What would we do without laundry detergent? Well, we would be walking around wearing smelly and dirty clothes. It is a life necessity. Seriously, there is no better feeling than climbing into fresh, clean sheets, and we have laundry detergent to thank for that. As a cleaning tool, it truly is fantastic!
The science and technology of soaps and laundry detergents are worth our attention. Look at laundry detergent facts you may need to be made aware of.
Laundry Detergent Works Best in Cold Water
For whatever reason, people used to wash their laundry in hot water, but it is now more common to wash it in cold water. According to Good Housekeeping, many people use cold water cycles to save energy. This move has soap manufacturers responding with all kinds of detergents for a cold water wash.
Many of the detergents tested by experts recently concluded that detergents are doing quite well in cold water. Even those not formulated for cold water did well. But try out a detergent meant for cold water, such as Ultra Tide Coldwater Powder, and see how well it works.
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Plant-Based Detergent
Detergents are getting better at removing tough stains as technology continues to advance. This includes plant-based detergents! According to Good Housekeeping, one of the best plant-based detergents is Ecover Zero Laundry Powder. This detergent works well in hot and cold water.
Eco-friendly detergents are currently quite mainstream and are gaining momentum. The formulations of 22 plant-based detergents tested recently are leaps and bounds ahead of those tested as “green” years ago.
The History of Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent has been around since the early 20th century. The first commercial laundry detergent, called Dreft, was introduced in 1933 by Procter & Gamble.
Differences Between Laundry Detergent and Other Cleaning Products
Laundry detergent is not the same as dish soap or hand soap. Laundry detergent is specifically formulated for clothing and fabrics. At the same time, dish and hand soap are meant for cleaning dishes and hands, respectively.
Types of Laundry Detergent
Different types of laundry detergent are available, including liquid, powder, and pods. Liquid detergent is the most popular, followed by pods and powder.
Ingredients in Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent comprises several ingredients, including surfactants, enzymes, fragrances, and brighteners. Surfactants help remove fabric dirt and stains, while enzymes break down proteins and starches in colors. Fragrances are added to make the detergent smell pleasant, and brighteners make whites appear brighter.
Sensitivity and Allergies to Laundry Detergent
Some people are sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients in laundry detergent, such as fragrances or dyes. For this reason, many detergents are now offered in unscented or hypoallergenic versions.
Environmental Impact of Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent can be harmful to the environment if not used properly. It is essential to follow the instructions on the label and not use more detergent than is recommended, as the excess detergent can pollute waterways.
Eco-Friendly Options for Laundry Detergent
There are many eco-friendly options available when it comes to laundry detergent. These detergents are made with natural and biodegradable ingredients, making them more environmentally friendly.
Homemade Laundry Detergent
Some people choose to make their own laundry detergent at home. Many recipes available online call for ingredients such as castile soap, baking soda, and essential oils.
The Evolution of Laundry Detergent Form
In the past, laundry detergent was only available in one form: a powder. Today, many different forms are available, including liquids, pods, and even gels.
Other Uses for Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent has evolved significantly over the years. Early detergents were made with harsh ingredients such as bleach and ammonia. Still, today’s detergents are much milder and gentler on fabrics.
Specialized Laundry Detergents
Laundry detergent is not just for laundry! It can also be used to clean upholstery and carpets and even remove stains from dishes and other surfaces.
In addition to traditional laundry detergent, many specialized detergents are available for specific purposes, such as sportswear detergent for athletic clothing and baby detergent for sensitive skin.
Overall, laundry detergent is an essential household item that has come a long way since its inception. Whether you use a store-bought brand or prefer to make your own, many options are available to suit your needs and preferences.