Consumer Reports Names The Best Value Laundry Detergent Brand

Picking the right laundry detergent is a bit of a gamble. You need something that cleans up stains and gets rid of smells, but isn't ridiculously expensive. The problem is, sometimes the budget ones are cheaper because they don't do so well when it comes to stains. Thankfully, there are still affordable options to get your clothes nice and clean. If you're looking for something that will actually clean your laundry and save you some money, Consumer Reports suggests Costco's exclusive Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean HE Liquid Laundry Detergent. This is no surprise, as laundry supplies are among the household items that save you money at Costco.

According to Consumer Reports, "Despite its budget-friendly price (just 14 cents per load with the 194-ounce bottle), Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean from Costco ranked among the top five detergents we tested in terms of performance." It went on to mention that it cleans well in hard water, easily cleaning body oils and sweat, and even salad dressing. The reviews suggest that customers are enjoying this brand as well. It has a score of 4.7 on Costco's website, with over 2,000 reviews. "Absolutely the BEST laundry detergent!! Outperforms name brands, even cleans the stains you thought would never come out :) A little goes a long way and leaves clothes smelling so fresh! Unbelievable bargain, the value is here," mentions one five-star reviewer on the website. Other comments mention that the product works well, and it ends up cleaning most stains. But, is this detergent all it's cracked up to be?

Unfortunately, it's not all sunshine and roses. "I bought this based on all the good reviews. It may clean well but the scent is so overpowering and horrible. The scent reminds me of cheap strong men's cologne," said one person who left a one-star review. Other low scores mentioned that this product can cause rashes, and may turn light and white clothes blue. 

While Kirkland Signature's laundry detergent is certainly a budget-friendly option, it really only works if you have a membership already, or if you've been considering getting one to take advantage of some Costco Kirkland-brand home items that are worth buying. If you don't, you're looking at spending another $65 just to be able to buy it, which ends up being not quite so affordable. Alternatively, if you want something budget-friendly and you have sensitive skin, Kirkland Signature makes an Ultra Clean Free & Clear He Liquid Laundry Detergent. This product also ranked high in Consumer Reports' list, and is considered the best fragrance-free detergent. This is still an affordable option at about 15 cents per load, but it can help those with allergies and sensitivity to scents.

If you're looking for something that works the best, Tide is usually highly ranked by Consumer Reports. Additionally, despite being a name brand, Tide's liquid laundry detergent not terribly costly. When it comes to reviews on popular laundry detergents, Tide is often ranked best for deep cleaning.