Perhaps the most common detergent today. In recent years, the product range has been expanding, and most manufacturers of household chemicals, in addition to the powders familiar to us, have liquid detergents. The phrase "liquid powder" itself sounds a little strange, although it is precisely it that is used in most cases. Given the growing interest of consumers in this group of products, we decided to figure out what "liquid powder" is, how it is better or worse than laundry detergents on the market, and tested the most popular liquid detergents today.

Tablets, powders, gels...

Do not think that this is an assortment of a pharmacy kiosk. This is what you can find on the shelves with household chemicals in any supermarket today. Laundry detergents come in three main forms: powder (as a type of granular powder), liquid (gel), and tablets.
Powdered detergents today still remain the most popular group in the Russian market - their share is about 95%. Conventionally, they can be divided into three price categories: low, medium and high.
Among the powdered products there are granular powders, which are less "dusty" and more convenient to use. Granulation increases the cost of the powder, which is why few manufacturers use this method.
Powdered detergents can be concentrated, that is, contain an increased dose of active substances.

Liquid detergents are traditionally used for hand washing delicate fabrics, silks and wools. Recently, liquid detergents have appeared for laundry and other types of fabrics, including cotton. Liquid detergents are intended for washing in automatic washing machines, and for manual.
Gels are liquid detergents with increased viscosity (which does not necessarily mean an increased concentration of active substances).
The share of liquid detergents in Russia in 2000 was only 1%, this moment this percentage has slightly increased. In Europe, the share of sales of liquid detergents is 25%, in the USA and Canada - up to 50%.
Detergents in tablets are quite popular in Europe, as for the Russian market, so far only visitors to expensive supermarkets, such as Seventh Continent, Kalinka Stockmann and others, have encountered powders in tablets. Tablets are fast-dissolving single-layer or multi-layer with an adjustable dissolution rate of the layers. In the second case, the active substances are included in the work in turn: first, enzymes (30-40°C), then oxygen-containing bleaches (60°C). The main advantage of this form of powder is the convenience and cost-effectiveness of dosing - 1-2 tablets, depending on the degree of contamination.

Powders for special purposes

Regardless of the consistency, powdered and liquid detergents differ in purpose. In addition to universal washing powders, there is a wide range of specialized different types fabrics. At the same time, for some brands, specialized products can be presented in both forms.
Detergents for delicate fabrics, as the name suggests, are designed for washing items made of mixed synthetic fibers, fine fabrics, cambric, knitwear, lace, microfiber. These products have a special composition, a lower pH level and provide a more gentle treatment of fabrics, especially dyed ones. They are available in both powder and liquid form, although the latter is more common and preferred for delicate fabrics.
Detergents for wool and silk do not contain enzymes, because the latter damage the fragile fibers of these natural materials. The release form can also be powdered or liquid. Many manufacturers do not produce such a powder separately, equating silk and wool to delicate fabrics.
Detergents for colored laundry (usually labeled Color on the package) have a milder effect than universal or bleaching agents, and also contain polymers that prevent the transfer of dye from colored products. "Liquid powders" for colored laundry is the subject of our test.
Detergents for black linen is the latest development from detergent manufacturers, which has so far appeared in the range of fairly expensive brands, such as Domal, Luxus Professional, and those who specialize in the production of special products, such as Fewa, Wollite, Laska. According to experts, there is no fundamental difference between the powders for colored and black linen, but rather this is another publicity stunt.

All about "liquid powders"

Capacity for "liquid powder". Liquid detergents have two forms of release. The first, traditional, is transparent or opaque plastic bottles of various sizes from 0.85 liters to 1.5 liters. In most cases, the bottle has a convenient handle. The cap acts as a measuring cup - consumption, as a rule, is given not only in milliliters, but also in caps. Some manufacturers give consumption in grams, which is especially inconvenient when dosing liquid detergents. It should be noted that most manufacturers make the cap correctly - it is double, that is, it has an internal drain (the neck of the bottle is closed with a cap on both sides). Thanks to this, when you twist the bottle, the remaining gel flows safely into the bottle, and does not spread on the outside. The second form of release is replaceable plastic bags, which are presented in the assortment of Ariel (1.2 l) and Frosch (2 l). Liquid detergent in a bag is convenient to buy (cheaper and easier to carry) if you already have a bottle that will keep the gel sealed.

In the very "heart" of washing."Liquid powder" and gel differ in viscosity. It is the viscosity that determines how liquid detergent is used in machine washing. Manufacturers recommend pouring a non-viscous liquid into the detergent distribution bin of the washing machine (where you usually put dry powder), viscous - directly into the drum of the washing machine, because it will not be washed off with water from the detergent dispenser. However, in both cases, a certain part of the liquid or gel remains on the walls of the measuring cap. By the way, if you pour the gel into the detergent chamber, there is a chance that the detergent will not be washed off immediately, and will slowly drain until the end of the wash, even in the rinse phase, which is not very pleasant. Some gels - Ariel, Dosia, Persil (Russia) - have a special knob in addition to the cap. It serves not only for dosage. This "plastic thing", as the advertisement says, with the right amount of gel is placed in the very "heart" of washing - in the drum of the washing machine. The advantage of this method is that the gel is completely washed out of the knob during washing.

Color spectrum. The color of the "liquid powder" has nothing to do with washing efficiency. When creating a detergent, one or another color is achieved by introducing a certain dye into the composition of the product. Blue, blue, light or dark green, pearly or transparent - the color affects our purely emotional attitude to the product, especially if the product is placed in a transparent container. You will learn about the color of the liquid in opaque packaging after purchase.

About bottles. Also, after the purchase, you will find out how much gel is poured into the bottle. If the transparent container is filled to capacity, then the opaque container may not be filled to the top - so, we were very surprised to find that at least a quarter of the contents were missing in the bottle with Ariel ... However, upon closer examination, it turned out that the gel is very viscous and dense, the bottle is really poured as much as stated - 1.2 liters, probably the container has a slightly enlarged size so as not to lose to the "colleagues" standing nearby on the floor kah. In general, such a form of release as a bottle gives a lot of room for sellers to act. There is no guarantee that no one has opened the purchased bottle before you ... Unscrewing the cap is a matter of minutes, and if the bottle is also opaque, then taking a little "for testing" is not difficult. If the bottle is transparent, then instead you can simply pour some water.

