How Much Does Laundry Detergent Cost?

Last Updated on June 17, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Doing endless loads of laundry every week is a reality in most households. With entire aisles at the store dedicated to detergent, it can be overwhelming to figure out which option gives you the best bang for your buck.

High-efficiency detergent for front-load washers lands on the pricier end while budget powder and off-brand detergents offer the lowest cost per wash.

How Much Does Laundry Detergent Cost?

On average, expect to pay $0.15 to $0.30 per load depending on the type of laundry detergent formula, brand, size, and other cost factors.

There are three primary types of laundry detergent, each with varying costs:

Liquid Laundry Detergent

The most widely used format, liquid detergent comes in plastic bottles ranging from 16 to 100+ ounces. Prices run $4 to $15 for 25-to-50-ounce bottles. Liquids offer flexibility for measuring but can spill and are heavier to transport compared to powders.

Powder Laundry Detergent

Powder detergent typically provides the lowest cost per wash at around $0.10 to $0.20 per load. Large cartons containing 40 to 80 loads range from $8 to $20. While very budget-friendly, powders can leave residue.

Single Dose Laundry Detergent Pacs/Pods/Tabs

Pods provide ultimate convenience but at a premium price point. Each pre-measured pod costs $0.20 to $0.50 per load with tub pricing from $8 to $35 for 30 to 90 loads. The packaging prevents mess but adds expense.

Concentrated Detergent Formulas

2x, 3x, and even 10x concentrated detergents dilute in the wash providing more loads per bottle/box, which can reduce per-load costs. But upfront prices are generally higher.

At Walmart, the cost of laundry detergent can vary significantly, ranging from $12.97 to $19.94. For example, the Gain Original Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent 154 oz HE Compatible costs $12.97, while the Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent 132 fl oz HE Compatible costs $19.94.

Amazon provides a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with different types of laundry detergent. For instance, the Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent 94 Loads 132 fl oz HE Compatible costs $12.96, while the Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent 100 Loads 146 fl oz HE Compatible costs $27.40.

Statista reports that the price per unit of leading liquid laundry detergent brands in the US in 2022 ranged from $13 to $15. For example, Seventh Generation and Persil each had a price per unit of roughly $13.

Costco offers a variety of laundry detergent products at discounted prices. For example, the Gain Original Scent Liquid Laundry Detergent 154 oz HE Compatible costs $13.98, while the Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent 132 fl oz HE Compatible costs $19.94.

Factors Affecting the Price of Laundry Detergent

Several factors impact the retail pricing set by detergent manufacturers and retailers:

• Brand – Well-known national brands like Tide, Gain, Persil, and All charge a recognizable name premium. Lesser-known labels and store brands are more budget-friendly.
• Size – Larger bulk containers (100oz+) and jumbo boxes offer more loads for a lower per-use cost. Small travel sizes cost significantly more per ounce.
• Formula – Eco-friendly, natural, organic, and specialty ingredients drive up costs. Standard synthetic formulas are most budget-friendly.
• Efficiency – Formulas designed for high-efficiency (HE) washing machines typically cost more per load.
• Concentration – 2X, 3X, 5X concentrated detergents offer more loads per bottle but a higher upfront cost. Not concentrated formulas cost less per bottle.
• Additives – Stain-fighting enzymes, whiteners, brighteners, and fabric softeners increase costs. Simple formulas without addons are cheaper.
• Scenting – Heavily scented detergents and pods add substantial fragrance formulation expenses. Unscented is cheaper.
• Packaging – Flashy packaging and marketing also add to the retail pricing.

Once you know what goes into the price, you can better compare options.

You might also like our articles about the cost to start a laundromat, the price of dry-cleaning a blanket, or fur coat cleaning cost.

Cost-Per-Load Comparison of Popular Brands

To demonstrate the striking cost differences, let’s compare some popular detergent brands based on calculated cost per load:

Tide Original Liquid – $0.17 per load – A 50oz bottle averaging 32 loads costs $5.49 at Target. The iconic brand comes at a moderate premium.

Gain Original Liquid – $0.15 per load – A 50oz bottle providing 33 loads runs $4.99 at Walmart. Competitively priced against Tide.

