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10 BEST Laundry Whiteners of 2023 | Tested & Reviewed

Best Overall
The Laundress New York Whites
4.5/5
Best Multi Purpose
Oxiclean White Revive
4.5/5
Best Natural
Molly's Suds Optical
4/5

Laundry whiteners are a must-have for your laundry list.  It is very important to note what kind of laundry whitener works for your white clothes and the color of the fabric.  Remember that some types will damage your fabric over time, so research carefully before selecting a laundry whitener for your next load of colored fabrics.

The whiteners come in either liquid, powder detergent, or pod form. The one you choose should be safe for your laundry, have effective cleaning power, and be eco-friendly. So, what are some of the whiteners that pass the test? We’re going to look at some of the best laundry whiteners that have been tried and tested in this review. Read on!

Our Top Laundry Whitener Picks

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10 Best Laundry Whiteners for Your Home

1. Oxiclean White Revive Laundry Whitener

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly detergent whitener as an alternative to chlorine-based products, Oxiclean White Revive laundry whitener is the best addition to your laundry room. This laundry whitener is an effective stain remover that targets set-in stains and removes them. This product is safe for all colors and fabrics, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin or extra cautious about fabric types.

Plus, Oxiclean White Revive laundry whitener will brighten your white clothes without the harsh effects of chlorine bleach. It delivers effective results while retaining the color and the quality of your clothes. It is safe for septic systems, which makes it perfect for those who live in rural areas.

Compared to other laundry whiteners, Oxiclean White Revive is a chlorine bleach-based whitener that uses hydrogen peroxide to lift stains and brighten whites, while Molly’s Suds Optical is a non-toxic, eco-friendly whitener that uses sodium percarbonate to naturally remove stains and brighten white clothes.

How to Use

  1. Add 1 scoop of Oxiclean White Revive per gallon of water in the warmest water recommended for the specific type of garment (look at the garment care label.)
  2. Dissolve the product in water completely before submerging the clothing.
  3. Let the garment soak for 6 hours.
  4. Wash the garment as usual with Oxiclean White Revive filled to line 2.
Pros
Cons

2. Molly's Suds Optical Whitener

For a natural whitener option, Molly’s Suds is the best laundry whitener to choose.  It is a plant-based laundry whitener that brightens clothes and helps eliminate stains. In addition, it softens the fabric without causing damage to your clothes. It works for white or lightly colored clothing.

The laundry whitener is perfect for anybody, and you can even use it in kid’s clothes without any hesitation. Thanks to its gentle nature, it also works perfectly for people with sensitive skin.

While Molly’s Suds Optical is an eco-friendly, non-toxic whitener that uses sodium percarbonate to naturally remove stains and brighten whites, while Arm & Hammer Plus is a chlorine bleach-based whitener that uses hydrogen peroxide to lift stains and brighten whites which may not be the best option for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

How to Use

  1. Add 2 scoops of Molly’s Suds into hot water and let your clothes soak in the mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Run wash as usual.
Pros
Cons

3. The Laundress New York Whites Detergent

For those who prefer liquid detergents, you can never go wrong if you choose this in the list of the best laundry detergent. The Laundress New York Whites Detergent is a well-known name in this industry, and they only made things better with their newest creation. The laundry detergent is highly concentrated and will whiten your clothes to remove any form of yellowing. The company uses an eco-friendly formula that is safe for use on all types of fabrics.

The laundry whitener only contained plant-based ingredients such as sugar and coconut oil which do not harm your clothing or skin. The formula is also very concentrated; just a few drops onto each load of laundry will suffice as it can clean as much as 12 gallons of water. The added scent is also the perfect balance between the bleaching agent and subtle smells that do not irritate those with sensitive noses.

How to Use

  • Use 1 capful of the detergent in hot water if handwashing.
  • Use 2 capfuls of the detergent in hot water on the regular cycle or if you’re using a high-efficiency (HE) machine.
  • Use 4 capfuls of the detergent in hot water on the regular cycle or if you’re using a non-high-efficiency (non-HE) machine.
Pros
Cons

4. Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean

This laundry whitener comes in 5-in-1 paks that work by releasing powerful enzymes that remove stains and brighten clothes. It even has a nice scent, with its clean, fresh smell making this product stands out from the rest of the competition.

