# 9 Best Washing Powder for Washing Machine 2026

As we navigate through 2026, the laundry landscape has evolved significantly. While liquid detergents and pods have held the spotlight for years, washing powder is making a massive resurgence. Why? It is often more cost-effective, comes in eco-friendly cardboard packaging, and possesses superior cleaning power for mud, clay, and ground-in dirt. Choosing the best washing powder for washing machine use is no longer just about picking the cheapest box; it is about finding a formula that protects your high-efficiency (HE) machine, respects your skin, and effectively tackles stains in cold water.


Whether you are a commercial laundry operator looking for bulk solutions or a household trying to remove grass stains from soccer uniforms, the market in 2026 offers specialized powders for every need. In this comprehensive guide, we review the top nine contenders that define cleaning excellence this year.

Table of Contents
1. Sunshine Detergent Custom Powder (Top Wholesale Choice)
2. Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Powder
3. Tide Original HE Turbo Powder
4. Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder
5. Ariel Professional Heavy Duty Powder
6. Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder
7. Meliora Eco Laundry Powder
8. Gain Original Powder Detergent
9. Arm & Hammer with OxiClean
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Powder
Summary Comparison Table
Frequently Asked Questions
Top 9 Washing Powders Reviewed
1. Custom Detergent Powder OEM Wholesale/Bulk – Sunshine Detergent Manufacturer


In the landscape of 2026, businesses and large-scale operations require a partner that delivers both quality and volume. Sunshine Industrial Corporation stands out as the premier choice for those seeking customized, high-performance laundry solutions.

Package Size: 15g ~ 25kg
Main Ingredient: Surfactant active matter, buffering agent, former, anti-deposition agent, chelating agent, neutralizer, optical brightener, perfume, colorful particles, builder.
Top Fragrance: Lemon, Flower, Lavender

Key Features:
Super decontamination ability.
Easy to rinse, no residue left.
Suitable for both hand and machine wash.
Suitable for cold/normal/warm water.
Can choose phosphorus-free or phosphorus formula.
Sunshine Industrial Corporation is a leading Detergent Manufacturer, with strong technical expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and a commitment to quality. Since 2001, we’ve been providing OEM/ODM services and high-quality detergents to a wide range of markets, including Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Our diverse product lineup caters to various needs and preferences, ensuring you find the perfect solution for your laundry needs. We’re ISO9001 certified, demonstrating our dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a large retailer or a small business owner, we’re here to help you succeed.

2. Persil ProClean Universal Powder
Persil continues to dominate the consumer market in 2026 as the gold standard for stain removal. Known globally for its German engineering, Persil’s powder formula is particularly effective because it contains a higher concentration of stain-fighting enzymes and oxygen-based bleaches than its liquid counterparts.

For households dealing with heavy soils, such as wine, blood, or grease, Persil operates as a heavy-duty cleaner. It utilizes a unique blend of proteases and amylases that break down proteins and starches effectively, even in 20°C (68°F) cycles.

Why It Wins:
Best-in-class stain removal for white fabrics.
Contains anti-graying agents to keep linens bright.
Compatible with all HE and standard machines.
3. Tide Original HE Turbo Powder
Tide remains the quintessential American laundry brand, and its powder formulation is arguably its most powerful version. In 2026, Tide reformulated its powder to dissolve faster in cold water, addressing one of the common complaints about powder detergents. The “HE Turbo” technology utilizes collapsing suds, meaning it cleans without creating excess foam that can damage modern high-efficiency sensors.

It is excellent for general family laundry, tackling everyday odors and stains with ease. The familiar scent is often associated with “clean” for many users, making it a comforting choice for bedding and towels.

Why It Wins:
HE Turbo technology prevents oversudsing.
Excellent at removing body oils and sweat.
Recyclable cardboard packaging reduces plastic waste.
4. Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder
As consumers in 2026 become increasingly health-conscious, Molly’s Suds has risen to the top of the eco-friendly category. This powder avoids harsh chemicals entirely, relying instead on earth-derived ingredients like sodium carbonate and peppermint oil. It is the best washing powder for washing machine use if you have family members with eczema or extreme skin sensitivities.

Unlike standard detergents that use optical brighteners (which sit on the fabric to reflect light), Molly’s Suds rinses clean, leaving no chemical residue on the clothes that touch your skin.

Why It Wins:
Certified Cruelty-Free and Vegan.
Only 5 active ingredients; simple and safe.
Effective for baby clothes and cloth diapers.
5. Ariel Professional Heavy Duty Powder
Ariel is a powerhouse in the international market and is often the preferred choice for commercial settings like hotels and spas. The Professional Heavy Duty variant is designed to maintain the whiteness of sheets and towels that undergo frequent washing.

It features a high-pH formula that is aggressive on dirt but requires careful handling with delicates. For sturdy cottons and synthetics, however, it offers unparalleled brightness restoration.

Why It Wins:
Industrial-strength whitening capabilities.
Removes dried-in stains without pre-treatment.
Cost-effective for large volume loads.
6. Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder
Charlie’s Soap has a cult following for a reason: it does more with less. One tablespoon is all that is needed for a large load. This ultra-concentrated formula contains no fillers, fragrances, or dyes. In 2026, where minimalism is a key trend, Charlie’s Soap fits perfectly.

