Top 8 Laundry Pods for a Cleaner, Fresher Laundry Day

Best Overall

For tackling tough stains with a fresh and energizing scent, we recommend Gain Original Flings Laundry Detergent. These potent pods blend the stain-fighting ability of Oxi with the refreshing fragrance of Febreze for a truly effective clean.

These laundry pods not only work well in HE washers, but they also excel at cleaning in cold water. Gain Flings offer great value for the price. As with most pods, just place one (or two for larger or dirtier loads) directly in the washer drum before adding your clothes.

Quantity: 81 | Scent: Gain Original | Compatible with HE Washers: Yes

Best Budget

Liquid detergent is often seen as the most economical choice for laundry, as it can be measured precisely, which allows it to last longer (and helps save money). However, certain laundry pods like the Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean 5-in-1 Power Paks are also a cost-effective option. Despite their affordable price, these pods don’t skimp on cleaning effectiveness. Like our top pick, these pods harness OxiClean’s power to lift stains, fight odors, whiten whites, and brighten colors. 

The laundry pods also harness the deodorizing benefits of Arm & Hammer baking soda, keeping clothes looking and smelling fresh. Use one pod for regular loads and two for larger or more soiled loads. They are also compatible with HE washers and work well in cold water.

Quantity: 42 | Scent: Fresh | Compatible with HE Washers: Yes

Best Scented

If you're in search of powerful laundry pods made with essential oils and a distinct, refreshing scent, we suggest trying Mrs. Meyer’s. Available in fragrances such as basil, lavender, and honeysuckle, our top pick might be the lemon verbena. This light, citrusy fragrance evokes the feeling of spring year-round. We also appreciate that these pods are Leaping Bunny certified, have a B rating from the EWG, and are made with plant-based ingredients and enzymes to tackle stains.

Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Pacs are effective in any water temperature and are compatible with HE washers. For optimal cleaning of your clothes and linens, use one pod for small to medium loads, two for large loads, and three for extra-large loads.

Quantity: 45 | Scent: Lemon verbena, basil, honeysuckle, lavender | Safe for HE Washers: Yes

Best Unscented

Unlike many laundry pods that often contain heavy fragrances and dyes, the AspenClean Unscented Laundry Pods offer a hypoallergenic alternative. Made with organic, plant-based ingredients, these pods are EWG Verified, meeting the Environmental Working Group’s highest health and transparency standards. They provide excellent cleaning power while being gentle on sensitive skin.

While they are on the more expensive side, these laundry pods are free from parabens, phosphates, sulfates, carcinogens, and fragrance. For those who prioritize natural ingredients, the cost is justified. Additionally, lavender and eucalyptus scented versions, powered by essential oils, are available for those who prefer a hint of fragrance.

Quantity: 36 | Scent: Unscented | Safe for HE Washers: Yes

Best for Sensitive Skin

Whether you're looking to wash baby clothes free from harsh chemicals or simply need a solution for sensitive skin, finding a laundry pod that’s both effective and gentle can involve some trial and error. We love that Dropps laundry pods are dermatologist-approved and safe for sensitive skin, made with unscented, non-toxic ingredients. Plus, they’re Safer Choice Certified by the EPA and hold an A rating from EWG.

Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Detergent Pods are free from fragrance, dyes, enzymes, phosphates, parabens, phthalates, and optical brighteners. Each package is made of compostable cardboard, manufactured in the U.S., and offers a convenient subscription option with carbon-neutral shipping when ordered directly through the brand’s website.

Quantity: 36 | Scent: Unscented | Safe for HE Washers: Yes

Best for Stains

Some stains, like those from wine, ink, grass, or makeup, can seem nearly impossible to remove with regular detergent. That’s where Tide Pods 4-in-1 Ultra Oxi Laundry Detergent comes in. These pods include a built-in stain remover that effectively handles tough stains, so you can skip the need for a separate stain remover altogether.

These detergent pods also incorporate a color protector and pre-treatment agent, which helps reduce the amount of prep work, even for the messiest laundry loads. On top of that, they are GreenCircle Certified, a third-party certification that confirms the company’s sustainability claims.

Quantity: 61 | Scent: Original | Safe for HE Washers: Yes

Best for Odors

Certain fabrics, such as workout gear, often retain stubborn odors even after multiple washes. Fortunately, the All Stainlifter 4-in-1 Mighty Pacs are formulated with enzymes that effectively break down odors caused by sweat, pets, mildew, and more. While these odor-busting pods leave your laundry looking, feeling, and smelling fresh, they are only available in one scent (fresh), which may not be ideal for those who prefer variety in fragrances.

Similar to other top-tier laundry pods, these are great at tackling stains, whitening whites, and enhancing colors. The HE-compatible pods are also safe for septic systems and designed to dissolve in any water temperature, though they may not always dissolve completely in cold washes.