 

It comes in a combination of regular laundry detergent and OxiClean tablets that you only need to toss into the washer and get the work done. The primary ingredient in the whitener is baking soda which is a natural cleaner and makes your clothes smell fresh. Comparing two natural options, while Savvy Green Oxygen is an eco-friendly whitener that uses sodium percarbonate and hydrogen peroxide to naturally brighten whites, the Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean is a chlorine bleach-based whitener that uses hydrogen peroxide to lift stains.

How to Use

  1. To use the laundry detergent, place the container on its side and make sure that the spout is facing down.
  2. Turn the vent cup counter-clockwise and push the button to dispense the detergent.
  3. Fill to the top of the A-line or about 1/2 full for larger loads.
Pros
Cons

5. Savvy Green Oxygen Brightening Powder

If you want no scent at all in your whitening detergent, go for this Savvy Green Oxygen Brightening Powder. The unscented powder can easily be used in pre-soak, regular wash, and powerful stain removal cycles.

 

You can add it to the laundry with detergent and use it under any temperature setting.  It’s safe to use on all fabrics, from blouses to tablecloths. And because it’s not scented, you can comfortably use it to clean baby clothes. The household cleaner works as both an indoor and outdoor cleaner. If you’re dealing with tough stains, you can use them to soak clothes overnight.

The Savvy Green Oxygen Brightening Powder is an eco-friendly whitener that uses sodium percarbonate and hydrogen peroxide to naturally remove stains and brighten whites, while The Laundress New York Whites, for example, is a plant-derived, non-toxic whitener that uses natural ingredients to remove stains and brighten whites.

How to Use

  • Use one small scoop for lightly soiled clothes, soak, and do laundry as usual.
  • Use two small scoops for moderately soiled clothes, soak, and do laundry as usual.
  • Use three small scoops for heavily soiled clothes, soak, and do laundry as usual.

 

 

Pros
Cons

6. Nelli's Oxygen Brightener Powder

Nellie’s Oxygen Brightener Powder works well for different people, including those with sensitive skin and children. You can rely on this powdered whitener to brighten the stained or disclosed whites.

The Nelli’s Oxygen Brightener Powder is a chlorine-free formula that’s color-safe, septic-safe, and hypoallergic. It works well to restore the original colors of your clothes. You can use it for all sorts of laundry, including whites, lights, pastels, and even delicates.

 

Nelli’s Oxygen Brightener Powder is made from 100 percent renewable resources making it a sustainable product that doesn’t harm the environment. It will work on machines that are high-efficiency or standard types. It’s very affordable and is another great alternative for those on a budget.

How to Use

  • Add 1 tablespoon for a small load into any wash cycle.
  • Add 2 tablespoons for a regular load into any wash cycle.
  • Add 3 tablespoons for large loads into any wash cycle.
  • Add 3 tablespoons for very dirty and stained clothes into any wash cycle.

 

Pros
Cons

7. Tide Plus Bleach Alternative Laundry Detergent

If your ideal laundry whitener is made of bleach, Tide Plus is a good choice for you.  It will effectively remove tough stains, dirt, and grime from your clothes. Plus, it has a little bit of bleach that can sanitize your laundry as well. It’s also safe to use colors because they won’t fade away.

 

Thanks to its effectiveness, this laundry detergent will help you eliminate regular bleach from your laundry work. The fresh smell is all you need to keep your clothes smelling great all day long. What’s even good is the price because it’s cheaper than most laundry whiteners.

Unfortunately, Tide Plus can be too powerful for some fabrics, so use this product with caution. Also, don’t expect it to work on really greasy stains or very old ones because they can still remain visible after washing. If you are sensitive to chemicals or have allergies, this is not for you since it contains chemicals.

How to Use

  • Fill cap to bar 2 for medium loads.
  • Fill cap to bar 4 for large loads.
  • Fill cap to bar 5 for HE full loads.

 

Pros
Cons

8. Summit Brands White Brite

Are your clothes affected by stains and yellowing? You don’t have to worry if you have Summit Brands White Brite, as it offers the effective solution you need to restore the color of your clothes.  It is a specially formulated and safe laundry whitener that removes tough stains and yellowing through the activated oxygen bleach. It does not contain any bleaching agent, chlorine bleach, or laundry detergent.

