Finding the best laundry detergent can make a significant difference to the appearance, feel and longevity of your clothes. According to Jason Hallett, Professor of Sustainable Chemical Technology at Imperial College London, most detergents share the same active ingredients, with the main difference being the perfume used. Premium detergents contain roughly double the concentration of active ingredients, which is why they work better.
The best laundry detergent tested was Ecover's bio laundry liquid. Made with plant-based ingredients and a biodegradable formula, it performed impressively at 30°C, removing sweat, mud, food stains and general grime with ease, while brightening whites. Its soft honeysuckle and jasmine scent lingered nicely on clothes. However, it is pricier than supermarket alternatives and the heavy bottle can be awkward to pour.
For a budget option, Tesco's non-bio laundry liquid offers excellent value. At under £3 for 60 washes, this super-concentrated formula handled everyday stains well and is gentle on sensitive skin. Its light, soapy scent is subtle, though tougher stains required an additional stain remover. Compared with pricier options, it doesn't deliver the same depth of clean but is hard to fault for the price.
Ecover's non-bio capsules emerged as the best non-bio detergent. Despite their small size, they cleaned effectively even at lower temperatures, with a standout warm almond and apricot fragrance that lasted on fabrics. They use plant-based ingredients and plastic-free packaging, but at nearly 30p per wash, they may not suit large families.
