When it comes to storing liquid laundry detergent, you have a few options for containers that will keep it sealed and organized in your laundry room or closet. Choosing the right storage container for liquid detergent depends on your space, dispensing needs and personal preferences.
Quick Answer
The best containers for storing liquid laundry detergent include:
- Original detergent bottle
- Plastic laundry detergent jug with spout
- Plastic storage containers
- Detergent dispenser box
- Detergent pod dispenser
You can reuse the original detergent bottle if it’s still in good shape. For larger capacity storage, plastic jugs with a pour spout are convenient and minimize spills. Plastic storage bins or buckets allow for easy pouring. Detergent dispenser boxes with an internal reservoir neatly store and dispense detergent. Appliance-mounted detergent pod dispensers also provide organized storage and single-dose dispensing.
Can I store liquid detergent in the original bottle?
Yes, you can reuse the original plastic laundry detergent bottle to store liquid detergent if it’s still in good condition without any cracks or leaks. The manufacturer’s bottle is designed for safely containing laundry detergent. It’s convenient to keep the detergent in the original packaging so you can identify the brand and formula.
However, the original bottle only holds one bottle’s worth of detergent at a time. If you want to buy detergent in larger quantities or combine detergent from multiple bottles to save money, you’ll need a separate storage container.
What kind of plastic container can I use?
For a large capacity detergent storage container, opt for a plastic laundry detergent jug with a handle and pour spout specifically designed for laundry soap. Plastic helps prevent corrosion that could occur from metal containers. Look for a durable and opaque plastic that won’t crack from the acidic ingredients in some detergents.
A translucent plastic container allows you to view the detergent level. However, clear plastic could potentially cause detergent to degrade faster from light exposure. A pour spout prevents messy drips and spills when dispensing.
You can also reuse a large, clean plastic container like a milk jug or juice bottle for DIY laundry detergent storage. Make sure to thoroughly clean out any residues first.
What kind of bucket can I use for detergent?
5-gallon plastic buckets, similar to those used for paint, joint compound or pickling, work extremely well for storing liquid laundry detergent. The large capacity holds up to 64 loads of detergent. Look for a bucket with a bail handle for easy pouring.
For smaller storage needs, you can use a 2- or 3-gallon bucket. Opt for a rectangular bucket over round for optimal use of space. Make sure any bucket you use for detergent is thoroughly cleaned first and has a securely fitting lid.
Can I use a plastic storage bin or tub?
Yes, you can store liquid detergent in a plastic storage container or tub, similar to those used for storing holiday decorations or other household items. Look for durable food-grade plastic bins with a lid and seal to prevent leaks.
Storage tubs allow you to easily scoop out detergent as needed. Choose a bin size based on your laundry needs and available space. An 18-gallon tub can hold up to 250 loads of detergent. For a small laundry room, a 6-gallon container may be ideal.
Clear storage bins let you see the detergent level at a glance. But you may want to avoid UV light exposure by choosing an opaque container or keeping it in a cabinet.
Are there specially designed laundry detergent dispensers?
Yes, you can purchase storage and dispensing systems designed specifically for liquid laundry detergent:
- Detergent dispenser box – Free-standing dispensers have an internal reservoir that holds up to a gallon of detergent. To use, you flip open the lid and press down on a plunger. This dispenses a pre-measured amount of detergent into the lid to pour into the machine.
- Detergent pod dispenser – These dispensers attach inside your washing machine and store up to 32 detergent pods for easy, single-dose dispensing. To use, slide out the detergent drawer and a pod drops down into it.
These types of dispensers keep detergent protected from light and air to help it last longer. They also make laundering more convenient by pre-measuring detergent.
What kind of container should I avoid for detergent storage?
Avoid these types of containers for storing liquid laundry detergent:
- Metal containers – Metal could corrode and rust from exposure to acidic detergent formulas.
- Glass containers – Glass is breakable and heavier than plastic.
- Paperboard/cardboard – Cardboard boxes and paper bags are too flimsy. Liquid could leak through.
- Previously used food containers – Containers that held food could contaminate detergent with smells and stains.
Also avoid any container with cracks, leaks or openings where dirt and moisture could enter. And don’t reuse a container that held non-laundry chemicals, as it could potentially cause dangerous chemical reactions.
What size container do I need?
Choose a detergent storage container size based on:
- How much liquid laundry detergent you use per week/month
- Available space in your laundry room or closet
- Whether you want to buy detergent in bulk to save money
As a guideline, here are typical container sizes for liquid detergent storage:
| Container Size | Detergent Capacity (Loads) |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon bucket | 64 |
| 3 gallon bucket | 40 |
| 18 gallon storage bin | 250 |
| 6 gallon storage bin | 80 |
| 1 gallon dispenser | 16 |
| 32 pod dispenser | 32 |
A standard 50 oz. detergent bottle holds roughly 16 loads. So a 5 gallon bucket could hold the equivalent of 4 jugs of detergent.
