Laundry detergent: cost per load, explained
Pods, liquid or powder? Divide the price by the loads on the label and you can compare any detergent the same way. Here's how, with a simple checklist for your next stock-up.
The method
- Find "loads" on the label. Liquid and powder labels usually list the number of loads. Pod packs list the pod count; check how many pods the label says to use per load, then divide the pod count by that number.
- Divide the price by the loads. The result is the cost per load.
- Do it for pods, liquid and powder alike, then compare the cost per load.
Why we compare loads, not ounces
Two bottles with the same ounces can list different loads, because the amount per load differs by product. So for detergent, divide the price by loads, not ounces. The cost per ounce can point one way while the cost per load points the other.
Example numbers, not actual prices or products
| Bottle | Size | Loads on the label | Example price | Cost per ounce | Cost per load |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottle A | 100 fl oz | 50 | $10 (example) | $0.10 | $10 ÷ 50 = $0.20 |
| Bottle B | 100 fl oz | 80 | $12 (example) | $0.12 | $12 ÷ 80 = $0.15 |
Same ounces, different loads. In this example, Bottle A costs less per ounce, but Bottle B costs less per load.
The loads on the label are the maker's count at the dose the label recommends. If you use more per load than the label says, you'll get fewer loads from the pack.
Pods, liquid and powder: one way to compare
Example numbers, not actual prices or products
| Type | What the label lists | Loads | Example price | Cost per load |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pods | 40 pods, 1 pod per load | 40 | $12 (example) | $12 ÷ 40 = $0.30 |
| Liquid | 64 loads | 64 | $16 (example) | $16 ÷ 64 = $0.25 |
| Powder | 50 loads | 50 | $10 (example) | $10 ÷ 50 = $0.20 |
These numbers only show the math. They don't say which type costs less in real life; run the numbers for the packs in front of you.
After guests leave: a sheets-and-towels laundry plan
Guest sheets and towels make for a few extra loads.
- Count the loads you'll run.
- The load count on the label is the number that matters.
- Compare refills per load: price ÷ loads = cost per load.
Stock-up checklist
- Find the loads on each label (for pods, the pod count and pods per load).
- Use the price on the retailer's page for every pack, at the same time.
- Price ÷ loads = cost per load. Do every pack the same way.
- Compare loads, not ounces.
Prices come from the retailer and can change, so always confirm the price on the retailer's page.