Selecting a capsule for washing and instructions for using such products

Progress affected not only the technical side in the field of caring for things, but also the chemical side. The range of substances for cleaning clothes has expanded significantly in recent years. The products are becoming more effective and complex in composition, but easier to use. One of these new products is laundry capsules, which act as a worthy alternative to powder.

Laundry capsules or powder: which is better?

The most “lazy” means of cleaning fabric from dirt and stains are capsules. After all, there is nothing easier than putting one of its pieces directly into the drum along with your things and starting the selected mode. There is no need to measure out the required amount of the substance or perform unnecessary manipulations of pouring it or pouring it into the dispenser of the unit. The possibility of chemical contact with the skin disappears, which is very important for allergy sufferers.

Gel in capsules is suitable for all types of fabric, does not damage the structure of textiles and leaves a fresh aroma. After washing, things feel pleasant to the touch even without the use of conditioners.

The old and familiar powder is still at the peak of popularity, but in many ways it is inferior to more gentle cleaning products. Just by giving preference to gel capsules, you should not completely abandon the classic granules. Bulk substances are more aggressive, but also easier to deal with stubborn or old stains. The universal “warrior” will easily emerge victorious from the most difficult situations when it comes to items made of synthetics, cotton, linen and mixed fibers. Expensive modified versions of the powder have special granules designed to combat wear and tear on textiles and add a pleasant smell to clothes.

Important: when using a large amount of powder, it is poorly washed out of the fabric structure, especially in cold water. The material becomes rougher and may cause skin irritation.

Pros of capsules

The benefits of any substance are determined after comparison with another. In this case, it would be appropriate to choose washing powder as a “rival”, since it is the progenitor of all cleaning products.

Obvious and invisible advantages of capsules:

• The properties of the active substances included in the composition are 2 times more effective.
• Complex options include air conditioning.
• The amount of liquid in the shell is designed for 1 wash, and there is no need to accurately measure the next dose each time.
• There are no streaks or white spots left on things, as often happens when using powder.
• Based on the number of “pads” in the package, you can easily determine how many washes the product will last for.
• There are no unnecessary losses and expenses due to the fact that the substance crumbles, becomes lumpy due to humidity, etc.
• The chemical composition of the shell allows it to dissolve even in lukewarm or cold water without leaving a trace.
• An allergy can only be caused by the contents of the capsule if it is opened before placing it in the washing machine. Sensitive people should avoid using the concentrate.
• The packages are sealed and compact. They take up very little space and do not allow moisture to pass through until they enter the aquatic environment.

Like any other product of the chemical industry, washing machine capsules also have disadvantages.

Minuses

Every medal has a reverse side:

• High price. A recently introduced market product is still expensive. If we compare the ratio of the volume of liquid substance in a special shell and a similar amount of washing powder, the latter clearly wins in terms of its cheapness. But the pace of development in the production of household chemicals gives hope that in the near future capsules will become more accessible.
• Based on the previous point, it is easy to conclude that using 1 capsule is too wasteful for a small amount of laundry. The use of the product is beneficial for caring for expensive items made from delicate fabrics that require a special approach. Simple daily washing with such a detergent will make a significant “hole” in the budget of the average family.
• The appearance of the capsule is very attractive and may cause a child to associate it with candy or a toy. Therefore, the product should be kept away from children.
• It is not possible to divide the dose into several applications.
• You cannot take the product with wet hands, otherwise the shell will melt and the liquid will spill out.

Important: it is not recommended to wash wool or silk items using gel capsules. An exception may be special sachets, the packaging of which indicates that they are intended for these fabrics.

Cons, according to consumers

All innovative products are criticized in one way or another by customers and competitors. Tide capsules are no exception, which is why it has several serious shortcomings. The main one is the impossibility of dividing the capsule into several parts. Many people start the machine with an incomplete drum, and using a whole “ball” is unprofitable. If you regularly wash a small amount of items, the product will be used up very quickly.