Quantity: 60 | Scent: Fresh | Safe for HE Washers: Yes

Best Eco-Friendly

Unlike most laundry pods, which are wrapped in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA or PVOH), a water-soluble synthetic polymer that is often considered a type of plastic, Blueland’s Laundry Starter Set uses powder tablets that are free from any plastic coatings. These tablets come in a convenient steel tin for easy storage, and you can sign up for refills to ensure you never run out. While it is the most expensive option on our list, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a completely eco-friendly clean. Just keep in mind, it might not be as effective on heavily soiled loads compared to other alternatives.

These powder tablets are free from fragrance, dyes, parabens, phthalates, ammonia, and petroleum. Instead, they contain naturally derived ingredients like enzymes, sodium carbonate, and citric acid. The best part? These laundry pods are EWG Verified.

Quantity: 60 | Scent: Unscented | Safe for HE Washers: Not listed

Final Verdict

Our number one choice is Gain Original Flings Laundry Detergent, celebrated for its exceptional cleaning performance, delightful scent, and its effectiveness at eliminating various stains and odors. However, for those seeking a more eco-conscious laundry solution, we recommend Seventh Generation Power+ Laundry Detergent Packs. These pods are crafted primarily from plant-based materials and renewable resources, and they proudly hold both USDA Certified Biobased Product and Safer Choice Certified by the EPA certifications.

How to Shop for Laundry Pods Like a Pro

Formula

Laundry pods come in various forms, such as gel, powder, or a blend of both. They can either be chemical-based or plant-based for those seeking a more eco-friendly option. To determine the right choice for you, it’s important to consider what type of laundry you need to clean, according to Carpenter.

"Before buying laundry pods, you should think about the fabrics you’ll be washing," Carpenter advises. "Some pods might not be gentle enough for delicate fabrics like lingerie or silk and could cause damage."

It’s also essential to evaluate your household’s specific laundry needs. For example, do your kids come home covered in dirt from sports? Is anyone in your household sensitive to fragrances?

"If you're dealing with frequent odors and stains, I’d recommend selecting laundry pods that include extra stain- and odor-fighting agents," Ahoni suggests. "And if anyone in your household has sensitive skin, make sure to choose pods formulated for this condition."

Quantity

The number of laundry pods in a tub can vary from 30 to 80, so it's up to you to decide how much to buy. Consider the amount of pods per container when figuring out how long your supply will last. Typically, one pod is sufficient for a regular-sized load. Most brands suggest using two pods for medium-sized or moderately dirty loads and three for larger or heavily soiled loads. Carpenter emphasizes the importance of following the label instructions and using their recommendations.

Scent

Some laundry pods may contain dyes or synthetic fragrances that can cause color fading or irritation to sensitive skin, according to Carpenter. If you're cautious about this, opt for a laundry pod that has a natural fragrance (like essential oils) or one that is fragrance-free.

Machine Type

Most laundry pods are compatible with all types of washing machines, including high-efficiency (HE) models. HE washers come in both front-loading and top-loading varieties, while standard machines are typically top-loading only. Since HE washers use less water and detergent, it is essential to ensure that your laundry pods are compatible with these machines.

Questions You Might Ask

Do laundry pods clean better than liquid detergents?

Both Carpenter and Ahoni explain that laundry pods have a more concentrated and potent formula compared to liquid detergents, which means you can achieve greater cleaning power with a smaller amount.

"Laundry pods are designed with powerful detergents that can deeply penetrate fabrics to eliminate stains and dirt," says Carpenter. "They may also include enzymes that break down stubborn, set-in stains that traditional liquid detergents might leave behind."

Where should you put laundry pods in the washing machine?

Ahoni recommends placing laundry pods directly into the washer drum (for all washing machine types, including traditional top-loading and front-loading HE) before adding any clothes or linens.

"Put it at the back or bottom of the drum, never in the dispenser drawer, and always check the label for the correct dosing based on your load size," says Ahoni. "Using the right amount of pacs based on the quantity of clothes and soil level is key for optimal results. As washing machines get larger, so do load sizes, meaning more dirt is being washed, which requires extra cleaning power."

Do laundry pods dissolve in cold water?

Both Carpenter and Ahoni confirm that all laundry pods dissolve in cold water. However, not all pods are identical, so it's crucial to check the instructions and understand the advantages of washing in either cold or hot water.

"Most laundry pods are designed to dissolve in both hot and cold water, although some may take a bit longer to dissolve in colder temperatures," says Carpenter. "For the best stain removal, use hot water when possible. Also, some pods are specifically made for cold water washes, so always review the manufacturer's instructions before use."

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by L. Daniela Alvarez, a contributing writer for Mytour with nearly three years of experience in lifestyle content and product reviews. To create this list, she dedicated hours to researching laundry pods and gathered advice on how to select them from Jennifer Ahoni, principal scientist at Procter & Gamble, and Justin Carpenter, CEO and founder of Modern Maids.