Persil ProClean Liquid – $0.23 per load – A 75oz bottle giving 32 loads costs $7.49 on Amazon. A pricier premium option.

Kirkland (Costco) Liquid – $0.10 per load – The 150oz jug yields 100 loads for just $10.99 at Costco. One of the best bulk value buys.

All Free Clear Liquid – $0.17 per load – 50oz and 40 loads for $6.79 makes this hypoallergenic formula competitively priced.

Tide Pods – $0.27 per load
A tub with 42 pods costs $11.49 working out to $0.27 per pod. Very convenient but higher cost per load.

Bulk sizes combined with off-brand or standard formulas offer the most bang for your buck based on cost per use.

Smart Ways to Save Money

Use these pro tips to get the most value from your detergent dollars:

• Buy large bulk containers or boxes whenever possible to lower per-load cost.
• Compare cost per use, not just container size or upfront price. Calculate per-load cost.
• Choose store or lesser-known national brands to save up to 40% over big names like Tide and Gain.
• Look for coupons online, in apps, and Sunday newspaper circulars. Stack savings from multiple sources.
• Purchase during sales at retailers or directly from brand websites. Detergent goes on promotion frequently.
• Join rewards programs from brands and retailers to earn discounts and cashback.
• Consider concentrates that offer 2-3x more loads per container, reducing per-load costs.
• Opt for scents and additives only when truly required rather than overpaying for unnecessary features.

With smart shopping habits, you can save big on this major household staple.

Are Expensive Detergents Worth it?

Are pricier detergents worth the added cost? Factors to consider:

Enhanced Stain Removal – Enzymes, whiteners, and stain-lifters in Tide, Persil, and Gain provide superior cleaning power on heavily soiled loads. The extra cost can be justified for tough laundry challenges.

Eco-Friendly Formulas – Brands like Seventh Generation, Method, and Grab Green feature plant-based ingredients and environmentally safe formulas worth paying more for based on your ethics.

Sensitive Skin Options – Hypoallergenic brands like All Free & Clear contain fewer irritants and less scent. Worth the upgrade if generic brands cause skin reactions.

Heavily Scents – Pricier detergents often contain more sophisticated, layered fragrance formulations for those wanting added freshness.

Brand Trust – Well-established brands highlight decades of laundry performance experience in their marketing, commanding stronger customer loyalty and willingness to pay higher prices.

While costing more, premium detergents deliver tangible benefits that some households are willing to pay extra for.

Where to Get the Best Deals

Smart shoppers check multiple retailers to find the best detergent prices:

• Mass Merchants – Walmart, Target, Fred Meyer
• Warehouse Clubs – Costco, Sam’s Club
• Grocery Stores – Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons
• Drug Stores – CVS, Walgreens
• Amazon – Subscribe and Save program offers discounts
• Manufacturer Sites – Tide.com, Gain.com, etc. have online deals
• Detergent Subscription Services – Offer bulk pricing with convenient delivery

Comparing options allows you to capitalize on sales, coupons, and store promotions when they align with your preferred detergent brands.

Final Words

While premium brands advertise enhanced performance, many affordable alternatives get clothes clean effectively. Calculate per-load costs to find budget-friendly options and employ promotions, coupons, rewards programs, and bulk purchasing when possible to maximize value. With the right detergent products, you can keep your laundering expenses under control.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a load of laundry detergent cost?

The cost per laundry load averages $0.10 – $0.30 depending on the detergent type, size, brand, and whether concentrates are used. Liquid detergent averages $0.15 – $0.25 per load. Powder detergent is cheapest at $0.10 – $0.15 per load. Pods and single-dose packets range from $0.20 – $0.40 per packet.

How do you know how much laundry detergent to use?

Follow the dosage directions on your detergent’s container based on load size – small, medium or large. Always measure accurately using the provided cup with poured detergent, or use one pod/packet per load. Too much detergent leads to residue and too little causes poor cleaning.

Is it cost effective to make your own laundry detergent?

Homemade laundry detergent offers marginal savings but requires significant effort. The bulk ingredients and essential oils cost nearly as much as ready-made detergent. Saving $1-2 per batch barely justifies the inconvenience for most when store-bought equivalents are readily available.