How much does "liquid powder" cost? Unlike conventional powders, comparing liquid products by price per pack is not entirely correct. Firstly, bottles with "liquid powder" have different volumes, and secondly, different concentrations and, therefore, dosages. But in general, it can be noted that for a bottle you will have to pay from 70 rubles (a Russian-made product) to 350 rubles (made in Germany). The price, of course, depends on the place of purchase, in some cases significantly - up to 50%. So, Dosia Color Gel was purchased by us in a supermarket for 156 rubles, while its price on the market is about 100 rubles. As for expensive imported products manufactured under the brands Persil, Frosch, Domal and others, they can only be found in supermarkets, and price fluctuations will be insignificant - within 20%. Below we will give the cost per wash - a parameter by which "liquid powders" should be compared. However, it can be clearly noted that liquid products are at least twice as expensive as powdered ones. The cost is closer to concentrated detergents.

washing temperature. If you use "liquid powder", then the washing temperature should not exceed 60 ° C - this is always indicated on the packaging. 30, 40 and 60 degrees - these are the temperatures that are suitable for the "work" of the enzymes that make up liquid funds. As our test showed, increasing the temperature (up to 60°C) improves the washing efficiency.

When should you use "liquid powders?" The best way"liquid powders" are suitable for lightly soiled laundry. At the same time, you can wash clothes of different colors at the same time, of course, provided that the product contains additives that prevent the transfer of dye to the fabric, and you wash at a low temperature (30-40 ° C). Modern washing machines even have special wash programs for lightly soiled laundry. This is "Daily Wash" (from other manufacturers "Refresh" or "New Things"), which lasts 20-40 minutes and is designed to refresh clothes, Mix (or Mix & Wash) - a program designed for simultaneous washing clothes of different colors and types of fabric. These washing cycles take place at low temperatures (30-40°C). The second group of products for which liquid detergents are indispensable are products made of delicate fabrics. As mentioned above, liquid products have a gentle effect, due to which they do not destroy tissues and do not tear off the dye. If you are willing to pay 2 times more for liquid detergents (compared to powdered ones) and wash 4-5 times or even 7 times a week (instead of one Sunday wash), then you can safely buy "liquid powders".

Why are "liquid powders" not popular in Russia?
1. High price of liquid detergents and low standard of living. If Muscovites can afford a detergent for 70-300 rubles, then most Russians cannot afford it, especially considering that a liquid detergent is effective only for lightly soiled laundry. In general, the higher the standard of living of the population, the greater the demand for liquid detergents, which clearly shows the picture of the consumption of "liquid powders" in Europe.
2. Low washing culture. The low culture of washing is a consequence of the low standard of living. The concept of "washing culture" combines the frequency of washing, the importance of preserving fabrics after washing, the use of specialized detergents. In most European countries, people wash frequently (up to 10-11 machine washes per week in Spain and the UK), so the laundry is lightly soiled, stains do not grow old, and yellowing of the fabric does not occur over time. For effective care for such fabrics, light washing at low temperature with liquid detergents is sufficient, without boiling and bleaching. Recently, a tendency towards a decrease in washing temperatures has been outlined and strengthened - in Europe, in more than 50% of cases, the washing temperature does not exceed 40 ° C.
3. Low efficiency of liquid agents in comparison with powdered ones. Manufacturers are the culprits here, the main mistake of which is the incorrect positioning of liquid detergents. Most of them position liquid products as a complete and more economical replacement for powdered ones, which is completely wrong.

Disadvantages of "liquid powders". The first thing to understand is that liquid detergents are not a substitute for powdered detergents, they can only be an addition. Why? Liquid detergents have a number of objective disadvantages due to their composition.
1. They are ineffective in removing oil, grease and other stains of this group compared to powdered products.
2. They are expensive, due to the introduction of expensive ingredients into the composition (it is difficult to introduce traditional inexpensive components).
3. The price-quality ratio is far from optimal.
4. They have a short shelf life compared to powder products.
Undoubtedly, the first one is the most important, because the concept of "oil and grease stains" includes 70% of the stains that we have to wash most often - these are greasy and oil stains from food, sweat and remnants of exfoliated skin that collect dust on themselves, which over time gives the fabric a stable yellow color.

Advantages of "liquid powders". However, in some cases it is worth giving preference to "liquid powders", due to a number of advantages compared to powdered products. So, "liquid powders" ...
1. They provide a more gentle effect on tissues, due to the softness of their action.
2. Do not "dust", unlike powdered products, particles of which can enter the respiratory tract and cause allergic reactions. This is true for people with sensitive skin, as well as for those who have washing machines installed in the kitchen.
3. Easily and conveniently dosed, providing economical consumption.
4. Reliable in storage (do not crumble, do not pour out, do not get wet, like powdered products).
5. Well soluble in water.
6. Easy to rinse out.
7. Convenient for the treatment of contaminated areas of clothing (easily applied to the stain and immediately begin to "act").
8. Versatile, because they are suitable not only for washing products from any, even the most “delicate” fabrics, but also for washing various surfaces, dishes and glass.

Chemistry of washing

Let's see what substances the "liquid powder" consists of.

surfactant. Surfactants (abbreviated as surfactants) make up about 20% of any washing powder(in liquid detergents, the proportion of surfactants can be increased up to 50%). Usually, on the surface of the pollution, water collects in droplets that are attracted to each other, instead of penetrating into the structure of the pollution. The main task of the surfactant is to ensure the wetting of the contaminated fabric with a cleaning solution and to weaken the bond between the contamination and the fabric. The second task of surfactants is to keep the removed particles of dirt in solution, preventing them from re-settling on the fabric. The effectiveness of the action of surfactants increases with increasing temperature, that is, washing at 60 ° C is more effective than at 40 ° C.

