Pondering whether to pod, pour or powder? Whether for laundry of dishes, here's how to choose which kind of detergent is best.
Liquid vs. Powder Detergent: Which Is Better?
Published on Feb. 26, 2025
Sometimes I just space out while staring at the cleaning aisle in the grocery store. There are so many options it’s hard to take them all in. Powder, pod, liquid, concentrate, bleach, no-bleach, super purple stain eaters, steely chrome grease-busting technology… how to decide? First, narrow it down to the most obvious difference, liquid vs. powder detergent.
“Each type of detergent has its strengths, and the best option depends on factors like water temperature, stain types, convenience and cost,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and CEO of AspenClean.
With those in mind, here is how to sort out your needs for both laundry and dishwashing, with advice from Sokolowski and other cleaning experts who answer the age-old question: which is best, liquid vs. powder detergent?
On This Page
Liquid Detergent
What is liquid detergent?
Liquid detergents are water-based cleaning solutions that contain surfactants, enzymes, stabilizers and other cleaning agents. They are designed to disperse easily in water and are generally effective at removing oily and greasy stains.
“Unlike powder, they usually contain fewer bleaching agents and are designed to tackle grease and stains effectively, even in cold water,” says Vanessa Bossart, owner of GreenTerra Cleaning Service.
Pros
- Dissolves easily in any water temperature;
- Great for pre-treating stains;
- Effective on grease and oil stains;
- Works well in high-efficiency washers; and
- Unlikely to cause residue buildup in the washer.
These qualities make liquid detergent ideal for darkly colored and delicate fabrics, which often require cold water. Also, “Because it dissolves completely, there’s no risk of gritty residue rubbing against the fabric like with powder,” says Bossart. “It’s also free of harsh whitening agents that can fade colors over time.”
Cons
- Heavier packaging, so more plastic waste;
- Can contain more preservatives and stabilizers, so it is potentially not as healthy;
- Often costs more per load compared to powder;
- Can be easy to overuse due to mismeasuring pouring; and
- Bulkier and heavier to transport, so potentially larger carbon footprint.
What are they best for?
Liquid detergents are good for everyday laundry and dishwashing, especially cold-water washes and greasy/oily stain removal.
Powder Detergent
What is powdered detergent?
Powder detergents are dry and granular, typically made from surfactants, builders and often bleaching agents. They tend to be less gentle than liquid detergents but tougher on mud stains, dirt, sweat buildup and other stubborn grime that can cause whites to look dull over time. They work well in hot water.
“They are a solid choice for deep cleaning and tackling dirt-heavy loads,” says Bossart. “They’re also powerhouses for white clothes because they usually contain oxygen bleach and other whitening agents that help keep fabrics bright.”
Pros
- Often the most cost-effective per load;
- Great for washing in hot water;
- Effective at removing tough dirt and mud stains;
- Typically come in recyclable cardboard packaging; and
- Long shelf life.
Cons
- May not dissolve well in cold water, leaving residue;
- Not convenient for spot-treating stains;
- Can be messy to handle and store;
- Can clump in humid conditions; and
- Some formulas may contain fillers that leave residue.
What are they best for?
Powdered detergents are best for heavily soiled loads, like workwear, sportswear and other fabrics that benefit from being washed in warm or hot water. They are usually also a good budget choice.
Detergent Pods
What are detergent pods?
Detergent pods are pre-measured, water-soluble packets filled with concentrated liquid detergent. “They’re designed for convenience; just toss one in and go,” says Bossart.
Pros
- Pre-measured for convenience;
- Designed to work in all water temperatures;
- Easy to store and use;
- Less mess than liquid or powder; and
- Can’t be over-poured.
Cons
- More expensive per load;
- Can be dangerous if mistaken for candy by children or pets;
- Dissolvable film often contributes to microplastic pollution; and
- May not dissolve properly in some machines or colder water.
What are they best for?
Detergent pods are best for no-hassle dish and laundry washing. “They’re great for busy households, those who tend to overuse detergent and those who travel or use laundromats,” says Sokolowski.
As an alternative to pods, look for a concentrated liquid detergent that dispenses with a pre-measured squeeze, like Seventh Generation Easy Dose.
Liquid vs. Powder Detergent: Which Is Best for Me?
For clothes
Choose liquid for cold-water washing and rinsing, greasy stains (like a pizza spill) and pre-treatment. Go with powder for budget, hot-water washing and dirt-heavy loads (think soccer uniform).
“I keep both at home,” says Ryan Knoll, owner of Tidy Casa. “Powder is better for tough stains and the environment, but it doesn’t always dissolve in cold water. I’ve washed my black shirts and pulled them out covered in white clumps. So annoying!
For dishwashers
Powder usually contains stronger cleaners, like bleach, that help with tough food stains. Liquid is gentler, but can leave a film on dishes, says Knoll.
“Liquid detergent sometimes builds up inside the dishwasher,” says Knoll. “Powder doesn’t, but you have to measure it right so it doesn’t clump.”
FAQ
Can you turn powder detergent into liquid?
Yes. Bossart recommends dissolving one cup of powder detergent in four cups of warm water and stirring until it’s fully mixed. “Store it in a sealed container, shake it before use and you’ve got a homemade liquid detergent!” she says.
However, Sokolowski recommends limiting this technique to immediate use, as storing homemade liquid detergent can cause separation or spoilage over time.
About the Experts
- Vanessa Bossart is owner of GreenTerra Cleaning Service in San Francisco, which specializes in eco-friendly cleaning solutions, including tricky jobs like sticker removal during move-out cleanings.
- Alicia Sokolowski is President and CEO of AspenClean, a green cleaning company and products manufacturer in Vancouver, British Columbia.
- Ryan Knoll is owner of Tidy Casa, which he founded in 2015. The company cleans more than 600 homes a month in the Phoenix and Tucson areas.
