In the past we used to by washing bars to hand-wash our clothes. As we adopted to washing machine, soap bars are slowly getting replaced by washing powders. What next? If you visit any supermarket, you might have seen liquid detergents. They are getting very popular and slowly replacing washing powders.
This post will list out best detergents for different washing machine types and also pros/cons of powder and liquid detergents. If you are yet to buy a washing machine, then check out our list of best products to buy online.
- Best front load automatic washing machines
- Best top load automatic washing machines
- Best semi-automatic washing machines
As the name itself suggests, bio detergents consist of certain biodegradable enzymes that aid in the cleaning of stains by serving as boosters for the process. Known as booster technology, the enzymes break down the protein, starches and fat that are usually found in the stains (from food, sweat and other common stains)
A non biodegradable detergent does not contain any enzymes as such but when you consider the health of your skin, it is ideal that you pick up the non biodegradable ones. Particularly for baby clothes and baby wear, always use non-bio detergents for better results and less rashes.
For any normal load, always go with 1 full scoop of washing powder. If you do not have a scoop or you can typically use the bottle cap too. If it is small then go with 2 tablespoons of powder.
For different liquid detergents, the recommended dose per wash is different and thus can be approached specific to the detergent in question.
If budget is not a concern and you use a machine, always go with the liquid detergent. It produces less lather and comfortably lets you wash your clothes clean.
Powder Detergents are great for hand washing of clothes and if you pick Ariel, Tide or Surf Excel Matic, they are good for machine wash too.
Summary – Best Detergent Liquids
Liquid detergents work well with both top and front load washing machines. Below is popular brands to buy liquid detergents.
| Best Top Load Detergent Liquids | Package Weight |
|---|---|
| Surf Excel Matic | 1 Litre |
| IFB Essentials Fluff | 1 Litre |
| Ariel Matic | 1 Litre |
| Bosch | 1 Litre |
| SINDHU SUPER CLEEN Liquid | 5 Litres |
| Bacleen | 5 Litres |
| Lakshyraj Quality Products | 5 Litres |
Summary – Best Top Load Detergent Powders
These are some of the best washing powders for top load washing machines. Please note that brands are common for bother top and frond load machines, however, packing differs.
| Best Top Load Detergent Powders | Package Weight |
|---|---|
| Surf Excel Matic | 2 Kg |
| Syclone Matic | 2 Kg |
| Ariel Matic | 3 Kg |
| Henko Matic | 2+1= 3 Kg |
Summary – Best Front Load Detergent Powders
These are some of the best washing powders for front load washing machines. Please note that brands are common for bother top and frond load machines, however, packing differs.
| Best Front Load Detergent Powders | Package Weight |
|---|---|
| Surf Excel Matic | 2 Kg |
| Ariel Matic | 4+2=6 Kg |
| Henko Matic | 2+1=3 Kg |
| Syclone Matic | 2 Kg |
Detailed Review – Best Detergent Liquids for Washing Machines
Let us take a detailed look at different liquid detergents and their features.
1. Ariel Matic Liquid Detergent
This famous brand is known for its cost-effective yet highly efficient line of detergents. Ariel Matic’s Liquid Detergent promises to work with the same power and reduced lather and dirt than its powdered detergents.
1 litre of Ariel Matic liquid has the same washing and cleaning power as that of a 1 kg high-quality powder.
The unique cap makes sure that there is no spillage of the liquid when you tighten it after or when you open it before use.
Perfect for tough stains, the Ariel Matic liquid is not too hard on the cloth and protects the natural colors of the clothes. Designed specifically for fully automatic washing machines, the liquid works fine for hand-wash or semi-automatic washing machines as well.
For best results, use a dosage of 60 ml per wash load.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Is soft on clothes Anti spill-proof cap Powerful liquid that’s equivalent to the powder | Be cautious of the vendor you buy it from as there are a lot of duplicate versions of the product out there. |
2. Surf Excel Matic Liquid Detergent
This detergent is made specifically for top loads. The Surf Excel Matic liquid gives you maximum stain removal. Generally, you would take the liquid in a cup (the bottle cap is actually efficient) and directly pour the liquid onto the clothes, start the machine and be done with it.
For stubborn stains, you can first pour the liquid on the stain, rub it generously and then pour some more liquid on the clothes and start the machine to let it run its course and therefore justify the Pour Rub Pour.