Phosphates. Phosphates eliminate water hardness by neutralizing magnesium and calcium salts (the more salts, the harder the water). With a decrease in stiffness, the effectiveness of the surfactant increases and the softness of fabrics after washing is ensured. In addition, phosphates protect the spiral of the washing machine from scale. It is phosphates that form the basis of all products on the market for protecting the coils of washing machines and dishwashers from scale, the most famous of which are Calgon, Kristall-fix and others. However, such important components of washing powder as phosphates have one serious drawback - they harm the environment, getting through the sewers into natural reservoirs. The way out is to use water-insoluble, and therefore environmentally friendly zeolites. True, there is one “but” here - particles of zeolites can remain after washing on the fabric, making it rough (therefore, zeolites are not used in powders for baby clothes) or deposited in sewer pipes slaughtering them.

Optical brighteners. Optical brightener not only does not whiten, as many people think, it does not affect the quality of washing at all! It only creates the effect of snow-white linen. Optical brightener particles are fluorescent substances that are deposited on fabrics during washing and are not removed by rinsing (therefore, they should not be included in baby powders). Further, they absorb the incident light and emit light in the visible range of the spectrum - in blue and blue flowers. This is what gives you the feeling that the linen has become snow-white (however, this is an optical illusion).

Enzymes. Enzymes (or dietary supplements, or enzymes) are biologically active substances that are part of good expensive detergents. Each group of enzymes performs certain functions, however, as a rule, the composition of the funds includes some combination of enzymes that mutually reinforce each other's action. The most common enzymes are 5 groups. Alkaline proteases break down protein contaminants, amylase - starch, lipase - fat. Cellulase enzymes refresh the color and prevent pilling, while keratinases help remove hardened protein residue. Most of the enzymes are effective at temperatures of 40-60°C, although recently there are also heat-resistant enzymes that can withstand temperatures up to 80°C.

Perfumes. Perfumes that are part of detergents, firstly, neutralize bad smell, which stands out when washing dirty linen, and secondly, they give a pleasant smell to the washed linen. In addition, a pleasant smell of a perfume can play a role in the purchase, while a strong (and sometimes suffocating) one can alienate a potential buyer. The quality of the fragrance does not affect the washing efficiency.

Defoamers. Defoamers (or foam stabilizers) are part of automatic powders. Defoamers prevent the formation of excess foam during washing, protecting machines from breakdowns.

Polymers. Liquid detergents, especially those intended for washing colored fabrics, should contain additives that prevent the transfer of dyes. Thus, the detergent should not remove the dye, and if it has already removed it, then keep it in solution, preventing it from re-settling on other things - preventing molting. To avoid damage to things, all manufacturers recommend washing whites separately from coloreds if the washing temperature is high or you are not sure about the durability of the dye. Another function of polymers is to keep split contaminants in solution and prevent them from settling on the fabric.

Ballast. The formulation of liquid detergents with bioadditives has its own specifics. The introduction of enzymes entails the addition of substances (ballast or useful base) to the composition, which increase the cost of liquid products up to 50-150 rubles. To maintain enzymes in a working state, the introduction of stabilizers is required, the use of which imposes its own requirements on the composition of the liquid powder.

Test for "liquid powder"

test participants. Our test involved "liquid powders" and gels for colored linen, both domestic and imported (mainly Germany, but also Poland and France). All of them were bought in Moscow supermarkets. From Russian-made products: products for colored products BiMax Color Gel (Nefis-Cosmetics OJSC, Kazan), Flat Color (Dombytkhim CJSC, Moscow), Laska Magic Color (Henkel-Era OJSC, Tosno), as well as Emulsion for washing baby clothes (Mir Detstva, Moscow) and 5+ (CJSC Stupinsky Chemical Plant). Of the imported products, German Domal Color Wash-Gel (Domal GmbH), Frosch Color Care (Werner&Mertz GmbH), Luxus Professional Laundry detergent for colored laundry (Oricont), Fewa (Henkel) and Persil Color-Gel (Henhel), as well as Dosia Color Gel (Reckitt Benckiser, produced in Poland) and Ariel Gel Hydractiv (Procter & Gamble, produced in France) participated.

How we tested. The samples purchased by us were tested at the Research Center for Household Chemistry ("NITsBytkhim"). This institute develops, certifies and tests a wide range of household chemicals.

Determination of washing efficiency. For testing, standard soiled fabrics and a laboratory test washing machine are used, which allows for all samples to maintain constant test conditions. Washing efficiency is determined by the whiteness of the fabric. The quality of washing is expressed by a specific numerical value, which is calculated using a mathematical formula. The formula includes the reflectance of the fabric before and after washing. The coefficients are determined using a special device - an electrophotometer. Recall that the higher the reflection coefficient, the whiter, and therefore cleaner, the fabric has become.

Our sample. As we have already said, liquid laundry detergents cannot serve as a full-fledged replacement for powder detergents, because they are less effective, especially for washing heavily soiled laundry. In order to prove this and have a benchmark for analyzing the effectiveness of washing "liquid powders", a regular powder from the low price category "Aist-automatic" was used in the test. We deliberately chose an inexpensive powder, because even it outperforms the majority of not only Russian, but also expensive imported products. The washing efficiency of all detergents, both liquid and Aist, was calculated relative to the "standard" - a product made in the laboratory according to a special recipe, the effectiveness of which is taken as 100%. This does not mean at all that it removes pollution by 100%, just the result of its washing is taken as a standard.

Dosage of detergents. For test washing, we took the maximum dose of detergents - corresponds to the consumption indicated on the package for the most severe contamination and the hardest water. This is due to the fact that the test fabrics are highly contaminated. At minimum or medium consumption, washing results would be even lower.

Remark 1. The test results apply only to the test specimens.
Remark 2. Note that the washing capacity values are given in relative units. In absolute units at 30°С, the washing effect of even the most effective remedy does not exceed 4-7% on standard pigment-oil pollution.

