finder.com.au

Best laundry detergents in Australia for 2020

Read our short-list of the best laundry detergents for a variety of uses.

Chris Jager
Chris Jager

Updated

Fact checked
Detergent added to washing machine

We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!

The best laundry detergents in Australia

How did we pick this list?

Our editorial team selected the products on this list based on actual customer reviews. For each category, we carefully selected parameters based on our research and identified the products with the highest review score within those parameters.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

Best laundry detergent liquid: Cold Power Complete Action Liquid Laundry Detergent

  • Specifically developed for cold water
  • Requires less energy for reduced environmental impact
  • Suitable for front and top loaders
  • Some users dislike fragrance

Price (RRP): From $8.25

Buy at Amazon
Buy at eBay

Why we chose it

Cold Power Complete Action Liquid Laundry Detergent is the highest rated liquid detergent as chosen by Amazon reviewers. Customers gave positive feedback about the fragrance, performance in cold water, value for money and bright results.

Cold Power Complete Action Liquid Laundry Detergent has been specifically formulated to remove stains and discolouration from white fabrics when used in cold water. This means washes use less energy which is more environmentally friendly. It can be used with front and top loaders and has a low-key fragrance.

Best laundry detergent powder: Fab Laundry Detergent Washing Powder

  • Suitable for all machine types
  • Effective in cold, warm and hot water
  • Affordable price
  • May be less effective on extra stubborn stains
  • Some users report clumping

Price (RRP): From $7.00

Buy at Amazon
Buy at eBay

Why we chose it

Fab Laundry Detergent Washing Powder is the highest rated powder-based detergent as chosen by Amazon reviewers. Customers gave positive feedback about the cleaning power, subtle scent, value for money and low price.

Fab Laundry Detergent Washing Powder comes in a range of fragrances which provide up to 30 days of freshness when stored in a cupboard under ordinary conditions. The product is suitable for all clothes, machine types and water temperatures, making it a versatile choice for budget shoppers.

Best laundry detergent pods/capsules: Tide PODS 3 in 1

  • Contains 90% active ingredients
  • 10x the cleaning power of budget brands (untested)
  • Works in both hot and cold water
  • Must be kept away from children
  • Can sometimes get stuck in washing machine doors
  • Limited availability in Australia

Price (RRP): From $39.99

Buy at Amazon
Buy at eBay

Why we chose it

Tide PODS 3 in 1 is the highest rated detergent capsule brand as chosen by Amazon reviewers. Customers gave positive feedback about the scent, ease of use, versatility in different water temperatures and overall cleaning performance.

The pods use a super-concentrated detergent that is highly effective at removing odours and stains. Like other detergent pods, the product benefits from a convenient, pre-measured unit dose. The outer capsules dissolve completely in all temperatures. According to Tide, a single pod is equivalent to 10 doses from the leading liquid bargain brand which they neglected to identify.

Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin: Bosisto's Sensitive Laundry Powder

  • Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic
  • Made from eco-friendly antibacterial eucalyptus oil
  • No synthetic fragrances, dyes, fillers or enzymes
  • Some users report crusting in dispenser

Price (RRP): From $10.00

Buy at Amazon
Buy at eBay

Why we chose it

Bosisto's Sensitive Laundry Powder is the highest rated powder-based detergent as chosen by Product Review and Amazon reviewers. Customers gave positive feedback about the eucalyptus-based fragrance, antibacterial properties and suitability for sensitive skin.

The product, which is Australian made and owned, uses pure eucalyptus oil harvested from a tree farm in Inglewood, Victoria. The formula was especially designed to be compatible with sensitive skin. The packaging is made from 100% recycled cardboard. The included scoop is recyclable and re-usable.

Best fragrance-free laundry detergent: Duo Laundry Powder Cleans And Cares

Duo Laundry Powder Cleans And Cares

  • Anti-foam action minimises suds
  • Works with top and front loading machines
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

    Price (RRP): From $5.99

    Buy at Chemist Warehouse
    Buy at eBay

    Why we chose it

    Duo Laundry Powder Cleans & Cares is the highest rated fragrance-free detergent as chosen by Chemist Warehouse reviewers. Customers gave positive feedback about the (lack of) fragrance, value for money, suitability for sensitive skin and effectiveness at brightening clothes.

    The product uses an anti-foam action control to reduce suds. It will work in top and front loading machines and is optimised for use in cold water. It is also grey water friendly (rinse cycle only recommended).

    Where to buy laundry detergents

    Methodology

    • Our editorial team compared laundry detergents from brands found in Australian supermarkets and online retailers.
    • We examined hundreds of customer reviews and ratings as well as expert reviews.
    • The products on this list are chosen by our editorial team and are not selected based on commercial relationships.

    More guides on Finder

    Ask an Expert

    You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

    • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
    • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
    • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
    • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

    Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
    Go to site