How do I choose the right laundry detergent?

Finding the right laundry detergent is very dependent on several factors, including the type of garments and washer. Laundry detergent can remove dirt and stains from your clothing, and leave your laundry smelling great and looking brighter. There are a range of detergent types available - liquid, powder and detergent pods. This guide will help you choose the right detergent to clean your laundry efficiently in no time.

Liquid Detergent
Liquid detergent is very effective on food, grease or oil stains. It can double as a stain pretreat as well, because of it's liquid form.  Choose this if you do a lot of spot-treating, and removing stains on a regular basis. Depending on the setting of your water temperature, if you use cold wash settings most often liquid detergent is your best bet as powders do not always dissolve properly at lower temperatures.

Powder Detergent
Powder detergent is ideal for general wash day loads and is effective in lifting out every day stains as well as ground-in dirt. If you are unsure about what to use for daily washing, this is it. If a majority of your family's wash load consists of stains of the outdoor and every day variety, a powder detergent is an excellent choice.

Detergent Scents
Detergents come with all sorts of scents, and you'll be spoilt for choice. But watch out if you have sensitive skin, because fragrances are common skin allergens. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets are loaded with fragrance and should be avoided too. To remove all detergent residue from washed clothing, rinse your clothes twice and avoid loading up the washing machine

High-Efficiency Detergent for High-Efficiency Washers
If you have a high-efficiency washing machine you should use a high-efficiency (HE) detergent. This produce fewer suds and make it easier to rinse out the soap. You can always buy HE detergent for any washing machine but do not buy standard detergent for an HE washing machine.

You Need Less Than You Think
Many people overuse their laundry detergent, since a small amount can be used for quite a large load. If you pack your washing machine too full, you also run the risk of trapping detergent on your clothing. 
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In the end, it's easy to make a choice despite the range of options. If you need a detergent for sensitive skin, buy one. If you need stain-lifting power, look for the one with that label. Just remember not to overuse it and your laundry will come out nice and fresh. 

And if all else fails... check your machine manual to see what is recommended.