Test 1. "Fat and oil - 30 ° C"

A group of spots. The concept of "Fat-oil" unites the widest group of contaminants that we encounter most often, one might even say, daily. These are most of the food stains (oil and grease), dirt and dust, soot and mineral oil, sweat and the remnants of exfoliated skin that absorb the dust that fixes the stain, and others. These spots are "insidious". Initially a colorless stain (we do not take into account the brightly colored stain from fuel oil) becomes colored over time - it acquires a yellowish tint, and after a stable yellow or even gray-black color - these are particles of dust and dirt settling on the fat. It is more correct to call this group of stains "pigment-oil pollution".

How tested. The effectiveness of the removal of "pigment-oil pollution" was tested on a standard fabric contaminated with mineral oil (EMPA 106). The fabric was washed in a laboratory test washing machine at a temperature of 30°C - the most gentle mode for delicate fabrics. In addition, most manufacturers claim that their products are effective already at this temperature. This is what we decided to check.

Conclusions.
1. The absolute winner of the test is "Emulsion World of Childhood" (80 units against 100 units of the standard). Frosch Color care (59) and Ariel Gel Hydractiv (58) can also be noted, although their results are quite low.
2. All other liquid detergents showed a very low result - they are ineffective when washing heavily soiled laundry at 30 degrees.
3. The powdered agent "Aist-automatic" also showed very low efficiency - at 30 ° C it erases worse than almost all "liquid" ones.
4. Increase the temperature to improve efficiency.

Test 2. "Fat and oil - 60 ° C"

The test is similar to the previous one, but carried out at 60 degrees - the maximum temperature when washing with liquid detergents.

Conclusions.
1. The absolute winner at 60°C was "Emulsion World of Childhood". At 60°C, it washes better than all liquid and powder detergents ("Aist-automatic" and standard detergent)!
2. The second place was taken by "Aist-automatic", the washing efficiency of which coincided with the efficiency of the standard product.
3. All "liquid powders", with the exception of the winner, wash poorly.

Note. It is impossible to compare the values from tables 1 and 2, because they are given in different units.

How effective is washing elevated temperature? As we said, the values from tables 1 and 2 cannot be compared. But still it is interesting to connect them in some way in order to analyze how much the washing efficiency increases with an increase in temperature from 30 to 60 ° C. This will allow us to conclude whether it is worth exposing delicate fabrics to increased temperature effect or not (if the efficiency gain is not significant). To do this, we reduced the washing efficiency values obtained at 30 and at 60°C to one unit. But in order not to confuse you, in table 3 we have given only the number of times in which the efficiency of washing at 60°C increases (relative to washing at 30°C).

Conclusions.
1. As far as we can see, the increase in temperature is essential for powder products. Efficiency of washing "Aista-machine" increases by 7 times! It can be assumed that with an increase in temperature to 90 ° C, the quality of washing will increase even more.
2. The effectiveness of washing with "liquid powders" also increases with increasing temperature, in particular, our winner "Emulsion World of Childhood" at 60 ° C removes grease stains 3 times more effectively. For other liquid products, the efficiency increases by 1.4-2.8 times.
3. However, it is important to understand that it is not only the number of times in which the efficiency has risen that matters, but also the initial level from which this efficiency has risen.
So, if Frosch Color Care showed a more or less good result at 30°C, it is useful to know that at 60°C the efficiency will increase by 2 times. As for, for example, Flat Color, whose effectiveness is also doubled, it does not matter, because at both temperatures it shows a low result.

Test 3. "Protein - 40 ° C"

A group of spots. The group of protein stains includes stains from milk, blood, animal protein from meat and sauces, etc.

How tested. Testing the effectiveness of the removal of "protein contamination" was carried out on a standard fabric contaminated with protein (EMPA116). For the removal of protein stains, active dietary supplements or enzymes, namely alkaline proteases, are responsible. Note that in powdered products, the action of enzymes is interfered with by oxygen-containing bleach (which bleaches and removes stains). plant origin). "Liquid powders" do not contain it, which indicates their potentially high efficiency in relation to protein contamination. That is what we decided to check. The fabric was washed in a laboratory test washing machine at a temperature of 40°C, which is optimal for the "work" of the enzymes.

Conclusions.
1. In this test, the leader has changed. The absolute winner in the removal of protein contamination is Persil Color Gel (made in Germany) - its result (113) is 13 points higher than the effectiveness of the "standard". This is probably achieved by introducing a large complex of enzymes into the composition: amylase, cellulase, lipase, protease (as written on the package).
2. Honorable second place is taken by Frosch Color care (108 units).
3. Third place was shared by three "liquid powders" at once - Domal Color Wasch-Gel (103), Ariel Gel Hydractiv (102) and BiMax Color Gel (101). The results of these funds, as well as the results of Persil and Frosch, are superior in effectiveness to powdered products ("Aist-automatic" and "standard").
4. Of the remaining "liquid powders", the effectiveness of which lies "beyond the line" of the result of the "Aista-machine", washing "5+", Flat Color and "Emulsion World of Childhood" can be considered satisfactory. The result of the rest is unsatisfactory.
5. The leader of the previous tests - "Emulsion World of Childhood" - does not contain enzymes responsible for the removal of protein contamination, although the result shown (77) cannot be called bad.
6. The absolute outsider of this test, the "liquid powder" Fewa, washes no better than plain water! By the way, it is indicated that the composition includes the enzyme cellulase, which prevents the formation of pellets on the fabric, but is not intended to remove protein contamination. This is probably why washing with Fewa is ineffective.

Test 4

All "liquid powders", and even more so for colored linen, are declared by manufacturers as products that preserve the original color of products. The next statement is that the colors are refreshing. We decided to check these statements. Test samples must not wash out dyes from fabrics when washed, must not transfer dye from one color item to another, and must prevent redeposition of dyes on fabrics. The test involved 7 liquid products (BiMax Color Gel, Domal Color Wasch-Gel, Dosia Color Gel, Flat Color, Frosch Color Care, Luxus Professional, Persil Color Gel) and 1 powder ("Aist-automatic").

