Do Laundry Pods Expire?
We get asked all the time, do laundry pods expire?. Pods typically don’t spoil or become unsafe like food, but they can lose their cleaning strength. Your laundry detergent has a shelf life from the date of manufacture.
Here’s a closer look at how long laundry pods last, how to store them properly, and what to look for if you’re unsure whether your pods are still good to use. If you’re ready to swap out your old pods, we make our laundry detergent pods with safer, eco-friendly ingredients for a great clean.
Benefits of Laundry Pods
Laundry pods are pre-measured packets of concentrated detergent. They’re simple and easy to use. Pods usually win in the laundry pods vs liquid convenience debate because there’s no need for measuring or pouring.
The best laundry detergent pods are usually a top choice for anyone in a rush. All you have to do is toss a pod in your washing machine and turn it on. Looking for more ways to cut down the time it takes to do your laundry? Check out our laundry sheets made in USA. These convenient sheets work like a pod. Just toss and go.
Do Laundry Detergent Pods Expire?
Laundry detergent pods can expire. So can a lot of your other household staples – if you were curious. The ingredients in laundry pods will break down over time. Using an old laundry pod could mean your clothes don’t get fully clean.
When Do Laundry Pods Expire?
There’s not a strict expiration date, but always check the packaging for a “best by” or “use by” date. The general rule of thumb is that laundry pods typically expire within 6 to 12 months after opening. Unopened and properly stored pods can last around 15 to 18 months.
Do laundry pods expire if their packaging is damaged? Laundry pods can expire faster if the packaging is damaged because air and moisture can reach the pods.
What is it That Makes Pods Go Bad?
Do laundry pods expire? They can, and when they do, you’ll probably notice they don’t clean quite like they used to. Your laundry pods can “go bad” if you expose them to air, heat, or moisture for too long. Laundry pods have an outer film that dissolves in water to wash your clothes. Moisture and humidity can break down the coating. That’s why sometimes laundry pods stick together or break down.
The detergent itself might start to separate or lose its cleaning power. Laundry pods won’t become rancid or spoiled like food, but they will be less effective.
Signs of Laundry Detergent Pod Expiration
Do laundry detergent pods expire? They do. And there are a few telltale signs it’s time to toss out your laundry pods. Here are five signs your laundry detergent has gone bad.
Sign #1: Discoloration
If the pods look different from the way they did when you first bought them, that could be a warning sign.
Sign #2: Texture Changes
Sticky or tacky pods usually mean the outer film has started to break down.
Sign #3: Clumping & Leaking
Look inside the pod to see if the detergent is clumping, thickening, or separating. Detergent leaking inside the container means the seal broke.
Sign #4: Not Fully Dissolving
If your pod leaves behind residue on clothes after a wash cycle, it’s probably no longer effective.
Sign #5: Reduced Cleaning Power
The biggest red flag is how the pods clean. Your clothes might not feel or even smell as clean after washing with expired pods.
What Happens if You Use Expired Laundry Pods?
Using old laundry detergent pods isn’t necessarily dangerous for you or your washing machine. However, don’t expect a great clean. In some cases, they might even cause mild skin irritation.
Here’s what to expect if your pods are past their prime.
Weakened Cleaning Performance
The active ingredients in laundry detergent can degrade over time. Expired laundry pods usually won’t clean as well. Your clothes might come out of the wash with un-removed stains. You might need another cycle to get your clothes washed properly.
Issues With Pod Dissolution
Have you ever taken out your wet clothes and noticed the remnants of the pod stuck to your machine, or worse, your clothes? Expired pods usually don’t dissolve as well. The chances of having issues with your pod not dissolving are higher if you do a cold wash.
Potential for Fabric Residue or Odors
Expired pods can leave a sticky film on your clothes or cause them to smell musty, even after a full wash. This often happens when the detergent inside has dried out or begun to separate. Check your pod before you toss it in your machine to help avoid any issues. If you’re unsure, don’t chance it.
Tips on Storing Laundry Detergent Pods to Keep Them Fresh Longer
Storing your laundry detergent pods the right way can help extend their shelf life. Use these simple tips and laundry detergent hacks to keep your laundry pods fresh and ready to use.
Keep Pods in a Cool, Dry Place
Heat and humidity are two of the main reasons laundry pods go bad. Exposure to heat or moisture in the air can cause the pods to soften, stick to others, or start to melt. You want to avoid keeping your pods in steamy bathrooms, too close to your dryer, or in direct sunlight. Keep them inside an air-tight container in your laundry room storage cabinet to prevent moisture or heat from ruining them.
Use an Airtight Container
Consider picking up an inexpensive glass airtight container to store your open pods. Some laundry pods come in resealable plastic containers that are as bad for the environment as they are for your laundry.
A tightly sealed container protects the detergent from air exposure. A sealed container also prevents spills and keeps curious pets or kids out of reach.
Avoid Touching Pods With Wet Hands
This a laundry hack you probably haven’t thought of. Grabbing a pod with damp hands can trigger the water-soluble film to start dissolving. Dry your hands before handling the pods, especially if you’re transferring them to another container.
Don’t Overload Containers or Mix Old and New Pods
Stuffing too many pods into one container can cause your pods to clump, tear, or leak.
It’s also best not to mix fresh pods with an older batch. Combining them can make it hard to keep track of how long they’ve been stored. Use up your older pods first, then refill the container with a new batch.
Find Fresh Laundry Detergent Pods at Clean People Today!
At Clean People, we make septic safe laundry detergent that delivers a powerful clean without harsh ingredients, heavy packaging, or compromise. We make every pod using safer, high-quality ingredients. We skipped the phosphates, dyes, parabens, and other hard-to-pronounce “gross stuff” you find in conventional detergents.
Clean People pods are also hypoallergenic and a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin. We use 100% plastic-free packaging because it’s better for the environment, and the pods work with all kinds of washing machines. Go fragrance-free or select a delicious scent like Peppermint or Coconut Vanilla.
Do laundry detergent pods expire after being opened? Follow our Laundry Pod Tips on the side of the container to prevent your pods from drying out. Not sure what kind of detergent is best for you? Here’s a great look at laundry sheets vs pods to help you decide.
Final Words on Laundry Detergent Pods Expiration
Do laundry pods expire after a year, or are they still safe to use? Most laundry detergent pods are still safe to use after a year, but they may not work as well. While they don’t become harmful, the detergent inside can lose strength, and the outer film might not dissolve.
For the best results, keep your laundry pod supply up to date. Toss out any old, discolored, or questionable pods for a new pack. Be sure to store your pods correctly to help them last longer! If you’re ready to restock, we’ve got more than just pods. Our lineup includes bulk laundry detergent for bigger households, laundry detergent sheets for space-saving, and other eco-friendly laundry solutions. No matter how you like to do your laundry, we have an option that keeps your clothes clean and your routine simple.
