How do you compare laundry detergent price per load?

The basic method

Write the price as P and the loads stated on the package as L. The cost per load is P divided by L. Do the same for every product on your list, using the same kind of price each time (shelf price against shelf price, not shelf price against a coupon price). Product label dosing instructions and the manufacturer-stated load counts are the inputs to read first.

Loads are a label claim. Each manufacturer decides what a standard load is and how much detergent goes into it, so two bottles that both state the same number of loads can hold very different amounts of product. If the label also gives a total volume or weight, compare price per fluid ounce or per ounce as a cross-check against the per-load figure.

Concentrated versus regular

Concentrated formulas use a smaller dose per load, so the bottle is often smaller and the shelf price alone can mislead you. Look at the dose line on the cap or back panel and see how many fills equal a load.

A concentrate only saves money if you actually use the smaller dose. If you pour by habit, you will use up the bottle faster than the label predicts.

HE machines and your own loads

High-efficiency (HE) machines use less water, and many detergents are labeled for HE use or for both HE and standard machines. The dose on the label is often written separately for each type, so read the line that matches your washer.

Your real cost per load also depends on load size, soil level and water hardness. If the label gives a range of doses, work out the figure for the dose you normally use, not the smallest one printed.

• Use the loads figure for your washer type (HE or standard).
• Compare like with like: liquid with liquid, sheets with sheets, pods with pods.
• Check the unit price on the shelf tag as a second opinion.

When to buy

Detergent is a pantry item, so stocking up during a real sale makes sense once you know your normal cost per load. Our household essentials guide and the sales calendar show when these categories tend to be discounted.

Sources

• Product label dosing instructions
• Manufacturer-stated load counts
• Retail shelf unit-price labels