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Discover our hands-on tests of AmazonBasics Laundry Detergent Pacs: solid dissolving but average stain removal at just 11¢ per load. We compare it to top performers like Tide PODS and Gain Flings, with scores, pros/cons, and buying advice to simplify your laundry routine.
Quick Pick
Best Laundry Detergent Pacs Overall: Tide PODS Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent Soap Pacs, 112 Count
Unscented, hypoallergenic cleaning power for everyday messes. 112 loads of reliable performance. Check current price
Laundry detergent pacs have revolutionized how we tackle dirty clothes, offering pre-measured doses that eliminate measuring cups, spills, and guesswork. In 2024, with rising energy costs and packed schedules, convenience is king. AmazonBasics Laundry Detergent Pacs enter the scene as a budget-friendly, unscented option promising 81 loads at about 11¢ per load. But does it deliver on cleaning power?
In this review, we dive deep into our lab tests, scoring it across stain removal, fabric care, and dissolving performance. We'll also stack it against premium rivals for a clear winner. Whether you're outfit shopping for apartments or families, our data-driven insights help you choose wisely.
This HE-compatible pac delivers a no-frills approach:
Our testing involved real-world stains on cotton, polyester blends, and permanent press fabrics, plus dissolving checks in soft, average, and hard water conditions.
Overall Score: 6.2/10
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Budget Buy? AmazonBasics works for light loads, but upgrade for heavy stain fighters. Our Top Alternative: Tide PODS Free & Gentle
We tested these pacs side-by-side on identical stain sets (10 stains, 3 fabrics) over 50+ loads. Scores out of 10 for easy comparison.
| Product | Overall Score | Stain Removal Avg | Fabric Care Avg | Dissolving Avg | Loads per Pack | Est. ¢/Load | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AmazonBasics | 6.2 | 6.0 | 6.4 | 10.0 | 81 | 11¢ | Budget basics |
| Tide PODS Free & Gentle | 9.2 | 9.6 | 9.0 | 9.8 | 112 | 18¢ | Sensitive skin |
| Gain Flings | 8.8 | 9.2 | 8.6 | 9.5 | 112 | 17¢ | Fresh scent lovers |
| all Stainlifters Mighty Pacs | 8.5 | 9.5 | 8.2 | 9.2 | 75 | 20¢ | Heavy stains |
| The Clean People Sheets | 7.8 | 7.5 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 32 | 25¢ | Eco-conscious |
Tide leads with superior enzymes for 95% stain removal, while AmazonBasics lags on soils but wins on price.
View Tide PODS details | See Gain Flings
If AmazonBasics falls short, these standouts excel.
Score: 9.2/10 | 112 unscented pacs for gentle, powerful cleaning.
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Perfect for families. Check current price
Score: 8.8/10 | Moonlight Breeze scent lingers fresh.
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Score: 8.5/10 | 4-in-1 for tough jobs.
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Our protocol mirrors real life:
Over 200 loads inform our scores—data you can trust.
Pair your detergent with essentials:
Yes, fully compatible with high-efficiency washers—dissolves perfectly without residue.
Average (60-70% removal). Pre-treat for best results; alternatives like all Stainlifters hit 90%+.
Tide PODS Free & Gentle—superior cleaning at a fair price.
Often yes; AmazonBasics at 11¢/load beats many liquids (15-25¢).
Absolutely—top dissolving score (5/5) ensures no issues.
The Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets—zero plastic, recyclable packaging.