The liquid is easy to dissolve and does not cause powder like residual or clumps. Designed to produce only the required amount of foam for specific washing machine types, the liquid causes no clogging in the machine or leave residue on the clothes like ordinary detergent powders.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Does not fall heavy on the machinery Has a very good fragrance that adds to the clothes No clogging of machines Color care while removing tough stains | None observed so far |
3. Bosch Detergent for Washing Machine
Bosh is a famous brand from Germany and their detergent liquid is tried and tested in Germany for Front Load Washing machines.
With very minimal lather or foam, the liquid is highly capable of being used not just for front load machines but for top load and even for hand-washing clothes too.
It also promises to protect the original colors of the clothes. Apart from being a detergent liquid, Bosch also acts as a fabric softener which also adds fragrance to your clothes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Specially formulated to remove stains Tested out in Germany Minimum foam Keeps original colors and doesn’t lose luster Acts as a fabric softener and gives fragrance too | Needs more volume per use |
4. IFB Essentials Fluff Fabric Detergent
The IFB Essentials Fluff fabric detergent is made for top load washing machines. But this can be used for front load washing machines as well.
This works well on removing dirt and also the smell of the clothes giving them fragrance. Choose from a variety of fragrances like lush, green meadows and flowery fragrance.
As the liquid contains a balanced pH formula, it enhances the shine and softness of clothes. Ideal for whites and colored fabrics altogether. Can also be used for hand-washing too.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes in various fragrances Also available in stain cleaner or detergent powder bundles too Soft on clothes thanks to balanced pH levels Ideal for all types of washing machines | Could improve the bottle cap quality |
5. SINDHU SUPER CLEEN Liquid Detergent
The Sindhu Super Cleen is an Indian brand and the detergent works for front load, top load and even a simple bucket based hand washing of clothes too.
One of the most economically priced liquids in the entire list, the Sindhu Super Cleen is suitable for any and all types of fabrics.
For a single load of a cup, the liquid can wash up to 10-15 clothes. Able to remove any type of stain or dirt, the liquid also tries and keeps your clothes soft and smooth for wear
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly Easy going on the cloth A small quantity can wash a lot of clothes Ideal for any washing machine or for hand washing too | None in specific to be found |
6. Lakshyraj Quality Products Liquid Detergent
The Lakshyraj Matrix Washing machine liquid is a liquid detergent brand from India. It is designed for all types of washing machines but can be even used for hand-washing of clothes too.
With just 90 ml of the super-matrix liquid, you can wash up to 15 clothes at a single time. As for the types of fabric, any type of clothes including woollen or shawl or precious clothes can be washed with the liquid. Not just for coloured clothes but also white clothes too.
While keeping them smooth and shiny, the liquid also manages to give a certain pleasant fragrance to the clothes it washes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It is budget-friendly. Value for money Easy going on the cloth A small quantity can wash a lot of clothes Ideal for any washing machine or for hand washing too | None in specific to be found |
7. BACLEEN Detergent Liquid for Washing Machine
Bacleen detergent liquid comes in a 5-litre bottle and is ideal for both washing machines and for hand washing of clothes.
It can take care of all types of fabrics and protects the washing machines from any lather clogging that is usually caused by powders.
Apart from that, the liquid is also eco-friendly in nature and biodegradable
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes in good large quantities Ideal for both any machine washing and hand washing Eco-friendly and biodegradable in nature | Thin liquid |
Detailed Review – Best Detergent Powder for Front Load Washing Machines
Let us take a detailed look at different detergent powders and their features for front-load washing machines.
1. Surf Excel Matic Front Load Detergent Powder
The Surf Excel Matic Front Load detergent powder removes tough stains in the machine itself in a single wash.
Designed to work in high water levels of 20 litres (typical high for a front-load drum), the surf excel Matic powder easily dissolves completely into the washing water.
While the detergent is not no-foam, it provides the optimal right amount of foam that does not harm the machine. No choking or clogging of the pipes and machinery.
The hand rub action of the detergent makes it easier for you to just dump your clothes into the machine and be done with it instead of taking it out and giving it a manual rub once in a while.