How tested. For this test, multi-colored T-shirts and children's socks were purchased. T-shirts were cut into pieces. Of these things, 8 identical sets were made, 7 of which were sewn onto large white sheets, 1 remained as a control set. Note that the kits were encrypted: the number of each kit corresponded to a specific detergent. Washing was carried out in a household (not test, as in previous experiments) Ariston washing machine. The sheets played the role of ballast, ensuring a full load of the car. In addition, we checked the transfer of dye from multi-colored linen to white sheets. 5 complete washing cycles were carried out at a temperature of 40°C. After that, the samples were cut, dried and ironed.

How they were evaluated. To determine the preservation of colors, the so-called "light room" was used - the Pro Vue II apparatus, which simulates different types lighting: daylight, ultraviolet, fluorescent lights, etc. Five experts of the Center compared samples washed with liquid detergents with a sample washed with Aist-automatic powder (we will call it "reference"). The responses were analyzed and the degree of paint stripping was calculated using a special formula. After that, decoding was carried out - the name of the detergent with which it was washed was restored by the number of the kit.

Conclusions. The results of paint stripping with liquid agents compared with powdered agents are shown in table 5.
1. All detergents (liquid and powder) act on the fabric and transfer the dye. This is evidenced by multi-colored traces left on white sheets when washed by all means without exception. This was partly facilitated by the unstable dye of purchased products.
2. The "liquid powders" tested by us for colored fabrics really have a milder effect on the dye of colored fabrics - they remove the dye much less compared to powdered products.
"Liquid powders" BiMax, Domal and Flat almost live up to their promises, for which they received a rating of "very good". The action of Dosia, Frosch, Luxus and Persil powders is rated "good" in comparison with the "Aist-automatic" powder.

Test 5. "Foam"

As we said above, automatic powders, regardless of consistency - liquid, powder, concentrated - should have a reduced level of foaming. Otherwise, increased foaming may cause damage to washing machines. These characteristics are regulated by GOST 22567.1-77. The restriction is imposed on a combination of values - the height of the column and the stability of the foam, that is, the powder can have a high level of foam, but it must quickly subside, or the level can be low, but stable.

Conclusion. Foaming of most products satisfies GOST. The exceptions are "5+" and "Weasel Magic Color", the foaming level of which exceeds the allowable level for detergents intended for use in automatic washing machines.

Test 6

The pH level (or concentration of hydrogen ions) plays an important role in the creation and use of detergents. The pH level of human skin is 4.5. Therefore, the lower the pH of the laundry detergent, the better for the hands, as well as for the preservation of fabrics. However, as the pH level decreases, the washing efficiency (namely, the removal of pigment-oil contamination) deteriorates. As a result, manufacturers are forced to find a compromise between these characteristics. GOST 22567.5-93 specifies the range in which the pH level of washing powders should fit - 7.5-11.5.

Conclusions.
1. All products, with the exception of Fewa, have a normal pH level.
2. Leaders in the removal of grease and oil stains have the highest pH level.

Packaging and labeling

We attach great importance to the quality of the markings. Firstly, the appearance is the first thing that the buyer pays attention to, being in a state of reflection and choice. Secondly, the lack of clear instructions for use can not only reduce the effectiveness of the application, but also spoil things (if, for example, there are no restrictions on the type or color of fabrics). And besides this, the product on the market must meet the requirements of GOST for labeling. For all tested "liquid powders" we evaluated the appearance of the packaging, completeness of information and ease of use.

Conclusions.
1. Russian-made products (and those imported that are labeled specifically for the Russian market, such as Luxus Professional) are better labeled for the simple reason that all information is presented in Russian.
2. Funds exported to different countries, such as Dosia and Ariel, contain information in pictures on the packaging, which is less convenient.
3. German-made products - Domal, Fewa, Frosch, Persil - have Russian-language information only in the form of a sticker. However, they may forget to stick it (we encountered this), or it may peel off. We also note that the sticker does not always contain all the necessary information (which, however, is present in the foreign language version).
4. Five "liquid powders" do not specify the type of fabric, others indicate "for all", but do not specify whether the wool can be washed (based on the composition, it can be concluded that the wool cannot be washed).
5. Some manufacturers did not bother to give any recommendations for use, and this is very important, because many people do not know how to use "liquid powders". At the same time, the manufacturer did not stint on rather extensive descriptions of the wonderful effect that awaits you as a result.
6. Consumption is given more or less clearly. It is especially convenient that in addition to the dose in milliliters and grams, the equivalent in measuring caps is indicated. The exception is "5+", the manufacturers of which recommend arming yourself with a tablespoon.
7. In Ariel and Dosia powders, in addition to the cap, there is a nozzle that acts as a dispenser. Filled with gel, it is placed in the drum of the washing machine, and the gel is completely washed out of this dispenser. The same nozzle is present on the bottle of Russian-made Persil, and as for the German counterpart - only in the picture (probably lost during transportation).
8. Those manufacturers, on the packaging of which there are recommendations for use, are advised to pre-treat the contaminated areas with the product - just pour it on the stain. Ariel has a special roller, the use of which makes the procedure more convenient.

Economy

We have already said that liquid detergents are at least 2 times more expensive than powdered detergents. Since it is difficult to compare liquid products in terms of price (they have different volumes and dosages), we calculated the cost of washing in a washing machine (Table 8). Please note that for the calculation (as well as for washing) we took the maximum consumption, so if you wash lightly soiled laundry in less hard water, then the consumption and, consequently, the price for washing will be significantly reduced (up to two times).

Conclusions.
1. Table 8 shows that the "liquid powders" of German production, Domal and Frosch, are very expensive - 37-45 rubles, this is the highest price for washing. Funds belong to a very high price category.
2. "Liquid" imported powders, such as Ariel (France), Persil and Luxus (Germany), belong to a high price category, the cost of washing is 28-33 rubles - this is comparable to the cost of washing with good concentrated products.
3. The average price category is "World of Childhood", Fewa, BiMax and Dosia, the cost of washing is from 16 to 22 rubles, which is comparable to the cost of washing with good powder products.
4. The low (relative to other "liquid powders") price category includes Laska, "5+" and Flat products, but even the cost of washing them exceeds the cost of washing with a powdered product.