It works by entrapping dirt and rinsing it completely away, rather than covering odors with perfume. Over time, users report that their washing machines smell cleaner because there is no waxy buildup left behind by the detergent.

Why It Wins:
Hypoallergenic and non-toxic.
Safe for septic systems.
Prevents buildup in HE washing machines.
7. Meliora Cleaning Products Eco Laundry Powder
Meliora is the champion of the zero-waste movement. Packaged in a paper canister with a stainless steel scoop, this product is entirely plastic-free. The powder itself is a simple blend of washing soda and vegetable soap.

It is MADE SAFE certified, meaning it has been screened for behavioral toxins, carcinogens, and endocrine disruptors. For the eco-warrior in 2026, this is the definitive choice.

Why It Wins:
100% Plastic-Free packaging.
Transparent ingredient list (literally printed on the front).
Effective in hard water conditions.
8. Gain Original Powder Detergent
For those who believe laundry isn’t done unless it smells like a tropical breeze, Gain is the answer. While it cleans effectively, its primary selling point is the “Micro-Capsule” technology that locks scent into fabrics. Friction from wearing the clothes releases bursts of fragrance throughout the day.

In 2026, Gain improved its powder formula to offer better stain lifting power, ensuring that you don’t have to sacrifice cleanliness for that signature aroma.

Why It Wins:
Longest-lasting scent retention on the market.
Works well in cold water.
Affordable price point per load.
9. Arm & Hammer with OxiClean
Budget-friendly does not have to mean low quality. Arm & Hammer combines the natural deodorizing power of baking soda with the stain-lifting power of OxiClean. This dual-action powder is superb for neutralizing sour smells in gym clothes and towels.

It is widely available and represents one of the best values on the shelf in 2026. The addition of OxiClean means it can tackle organic stains like grass and food without needing a separate additive.

Why It Wins:
Best value for money.
Excellent odor neutralization.
Uses baking soda for a fresher clean.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Washing Powder for Washing Machine
Choosing the right powder depends on your specific household needs, your machine type, and your environmental values. Here are the key factors to consider in 2026.

1. High-Efficiency (HE) Compatibility
Modern washing machines use significantly less water than older models. Using a standard powder in an HE machine can create too many suds, confusing the machine’s sensors and potentially damaging the motor. Always look for the “HE” symbol on the box. Powders like Tide HE Turbo and Persil are specifically engineered to be low-sudsing.

2. Enzymes vs. Non-Biological
Biological powders (like Persil and Ariel) contain enzymes. These are microscopic proteins that “eat” stains like egg, blood, and sweat. They are the most effective cleaners but can irritate very sensitive skin.

Non-Biological powders (like Molly’s Suds and Meliora) do not contain enzymes. They rely on hot water and surfactants to clean. They are safer for babies and those with eczema but may struggle with tough protein stains.

3. Cold Water Solubility
In 2026, sustainability is paramount. Washing in cold water saves energy and prolongs fabric life. Historically, powders struggled to dissolve in cold water, leaving clumps. Modern formulations, especially those from Sunshine Industrial and Tide, utilize “micronized” powders that dissolve instantly upon contact with water, regardless of temperature.

4. Ingredient Transparency
If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, ignore the buzzwords and look at the ingredient list. The best eco-powders will list every ingredient. Avoid phosphates (which harm aquatic life) and opt for biodegradable surfactants.

Summary Comparison Table
Product Best For Type Eco-Friendly?
Sunshine Detergent Wholesale / Commercial Customizable Yes (Options)
Persil ProClean Stain Removal Biological Moderate
Tide Original Everyday Reliability Biological No
Molly’s Suds Sensitive Skin Non-Bio Yes
Ariel Professional Heavy Duty / Whites Biological No
Charlie’s Soap Residue-Free Clean Concentrate Yes
Meliora Plastic-Free Lifestyle Non-Bio Yes
Gain Original Fragrance Lovers Biological No
Arm & Hammer Odor & Budget Biological + Oxi Moderate
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is washing powder better than liquid for washing machines?
A: Generally, yes. Powder is more effective at removing mud, clay, and ground-in dirt due to friction and higher pH levels. It is also more shelf-stable and usually comes in cardboard packaging, which is easier to recycle than plastic liquid jugs.

Q: Can I put powder directly in the drum?
A: Yes, in fact, it is often recommended. Placing the powder directly in the drum (or in a mesh bag) ensures it mixes with the water immediately. If you put it in the drawer, it can sometimes clump and clog the dispenser pipes if the water pressure is low.

Q: Does powder damage washing machines?
A: Only if used incorrectly. If you use too much powder or if you use non-HE powder in an HE machine, undissolved clumps can build up in the internal hoses. Using the correct dose of a high-quality powder like Sunshine Detergent or Tide prevents this issue.

Q: What is the shelf life of washing powder?
A: Unlike liquid detergent which can separate over time, powder is very stable. As long as it is kept dry, it can remain effective for years. If it clumps due to humidity, it is usually still safe to use if you break it up.

References
American Cleaning Institute. (2025). The Science of Soaps and Detergents.
Sunshine Industrial Corporation. (2026). Product Specifications and ISO Certifications.

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