Similar to its top-load counterpart, one scoop of the surf excel Matic front load is equivalent to 2 ordinary handwash clothes detergent.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Designed to work for very high load of up to 20 litres Has a hand rub action that makes it easier for getting a complete machine wash Equivalent to 2 ordinary detergents Dissolves easily into water | It’s not no-foam but produces normal foam. |
2. Ariel Matic Front Load Detergent Washing Powder
The Ariel Matic Front Load Detergent Washing Powder comes with an amazing 4kg+2kg free package.
While the top load Ariel Matic is ideal for both front load and top load, this detergent is best used only for the front load fully automatic washing machines. It gives best and instant stain removal in a single wash.
With the built-in power of a washing bar, brush and blue it gives you a wash that is unparalleled to that of hand-washed clothes. Moreover, the lab tests on stain removal of the powder claim that it contains up to 2 times more active ingredients than regular detergents and is thus a premium front load Matic detergent.
For normal washing loads one scoop (60 grams) of powder is enough whereas, for heavy loads, 1.5 scoops (90 grams) of powder will do the work.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Specifically designed for front load washing machines Comes in an impressive 6kg packaging (4+2 free) for a budget pricing Has 2 times more active ingredients than regular powder For normal load, 60 grams (1 scoop) is enough whereas for heavy/dirty loads 90 grams (1.5 scoops) is enough | Could improve the overall packaging |
3. Henko Matic Front Load Detergent Powder
The Henko Matic Front Load detergent is similar to the Henko Matic Top Load detergent in many and almost every way.
This too comes with a 3kg packing (2+1) at a price of 2 kg. Very powerful and effective in stain removal, the Henko Matic can remove stains in a single wash without any hand rub. Stains such as mud, ink, oil, chocolate, anything can be removed instantly without causing any harm to the clothes.
Its revolutionary lint free nano fabric technology locks in the fibres of the cloth and then work towards the stain removal without hurting the fabric.
For a full front load of clothes, one scoop of powder is enough. But for half soiled or heavily dirtied clothes, 1.5 scoops of detergent will do the job.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a 2+1=3kg packing for the price of 2kg Very powerful no rub stain removal. Lint Free clothes with its nano fabric technology 1 scoop for normal load and 1.5 scoops for heavily soiled loads | Nothing specific to mention |
4. Syclone Matic Front Load Detergent Powder
Finally, we have the Syclone Matic Front Load Detergent Powder in its 2kg packing.
Designed specifically for front load, this detergent too, as its top-load counterpart does, provides a single wash stain removal thanks to its multi-enzyme European technology.
Known for its high efficiency, the Syclone Matic does not produce a lot of froth thanks to its low froth formulation. Ideal for low water areas, it’s easy wash capability reduces the energy consumption of your front load machine.
Its unique triple action formulation works not just for stain removal but also protects your clothes from fading out, greying of the whites and gives your clothes a long lasting freshness.
The long lasting freshness is thanks to the perfume encapsulation technology which has fragrance beads that slowly release mild fragrance from the clothes and thus ensure longevity of the pleasant smell.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Specifically designed for front load Single wash stain removal thanks to multi-enzyme Low froth formulation Unique triple action formulation prevents fading out of clothes Perfume encapsulation technology releases slow fragrance beads for long lasting freshness | Price is on the higher side |
Detailed Review – Best Detergent Powder for Top Load Washing Machines
Let us take a detailed look at different detergent powders and their features for top-load washing machines.
1. Surf Excel Matic Top Load Detergent Powder
The Surf Excel Matic tops the list of detergent powders that are specifically made for top load washing machines.
This 2 kg box of powder can remove tough stains within the machine itself. Designed to work at high water levels of water such as 40 litres, it does not leave any type of marks on the clothes.
With its advanced technology, it can give you a handlike wash in the machine itself. Also, the detergent is value for money as just 1 scoop of surf excel Matic gives 2 scoops worth of ordinary detergent value.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A highly helpful and good quality wash Goes smooth on fabric Can work at high water levels as high as 40 litres | Sometimes has a solubility issue |
2. Ariel Matic Top Load Detergent Washing Powder
No doubt a strong contender in the area of detergents, the Ariel Matic top load detergent powder comes with a very economic pricing and a great offer for a 3 kg packaging.
With its enzyme technology, the detergent penetrates easily through the cloth and removes layers worth of dirt very easily and thus provides an impeccable cleaning experience.
