Choosing the best smelling laundry detergent is trickier than you might think.
For one thing, scent is highly subjective, and the line between “strong scents” and “bad odors” is annoyingly thin, which makes it hard to trust someone else’s opinion.
Making matters worse, the language that laundry detergent brands use to describe their fragrances tends to be vague, overblown and (lame pun alert!) flowery (sorry, couldn’t resist—but to be fair, you were warned).
Describing a detergent’s scent as “mountain air and springtime florals” may sound smart to some copywriter, but it doesn’t really help you understand what your clean clothes will smell like when you pull them out of the washing machine.
To help you find a fresh scent that you can actually imagine smelling in your laundry room, below we’ve rounded up more than a dozen of the best smelling detergents on the market, and translated the detergent brand’s marketing speak into a clear description of what each one actually smells like.
Our Top Picks↓
You can use the table of contents below to jump down to more detail about each detergent, but here’s a quick summary of our favorites:
- Best Smelling Eco Friendly Laundry Detergent: Frey – Cedar Grove Scent
- Best Smelling Laundry Detergent Fabric Softener Combo: The Good Home – Lavender Scent
- Best Smelling Laundry Detergent Pods: Tide Pods – Spring Meadow Scent
- Best Smelling Long-Lasting Laundry Detergent: Gain Original + Aroma Boost
- Best Smelling Natural Laundry Detergent: Rebel Green – Fresh Peppermint & Lemon Scent
- Best Smelling Laundry Detergent For Men: Hero Clean – Scent 1
- The (Absolute) Best Smelling Laundry Detergent on the Market
- Frey – Cedar Grove
- The Good Home Co. – Lavender
- Tide Pods – Spring Meadow
- Gain Original + Aroma Boost
- Rebel Green – Fresh Peppermint & Lemon
- Hero Clean – Scent 1
- Tide Original
- Arm & Hammer – Clean Burst
- Purex – Mountain Burst
- Frey – Bergamot Beach
- Method – Lavender & Cypress
- Swash – Pure Linen
- Mrs. Meyer's – Honeysuckle
- FAQ
Who Wrote This Article
Irreverent Gent Founder and Editor-in-Chief Dave Bowden has been a service journalist for more than a decade, and his fashion advice and shopping recommendations have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, and Men’s Health, among many others.
How We Created This List
Scent
Profile
Ingredient
List
User Reviews
& Ratings
For this post we assessed each detergent’s scent profile and ingredients to determine which ones offer the freshest and most pleasing aromas.
But scent can be highly subjective, and what smells great to one person might not please the next.
So we also did a deep dive into user reviews and online ratings in order to crowd-source each detergent, and find the scents and products that are most likely to please the largest number of people.
To learn more about how we rate and review products, check out our product review and round up policy here.
The (Absolute) Best Smelling Laundry Detergent on the Market
Rounding Up the Best Detergents for a Clean, Fresh Scent
Best Smelling Eco Friendly Laundry Detergent ↓
Frey – Cedar Grove
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Cedarwood, Oakmoss, Amber”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Cedarwood, Oakmoss, Amber
- Good for HE (High Efficiency) Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
This eco-friendly brand’s mission is to transform your laundry experience with intoxicating scented detergents made from clean, natural ingredients.
Their Cedar Grove liquid detergent’s warm, citrusy fragrance evokes scenes of sitting by a crackling fire in the forest (thanks largely to the notes of woodsy cedarwood and spicy amber).
Amazing scent aside, we like that it’s ultra concentrated so you don’t have to use as much detergent per load compared to regular detergent, and the packaging is smaller so it produces less waste.
Why Reviewers Like It:
The fragrance is what I would expect from a high end hotel or spa. When guests, family, or friends come to visit. They always comment about “I can’t get my face out of the towel or pillow!” ❤️
Best Smelling Laundry Combo ↓
The Good Home Co. – Lavender
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “The soothing lingering smell of Lavender”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Lavender
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
If you love the aromatherapy benefits of lavender, then this liquid laundry detergent and fragrance duo is for you.
Not only does it smell like the French countryside in summer, but their best-selling lavender laundry detergent has impressive stain-fighting powers while still being gentle on fabric fibers and colors.
And the fragrance booster is 90% plant based and formulated without parabens, phthalates, carcinogens, or synthetic fragrances, so it’s safe for kids and sensitive skin types.
Why Reviewers Like It:
This soap does a great job cleaning and I only need a small amount per load. It also has a great scent.
This is my third order, so I am definitely a repeat customer.
Best Smelling Laundry Detergent Pods ↓
Tide Pods – Spring Meadow
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “The refreshing, invigorating scent of Spring Meadow”
- What it Actually Smells Like: A combination of floral and green grassy notes
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
For those who prefer the convenience, and (let’s face it) squishy texture of laundry pods, you’d be hard pressed to find a better smelling option than this one:
The lightly floral fragrance infuses laundry with a fresh, uplifting scent that lingers for days without being overpowering.