Price-quality ratio

Given the above test results, we can safely say that such a high cost is unjustified. For clarity, we calculated the overall efficiency by placing it in the table along with the cost of washing (Table 9).

Conclusions.
1. The highest washing efficiency (at 60°C) at an affordable price (22.5 rubles per wash) is provided by Mir Detstva. The same efficiency is provided by the "Aist-automatic", but at the same time it costs 3.5 times cheaper.
For all other means, the ratio of price and quality is far from optimal.
2. All of them poorly remove oily stains both at 30°C and at 60°C, but at the same time they perfectly remove protein stains.
Persil and Frosch do the best with protein, but Persil laundry costs 25% less.
Ariel, BiMax and Domal also show good results in protein removal. Of these three, the overall effectiveness of Ariel is higher, BiMax and Domal show approximately the same result.
3. The remaining liquid products have low efficiency in all respects. Washing with the most ineffective Fewa product will cost 20 (!) Rubles - it's just a money transfer.

What is the best detergent?

In conclusion, I would like to conduct a qualitative analysis of various forms of detergents, which will once again correctly assess the place of "liquid powders" among a large number of laundry detergents.
To do this, we will formulate criteria for evaluating a detergent and, based on all the tests we have carried out, we will evaluate each group of detergents.

Detergent Evaluation Criteria

1. Efficiency of removal of the main types of pollution:
pigment-oil pollution (fat and oil stains, dirt, soot, sweat, etc.);
protein contaminants (blood, milk, protein, etc.);
colored contaminants of plant origin (wine, tea, coffee, grass, plant pollen, etc.).
2. Whiteness of washed fabrics (brightness of colors - for dyed products).
3. Respect for the fabric:
the safety of fabrics after numerous washes (checked, for example, tensile strength);
color retention (no dye transfer);
lack of inlay (hard "crust" on the washed fabric);
making the fabric soft.
4. Convenience and safety of use and storage:
lack of dust;
ease of dosage;
soft action on the hands (when hand washing);
compactness (concentration);
storage security.
5. Value for money:
economy of washing (low consumption for washing);
high efficiency at low washing temperature;
affordable price.

The main conclusions of the test

1. According to the results of the test "Fat-oil 30 ° C" effective washing provides only "Emulsion World of Childhood".
2. Also, the "Fat-Oil 30°C" test made it possible to conclude that at a low washing temperature (30°C), "liquid powders" have low efficiency: light pollution can be removed, strong - no. This test confirms that the main purpose of "liquid powders" is washing delicate, lightly soiled fabrics at a low temperature.
3. The "Fat-Oil 60°C" test clearly showed that at an elevated washing temperature (60°C), powdered products are more effective than liquid ones. The exception is "Emulsion World of Childhood", which again turned out to be the winner.
4. With an increase in washing temperature (from 30 to 60°C), the efficiency of removing stains of the oil-fat group increases. As we said before, this is especially true for powder products: for example, the efficiency of the "Aista-automatic" has increased by 7 times! A significant increase is shown by our winner - "Emulsion World of Childhood", which at 60°C removes greasy stains 3 times more effectively than at 30°C. The rest of the liquid detergents wash 1.4-2.8 times better. However, this value is irrelevant if the result is low at both temperatures (eg Fewa "liquid powder").
5. Most "liquid powders" effectively remove protein contamination. The more expensive the product, the higher its effectiveness, which is explained by the high cost of enzymes (the exception is the expensive and inefficient Fewa).
The absolute winner in this test is Persil Color Gel (Germany) - 113 units, Frosch Color care has a rather high result (108 units). Effectively remove protein stains Domal Color Wasch-Gel (103), Ariel Gel Hydractiv (102) and BiMax Color Gel (101).
The results of Flat Color, "5+" and "Emulsion World of Childhood" can be considered satisfactory.
6. Liquid detergents for colored fabrics do have a milder effect (Table 5) on fabrics compared to powdered ones.
However, in the case of an unstable dye, colored items fade, leaving traces on white, so you should listen to the manufacturer's recommendations: "Wash whites separately from colors."
If you are confident in the quality of the dye, then you can wash multi-colored things together, while the temperature should be low (Mix programs in modern washing machines).
BiMax Color Gel, Domal Color Gel and Flat Color have the most gentle effect of the products we have tested, they are rated "very good".
7. Almost all products have normal foaming (Table 6) and, in accordance with GOST, meet the requirements for products for automatic washing machines. The exceptions are "5+" and "Weasel Magic Color", which have increased foaming.
8. The given pH level measurements (Table 7) make it possible to verify that products with a high pH level showed high efficiency in removing oil and grease stains (the leaders of tests 1 and 2 are "Emulsion World of Childhood" and "Aist-automatic").
And Fewa, with low washing efficiency, has a minimum pH level, moreover, this level does not fit into the range required by GOST.
9. The labeling of Russian funds causes less criticism than imported ones. In the second case, Russian-language information is placed on a sticker that they may forget to attach, with the same success it can peel off by itself.
The main remarks for labeling are that the types of fabrics are not indicated, there are no recommendations for use.
10. As for the packaging, there are much fewer comments. All "liquid powders" and gels are placed in strong plastic bottles(many with a comfortable handle) with a measuring cap. It should be noted that almost all caps are made very competently - it "clasps" the neck of the bottle on both sides, and the remaining gel flows back down the inside of the bottle. The only ones who have not taken care of such a device are the manufacturers of detergents "5+" and Flat.
11. Ariel and Dosia can be considered the most prudent in terms of packaging. The bottles have a special nozzle that is put on over the cap, and when washing, together with the gel, it is placed in the drum, which ensures the full use of the detergent. What's more, Ariel has a handy stain roller.
12. Liquid detergents are expensive. Means from a very high price category have no analogues in terms of the cost of washing, from a high price category they are comparable to washing with concentrated detergents, from a middle one - with good expensive powders, from a low one - with ordinary powders.
13. The ratio of price and quality for "liquid powders" is far from optimal. Powdered products have a lower price and are more effective at high temperatures. At the same time, the purchase of liquid products is justified by the presence in the wardrobe of products made of delicate fabrics.