Other shortcomings are also noted.

• High price. Laundry capsules are more expensive than regular powders and gels. But in many ways the costs are justified.
• Strong smell. Many people are confused by the fact that after washing the laundry smells too strongly of the fragrance added to the capsule. But here everything is too individual: you can choose a more neutral scent or not use it when cleaning things close to your face (pillowcases, diapers, towels).
• Danger for children. Externally, capsule balls resemble a bath bomb or a teething toy. All this attracts the child and can cause poisoning. But here everything depends on the parents, since household chemicals must be stored in an inaccessible place.

Tide helium capsules must be stored out of the reach of children.

Among the disadvantages, many include the fact that regularly using capsules is unjustified. Household fabrics do not require such serious and gentle cleaning, so the bulk of the formula is wasted. In this case, it is better to find a compromise: keep both powder and helium balloons at home. Then work clothes and technical rags can be washed with cheap products, while delicate fabrics and lace underwear can be washed with expensive products.

Operating principle

Small, clearly dosed “pads” can be solid or consist of several parts. The shell dissolves easily in water and leaves no traces behind.

When the capsule has several divisions, they are filled with various substances: detergent, conditioner, stain remover.

Filler composition:

1. From 20 to 30% surfactants - surfactants, thanks to which the liquid performs its cleansing function.
2. Optical brighteners.
3. Phosphates soften hard water, which protects the unit from damage and makes washing more efficient.
4. Enzymes - eliminate protein-based contaminants.
5. Approximately 10% is soap for gentle cleaning.

Each manufacturer also adds its own “secret components”. Their composition is not disclosed, but it is thanks to these substances that the products of different companies differ in effectiveness and secondary properties: softness, aroma, removal of difficult stains, whiteness, etc.

This is interesting: sachets mainly contain liquid detergent, but some manufacturers dose washing powder this way or make complex capsule models.

The operating principle is that upon contact with water, the shell dissolves and the detergent begins to act. The dosage of active ingredients is designed for one wash, despite the fact that the “pads” differ in size, color, appearance and content. Basically, the capsules are universal and are suitable for all types of textiles and washing modes.

But there are also highly specialized ones for:

• colored things;
• white fabric;
• underwear;
• children's things;
• bleaching.

More recently, bio-capsules containing a minimum of harmful substances have appeared. This product is produced in China, Japan and Korea. Begins to actively spread in European countries. In Russia, available only through online ordering. This type of cleanser is recommended for people with sensitive skin and respiratory diseases.

Harmful components in the composition

Most manufacturers develop their products based on the same active ingredients. Typically, a highly concentrated cleansing gel and stain remover are used. Tide capsules also “stick” to them.

Tide contains common chemicals that can harm the human body. A striking example is anionic surfactants, which are present in almost all detergents, both cheap and expensive. It is they who are largely “responsible” for combating complex pollution. But at the same time, surfactants dry the skin, clog pores and lead to impaired sweating. This leads to skin damage, allergic reactions and decreased immunity.

The capsules also contain harmless ingredients. These include soaps, enzymes and phosphonates. There are often optical brighteners that are designed to lighten or brighten things.

How to use laundry capsules: instructions and video

To get the expected result, even something as simple as a sachet of detergent must be used correctly. When purchasing a product for the first time, for example, Tide laundry capsules, it is not immediately clear how to use them. The packaging will come to the rescue, indicating a specific algorithm of actions. But most instructions boil down to the fact that the “pad” is placed in the drum - regardless of whether the laundry is loaded before or after. Then you just need to turn on the selected washing mode.

Important: This product is not intended for hand washing or soaking.

Precautionary measures

Household chemicals should be used with caution. Even the safest-looking capsules can cause harm if not treated properly. In addition, the high cost of the product itself obliges you to follow the rules for storing and using sachets so that they do not spoil.

