Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst laundry detergent earns an impressive 88/100 score for stain removal, excelling on oil, chocolate, and sebum at just $0.16 per load. Discover its enzyme power, HE compatibility, and how it stacks up against Tide Pods, Gain Flings, and Dreft in our detailed comparison.
Laundry day doesn't have to be a battle against stubborn stains. Arm & Hammer Clean Burst liquid detergent stands out as a reliable choice for households tackling everything from grass and oil to chocolate and blood. With a strong overall score of 88/100 in cleaning performance, this affordable option at $0.16 per load combines enzyme technology for protein stains with a pleasant Clean Burst scent that's rated "good" by users.
Whether you have kids, pets, or just a busy lifestyle, this HE-compatible detergent delivers results without breaking the bank. In this review, we'll break down its performance, pros and cons, and compare it to top competitors.
Quick Pick
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent
Top choice for powerful, enzyme-based stain fighting on a budget. Available in 41 oz, 82.5 oz, and 123.8 oz sizes. Perfect for high-efficiency washers and everyday messes.Ideal for families needing versatile cleaning—pair it with a sturdy drying rack for complete laundry efficiency.
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst isn't just another detergent; it's engineered for real-world stains. Our testing focused on common household challenges, measuring its effectiveness across eight key categories. Here's how it performed:
The inclusion of enzymes makes it particularly effective against protein-based stains like blood and chocolate, breaking them down at the molecular level. Testers appreciated the fresh Clean Burst scent that lingers subtly without overpowering. At $0.16 per load, it's a cost-effective pick for large families, offering better value than many pod alternatives.
We pitted Arm & Hammer Clean Burst against popular alternatives to highlight key differences. Check the table below for a quick overview:
| Feature | Arm & Hammer Clean Burst | Tide PODS Free & Gentle | Gain Flings | Dreft Stage 1 Newborn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 88/100 | 92/100 | 89/100 | 85/100 |
| Price per Load | $0.16 | $0.25 | $0.22 | $0.30 |
| Type | Liquid | Pods | Pods | Liquid |
| Scent | Good (Clean Burst) | Unscented | Strong (Moonlight Breeze) | Mild (Original) |
| HE Compatible | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Enzymes | Yes | Yes | Oxi Boost | Yes (Baby-safe) |
| Best For | Tough stains, value | Sensitive skin | Freshness, odors | Newborns, delicate fabrics |
| Loads per Unit | Up to 73 (123.8 oz) | 112 | 112 | 89 |
Check current price on Tide PODS Free & Gentle for hypoallergenic cleaning.
If Arm & Hammer doesn't fit your needs, consider these strong contenders:
Perfect for allergy sufferers, this unscented pod option scores higher overall (92/100) with gentle yet effective cleaning. No dyes or perfumes make it a safe bet.
Our Top Pick for Sensitive Skin: Tide PODS Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent – See on site now.
Love a fresh scent? Gain's Moonlight Breeze with Oxi Boost fights odors and stains (89/100 score). Pods dissolve quickly in HE machines.
Best for Scent Lovers: Gain Flings 112 Count – Grab yours today.
Pediatrician-recommended for babies, it gently handles milk and spit-up stains while being tough enough for family use.
See on site: Dreft Stage 1 Liquid Detergent
Our evaluations mimic real-life use: We pre-treat fabrics with standardized stains (oil, blood, etc.), wash in both standard and HE machines at varying temperatures, and score based on residual staining, odor control, and fabric care. Arm & Hammer Clean Burst was tested on cotton, polyester blends, and delicates, consistently delivering above-average results for its price point.
Pro Tip: For best results, pre-treat stains with a dab of detergent and let sit 5-10 minutes before washing in warm water.
A great detergent is only part of the equation. Dry your clothes efficiently with the Honey-Can-Do Collapsible Laundry Drying Rack, which holds up to 50 lbs and folds away for small spaces.
Explore more in our Best Home & Kitchen Deals: Save Up to 40% on Furniture, Decor, and Essentials or Best Upholstery Cleaner for Furniture of 2026 for spot-cleaning upholstery spills.
Yes, it's fully compatible with high-efficiency machines, using low-sudsing formula for optimal performance.
Absolutely—its enzymes target organic messes like urine and vomit effectively.
Clean Burst is milder and fresher; Gain offers a bolder, longer-lasting fragrance.
Go for the 123.8 oz bottle, providing up to 73 loads at great value.
Yes, it's color-safe, but always check labels and avoid bleach on colors.
It matches closely on tough stains like oil (90 vs. Tide's 93) but costs less per load.
Ready to tackle your laundry pile? Arm & Hammer Clean Burst delivers proven power—pair it with our recommended alternatives for the ultimate clean.