While it tends to be more expensive than regular liquid or powder detergent, each pod contains three products in one, detergent, scent booster, and stain remover, so it can ultimately save you money — and counterspace.
Why Reviewers Like It:
As far as I am concerned, there isn’t a better laundry detergent. It is totally dependable. Clothes come out clean and smelling great. The fragrance lasts for days on fabric. Totally recommend over other options.
– Aaron S
Best Smelling Long-Lasting Laundry Detergent ↓
Gain Original + Aroma Boost
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “The fragrance of the green, clean, airy outdoors”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Fresh blossoms with a hint of fruit
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
When it comes to long-lasting fragrance and cleaning power, Gain Original + Aroma Boost has both in spades.
The detergent contains perfume microcapsules that gradually break and release their scent over time, helping laundry retain its floral freshness of the Original Gain scent for up to six (six!) weeks.
Plus, it’s formulated with Oxi Boost and Febreeze to remove weeks-old stains and odors, and it’s concentrated so a little bit goes a long way.
Why Reviewers Like It:
My favorite soap! Has a nice scent and leaves clothes smelling great.
– Fontella
Best Smelling Natural Laundry Detergent ↓
Rebel Green – Fresh Peppermint & Lemon
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Peppermint and lemon”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Peppermint and… well, lemon
- Good for HE Machines? No
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
Few scents are as synonymous with “clean” as lemon and peppermint.
What’s more, Rebel Green’s scents are made with essential oils and not artificial fragrances, so they’re safe for the whole family (including pets!).
This woman-owned company specializes in organic cleaning products, so their detergent is free of sulfates and harsh chemicals white still being tough on stubborn stains.
Unsurprisingly, they’re philanthropic too: A portion of each bottle sold goes to support an environmental cause.
Why Reviewers Like It:
This one bottle lasts me a very long time and I use a full cap each load. It cleans my clothes very well and I love the scent. My favorite detergent I’ve ever used!
– Kate
Best Smelling Laundry Detergent For Men ↓
Hero Clean – Scent 1
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “A fresh, crisp, juniper-based scent”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Juniper base, with notes of musk and wood
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
If you’ve ever wished there was a laundry detergent specifically made for men, consider your prayers answered.
Hero Clean’s high-performance home cleaning products are formulated to tackle guys’ toughest stains and odors, particularly those faced by athletes, first responders, and military personnel.
Like its branding, the scent is masculine (AKA not floral) and stays in the fabric for a long time.
And here’s more good news: The formula contains enzymes for color brightening, whitening, and fabric protection, plus it’s safe for moisture-wicking fabrics.
Why Reviewers Like It:
I use this product for my “performance fabric” apparel and my work uniforms. As a firefighter, my stuff gets all kinds of stinky and musty if you don’t wash it quickly.
This product breaks down the oils and smells without having to pre-soak or rewash.
Tide Original
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “A refreshing scent” [Editor’s Note: Thanks Tide, super helpful.]
- What it Actually Smells Like: Citrus notes, floral undertones, with faint hints of musk or woody notes
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
The OG of liquid detergents, Tide Original is a great option if you don’t want to mess around with artisan formulas and fancy fragrances.
Tide detergent is widely known for its cleaning power, you can count on it to deliver effective stain removal every load while leaving clothes smelling, like, well, clean laundry.
And you can get up to 64 loads of laundry out of one bottle, so it’s one of the best value options on the market, too.
Why Reviewers Like It:
Good at cleaning the clothes but gentle enough to not damage them too much. A little goes a long way, especially with modern detergents such as these. I prefer the liquid ones because it dissolves in cold water better than the powder
– Josh
Arm & Hammer – Clean Burst
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Buoyant clean scent”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Orange citrus notes
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
If the idea of your pants smelling like oranges and lemons is appealing to you, you’ll love the citrusy scent of Arm & Hammer Clean Burst detergent.
In addition to its long-lasting, invigorating fragrance, it packs the effective cleaning power often associated with Arm & Hammer products.
(Honestly, what can’t baking soda do?)
Why Reviewers Like It:
Even if this detergent weren’t one of the most cost-effective options on the market, I’d still love it just the same. The fact that it offers such outstanding cleaning power and leaves my laundry smelling so pleasant is already a win. The affordability is simply an added benefit.
Purex – Mountain Burst
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Smells like mountain air and springtime florals”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Blossoms
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
When it comes to the best laundry detergent for both value and fragrance, Purex has you covered.
The Mountain Burst scent’s refreshing aroma is reminiscent of crisp mountain air and flowers — or this scene from The Sound of Music.
Great smell aside, the advanced formula is made with stain-fighting actives that penetrate deep into fabric fibers to get out tough stains.
Why Reviewers Like It:
Purex got the clothes clean, and they smelled fresh.
– WCH
Frey – Bergamot Beach
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Sandalwood, Bergamont, Clove”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Sandalwood, Bergamont, Clove
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
Another standout scent from Frey, Bergamot Beach conjures images of sun-kissed sand and warm breezes thanks to essential oils of bergamot, sandalwood, and clove spices.
