What is the downside of tide pods?

Author: Albert Wehner  |  Last update: Monday, December 29, 2025

Exposure of the pod contents to the eyes is an additional danger, which can cause abrasions to the corneas. Needless to say, these products work wonders for easing our laundry burdens, but are extremely dangerous to children. Laundry detergent pods have received a considerable amount of press in recent years.

What are the disadvantages of Tide PODS?

In summary, Tide Pods have an expiration date, and using them beyond this date is not recommended. While they may not spoil like food, their effectiveness can diminish, potentially leading to less-than-desirable laundry results, fading of colors, and even skin irritation.

Why are Tide PODS being banned?

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is the film that contains detergent in Tide Pods and other similar products. It dissolves when coming into contact with water, but studies have argued that the process leaves behind microplastics that go on to pollute the water supply, according to the New York Post.

Are Tide PODS bad for my washer?

Pods are generally safe for your washing machine, but always check your model's owner's manual. Be sure to take a few precautions as you work them into your laundry routine. Disable any bulk or automatic dispensers in your washer to avoid a double dose of detergent.

Is it better to use Tide PODS or liquid?

It all comes down to your laundry needs and lifestyle. If you value convenience and simplicity, pods might be your pick. If you're after versatility and cost-effectiveness, consider going for liquid detergent. If tough stains and cost per load are your primary concerns, the powder could be the way to go.

The Problem with Tide Pods

Which laundry detergent is considered the best?

The Best Laundry Detergents, According to Rigorous Testing
  • Best Overall. Tide Hygienic Clean Power Pods. Read more.
  • Best Overall Liquid Laundry Detergent. Persil Advanced Clean Oxi + Odor Power. Read more.
  • Best Overall Powder Laundry Detergent. Tide Plus Bleach Powder Laundry Detergent. Read more.

Why are detergent pods not recommended?

Exposure of the pod contents to the eyes is an additional danger, which can cause abrasions to the corneas. Needless to say, these products work wonders for easing our laundry burdens, but are extremely dangerous to children. Laundry detergent pods have received a considerable amount of press in recent years.

Why is my tide pod ruining my clothes?

The most important rule to remember when it comes to laundry detergent pods is to always add the pods to the drum before adding the clothes and water. A pod placed on top of clothes might not dissolve all the way. This leaves you with streaks and spotting from detergent being left on wet clothes.

Is fabric softener necessary?

Remember, fabric softener is completely optional, and your garments will likely pop out of the dryer feeling fresh, clean, and soft without it. However, “For some, it might make doing their laundry a little more fun to use an extra product that smells very good and is colorful,” Fulford says.

Should I stop using tide pods?

Many dishwashing and laundry detergent pods are coated in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which dissolves in water. Gennaro says it is neither safe nor biodegradable as has been claimed. Opt for plastic-free detergent brands and shop at refill stations to reduce your impact.

Which laundry detergent is safest?

The best non-toxic laundry detergent is one that delivers cleanliness to your clothes while ensuring safety and sustainability.
  • NaturOli* (Our Top Pick)
  • Truly Free*
  • Ecos Free & Clear*
  • Meliora Unscented Powder Detergent*
  • Molly's Suds*
  • Aspen*
  • ATTITUDE*
  • Clean Cult*

What states is tide banned in?

Product safety is a top priority for us – Tide is not banned anywhere in the US or Canada. Every Tide product that we ship complies with all state and federal regulations, including the New York state 1,4 dioxane requirements.

Do laundry pods cause plumbing problems?

A: Yes they will speaking from personal experience. The granular part of the pod does not fully dissolve and will eventually build up in the sewer pipe.

Do tide pods work in cold water?

*** Tide is designed to work powerfully in cold water temperatures, giving you a great clean in every single load. ***In non-HE washer, 8 loads/wk from hot to cold, avg electricity rate (13.3c/kWh). ****Tide Power PODS® in cold vs. leading bargain detergent in warm.

Which cleans better, powder or liquid detergent?

Powerful cleaning agents that can be included in powdered detergent formulas, but not liquid forms, work to help remove mud, grass or clay stains. Liquid detergent is best used for grease or oil stains on your day to day items, because of its ability to help release and break down stains in fabrics.

Why are my Tide PODS turning my clothes blue?

"The most common contributors to the development of a blue/purple stain on fabrics is not placing the pack into the washing machine drum BEFORE adding the clothes and/or overstuffing machine with laundry," wrote Tracey L.

How many Tide PODS should you really use?

The number of pacs necessary depends on the load size. To guarantee superior performance, add two Tide PODS® pacs into the washing machine drum before you add clothes. Use one laundry pac for smaller loads or three for larger loads. Place clothes into the washer on top of the laundry pac.

Can you use Tide PODS on black clothes?

A: Our Tide PODS™ Ultra OXI do contain a color protector, and it may be helpful to know that all of our laundry detergents are suitable for colored fabrics.

What is the disadvantage of laundry pods?

Cons of Laundry Pods

They are much more expensive than both liquid and powder detergents. Some can cost as much as 50 percent more. Powders are the most inexpensive of the options, followed by liquids, then pods.

Is it better to use laundry pods or liquid?

Liquid Detergent Leaves Behind Less Residue

Even if hard water isn't an issue in your home, liquid detergents are less likely to leave residue on clothes and linens than other formulas. It's possible that pods and sheets won't fully dissolve in the washer, creating stubborn detergent stains on fabrics.

What is the best detergent pods to use?

  • Best Overall: Tide Pods at Amazon $13. ...
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: All MightyPacks Laundry Detergent at Amazon $40. ...
  • Best Eco-Friendly: Grab Green 3-in-1 Laundry Detergent Pods at Amazon $21. ...
  • Best for Stains: Arm & Hammer Order Blaster 5-In-1 Power Paks at Amazon $10. ...
  • Best Smelling: ...
  • Most Buzzworthy: ...
  • Best Sheets:

Why do Tide Pods leave residue on clothes?

The problem, according to Tide PR person Lauren Beene, is that the pod doesn't dissolve fully in the water, causing a whitening agent to deposit on your clothes and leave a mark.

Why shouldn't you use pods in the dishwasher?

There is some concern about whether dishwasher pods are the best option given the fact that they contain PVA and can have a negative effect on the environment and the plumbing in your home. "It's not necessarily that they aren't the best option, but more so if they can work for you," Novacek says.

Why would someone steal Tide Pods?

Like cigarettes, razors or other oft-used household items, thieves view them as equivalent to street currency, often traded for drugs or cash. Tide is a popular target due to its dominance in the laundry detergent space.

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