The best detergents for different washing machines

With a plethora of options available in the Australian market, choosing the right detergent for your washing machine can be a daunting task. Here, Appliances Online guides you through the process, to help you understand the relationship between your washing machine and the laundry soap you use.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand the type of washing machine you own. The two primary types are top-loading and front-loading machines. Each of these requires a specific type of detergent to function at its best.

Front and top loader detergents, meanwhile, are formulated to work efficiently in both styles of washer. These powders and liquids are designed with properties that cater to the needs of both machine types, such as moderate sudsing levels and compatibility with varying water levels. They incorporate ingredients and formulations that ensure effective cleaning in both front-loading and top-loading machines, regardless of their operational differences.

When you're choosing a detergent for your washing machine, there are a number of aspects you might want to consider, from value and eco-credentials to allergens and fragrance.

Common ingredients found in laundry detergents include surfactants, enzymes, builders, brighteners, and fragrances. Surfactants help to lift dirt and remove stains from fabrics, while enzymes target specific types of stains such as protein-based or oily stains. Builders assist in water softening and help to enhance the cleaning power of the detergent. Brighteners are added to maintain the brightness of whites and colours, while fragrances provide a pleasant scent to freshly laundered clothes.

Front-loader detergents often contain low-sudsing formulas to prevent excessive bubbles that can interfere with the machine's operation, while top-loader detergents may have higher levels of surfactants to produce more suds suitable for machines with higher water levels. These differences ensure optimal performance and compatibility with each type of washing machine.

Laundry detergents vary in environmental impact due to ingredient composition, packaging, and manufacturing processes. Typically, front-loading laundry detergents, whether in powder or liquid form, tend to be more eco-friendly compared to top-loading detergents. This primarily stems from their low-sudsing formulas, which require less water during the wash cycle. These days, both front and top loading detergents will often include biodegradable ingredients.

Detergents can vary in their allergen friendliness. Some detergents may contain common allergens such as fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals, which can trigger skin irritation or allergic reactions. Front-load detergents, often formulated with low-sudsing properties, may prioritize hypoallergenic ingredients to cater to sensitive skin types. If you have concerns about allergens, look for allergen-sensitive laundry liquids and laundry powders.

Front-loader detergents often feature lighter and more subtle scents as well as fragrance-free, as they typically use low-sudsing formulas. These fragrances are designed to complement the efficiency and eco-friendliness of front-loading machines.

 In contrast, top-loader detergents may offer a broader range of fragrances, including stronger and longer-lasting scents like eucalyptus, catering to the preferences of users with traditional top-loading machines. Additionally, liquid detergents may provide more intense fragrance options compared to powders, which tend to have milder scents.

Cost-effectiveness is a key consideration when choosing laundry detergents, with powders generally offering better value than liquids. Front-loader detergents, often used in high-efficiency machines, may prioritise cost efficiency by offering concentrated formulas.

To judge value, you can calculate cost per wash by dividing the price of the detergent by the number of suggested washes per packet or bottle, or by comparing the cost per kilogram or millilitre for bulk purchases. As with most products, there are economies of scale, with larger packets or bottles generally providing better value than smaller ones.

Laundry detergents often come with special features to enhance their performance and cater to specific needs. Some detergents boast built-in fabric softeners, which help to keep clothes feeling soft and comfortable after washing, reducing the need for additional fabric softener products.

Others may offer antibacterial properties, effectively eliminating germs and odours from garments, ideal for households with active lifestyles or individuals concerned about hygiene. These special features provide added convenience and functionality, ensuring a thorough and hygienic cleaning experience with each wash.

Cold water wash detergents are specifically formulated to effectively clean clothes in cold water temperatures, typically below 30°C. These detergents contain enzymes and surfactants that are activated even in cooler water, ensuring thorough removal of dirt, stains, and odours without the need for hot water.

Using cold water for laundry helps conserve energy and prevent colour fading or shrinking of fabrics. Cold water wash detergents are suitable for a wide range of fabrics and laundry types, offering convenience and environmental benefits for eco-conscious consumers.

Powder detergents and liquid detergents each have their own advantages and considerations.

Choosing the right detergent for your washing machine can help you maintain the efficiency and lifespan of your appliance, while also giving you clean, fresh laundry.

If you need not only the laundry detergent but a washing machine to go with it, look no further! Appliances Online has great value, highly efficient laundry detergents and hundreds of models of washers to choose from, and our legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population. And, if it’s in stock, you’ll usually receive it the day after ordering (Mon-Fri).

We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your old washer away to be recycled, at no charge. For more pointers on choosing a new washer, read our Laundry Buying Guide, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.