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Discover if Tide Plus Ultra Oxi Powder lives up to the hype for stain removal. We break down its washing performance (79/100), rinsing ability, cost per load ($0.20), and more. Compare with top alternatives like Tide Free & Gentle and Gain Flings for the ultimate clean.
Quick Pick
For unbeatable stain-fighting power without irritation, go with the Tide Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap. It's our top choice for families tackling everyday messes. Check current price on our page.
Tide Plus Ultra Oxi Powder has earned a reputation as a heavy-duty laundry detergent designed for battling stubborn stains. Priced at around $0.20 per load, this powder formula packs oxygen-based cleaning power to lift dirt, grease, and food residues from fabrics. In our extensive testing with front-loading washers, it delivered a solid washing performance score of 79 out of 100 across 11 common stains like blood, chocolate, grass, and tomato sauce.
But is it the best pick for your laundry routine? We dove deep into its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against modern alternatives. Whether you're dealing with kids' spills or workout gear, this review helps you decide if Tide Ultra Oxi deserves a spot in your laundry room. We'll cover real-world performance, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness to give you actionable insights.
We tested Tide Plus Ultra Oxi on a standard load in a front-loader, focusing on tough stains. It shone brightest against body oil (excellent removal), chocolate, dirt, grass, and salad dressing—scoring near-perfect in these categories. Blood, coffee, egg, gravy, and tomato sauce saw good results, but cola proved trickier with only fair performance.
Pros:
Cons:
This detergent rinses cleanly, leaving minimal residue on clothes or in your machine. At 85/100, it's above average, reducing the risk of skin irritation or buildup in high-efficiency washers.
The low score here stems from clumpy powder in humid conditions and a dispenser that's tricky for quick scoops. Powders generally lag behind liquids or pacs in convenience, especially in cold water where dissolving can be uneven.
See our full guide on the best laundry solutions for more tips.
| Product | Form | Stain Removal Score | Price per Load | Scent | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tide Plus Ultra Oxi Powder | Powder | 79/100 | $0.20 | Unscented | Tough stains | N/A |
| Tide Free & Gentle Liquid | Liquid | 85/100 | $0.22 | Unscented | Sensitive skin | Check Price |
| All Mighty Pacs Free Clear | Pacs | 82/100 | $0.18 | Unscented | Easy dosing | View Details |
| Gain + Aroma Boost Liquid | Liquid | 80/100 | $0.19 | Island Fresh | Long-lasting scent | See on Site |
| Gain Flings Pacs | Pacs | 84/100 | $0.21 | Moonlight Breeze | Convenience + freshness | Buy Now |
| Woolite Delicates Hypoallergenic | Liquid | 75/100 | $0.25 | Fresh | Delicates | Explore |
This table highlights why Tide Ultra Oxi is great for stains but may not top convenience charts. For sensitive skin, try the Tide Free & Gentle.
The formula centers on sodium carbonate for softening water and adjusting pH, paired with sodium percarbonate that releases hydrogen peroxide for bleaching action. Surfactants lift soils, enzymes target proteins (like blood and egg), polymers prevent redeposition, and optical brighteners enhance whiteness.
Key Benefits:
Potential Drawbacks:
Pro tip: Pre-treat stains with a paste of the powder and water for 80-90% better removal rates in our tests.
At $0.20 per load (based on 32-load boxes around $6-7), it's budget-friendly for large families. A 100-load box handles 3-4 months of weekly washes. However, measuring scoops add 10-15 seconds per load versus no-measure pacs like Gain Flings.
In cold water (common for energy savings), expect 10-20% less efficacy—opt for warm cycles for best results. Pairs well with a sturdy hamper like the Durable Collapsible Laundry Basket for sorting stained loads.
Our Verdict on Tide Ultra Oxi: Solid 4/5 for stain warriors, but upgrade to All Mighty Pacs for hassle-free cleaning.
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Pair your detergent with practical tools:
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Yes, it's formulated for high-efficiency machines, but use the correct dosage to avoid residue.
Powder excels in stain power but lags in convenience; liquids like Tide Free & Gentle dissolve better in cold water.
Absolutely—enzymes and oxygen bleach are color-safe, but test on vivid hues.
Up to 2 years if kept dry; clumping reduces effectiveness.
For heavy staining households, yes; lighter users may prefer cheaper pacs like All Mighty.
Moderately—85% efficacy vs. 100% in warm; pre-soak for best results.
Last updated: 2024. Prices fluctuate; check links for latest.
