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Laundry Detergent

By Sarah Aguirre, About.com

Definition: Laundry detergent helps break up and remove dirt and stains in the laundry. Laundry detergent has gradually replaced soap as the laundry helper of choice because of its versatility. Laundry detergent can be effective in many types and temperatures of water. Laundry detergent comes in both liquid and powder forms. Most laundry detergents also contain enzymes that help break down complex food stains.

Powdered laundry detergent is especially effective on heavily soiled clothing. These granular laundry detergents have come a long way in the last few years and dissolve well, but may have trouble dissolving fully in cold water.

Liquid laundry detergent is especially good at removing greasy and starchy food stains. Most liquid laundry detergents work as effective pre-treaters as well.

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