Recommendations for saving and using “pads”:

• Keep the capsule package away from children and closed.
• Do not handle the sachet with bare or wet hands. If it dissolves in the palm, the concentrate coming into contact with the skin will cause irritation. For the same reason, do not use for hand washing.
• Do not use for soaking - the fabric may be damaged.

Only a responsible attitude and compliance with the rules of use will help achieve maximum efficiency.

Flaws

But capsules also have their disadvantages compared to other laundry detergents, such as:

• they cannot be used in parts - they must be loaded into the drum of the washing machine intact;
• Applicable for machine wash only;
• most products have a strong aroma that can be irritating;
• quite toxic due to the high concentration of detergents;
• Not recommended for silk and wool unless otherwise stated in the instructions.

Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the rather high price.

Attention! Laundry sachets often look very “tasty”. Therefore, there are cases when small children manage to taste them. For this reason, the product must be stored out of the reach of children, and if suddenly a child manages to swallow the gel, you must immediately call an ambulance.

Criterias of choice

When making their first purchase, users are more inclined to choose well-known and proven manufacturers who actively advertise their products. It does not take into account that the composition of the sachets is almost the same, and the difference between them is not so significant as to overpay a lot.

The main differences, besides the price, are available:

• components that impart softness;
• active substances that remove pollution;
• whitening functions;
• odor that remains on the fabric.

All this is written on the packaging, which should not be ignored when choosing a product, referring only to the popularity of the brand. The only undoubtedly important criterion that should be taken into account when purchasing gel capsules is the purpose for which the product is purchased.

Important: at high temperatures, enzymes break down, so washing with hot water above 40°C will be less effective. In this case, it is better to give preference to powder.

For white

The composition should include bleaching agents that not only remove stains, but also maintain the whiteness of the material. The most concentrated liquid perfectly replaces delicate bleach and stain remover. Not suitable for wool, silk and black items.

For color

The components of the product work effectively at low water temperatures, are gentle on textiles and preserve the brightness of colors.

For children

The formula of this product is devoid of aggressive substances, flavors and fragrances that can cause allergies or irritation to the baby’s skin.

For underwear and delicate materials

Gently removes stains without damaging delicate fabrics such as silk, linen and suede. Does not have a detrimental effect on embroidery, ruffles, etc. Allows you to wash expensive and high-quality products in an automatic machine.

Biocapsules with enzymes

The main difference between this type of encapsulated gel is that it contains enzymes that remove protein and fat stains in water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C (vegetables, fruits, other foods, grass).

Even after a large number of washes, the fabric will not deteriorate and will not lose its attractive appearance. But biocapsules are not suitable for children's underwear, since the concentrate can cause irritation and allergies.

Important: do not confuse tablets and capsules, as they act differently and consist of different substances.

Rating of Ariel, Tide and others

The most popular are capsules from the manufacturers Ariel, Tide and Persil. But besides them, there are a number of brands whose products are pleasantly pleased with the price/quality ratio.

Ariel

Highly concentrated product. It has a deep effect on the fabric without disturbing its structure and removing impurities. Gives brightness to colored items and restores whiteness to light items.

If for some reason the packaging with instructions is not available, then the question may arise as to how to wash Ariel capsules in the washing machine. It should be remembered that the main advantage of sachets is their ease of use. It is enough to put one “pad” in the tank along with the laundry each time you wash it.

An impeccable result is guaranteed at any water temperature, regardless of the drum volume and the amount of laundry.

Important: a separate series is produced for white clothes. You should pay special attention to this, as these bags contain bleach.

Tide

The capsule consists of three sections filled with stain remover, concentrate and bleach. High efficiency is the main advantage of the product. But even if you purchase Tide capsules individually, you can immediately understand how to use them. It is enough to place the “pad” in the centrifuge with the laundry and set the required washing mode. The main thing is not to use it on delicate fabrics. After cleaning, a light pleasant aroma remains on the clothes.