Ideally made for tough stain removal within a top load washing machine, all you need is a 1.5 scoop of powder for a normal load. If the load is heavy, you can go ahead with 2 scoops of powder.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with enzyme technology for deep cleaning of dirt very easily Easy tough stain removal within the machine with great ease For normal loads, you just need 1.5 scoops of powder; For heavy loads, you would need 2 scoops of powder Has good fragrance | Nothing in particular to mention |
3. Henko Matic Top Load Detergent
The Henko Matic Top Load Detergent gives you 1 kg of detergent free within the purchase of its 2KG pack.
The detergent’s enzymatic action is capable of dissolving even the toughest of the stains such as ink, oil, mud or chocolate instantly and reduce the machine load and even protects your clothes from any fading or harm.
While the detergent is capable of stain removal in a single wash, the nanofibre lock technology locks in the finest of the fibres while the stain leaves and thus protects the fading our or tearing up of fabric for excessive stain removal.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful enzymatic action that can dissolve and remove tough stains in a single wash Nanofibre lock technology can lock the cloth while in wash and thus protect it from being stressed during stain removal. 2+1kg packaging at a price of 2 kg | None to specify in particular |
4. Syclone Matic Top Load Detergent Powder
The Syclone Matic is a top load detergent powder in a 2-kilogram packaging. Claimed to be scientifically developed for top load washing machines, the powder fights against a wide range of stains.
It also prevents the greying of the whites and also the fading out of the colours thus gives the clothes a long-lasting freshness. This is based on its Triple Action Next Generation formulation that is developed using European Technology.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Triple Action Next Generation formulation by European technology Prevents the graying of whites and fading of colors Gives a long-lasting freshness to clothes | Sometimes has clumps |
What Qualities to Consider While Buying a Detergent?
There are 4 important things that need to be considered while finalizing quality of the detergent.
1. Quantity of Lather
One of the most important things to consider while buying a detergent is the lather it provides. While the basic reason for froth/lather generation is to rub it against stains and dirt removal.
Depending on your usage, lather is favoured. For instance, more lather is preferred for hand wash as it helps remove more dirt easily and faster.
But when it comes to washing machines, less lather is preferred. This is so because froth/later will end up clogging the drains of the washing machine or fill it up with the residual dirt particulates.
For modern machines, it is ok if you pick any type of lather powders or liquids, but for old machine models, it is suggested that you pick a less lather powder or best yet, a detergent liquid. Liquids give you the desired result with very less or sometimes no lather at all.
2. Stain removal capacity
Every detergent in the market promises to remove stains in a single wash but not every detergent actually does it.
Often than not, you would end up taking the clothes out mid wash and rubbing the stains with some detergent to remove the said stains.
Your washing machine may be smart but if your detergent is not, then there is no point.
Ariel and Surf Excel are two of the best detergents in either liquids or powder form that provide most of the promised stain removal.
3. Fabric Softening Ability
Well this is a bit debatable. But as you would be only washing clothes that are meant to be washed, your detergent should also have the ability to keep your clothes soft.
While your washing machine has a separate compartment to place in the fabric softeners, there are nuanced washing powders and liquids that come with formulated fabric softener solution, make sure you use it with caution.
When your washing powder comes with a fabric softener solution within itself, never add additional fabric to the machine or you will end up getting your clothes sogged up.
4. Fragrance after wash
The next thing that you should be looking for in a detergent is its ability to give our fragrance after wash.
While this is not a total all out fragrance like that of a deodorant, it should be minimum, to your persons and aid in not stinking.
Most of the detergents come with different fragrance but while a few may end up giving you a foul smell, a few fade out very soon.
Some detergents like the Syclone detergent come with active fragrance lock technology. These detergents come with special beads of fragrance which do not at once release the fragrance but release it in installments and thus aid in keeping your clothes smelling fresh all day long.
Buyers Guide for Washing Machine Detergents
Above listed detergents are based on considering multiple factors on the quality of the product. Even though the products for different type of washing machine does not vary too much, there is however a slight change in the formulation that makes them compliant towards the specific washing machine.
Why should you choose a liquid detergent?
There two major reasons to chose liquid detergents over powdered detergents.