Where should I store liquid laundry detergent?
Store liquid laundry detergent in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Ideal places include:
- Laundry room shelf or cabinet – Convenient access near washing machine.
- Garage or basement – Cooler temperature extends shelf life.
- Kitchen pantry – Handy for apartment dwellers without laundry rooms.
- Linen closet – Often located near laundry area.
Make sure the container is sealed and cannot tip over. Keep detergent out of reach of children and pets. Avoid storing detergent near open flames, spark sources or chemicals like bleach that could react.
Does liquid or powder laundry detergent last longer in storage?
Liquid laundry detergent generally has a longer shelf life than powder detergent. Here’s how their storage life compares:
- Liquid detergent – Stays fresh and effective up to 9 months in cool storage.
- Powder detergent – Lasts up to 6 months before losing cleaning power.
Liquids are less prone to absorbing moisture from the air, which can cause powders to clump and get hard. Always seal containers tightly between uses.
To maximize freshness, use detergent within 6 months and immediately replace if it becomes thick, discolored or gives off an abnormal odor.
Can I safely store laundry pods in a container?
Yes, you can store laundry detergent pods in an airtight plastic container like a coffee canister or snack container. Pods can get damaged in their original flimsy cardboard box.
A pod storage container keeps moisture out and prevents pods from bursting open. Make sure any container you reuse is washed thoroughly first. Seal tightly between uses.
Only put laundry pods in the container, not loose powder or liquid detergent. Don’t overfill – leave some headspace so you can easily open the lid. Keep out of reach of children.
What about adding a spigot for easy pouring?
Adding a plastic spigot near the bottom of a laundry detergent storage container allows for easy pouring with less risk of spills. Spigots help control the flow of liquid soap.
Purchase a liquid-tight spigot designed for use with corrosive chemicals. Most feature a threaded base that screws securely into plastic. Determine spigot location based on container balance when full.
Alternatively, use a container with an integrated pour spout, like a plastic detergent jug.
Should I label my detergent storage container?
Yes, label any repurposed container used for storing laundry detergent. Labeling prevents someone from accidentally mistaking it for something else. Include:
- Detergent brand and type
- Date detergent was purchased or refilled
- Words “Laundry Detergent”
Use a permanent marker directly on plastic containers. For a reusable tub, you can apply removable stick-on labels. Replace old labels when switching detergent types.
Clearly labeling elimates confusion and prevents someone from accidentally drinking detergent if stored in an former beverage container.
Should I save money by buying detergent in bulk?
Buying liquid laundry detergent in larger quantities or bulk sizes can save you money compared to smaller bottles. Costco, Sam’s Club and online retailers offer bulk detergent options.
For example, a 150 oz. / 200 load jug of Tide liquid detergent at Costco costs around $19, compared to $16 for just a 50 oz. bottle at Walmart. That’s less than 10 cents per load bought in bulk.
Just be sure to have an appropriately sized storage container if you opt for large bulk detergent. Calculate how many months a bulk amount will last you based on your household’s wash load frequency. It can grow less effective after 6-9 months.
How can I neatly dispense detergent from my storage container?
Here are some options for neatly dispensing liquid laundry detergent from bulk storage:
- Use a measuring cup – Scoop out the recommended amount needed for each load.
- Add a pump dispenser – Pumps attach to plastic jugs for measured dispensing.
- Pour into smaller squirt bottle – Transfer some detergent for grab-and-go eas.
- Invest in a detergent dispenser box.
Dispensing systems allow you to quickly pre-measure the right amount of detergent, preventing under- or over-dosing. Less mess occurs compared to pouring from a large container.
Should I decant detergent into smaller bottles for portability?
If you need to transport smaller amounts of laundry detergent on the go, decant some from your large storage container into a portable bottle. Good options include:
- Empty laundry detergent bottle – Recycle an old container.
- Travel soap dispenser bottle
- Reusable silicone bottle
- Small plastic jug with handle
Choose a bottle that seals tightly and won’t leak detergent inside a bag or car. Label it for easy identification. Only carry enough for 1-2 loads to avoid weighing down your bag.
This allows you to conveniently refill the portable bottle from your main supply as needed. Just be sure to thoroughly clean any reusable bottle first.
Conclusion
Storing your liquid laundry detergent properly helps it stay effective for cleaning clothes. Opt for large, sealable plastic containers like jugs, buckets and bins that keep detergent protected from air, moisture, light and heat. Detergent dispensers also neatly store and measure out single doses.
Label any repurposed container to identify it as non-food safe. Make sure kids and pets can’t access open detergent. With the right storage and dispensing, you can buy laundry detergent in bulk for added savings and convenience.