A package of 12 capsules will replace 1.8 kg of washing powder.

Lotta

Will cope with any stains at low washing temperatures. The best choice for caring for colored everyday items. Contains active oxygen, an enzyme complex and an agent that prevents the formation of scale in the washing machine system. Additional substances make ironing easier. It is produced without fragrances, so only the smell of freshness remains on the material.

Important: It is recommended to store this product in a cool place.

BabyLine

The best detergent for washing children's clothes and baby clothes. The soft gel has hypoallergenic properties and makes the fabric more delicate. The peculiarity of use is that the capsule is placed at the bottom of the drum, and then things are loaded. Recommended for use from the first days of a child's life.

Economical product. Available in packs of 22 pcs. Each sachet is designed for 4-4.5 kg of laundry.

Fairy non bio

The shell is divided into three sections: for stain remover, conditioner concentrate and bleach. Available in packs of 30, 38 and 60 pcs.

This product can also be used to wash baby clothes, but only if you rinse twice.

Domol

The best option for those who cannot tolerate the strong smell of fragrances. The product literally renews the fabric, refreshing and making colors more vibrant. Can be used at any temperature. Even with numerous washes, the textiles will not turn gray.

The packaging is equipped with a strong clasp and is safe if the baby suddenly gets to it. The absence of phosphates in the concentrate allows you to clean children's clothes with this gel.

Losk

The sachet, consisting of two components, contains a stain remover and a concentrate. The substances cope with stains from ink, coffee, felt-tip pens and cosmetics.

The laundry is soft and smells nice after washing. The unique formula of the components is aimed at effective cleaning of the material, but provokes too much foam. Therefore, you need to use capsules in double or triple rinse mode.

Perlux

In one pad, powder and gel concentrate are separated by a thin shell, which significantly increases the washing efficiency. Removes even the most difficult stains and is used at any temperature. The container is equipped with special protection against children.

Lavel

A budget option, but no less effective than a product from a well-known brand. Ideally cleans both colored and white items. One capsule of concentrate is designed for 5 kg. Active substances remove impurities and eliminate unpleasant odors. The composition is free of phosphates, which means that LAVEL POWER GEL capsules can be used to wash children's clothes.

Corat Color

This product guarantees high-quality washing with antibacterial treatment even at low water temperatures. Unique active substances remove stains and prevent the deposition of insoluble salts on the heating element of the unit.

The composition does not include alcohols, phosphates and chlorine, therefore the substance is hypoallergenic and safe - suitable for washing children's clothes.

Lakma

Super concentrate for colored fabrics. The capsule contains powder and gel, which are enough to wash 5.5 kg of clothes.

The composition includes 6 active components, the action of which is aimed at removing stains, maintaining the brightness of the color of the material and ensuring freshness for a long time after cleaning.

Persil

The two-chamber capsule contains stain remover and concentrate. One piece is enough for 4 kg of clothes. The shell dissolves completely a minute after contact with water.

The product does not clog the washing machine system.

What are they made of?

A washing capsule is a kind of container that contains washing gel. The capsule shell completely dissolves during washing, and its insides flow out. Tide capsules, like all others, have a fairly similar composition:

• Gel for the main wash of strong concentration;
• Powder or gel stain remover;
• Surfactant additive;
• Enzymes;
• Flavor;
• Air conditioner;
• Optical brightener;
• Phosphonates.

Housewives' opinions

Evgeniya, 35 years old

Having started using capsules, I return to the powder periodically and reluctantly. It has become unusual to try to determine how much detergent to pour into the container every time. It is much more convenient to throw 1 “pad” into the drum, and not think about the fact that you will also have to pour conditioner and stain remover.

Yulia, 29 years old

I have been using Ariel products for a long time, and I was interested in the new product. At first the cost of the capsules put me off, but after trying it once, I no longer want to go back to regular gel. The pleasant smell remains for a longer time.