves in hot, warm, and cold water

What We Like

Four chambers to target different results
Dissolves in any water temperature
Compatible with all washing machines

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note they don't dissolve well in cold water

Stained linens? Reach for Persil Original Scent Discs. These detergent pacs have four liquid chambers: one for deep cleaning, one for fiber care, one for freshness, and one for stain removal.

The stain-removing component is formulated with enzymes that break down marks, spots, and discoloration. Not only that, but these laundry pods work in any water temperature.

The Best Laundry Odor Removers to Make Clothes Smell Fresh

Final Verdict

When it comes to laundry pacs, the original Tide PODS Laundry Detergent Original Scent (view at Amazon) are tough to beat. These highly concentrated pouches are filled with 90 percent active ingredients, and they dissolve easily in any water temperature. Having said that, if you want an unscented option that's gentle enough for a baby or anyone with skin sensitivities, your best bet is Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Detergent (view at Amazon).

Ingredients

When considering different laundry pod brands, you'll want to check the ingredients lists. As with most cleaning products, a lot of the ingredients will be a mouthful of chemical compound terms. With that said, many are made with surfactants (cleaning agents), like alcohol ethoxy sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, propylene glycol, triethanolamine, glycerin, and fatty acids.

Some pacs contain enzymes that break down stains, such as mannanase, amylase, and subtilisin. Others contain a small amount of hydrolyzed keratin, which helps protect fabrics and keep them elastic. You'll likely also see some sort of polymer listed, like polyvinyl alcohol, which is the clear water-soluble pouch that holds the rest of the ingredients.

Scent

There will probably always be a demand for scented laundry soap, as many people find it comforting and refreshing. However, fragrances can be irritating for babies and folks with sensitive skin, and others simply prefer unscented detergents.

There's no shortage of scented and fragrance-free laundry pods on the market. The fragrance (or lack thereof) will typically be shown on the packaging, so just make sure to check before buying if you prefer one or the other.

Price

Most online retailers show the cost per laundry pac right next to the total price of the product. If you don't see it, you can calculate it by dividing the total price by the number of pods that come in the package.

We've seen budget-friendly options as low as $0.10 per pod, though most come out to around $0.25 to $0.35 each. For whatever reason, natural and unscented laundry pacs tend to be priced a little higher.

FAQ

Do laundry pods work as well as liquid detergent?

Laundry pods can work just as well as liquid detergent, but not all are created equal. The most effective options contain a high concentration of cleaning agents (even higher than their liquid counterparts), allowing you to achieve the same result with a smaller amount of soap.
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.
What happens to the plastic casing after they run through a wash cycle?

Most laundry pods have plastic casings made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The substance is water-soluble, meaning it dissolves when it comes into contact with water. (You'll want to store your pods in a cool, dry place to make sure they don't dissolve prematurely.)
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.
Are laundry pods bad for your washer?

Laundry pods aren't bad for your washer. The only concern is if the casing doesn't dissolve properly, as it could potentially leave gooey blobs in your drum. If you see this, remove them before your next load, and if it keeps happening, we recommend trying another brand or switching back to liquid detergent.
Can laundry pods stick to clothing?

When laundry pods aren't dissolving properly (whether because the drum is too full or the water is too cold), the PVA casing might stick to your clothes in the wash. To prevent this, get in the habit of putting the detergent pac in first before adding water or clothes. This will give it the best shot at dissolving completely.

Erica Puisis has covering home goods and cleaning products for The Spruce since 2017. To research picks for this article, she read dozens of customer and third-party reviews, considering the scent, price, and ingredients of each option.