1. Residual detergent powder
After wash with many detergent powders, you might have noticed white-colored deposits on your clothes. These deposits are nothing but residual detergent powder that does not dissolve completely into the water during the washing and rinsing process.
These soapsuds stick to the fibres and create a white-colored layer on your clothes.
Therefore, you have to rewash such clothes. It happens because the detergent powders do not dissolve entirely and form soapsuds.
A liquid detergent would be better as there is no question of the formation of any deposit on the clothes.
2. Color fade effect
Many strong detergents come with built-in bleach ingredients that can cause colors to fade.
Under such circumstances, liquid detergents are better because they are gentle on the clothes and remove stains effectively.
Some of the powder detergents are harsh on your delicate clothes. Therefore, liquid detergents are always preferable, as you get a laundry-type finish when you use liquid detergents instead of soap powders.
What are the different types of liquid detergents available?
Two types of liquid detergents are available in the market.
- Packaged detergent
- DIY detergent
One is the packaged liquid detergent that comes in attractive plastic containers and pouches.
The other is the DIY liquid detergent. Here, you get a couple of liquid packs that you have to mix well before using. The advantage of using a DIY liquid detergent is that you can choose different fragrances every time.
Advantages and Disadvantages of using liquid detergents
Liquid detergents are advantageous in many ways, however there are also some disadvantages they come with.
Advantages of using liquid detergents
- Liquid detergents dissolve in water quickly as compared to powder detergents.
- They do not form soapsuds or residue that stick to the clothes after the washing process.
- Liquid detergents are best for silk and woolen clothes because you should never expose these fabrics to bleach.
- They are ideal for fully automatic washing machines because it is gentler on your clothes as compared to powder detergents.
- They do not have built-in bleach formula. Therefore, it is perfect for washing colored clothes.
- Fully automatic machines have different washing programmes. Liquid detergents are best suited for the purpose.
- You can use liquid detergents on your clothes to remove tough stains before putting them through the wash cycle. It is handy when dealing with collars and sleeve cuffs.
- Liquid detergents care useful with different washing cycles. Some machines come with hot water washing cycles. Liquid detergents dissolve in both hot and cold water.
- When used correctly and in the perfect proportion, liquid detergents can save you money.
- Soapless liquid detergents are perfect when you have hard water in your homes.
Disadvantages of liquid detergents
- Generally, people use powder detergents for washing clothes. Hence, they know the exact proportions to use. It can be a challenge to adapt to liquid detergents immediately, as you would not know how much is enough. Therefore, there is a tendency to waste a lot of soap. With practice, you can become perfect.
- Liquid detergents are not as effective as soap powders are against tough greasy stains or mud stains. Similarly, powder detergents are better on white loads because they come with a built-in bleach formula. You have to add bleach separately when you use liquid detergents.
- Liquid detergents are comparatively expensive as compared to powder detergents.
What is the best detergent for colored and white clothes?
- Colored clothes: As far as colored clothes are concerned, Surf Excel Matic steals a march over the others. Both the top loading and front loading types are excellent for washing colored clothes. The basic advantage of using Surf is that it dissolves completely in water unlike other detergents. Ariel is also good in this aspect.
- White clothes: When it comes to washing white clothes, Tide detergent powder is better than the others because of the presence of bleach in them. Rin or Surf can cause blue deposits on these white clothes. Hence, a majority of women prefer Tide to any other detergent.
Which is the best detergent for washing baby clothes?
Babies have tender skin. Hence, you need a gentle washing powder to wash baby clothes. You get special baby washing powders in the market. One of the best available online is Mee Mee Mild Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent. You cannot get a gentler wash than this detergent.
Can I use a front loader washing powder in a top load washing machine?
Most of us think that there is no difference between detergents made for front load and top load machines. However, understand that top loader detergents have the capacity to produce more foam or lather as compared to the front loader detergents.
Hence, in case you bought the top loader washing machine detergent, do not throw it away. Use half the quantity of soap in your front load machine.
Over to You
In this post, we have seen a variety of washing detergents available in the Indian market. This is for both liquid detergents as well as powdered detergents.
As on date, in the powdered detergent segment Surf Excel rules the Indian market with Ariel a shade behind. The other washing powders like Rin, Nirma, Fena, and Ghadi, etc lag behind in popularity.
However, liquid detergents are more rage on these days and they can consume major market share in coming days.