Not every thing, like jeans or a tapestry bedspread, is able to forgive certain mistakes in washing. In order for your favorite outfits and underwear to keep their appearance, as they say, from the needle, they need delicate care. Fortunately, modern technology almost completely relieves us of the need to wash "capricious" things by hand, since it is difficult to find a washing machine today that does not have at least one program that allows you to wash clothes carefully. Our task is to remember the rules for washing delicate items: prepare them for "water procedures", choose the necessary detergent and gentle mode. Ready to delve into the intricacies?

What items need a delicate wash?

Let's look into the laundry basket and start sorting: items made of wool, silk, cashmere, thin fabrics (organza, guipure, satin, lace, chiffon), with rich decor and complex, voluminous cut (sequins, rhinestones, ruffles, folds, pleating) require a separate washing regime. Also among the sissies are membrane fabrics, microfiber, thermal underwear, outfits with bright but unstable coloring or patterns, for example, printing on fabric, as is the case with T-shirts.

Whether this or that thing needs a delicate wash, labels with washing signs that the manufacturing factory is obliged to sew in will always tell you. If you cut them off, be guided by your own discretion: “sissies” are contraindicated in washing temperatures above 30-40 degrees, normal universal powder and maximum pressure.

On a note! Delicate wash symbols:

Delicate wash symbols

Means for delicate washing

Things that require a special washing regime, and detergents need special ones. On the shelves of stores with household chemicals, such gels, conditioners and powders have various labels indicating their usefulness for the delicate care of clothes and linen. These products do not contain aggressive chemical components (phosphates, chlorine and other bleaching ingredients) that can ruin your favorite outfits - they protect the fibers and color of the fabric, make it softer and softer.

It is also necessary to use mesh bags for washing - they prevent the deformation of things and damage to their decor, the appearance of pellets, hooks and puffs, help to "organize" small items, preventing them from getting lost in larger counterparts.

Features of the delicate wash mode

This mode can be called differently depending on the brand and model of the machine: “Delicate wash”, “Gentle wash”, “Hand wash”, “Delicate fabrics” or specialized “Wool”, “Silk”. But general principles caring for the sissies of your wardrobe in the washing machine are the same. Firstly, washing takes place in a large amount of water in order to reduce the friction of things in the drum against each other and rinse the detergent more thoroughly. Secondly, the washing temperature does not exceed 30, less often 40 degrees Celsius, which prolongs the life of the color of the linen. Thirdly, the drum movements are slower and smoother. Fourthly, spinning is either not performed at all, or occurs at minimum speed (400-600 per minute) so that things do not stretch out and lose decorative elements. Please refer to your machine's instructions for details of the delicate wash cycle in your machine.

Whom to entrust the most valuable thing in the wardrobe?

When choosing a washing machine, many consumers unanimously pay attention to the three leading criteria: price-quality ratio, washing class, equipment reliability (manufacturer's reputation, leakage protection, warranty duration). The ATLANT СМА 70С1010 automatic washing machine may embody your family's dream of a modern and stylish household helper. In terms of dimensions, it belongs to narrow machines: its depth is 48 cm. Such equipment can also be placed in a small kitchen or bathroom. A large load of laundry (up to 7 kg) is convenient not only because it can free the entire laundry basket in one wash, but also because you can wash large items in the machine: blankets, bedspreads, curtains, pillows - without resorting to laundry services.

The machine has 16 most popular washing modes, including such as "Cotton", "Jeans", "Shirts", " Outerwear”, “Children's clothes”, “Dark clothes”, “Synthetics”, as well as “Wool”, “Silk”, “Hand wash” modes suitable for caring for delicate fabrics. The energy consumption class of the machine is A+++, the washing class is A, the manufacturer's warranty period is 3 years (for the electric motor - 5 years). There is a blocking function "Protection from children", the Aqua-Protect system (protection against leaks), a convenient electronic control display.

And perhaps another important argument in favor of the appearance of this clever and beautiful assistant in your home is the half-century history and positive reputation of the ATLANT brand. "Made in Belarus!" and now sounds like a synonym for quality, whether it is food, clothing or household appliances. Read the reviews and make the right choice!

In this article, we will tell you how to properly wash delicate fabrics, what conditions are recommended to be observed, as well as the substances used to clean such things.

We will talk about woolen and silk things, which include synthetics. Consider knitted goods, cashmere material and others used for the production of clothing.

Let's make a mention of sportswear. After all, it is rinsed many times more than regular clothes, if you do sports every day.

What do things need during the removal of contaminants?

You've made the decision to clean your entire wardrobe. Fine. Most likely, you have purchased a washing liquid that you will use.

In fact, you need to know the product that you are buying and what types of materials it is focused on. In many detergents, the composition consists of enzymes.

You will make a big mistake if you do not look at the composition of the detergent.

If such a substance is present in the composition of the cleaner, your things will be damaged after the first attempt to eliminate the dirt and, of course, will lose their original appearance.

Of course, there are cases where the use of powders is necessary. The basis of such mixtures includes lanolin, designed to make your delicate.

This contributes to the preservation of the previous state of the tissues. Lanolin does not count complete list elements, in addition to it, there are many others.

Of course, removing stains and sweat marks with the use of such elements will have a positive effect on your wardrobe.

Directly silk and fur, without hesitation, you can shove it into the machine and forget for a long period.

Washing Features

The opening item on our list of requirements will be the well-known golden rule of express laundry.

Everyone around is just talking about the fact that dark clothes are erased from, light from light. This is true, and the practical experience of many people, including you, confirms this.

The colors of things begin to mix during cleaning, and after this process is completed, you can immediately count on the appearance of a dark spot on the yellow shirt.

