Laundry Pods vs. Traditional Detergent: Usage, Differences, and the Best Smelling Option

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I consider myself something of a traditionalist, which is why I’ve been using traditional laundry detergent for years. But the convenience of laundry pods is intriguing to me. So, I did some digging. The truth is laundry pods can be a more costly option (not to mention the debate about how environmentally friendly they are). But if you’re looking for something that’s convenient and makes doing wash less of a chore, laundry pods are the way to go. Here’s what I learned about the modern laundry cleaners, plus where to get the best smelling laundry pods out there.

Laundry Pods: Pros & Cons

ProsCons

Pre-measured so you don’t use too much or too littleCan be more costly compared to liquid or powder

Portable and easy to storePods may not dissolve completely (this is usually a problem with cold water washes)

Spill-proofPods can be a hazard to children and pets

Consistent amount of detergent, which can improve washing performanceThe plastic film around the pods raises environmental concerns about microplastics

Traditional Detergent: Pros & Cons

ProsCons

Usually cheaper than podsMeasuring can lead to an overuse of detergent

More formulations available like sensitive skin, heavy-duty washes, etc. Bulky laundry detergent containers can be a challenge to store

More control to adjust the amount of detergent needed for more soiled loadsSpills are more likely to happen compared to the pods, which keep the detergent contained

Usually effective in all water temperatures and wash cyclesTraditional detergents usually come in plastic containers containing harsh chemicals that are not environmentally friendly

Laundry pods are convenient, consistent, and easy to use

If you’re looking for the ultimate in convenience, laundry pods offer pre-measured doses that eliminate the need for measuring. In other words, you’re always using the correct amount for each load of laundry.

Like traditional detergent, laundry pods can be combined with other agents like stain removers, brighteners, and fabric softeners. But there are laundry pods on the market that come with these wash elements already built in, offering an all-in-one solution. Most are designed to work well in both high-efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines, and in various water temperatures.

On top of that, they’re easy to use and essentially mess free! All you have to do is toss a pod into the washing machine. There’s no risk of spills or over-pouring, keeping your home cleaner. Pods can also help reduce the buildup of excess detergent in your washing machine.

Another perk laundry pods offer is portability. They’re compact enough to travel with and great for laundromats and vacations, and they’re also easier to store than traditional laundry detergent jugs. For others, they’re a more aesthetic way to upgrade the laundry room.

Though there’s a lot of debate around the environmental friendliness of pods, you can’t deny they’re helpful in reducing waste. Although the outer packaging might still be plastic, there is usually less packaging material overall compared to the traditional large detergent bottles.

How to use laundry pods

Laundry pods are fairly simple to use. But there’s a proper way to use them to ensure maximum efficiency. Here’s how:

1. Place one pod at the bottom of your washing machine before adding water or clothing.
2. Use one pod for average loads, but use two if it’s a larger load.
3. To help the pod dissolve entirely, especially in cold water washes, don’t overload the washer with clothing.

If you notice the pods aren’t dissolving entirely, try pre-dissolving them in warm water first. You’re still getting the benefit of the pre-measured amount and the convenience of the pod!

Best laundry pods: Laundry Sauce

Ultimately, what you use to do your laundry depends on your personal preferences, budget, and specific laundry needs. But if you’re ready for the best laundry pods on the market, Laundry Sauce can help.

Why Laundry Sauce? Their Performance Laundry Pods offer 4x cleaning power, tackling stains while leaving your clothes smelling luxurious. They also offer an Advanced In-Wash Scent Booster that enhances the detergent’s aroma so that luxury lasts. Laundry Sauce also has Anti-static Luxury Dryer Sheets that deliver an extra layer of scent and elevate fabric softness, plus a Performance Fabric Softener that helps reduce wrinkles and preserve fabric quality.

Not sure we’re to start? Our Laundry Sauce buying guide can help!

• For the Laundry Pod Newbie : Laundry Sauce Signature Package
• For the Scent Lover : Advanced In-Wash Scent Booster
• for Added Luxury : Performance Laundry Fabric Softener
• For the Laundry Pod Lover : Laundry Detergent Pods

Laundry Sauce Signature Package

For the Laundry Pod Newbie

Subscribe and Save 20%! Get it for $115

What's Included

Customers love how this gets rid of sweat! “This is a lovely scent that I am using just for my workout clothes. Sweat smell no more!”

Advanced In-Wash Scent Booster

For the Scent Lover

Subscribe and Save 15%! Get it for $21

What It Does

Customers love how long-lasting the scent is! “Love this product and it’s scent. Makes my clothes smell delicious and my laundry room smells awesome according to my grandchildren!”

Performance Laundry Fabric Softener

for Added Luxury

Subscribe and Save 15%! Get it for $21

What It Does

Customers love the way this softens and adds a great scent. “My clothes smell wonderful. The scent really does linger softly on my clothes. I especially like it on my sheets and pillowcases. I will try another scent soon.”

Laundry Detergent Pods

For the Laundry Pod Lover

Subscribe and Save 15%! Get it for $59

What It Does

Customers say they’re converted for life! “I bought the Italian Bergamont scent. The smell is an absolutely amazing and my clothes feel soft and clean. The first load I did with my laundry sauce pods was my work clothes and I got so many compliments and questions about what fragrance I was wearing from my coworkers as well as customers. 10 out of 10 recommend laundry sauce has a customer for life!!”

Want more laundry hacks? Keep reading!