Top Laundry Detergents with Fragrances Better Than Perfume

When it comes to laundry, the scent of your detergent can make all the difference. Whether you want your clothes to smell like a luxurious hotel in the south of France or a fresh, crisp cologne, choosing the right laundry detergent can elevate your laundry experience.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best-smelling laundry detergents as highlighted by ELLE beauty editors and reviewers. These top-rated detergents not only smell fantastic but also offer various benefits that cater to different needs and preferences.

The Best Overall: Laundress Signature Detergent

Key Notes: Lily of the valley, jasmine, musk, sandalwood, citrus

Size: 32 fl. oz.

The Laundress Signature Detergent is a favorite among ELLE beauty editors for its slightly floral “clean laundry” scent. This detergent combines the fragrances of lily of the valley, jasmine, and citrus to create a chic and practical product.

According to Katie Berohn, ELLE beauty editor, this detergent not only smells amazing but also keeps clothes bright and soft. It’s perfect for those who prefer to hang-dry their clothes and wash them gently for longevity.

Amazon Rating: 4.1/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: *I wash my linens and towels in this detergent, and it smells like a beautiful hotel in the south of France. Will never not use this.*

Coolest Laundry Care Brand: Xtra Milk

Key Notes: Bergamot, white musk, amber

Size: 32 fl. oz.

Xtra Milk is celebrated for its skin scent, making it a favorite among ELLE beauty editors. The detergent version of this fragrance allows you to enjoy the scent of amber, musk, and bergamot on your clothes.

Katie Berohn mentions that she receives numerous compliments when she uses Xtra Milk from head to toe.

Dedcool Rating: 4.4/5 stars

A Dedcool reviewer says: *This detergent not only smells amazing but makes my clothes feel softer and newer, and the colors are deeper. I have repurchased three times alone with dryer sheets and linens spray. I get so many compliments on the scent.*

Best Woody Scent: Snif

Key Notes: Bergamot, geranium, pink pepper, moss, orcanox, vetiver

Size: 16 fl. oz.

Snif’s detergent is known for its fresh, spicy, and sexy scent, thanks to the pink pepper and vetiver notes. The formula leaves your laundry room smelling delightful after each use.

A Snif reviewer mentioned that this detergent makes their whole house smell great and regrets not buying the larger bottle.

Snif Rating: 4.8/5 stars

A Snif reviewer says: *Wow. I am in love with the scent of this detergent. It makes my whole house smell great when I use it. My only regret is buying the small bottle, and now using regular detergent on lesser loads feels cheap. This stuff is amazing!*

Best Luxury Laundry Set: Francis Kurkdjian

Key Notes: Musks, bergamot, white flowers, lemon

Size: 2 x 8.5 fl. oz.

Francis Kurkdjian’s take on the “fresh laundry” smell is sophisticated and ethereal. This luxury detergent is perfect for washing your sheets and pretending you’re at a five-star hotel in Paris.

The scent is elegant, with notes of musks, bergamot, white flowers, and lemon.

Neiman Marcus Rating: 3.7/5 stars

A Neiman Marcus reviewer says: *I am obsessed with these products. My sheets and towels smell amazing.*

Best Subtle Scent: Juliette Has a Gun’s Not a Perfume

Key Notes: Cetalox

Size: 16.9 fl. oz.

Juliette Has a Gun’s Not a Perfume is known for its single ingredient, Cetalox, which imitates the aroma of musk and amplifies the skin’s natural scent. The detergent version is just as thrilling and is perfect for towels, leaving a comforting fragrance on the fabric for days.

Juliette Has a Gun Rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Juliette Has a Gun reviewer says: *I am blown away! My clothes, towels, and sheets smell amazing and are so soft! Pouring the detergent directly on your laundry makes a huge difference in the lasting smell.*

Best Soothing Scent: Brooklinen’s Dream Clean

Key Notes: Citrus, vanilla, amber

Size: 32 fl. oz.

Brooklinen’s Dream Clean detergent is hypoallergenic and comes with a convenient pump for easy dosing. The formula is perfect for those with sensitive skin, and the citrus lovers will appreciate the warm, bright, and crisp scent.

Brooklinen Rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Brooklinen reviewer says: *These are the best-smelling detergents ever! I am amazed at how little is needed and how long the fresh scent lasts. I’ll never use anything else.*

Best Value: Birchwood

Key Notes: Birchwood

Size: 2 x 64 fl. oz.

Birchwood detergent offers a lot of value with its biodegradable formula and large size. The scent is woody, slightly aquatic, and fresh, making it inviting without being overwhelming. It’s a great choice for those who want their entire house to smell like fresh laundry.

Amazon Rating: 4.7/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: *The birchwood scent is great and smells fresh every wash! The scent is a great mix of clean but also masculine. The twin pack makes this product cheaper than other brands as well. It feels good to know that this is made with plant-derived ingredients and without any of the harsh chemicals/artificial ingredients.*

Best for Bedsheets: The Laundress Beauty Sleep Detergent

Key Notes: Sandalwood, jasmine, lavender

Size: 16 fl. oz.

The Laundress Beauty Sleep Detergent is designed specifically for bedsheets and has won an ELLE Future of Beauty award. The scent, developed by a perfumer, encourages relaxation and calm with notes of night-blooming jasmine and spicy sandalwood.

It also contains a special enzyme to lift dirt and oil, making it great for sheets.

Amazon Rating: 4.2/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: *I’ve been using The Laundress Beauty Sleep Detergent, and it’s quickly become my favorite! The scent smells sophisticated, and as a longtime fan of The Laundress, this new scent is exactly what I’ve been waiting for—it leaves a long-lasting freshness on fabrics without being overpowering. I followed the recommended amount for a medium load and found the fragrance to be perfectly balanced, not too strong at all. For those who find it intense, I’d suggest starting with a smaller amount since it’s quite concentrated, but personally, it’s just right for me. I’ve started using it for all my laundry, not just bedding, and my husband and son love it just as much as I do. It really adds a touch of luxe to everything. Will be stocking up!*

Conclusion

Choosing the right laundry detergent can transform your laundry routine and leave your clothes smelling delightful.

From the luxurious Laundress Signature Detergent to the soothing Brooklinen’s Dream Clean, there’s a perfect scent for everyone.

Consider your preferences and needs, and give one of these top-rated detergents a try for a fresh and fragrant laundry experience.