 

It comes with special enzymes that work fast to remove tough stains such as grass, blood, red wine, and other stubborn spots while preventing further discoloration or yellowing. If you’re dealing with a lot of dingy whites, this is the whitening solution that you should go for.

How to Use

  1. Add 1/2 cup of Summit Brands White Brite to 1 gallon of warm water.
  2. Soak clothes for 20 minutes.
  3. Remove clothes from solution and wash as normal.
Pros
Cons

9. Sun Oxygen Bleach Laundry Whitener

Here is another laundry whitener you’ll surely love. Introducing Sun Oxygen Bleach Laundry Whitener can combat stubborn stains and restore your clothes to their original color – especially those yellowed items – using the effective oxygen bleach action. It’s not just safe to use on garments of all colors, but it’s gentle for your skin too.

 

This is one of the most powerful laundry whiteners made with the best ingredients on the market. It contains oxygen bleach that is strong against dirt, stains, and yellowing. It can whiten clothes made from all materials like wool, cotton, silk, denim jeans, and nylon without causing any damage to their color.

How to Use

  1. Add 4 scoops or 2 tablespoons of Sun Oxygen Laundry Whitener to hot water.
  2. Soak clothes for 1 hour to 2 hours.
  3. Wash as normal.
Pros
Cons

10. Grab Green Natural Bleach Alternative Pods

Another good laundry whitener we cannot leave out of this list is this Grab Green  Natural Bleach Alternative. You don’t have to deal with the harsh chemicals of bleach if you can get an effective alternative at a very cost-friendly price.

 

The fragrance bleach-free pods are made from natural ingredients, making them safe for your laundry and skin.  The detergent pods are quick and easy to use, and all you have to do is drop them in your washer. It can remove stains, brighten colors, and get rid of funky odors that were trapped in your laundry.

How to Use

  • Use 1 pod for small to medium laundry loads.
  • Use 2 pods for large to extra-large laundry loads.
Pros
Cons

Video: Top Rated Laundry Whiteners

What to Look For When Buying Laundry Whiteners

Ingredients

Laundry whiteners are either made of chemicals such as bleach or organic ingredients.  Some organic ingredients can be harmful to those with allergies and sensitive skin, so always look for safety labels before buying. If your laundry whitener contains bleach, you should also be cautious when using them as it can impact the color of your clothes.

If you want the best laundry whiteners that deliver effective cleaning power, you need to check for enzymes in their ingredients. Enzymes help in whitening, and they also make a difference when it comes to knowing how to do laundry well since they dissolve stubborn stains in water.

Powder Vs Liquid Vs Pods

The best laundry whiteners come in powdered form (which you need to mix), liquid detergent form (which you just pour into the washing machine), and pods (that dissolve as they clean). If your machine has a “whitening” cycle, you can use whichever form of whitener you desire. If it doesn’t, powdered forms might be the most favorable as they are more flexible. We’ve evaluated that powders will also help prevent bleaching, which is very important with colored clothes.

Number of Loads

Manufacturers will indicate how many loads a single product will last. Each load has 4-5 ounces of liquid or powder whitener, so you can expect a single box of the best laundry whiteners to last for about 18-25 loads. If you have a large family, consider buying in bulk as it’ll save you money and time.

In the United States, the only product that comes in a powdered form is Purex Crystals. This means it’ll last for 50-75 loads, so if you have a large family, buy this one. If you only do about 10 loads, then powdered forms aren’t the best idea, and liquid forms will be more efficient.

Temperature

You should also check the temperature ideal for the laundry whitener.  Most commercial laundry whiteners are designed for standard-temperature washing machines, but some of the best laundry whiteners might be for high temperatures. If you have a large family and do a lot of laundry, it’s a good idea to check the temperature of your water heater and buy something that fits it.