The fragrance is more delicate compared to some mainstream brands, making it a great choice for those who like a subtle scent that isn’t overpowering.
And like all Frey products, the hypoallergenic formula is vegan and cruelty free, made with clean ingredients, and safe for septic tanks.
Why Reviewers Like It:
I LOVE Frey. My husband originally received a bottle in a monthly “manly” subscription box. The smell is subtle but noticeable and not to masculine or feminine. It makes clothes so clean also. I wash my sons football gear with Frey and it always comes clean and smells great.
Method – Lavender & Cypress
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Smells like a spontaneous weekend in Provence”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Lavender and sweet grass
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
We’re not convinced doing laundry can smell like a weekend in France, but this natural detergent’s scent comes pretty close.
The herbaceous aroma of lavender combined with the fresh, woodsy scent of cypress evokes a calming feeling that stays with you all day.
But don’t let that fool you:
It will fight stains and dirt just as effectively as the commercial brand while being better for the environment.
Why Reviewers Like It:
Laundry is so therapeutic when using this product. Your clothes smell so fresh.
At first I was skeptical because the instructions tell you to use 2/3 cap if it’s medium load (the cap is pretty small) I felt as if it wouldn’t get my clothes cleaned with such a small amount of product. I was so shocked when I did my first load of laundry! Clothes came out smelling so fresh, clean and wonderful!
– Missmami
Swash – Pure Linen
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Light classic and clean scent of fresh linen”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Hints of citrus
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
Another good option for those who prefer a more gentle fragrance, Swash’s Pure Linen offers a light, fresh scent (think sheets line drying in the breeze).
But what’s really cool about Swash is its Precision Pour Cap, which dispenses the precise amount of detergent for you, ensuring there’s no waste and you get the best results possible.
Why Reviewers Like It:
Cleans my clothes well, gets my sweaty workout odors out. Very easy to use dispenser. Great value. Don’t make the same mistake I made and use too much. Definitely, less is more. Trust the dispenser on the bottle to do its job.
Mrs. Meyer’s – Honeysuckle
Scent Profile & Features:
- What the Brand Says it Smells Like: “Garden-inspired Honeysuckle scented laundry soap with sweet flower and fruit fragrances”
- What it Actually Smells Like: Honeysuckle, orange peel and Ylang Ylang flower oil
- Good for HE Machines? Yes
User Scores:
Why We Like It:
This biodegradable formula is infused with essential oils to give a sweet-smelling yet subtle scent of flowers with a hint of citrus.
Plus, it’s aromatherapeutic, so it can actually improve your mood (if that’s possible while doing dirty laundry).
The concentrated formula is effective yet gentle on clothes, thanks to plant-derived cleaning agents and stain-fighting enzymes.
Why Reviewers Like It:
I am very sensitive to strong odors, so this detergent with a light honeysuckle scent is perfect. You don’t have to use very much to get a clean load of laundry.
FAQ
What laundry detergent smell lasts the longest?
The laundry detergent smell that lasts the longest is Gain + Aroma Boost. It contains perfume microcapsules that gradually break and release their scent over time, helping the floral and citrusy aroma endure on clothes for days after washing.
Why don’t my clothes smell clean after wash?
There could be several reasons why your clothes don’t smell clean after a wash. Some of the most common culprits include overloading the washing machine, using too little detergent, not using fabric softern, or leaving wet clothes in the machine for too long.
Another reason why laundry smells after washing sometimes is because you’re not using warm water. Washing clothes at low temperatures may not be sufficient to remove all types of stains and odors from dirty laundry.
For best results, make sure to follow the instructions laid out on the detergent, use warm or hot water when appropriate, and ensure that you only do one small load of laundry at a time.
Smaller loads tend to work best – and use less water – but if you have a bigger washing machine, you may be able to get away with medium loads.
How can I smell like fresh laundry?
If you want to smell like fresh laundry, the first thing you should do is use a good detergent with a fresh scent, like the ones listed above.
Beyond that, a scent booster can also give you better results. These are available in both liquid form and scent beads, and are a great option if you have an old machine and have struggled to get that “fresh scent” smell after completing a wash cycle.
But keep in mind that scent boosters tend to have strong scents, so make sure you choose one you’re happy with before mixing it in with your laundry.
The Recap ↓
Summary
While scent is obviously highly subjective, these detergents represent our top picks after assessing each one’s scent profile, ingredients and user reviews.
More Resources ↓
More Men’s Style Advice from Irreverent Gent:
- The Best Natural Laundry Detergent
- The Best Laundry Detergent for Men
- How to Shop for Men’s Clothes
- How to Dress Better for Guys
- The 17 Best Bar Soaps for Men
- The Most Stylish, Stretchy & Comfortable Suits for Men
- The Best Men’s Leggings (Ugh, fine, “Meggings”) for Men
- The Best Wrinkle-Free & Non-Iron Dress Shirts
- The Best Leather Ottoman Coffee Tables on the Market
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