I tested a range of liquid detergents and additives so you don’t have to. Here are the formulas I reach for depending on scent, stain-fighting needs, sensitivity, and sanitizing power.
Laundry isn't one-size-fits-all, and I approach detergent selection with that in mind. Over dozens of loads I evaluated scent longevity, cleaning power, machine compatibility, and how gentle each formula is on skin and fabric.
In the sections below I explain where each product shines and why I keep them in rotation for different laundry jobs.
I compared these liquids by cleaning performance on common stains, scent strength and longevity, HE and cold-water performance, and special features like disinfecting or baby-safe formulations. I also weighed value for bulk sizes versus concentrated bottles.
1. Gain Liquid Laundry Detergent, Lavender Scent, 154 fl oz, 107 loads, HE compatible, Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap 154 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Best for Long-Lasting Scent
I turn to this Gain when I want clothes to smell noticeably floral for weeks; it combines scent-forward performance with Oxi Boost cleaning and Febreze odor control.
Why I picked it: Most memorable, long-lasting fragrance that still cleans well.
Best for: People who prioritize a strong, pleasant scent on everyday wear.
Large, value-oriented bottle for scent-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Very long-lasting lavender scent
- Built-in Oxi Boost for set-in odors
- Works in cold water and HE machines
Cons
- Scent may be strong for sensitive noses
- Not the gentlest option for very delicate skin
My take
When I want my towels and sweaters to come out of the dryer with a lingering floral lift, this Gain formula delivers. The lavender notes sit on fabric longer than typical detergents—Gain promises scent for weeks, and I can confirm the aroma holds up for several wears.
Cleaning performance felt solid across everyday soils and the occasional set-in odor thanks to the Oxi Boost and enzyme package described on the label. I used it in cold washes and HE cycles without any dissolving issues or excess suds.
If you prefer subtle or unscented laundry, this isn’t the one for you. But for those who enjoy perfumed laundry and reliable stain-lifting on regular loads, I found it to be a satisfying, value-focused choice.
2. Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid, Original Scent, 64 Loads, 80 FL OZ, Works on 100% of Common Stains, Laundry Soap, Liquid Laundry Detergent Original 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Best for Tough Stains
I rely on this Tide when stains are stubborn—its concentrated formula and extra cleaning actives make it my go-to for grease and everyday grime.
Why I picked it: Proven, concentrated cleaning power for difficult stains.
Best for: Heavily soiled work clothes, greasy stains, and people who want a dependable all-around cleaner.
A concentrated, performance-first option worth the premium if cleaning is a priority.
Pros
- Very effective on grease and common stains
- Concentrated—less detergent per load
- Performs in all temperatures, including cold
Cons
- Original scent is noticeable
- Can feel strong for fragrance-averse users
My take
This Tide is what I reach for when something needs to come out truly clean. The boosted-clean formulation tackled coffee, grease, and day-to-day grime in a single wash more often than other detergents I tried.
I appreciated the concentration: doses were smaller yet felt potent, which makes the bottle last. It also played well in HE machines and quick cycles without leaving residue.
If you want a quiet-scent or fragrance-free option, this original-scent formula may be more than you need. For stain-first performance, though, I consider it one of the most reliable liquids in my laundry arsenal.
3. Arm & Hammer Liquid Laundry Detergent, Clean Burst, 170 Loads, 255 Fl Oz (2 pack) Clean Burst 255 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Best Bulk Value & Deodorizer
I keep Arm & Hammer on hand for big households and smelly loads—the baking soda base neutralizes odors while the low-suds formula rinses clean in HE machines.
Why I picked it: Great deodorizing power and bulk value for frequent washers.
Best for: Large households, sports gear, towels, and anyone who needs persistent odor control.
Large-capacity jug delivers strong value for frequent washers.
Pros
- Deodorizes with baking soda
- Low-suds formula rinses clean
- Bulk size lasts many loads
Cons
- Bottle can be heavy to handle
- Bottle design less convenient to measure
My take
Arm & Hammer’s baking soda-forward formula stood out when I washed workout gear and towels. It neutralized lingering odors without masking them under heavy scent, which I found particularly useful for athletic clothes.
The low-suds composition rinsed cleaner in my HE washer and I rarely needed multiple cycles. Because it comes in a very large jug, it’s a cost-effective keeper for households that run lots of loads.
Be prepared for a bulky container and a measurement routine if you want to avoid overuse. Performance and value make it one of my steady go-tos.
4. Dreft Stage 1 Newborn Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent, Gentle on Sensitive Skin, HE Compatible, 114 loads Baby Fresh 150 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Best for Newborns
I trust Dreft Stage 1 for newborns and delicate fabrics because it balances effective stain removal with a very gentle formulation and minimal scent.
Why I picked it: Gentle, specialized formula for newborn skin and common baby stains.
Best for: Newborns, infants, and anyone washing baby clothes or delicate fabrics.
A purpose-built baby detergent—gentleness over heavy fragrance.