Product Ingredients Powder vs Liquid vs Pods Number of Loads Temperature
Oxiclean White Revive Laundry Whitener 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Molly’s Suds Optical Whitener 5/5 5/5 4/5 4/5
The Laundress New York Whites Detergent 5/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean 3/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Savvy Green Oxygen Brightening Powder 4/5 5/5 4/5 4/5
Nelli’s Oxygen Brightener Powder 4/5 5/5 4/5 4/5
Tide Plus Bleach Alternative Laundry Detergent 3/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Summit Brands White Brite 3/5 4/5 4/5 4/5
Sun Oxygen Bleach Laundry Whitener 3/5 4/5 3/5 4/5
Grab Green Natural Bleach Alternative Pods 4/5 5/5 3/5 4/5

Benefits of Using Laundry Whiteners

Using laundry whiteners can offer many benefits to make your laundry look brighter while helping to remove stains and discoloration. The best laundry whiteners are formulated to take on tougher dirt and grime that regular detergent may not be able to handle. They also help restore clothing’s original brightness so that it looks like new again. Using a laundry whitener is an economical way to keep your clothes looking their best without spending a lot of money on new items.

Types of Laundry Whiteners

There are several types of laundry whiteners available for you to choose from depending on the type of garments you need to be brightened up. Chlorine bleach is the most common form of bleach used in household cleaning and comes in both liquid and powder form. Non-chlorine bleach is a safer alternative to chlorine bleach as it does not contain any harsh chemicals and is made from plant-based ingredients. Oxygen or color-safe bleaches are another option that works great on whites, while also being gentle enough to use on colors.

How to Use Laundry Whiteners

Depending on the type of whitener you choose, instructions for use may vary. For example, oxygen whiteners should be added with the detergent before laundry is washed, while chlorine bleaches should be added at the start of the wash cycle. It is important to read the directions for each product carefully in order to ensure proper usage. Additionally, some sources recommend using cold water when washing whites with a whitener in order to prevent any discoloration or fading of the fabric.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Results from Laundry Whiteners

To get the best results from your laundry whitener, it is important to pre-treat any stains or heavily soiled areas before adding them to the wash cycle. Additionally, some sources suggest soaking items overnight in an oxygen bleach solution before laundering in order to promote brighter whites. When using chlorine bleach, we’ve evaluated that it is essential to add it directly into the washing machine as soon as possible after clothing has been added in order to ensure that it does not come in contact with skin or other surfaces. Finally, when using laundry whiteners, always use protective eyewear and gloves to protect yourself from any harsh chemicals that may be present.

 

 

 

FAQs on Best Laundry Whiteners

It is best to check with the washing machine’s manufacturer before using the best laundry whiteners. Some machines may be incompatible with laundry whiteners due to their design. Make sure you know the washing machine brands to avoid if you’re going to use laundry whiteners for your laundry.

The ingredients can vary depending on the brand and formulation of the product, but common ingredients include enzymes, optical brighteners, phosphate or percarbonate, and enzymes. The ingredients are designed to remove dirt and stains from clothes while leaving them looking clean and smelling fresh.

Some people make homemade laundry whitener detergent at home. Those who need laundry whiteners for personal or other household purposes can make their own with recipes found on the internet. You can learn how to make DIY laundry detergents of your choice and do your laundry with ease.

There are a variety of laundry whiteners available, including enzyme-based whitening powders, chemical bleaching agents, and oxygen-based whiteners.

Most fabric items can be safely whitened with most laundry whiteners such as clothes, bedding, towels, and more. However, it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions on each product to ensure safe use.

Yes. It is important to follow all directions provided by the manufacturer when using a laundry whitener. This includes checking for colorfastness before first use and following the dosing instructions for maximum safety and effectiveness.

Yes. If too much of the product is used, this can lead to discoloration or fading of the fabric. It’s important to carefully follow the directions on each of the best laundry whiteners and not use more than necessary in order to avoid damage to fabrics.

Final Verdict on Laundry Whiteners

Laundry whiteners help restore the color of your clothes by removing stains and dirt. They help remove yellowing and dingy whites on clothes. They also help to remove odors. They’re easy to use and can be found at any grocery store or pharmacy.

The best laundry whiteners will have enzymes, optical brighteners, phosphate or percarbonate, and enzymes. You should avoid ingredients that you cannot pronounce or that don’t seem familiar. With the list of the best laundry whiteners of 2023 above, you can never go wrong with any choice that you make.

Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?

Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!

Ben James

Ben James

Ben is an experienced content writer with a passion for kitchen remodeling. He loves writing about latest kitchen designs & trends so that he can educate our readers make the best decisions possible when it comes to kitchens.

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