Best Detergent For Washing Machines

In my perception of washing powders in India, the initial mental picture is of the adorable little girl joyfully promoting “Washing Powder Nirma, Doodh Si Safedi……..Sabki Pasand Nirma.”

But, did you know that Nirma wasn’t the pioneering washing powder introduced in India? Surprisingly, that credit goes to Surf. Interestingly, Surf made its debut in Pakistan back in 1948 before entering the Indian market in 1959.

So which is the best detergent for washing machines?

How do I approach this dilemma? India’s incredible diversity is evident even within joint families, where one daughter-in-law prefers Surf while another opts for Ariel.

Given such diversity, it wouldn’t be fair to assign ratings like 10 to 1 to these washing powders and detergents.

Instead, let me take a different approach. Let’s turn this into a question-answer session. This method resonates with many as it directly addresses the primary concerns people face while using washing powders, appealing to a wider audience.

Should I use a front loader washing powder in a top load washing machine?

Initially, your instinct might be, “Why not?” However, it’s crucial to note that top loader detergents tend to create more foam or lather compared to front loader detergents. So, if your husband mistakenly bought top loader washing machine detergent, there’s no need to scold him. Instead, in your front load machine, use half the usual amount of soap. This adjustment is a classic Indian ‘jugaad’ to make things work.

What sets apart Surf Excel Matic detergents for top load and front load machines?

Front-loading machines consume less water than top-loading ones. Consequently, detergents formulated for front loaders produce fewer suds, resulting in less lather during washing cycles. Top-loading machines require more lather, making regular detergents suitable for these machines. Specifically, Surf Excel Matic top load detergent generates more suds, whereas the front load variant utilizes a low-suds, high-efficiency formula to cater to their respective machine types.

Is it advisable to use regular detergent in a front loading machine?

Ideally, I do not recommend it. Regular detergent tends to produce more foam, which suits top loading machines better. Front-loading machines operate with less water. Using regular detergent in them might result in a high concentration of powder that can potentially harm both the clothes and the machine. Therefore, it’s best to utilize high-efficiency detergent powder specifically designed for front loading washing machines.

What’s the ideal detergent for a front load washing machine?

I think Surf Excel Matic designed for front loads stands out as the optimal choice for these machines.

The reason being, this detergent operates on a low-suds, high-efficiency formula, generating minimal lather. It’s an excellent fit for machines that operate with lesser quantities of water.

What’s the top washing powder for a fully automatic washing machine?

I think there are several choices. But among the choices like Surf Excel, Ariel, Rin, etc. Ariel Matic stands out as the most suitable for fully automatic machines in my personal experience. This detergent is formulated with fine granules that effectively penetrate fabric fibers, thoroughly cleaning dirt from all areas of your clothes. Specifically designed for fully automatic machines, Ariel Matic not only leaves a pleasant fragrance but also feels gentle on your hands. You’ll notice the difference in texture when dissolving Surf or Rin compared to Ariel Matic in your hand.

Which detergent stands as the ideal choice for a top load washing machine?

Well, I think there’s a tight competition between Ariel and Surf Excel for the top spot in this category. Ariel slightly edges ahead due to its remarkable stain removal capabilities. Ariel offers various variants like Ariel Matic, Ariel Oxy Blue, and Ariel Oxy Blue Ultramatic, alongside liquid detergent options. Surf Excel is also available in liquid form.

The advantage of using Ariel is the reduced need for fabric softeners. Therefore, Ariel emerges as the preferred choice. Perhaps, your co-sister might have a different opinion, but in the end, who really cares about her opinion?

Which detergent works well for colored and white clothes?

I think, for colored clothes, Surf Excel Matic stands out among others. Both the top loading and front loading variants perform excellently for washing colored garments. Surf’s advantage lies in its complete dissolution in water, unlike some other detergents. Ariel also fares well in this aspect. Regarding white clothes, Tide detergent powder outperforms others due to its bleach content. Rin or Surf may leave blue residues on white garments, prompting many women to prefer Tide over other detergents.

What’s the ideal detergent for washing baby clothes?

Babies possess delicate skin, necessitating the use of a gentle washing powder for their clothes. Special baby washing powders are available in the market to cater to this need. One of the finest options available online is Mee Mee Mild Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent. This detergent offers an incredibly gentle wash, making it one of the best choices for baby clothes.

Final thoughts:

I think when you look at the overall picture, Surf Excel is the best overall choice. Ariel comes second in my opinion. I won’t say that it is less in any terms but pricing makes me put it in second place. Later, Rin, Ghari, and more follow later. I hope my research will help you buy the right one according to your budget.