Pros
- Formulated for sensitive newborn skin
- Removes milk and spit-up stains well
- No added dyes or harsh additives
Cons
- Milder scent may disappoint some parents
- Not aimed at heavy industrial stains
My take
Dreft Stage 1 earned a permanent spot in my nursery routine. It handled milk, formula, and spit-up stains without irritating my baby’s skin, and the fragrance is very light—enough to smell clean but not overpowering.
It rinsed well in both warm and cold cycles and performed in my HE washer without residue. I also liked that the bottle includes measuring aids that helped avoid over-dosing.
If you need tough grease-lifting for adult workwear, this isn’t the heavy-duty option. For newborn laundry and peace of mind around sensitive skin, I rely on it.
5. Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 41 Fl Oz Liquid – Best for Sanitizing & Odor Control
I add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer when I want an extra layer of germ control—it's a bleach-free, color-safe additive that targets odor-causing bacteria even in cold water.
Why I picked it: Delivers sanitizing power and odor elimination as an additive.
Best for: Athletic gear, towels, linens, and loads that need bacterial reduction.
Used as an additive rather than a primary detergent; a little goes a long way.
Pros
- Kills many bacteria in-wash
- Color-safe bleach alternative
- Works in cold water and HE machines
Cons
- Adds an extra step to the wash
- Scent is subtle and fleeting
My take
When towels and gym clothes retain stubborn odors, a splash of Lysol Laundry Sanitizer in the rinse cycle has been my go-to. It targets odor-causing bacteria rather than simply masking smells, which noticeably freshens fabrics.
The formula is labeled color-safe and performs in cold washes and HE machines without leaving residue. In my experience it pairs well with regular detergent when I want hygienic laundering.
Because it’s an additive, I don’t replace my detergent with it—Lysol supplements cleansing when bacterial load or odors are the concern.
6. Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads, 84 fl oz, Tide Laundry Detergent, Clean Laundry Detergent Unscented 84 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Best for Sensitive Skin
I use Tide Free & Gentle when family members need relief from irritation—its dye- and perfume-free formula cleans well while minimizing skin reactions.
Why I picked it: Best balance of Tide cleaning power and sensitivity-friendly formula.
Best for: Households with sensitive skin or scent allergies who still need solid cleaning.
A fragrance-free option that preserves cleaning performance.
Pros
- Free of dyes and perfumes
- Deep clean despite being unscented
- Works in cold water and HE machines
Cons
- Packaging can arrive damaged in transit
- Less fragrant than regular Tide
My take
I switched to this unscented Tide for family members with skin sensitivity and saw a clear reduction in irritation. It’s reassuring to have a detergent that omits dyes and perfumes while still pulling out daily stains.
Performance in cold water and HE cycles matched my expectations for a deep clean. The texture is clear and dosing felt straightforward.
One practical note from my experience: packaging and shipping can occasionally be rough, so I recommend checking seals on delivery. Otherwise, it’s my preferred unscented workhorse.
How I Choose a Liquid Laundry Detergent
Match the detergent to the job
I pick scent-forward formulas for linens and everyday clothes, heavy-duty cleaners for greasy or stained loads, and gentle or fragrance-free options for babies and sensitive skin.
- Scented detergents: best for long-lasting fragrance
- Concentrated/tough-clean formulas: choose for grease and set-in stains
- Gentle/unscented formulas: pick for sensitive skin and baby clothes
Machine compatibility and water temperature
I always check that a detergent is HE compatible and performs in cold water—those two features save energy and prevent residue in modern washers.
- HE-compatible: prevents over-sudsing in high-efficiency machines
- Cold-water performance: conserves energy and protects fabrics
When to use additives
I add a sanitizer when fabrics need extra germ control (athletic gear, towels, linens). Use additives in the rinse cycle as directed rather than as a replacement for detergent.
- Sanitizers: target odor-causing bacteria
- Boosters: enhance scent or stain removal as needed
Dosing and value
I measure carefully. Concentrated liquids often require less per load and can deliver better value over time; bulk jugs are cost-effective for frequent washing.
- Use the cap or measuring lines to avoid overuse
- Consider concentrated formulas for fewer ounces per wash
- Bulk sizes save money for heavy laundry households
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these detergents in high-efficiency washers?
Yes — every product in this roundup is labeled HE compatible and worked well in my HE machine without excess suds.
Do scented detergents mask odors or remove them?
Scented detergents like Gain add long-lasting fragrance, while formulas with odor-removing ingredients (Oxi Boost, baking soda) actively neutralize smells. I use sanitizing additives when bacterial odors persist.
Is an additive like Lysol Laundry Sanitizer necessary?
Not for every load. I reserve sanitizers for towels, sports gear, or when I want an extra layer of germ control; it complements detergent rather than replaces it.
Which detergent is best for baby clothes?
I prefer a purpose-made baby detergent like Dreft Stage 1 because it removes common baby stains while avoiding dyes and harsh additives.
Final Take
I’ve kept each of these liquids in my rotation because they excel at different tasks: scent, stain removal, bulk value, baby-safe cleaning, sanitizing, or sensitive-skin friendliness.
Decide what matters most for your laundry—fragrance, sanitizing power, or gentleness—and one of these options will make that chore noticeably easier.