Strictly observe the mode and time for the destruction of stains from the fibers. Each type of clothing has its own mode on an automatic typewriter and it does not matter if it is silk, wool or synthetics.

If you have a semi-automatic or some other type of washing and you are not sure that everything will go according to plan, then you better get busy hand wash. Most often this applies to silk and things.

Let's imagine that you have a lot to do and you left your silk clothes in the washing machine to wash.

Things made of delicate fabrics that have lain for quite a long time in water can be stretched and deteriorate in quality.

Do not allow water temperature to exceed 30 degrees. Usually, hot water negatively affects clothing.

Mode selection. No less relevant question. Things that require careful attitude? So the mode is delicate. Firstly, this mode does not allow heating water more than 30 degrees. Secondly, the speed of rotation of the drum decreases, which helps to maintain the integrity of the fibers. And also the water level here is a little higher than usual, which also has a positive effect. The fourth plus is the lack of spin. Do you wash sports clothes? Okay, select "Synthetics" Nothing complicated, right?
Rinse without spinning. Yes, the clothes will be almost dry and dry fairly quickly, but they can stretch and become a couple of sizes larger. Better squeeze by hand, it will be better. Well, or just leave the clothes on the dryer, they will already take on their previous appearance overnight. Experts recommend that silk and woolen items should not be wrung out after washing. Let the water drain itself after washing, otherwise you will have to buy a new hat.
Do not overdo it with the efforts to wash things by hand. And here the occurrence of force majeure circumstances is possible. With intense friction, significant tissue damage can occur.

Remember that delicate fabrics can only be ironed on the reverse side.

How does this happen? Turn your t-shirt inside out, turn on the steam mode, and get to work.

Woolen fabric is first covered with moistened gauze, gauze is applied to clothes and ironing of delicate fabrics begins through it. Other cases should not be considered.

The secret to keeping things in perfect condition

The most "capricious" in the elimination of dirt are things with lace. Although they give the image an elegant look, they need careful care.

To reach the maximum effective cleaning clothes with beautiful patterns and at the same time not to spoil it, we recommend that you soak the product in washing soda.

It should be diluted in proportions of 1/2 tbsp. l. for 1/2 bucket of water.

In time, soaking should last no more than 3 hours.

A robe with fine lace weaving should be soaked and cleaned exclusively in a special bag that will protect things from all possible negative factors.

If it is not possible to purchase such a bag, then simply wrap the product in a cotton pillowcase.

Openwork napkins also have some features in removing stains and dirt from them. Before you start cleaning, sew napkins to the white fabric.

Make it so that the stitches are large. This rule will keep your wipes in good condition for a long time.

After washing, proceed to ironing the openwork products, while not removing the white fabric to which the napkins were sewn.

Detergents for laundry

Of course, today on the windows of household stores there is a huge assortment of various chemical products for cleaning. various materials and his rinses.

In addition, the entire range of possible cleaning products is supplemented by domestic methods. Such methods were relevant a century ago and still remain in vogue.

This knowledge was passed down from generation to generation, and now, today we also possess this knowledge.

Many will say that modern cleaners are much better and more efficient, but this is not true.

Grandma's methods are in no way inferior to modern manufacturers of chemical products, and in some cases even outperform. Now I will tell you about several of these methods:

If you add hydrogen peroxide to a container with a washing solution in the ratio of 1/2 cup to 5 liters of water, then your lace will regain its snow-white purity.
Before starting the final rinse of clothes, add 1 tablespoon of glycerin to the water. Glycerin prevents shrinkage of things and makes your clothes soft and silky.
If you have washed silk clothes and you do not have enough free time to iron silk products. You just need to pack them in a plastic bag and leave them in the fridge for a few days. Don't worry, nothing will happen to them.

What does the chemical industry offer?

WITH folk recipes we figured it out, and now let's move on to considering special detergents for washing delicate items that can be found in the household departments of stores. Gels are best suited for these purposes. It is liquid formulations that will gently wash the dirt and take care of the safety of your belongings.

We offer you top best gels for washing delicate items:

BioMio
Emerl
Wellery Delicate Wool
power wash
Synergetic
Pigeon Act'z
Meine Liebe
Perwoll
Persil Gel
Ariel
weasel

You can read more about the benefits and compositions of all these bottles in our article.

Outcome

In conclusion of the article, I would like to draw your attention to the simplicity and accessibility of caring for clothes that require careful treatment.

You just need to follow a few important rules and know some features.

Therefore, you are going to the store, go and choose chemical substances perfect for your clothes.

Now, when you are going to walk the streets of the city, go to the arboretum, get some fresh air, get away from the daily hustle and bustle, you can easily choose the right look from your wardrobe and you will certainly be able to look impeccably clean, stylish and well-groomed.

After all, following all the rules, you will ensure the longevity of your things. The color will be as bright and contrasting as when you bought the product.

You won't think about your appearance how badly you look against the background of others and how close attention people show to you on the street. With a fresh head, you can relax and forget about all your worries.

produced by Ecochemprogress according to GOST R 52488-2005

dissolves well in water, rinses out easily without residue, provides careful care behind the fibers of the fabric.

Because universal products can contain aggressive ingredients and ruin your delicate things, so you need to use special preparations for them.

The reagent is designed specifically for processing wool and delicate fabrics.

Detergent for delicate washing provides:

delicate fabrics soft and gentle washing
contains a component that prevents color loss
removes static electricity
works effectively at temperatures from 30 ° C and above, allows you to carefully remove dirt from clothing without damaging it

Chemical composition: water, non-ionic surfactants 5-15%, anionic surfactants up to 5%, complexing agent up to 5%, functional additives (anti-resorbent, optical brightener, defoamer). Does not contain phosphates, chlorine-containing reagents, bleaches. pH - 9-9.5

Appearance: clear liquid

Warranty period of storage is 1 year. Freezing is allowed. When defrosted after thorough mixing, it completely restores its properties

Supplied in 10 liters. polyethylene canisters.

Designed for laundry and home use

Delicate fabrics