Having the right container to store liquid laundry detergent in can make a big difference in keeping it fresh and preventing messes when pouring it. There are several good options to choose from when selecting a detergent storage container. The key factors to consider are material, size, pour spout, and lid style. With a little thought, you can find the perfect solution for your laundry room.
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Plastic Containers
Plastic is a top choice for liquid detergent storage because it is lightweight, durable, and inexpensive. There are several types of plastic containers that work well:
- Laundry detergent bottles – These are the containers that liquid detergent typically comes in. When empty, they can be reused to store more detergent. Look for ones with a handy pour spout.
- Plastic jugs – Plastic jugs, like used milk or juice jugs, make ideal detergent holders. Make sure to thoroughly clean them before reusing.
- Plastic buckets – 5 gallon buckets are a popular option. They have plenty of capacity and some have graduations on the side so you can easily measure.
- Plastic storage containers – Clear rectangular containers allow you to easily see how much detergent is left. Look for ones with airtight lids.
Pros of plastic containers:
- Inexpensive
- Reusable
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Transparent options allow you to see detergent level
Cons of plastic containers:
- Can crack or warp over time
- May stain or absorb fragrance
- Pour spout can leak or drip if lid does not seal tightly
Glass Containers
Glass is another traditional material used for storing liquid laundry detergent. Mason jars and empty glass bottles are commonly repurposed as detergent holders. The main benefits of glass are:
- Airtight seal prevents leaks
- Does not absorb odors or stain
- Allows you to see detergent level
- Durable and long-lasting
The drawbacks of glass containers are:
- Heavier than plastic
- Can shatter or break if dropped
- No built-in pour spout
To make pouring easier, use a glass container with a wide mouth or add a separate plastic pour spout. Make sure glass bottles have secure, tight-fitting lids to prevent spills.
Stainless Steel Containers
Stainless steel is a more modern choice for detergent storage. The main perks are:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Won’t crack, stain, or warp
- Rust-resistant
- Airtight seal prevents leaks
Potential downsides of stainless steel include:
- More expensive than plastic or glass
- Heavier than plastic when full
- No ability to see detergent level
Stainless steel is best for large capacity storage, like 5+ gallon containers. Many styles have spigot dispensers for easy pouring.
Size Considerations
When selecting a detergent storage container, think about what size would work best for your needs:
- Small (1-2 gallon) – Best for placing inside the washing machine or on a nearby shelf. Easy to lift and pour from. Enough for up to 1 month of laundry.
- Medium (3-5 gallon) – Good for laundry room floor storage. Holds 2-3 months worth of detergent. Still reasonably easy to handle.
- Large (5+ gallon) – Ideal for laundry room corner storage. Minimizes need to restock. Very heavy when full so not portable.
Consider how much laundry you do and your detergent usage when choosing a size. Here is a guide:
| Container Size | Detergent Held* | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 16 loads | Apartments or small households |
| 2 gallon | 32 loads | 1-2 person household |
| 3 gallon | 48 loads | 2-3 person household |
| 5 gallon | 80 loads | Large or multi-person household |
*Based on average detergent dose for one load
Dispensing Options
The way your detergent storage container dispenses the liquid is an important consideration:
- Original bottle – If reusing the original container, it will have a push-button or flip-top pour spout built in.
- Funnel with spout – A funnel with an extended spout can be added to containers without a pour spot to make pouring easier.
- Spigot – Some plastic jugs and stainless steel containers have a turn spigot dispenser for easy pouring.
- Pump dispenser – Aftermarket pump tops can be purchased to add soap-style pumps to storage containers.
Make sure your container either has a specialized pour spout or that you add one. This prevents spilling and allows precise detergent measurement.
Lid Considerations
Having a lid that seals tightly is important to prevent leaks and spills. There are a few common lid styles:
- Screw-on lid – A screw top lid provides an extremely secure, leak-proof seal.
- Flip-top lid – Flip tops are convenient but can allow leaks if not fully closed.
- Snap-on lid – A plastic snap lid forms a tight seal. Just ensure it snaps fully into place.
- Sliding lid – Slide lids completely cover the container opening when closed.
Ideally choose a container with a screw-on or snap-on lid. Make sure to close it tightly after each use. Safety first!
Labeling
Clearly labeling your detergent storage container is highly recommended. Here’s why:
- Prevents accidentally using the wrong product if you refill the container
- Lets others in your household know what’s inside
- Helps match the lid if it gets separated from the container
- Allows quick identification of what’s stored where in your laundry room
Use a permanent marker or waterproof label to note what the container holds. Include warnings like “Laundry Detergent” and “Caution: May Cause Eye Irritation”.
Location
Where you store your liquid laundry detergent container can impact convenience and safety:
- Next to washing machine -Makes detergent readily accessible for loading clothes.
- Laundry room shelf – Gets detergent up off the floor and provides a dedicated space.
- Corner of laundry room – Takes advantage of unused space if you have a large container.
- High shelf or cabinet – Safest option if you have young kids or pets.
- Under laundry sink – Convenient but has potential for water leaks.
Make sure to keep detergent out of direct sunlight, away from heat sources, and away from children’s reach. If space allows, a high closet shelf is ideal.
Refilling Your Container
When it’s time to refill your liquid laundry detergent storage vessel, follow these tips:
- Use a funnel to prevent spills and thoroughly rinse it first if needed.
- Check that your container is completely empty before pouring in new detergent.
- Carefully pour along the side of the container rather than directly into the center.
- Stop pouring when the detergent is 1-2 inches from the top to allow room for expansion.
- Tightly seal the lid and immediately wipe up any spilled detergent.
Take your time when refilling to prevent accidental spills or messes. Having a dedicated detergent funnel helps make the process easier.
Cleaning Your Container
Over time, detergent storage containers can get residue build up. Give your vessel an occasional good cleaning by:
- Filling with warm water and a small amount of dish soap.
- Letting soak for 15-20 minutes to loosen dried-on gunk.
- Using a cleaning brush to scrub inside.
- Rinsing several times until all soap is gone.
- Allowing to fully dry before refilling with detergent.
A thorough periodic cleaning keeps your container fresh and helps your detergent pour easily. For plastic containers, replace if cracking or warped over time.
Safety Tips
When working with laundry detergent, keep in mind:
- Keep containers sealed and store safely out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid inhaling fumes as concentrated detergent can irritate airways.
- Wear gloves when handling to prevent skin irritation.
- Rinse immediately with water if detergent splashes in eyes.
- Clean up any spills right away to prevent slick surfaces.
Use caution when dispensing, filling, or moving detergent containers. Safe handling prevents accidents and injuries.
Conclusion
Storing your liquid laundry detergent properly is an important home maintenance task. Plastic, glass, and stainless steel all make good containers. Look for a size that fits your household’s laundry needs and a pour spout design that makes dispensing easy. Place your detergent vessel safely out of reach of kids and pets. With a little forethought, you can find the ideal detergent storage solution to keep your clothes fresh and clean.