(https://yeserchem.

com)

Sharing our Science-based Formulation Expertise with

You

Mastering Laundry Detergent Liquid

Formulation: A Comprehensive Guide for
Industry Insiders
 Jun Xie(https://yeserchem.com/author/junxie/)
 May 27, 2023(https://yeserchem.com/2023/05/27/)

In this article, you will read:

1. Introduction
(https://yeserchem.com)
2. The Basic Science Behind Liquid Detergent Formulation – Ingredients and Their Roles
3. Practical Liquid Detergent Formulations
3.1. A. Common Standard Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula
3.2. B. High-efficiency (HE) Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

3.3. C. Economical Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

3.4. D. Mild Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula for Sensitive Skin

4. Developing Advanced Surfactants

4.1. A. Novel High-performance Anionic Surfactants
4.2. B. Branched and Alkyl Polyglucoside Surfactants
4.3. C. Biodegradable Surfactants
5. Innovations in Enzymes and Biotechnology
5.1. A. Proteases and Lipases for Improved Cleaning

5.2. B. Engineered Enzymes for Enhanced Performance

5.3. C. Enzymes for Cold Water Washing

6. Optimal pH and Buffer Systems in Liquid Detergents

7. Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

7.1. A. Environmental Regulations

7.2. B. Safety Testing and Labeling
7.3. C. Ingredient Restriction and Bans
8. Optimization and Cost Control in Formulation
8.1. A. Ingredient Selection and Sourcing
8.2. B. Production Efficiency
8.3. C. Packaging and Presentation
9. Market Trends and Future Challenges
9.1. A. Personalization and Customization
9.2. B. Sustainable and Green Formulations
9.3. C. Integrating with Smart Home Technologies
10. Conclusion: The Future of Liquid Detergent Formulation
 11. Frequently Asked Questions

(https://yeserchem.com)

Introduction
Laundry liquid detergents have revolutionized the way we clean our clothes, offering
convenience, performance, and ease of use. For industry insiders, mastering the
formulation of liquid detergents is essential for producing high-quality products that
meet customer expectations and comply with stringent regulations. This
comprehensive guide provides insights into the essential components, functional
ingredients, innovative developments, and market trends for liquid detergent
formulations.
The Basic Science Behind Liquid Detergent
Formulation – Ingredients and Their Roles
(https://yeserchem.com)

Laundry detergent liquid formulation is an intricate process that merges chemistry,

biology, and physics principles. The goal is to create a product that effectively cleans
clothing, offers convenience and ease of use, and addresses various fabric and stain
concerns. In this section, we will explore the essential components that make up a
typical laundry detergent liquid and discuss their specific roles and functions.

The following table provides a comprehensive overview of the common ingredients

found in laundry detergent liquids and their respective roles. By understanding the
functions of each component and how they interact with one another, industry insiders
can better design innovative and high-performance laundry detergent liquid
formulations that cater to consumer needs and adhere to regulatory standards.

Ingredient Function Common Options Weight ratio, %

(By active content)

Primary surfactants Foaming, cleansing Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) 10-20

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate (LAS)

Secondary surfactants Detergency, foaming, wetting Fatty Alcohol Polyoxyethylene Ether(AEO) 2-8
Cocamide DEA(CDEA)
Cocamidopropyl Betaine(CAPB)
Cocamidopropylamine Oxide(CAO)
Alkyl Polyglucoside (APG)

Chelating agents Preventing metal ion interference Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) 0.1-1

Enzymes Targeted stain removal Proteases 0.5-3

Defoamers Preventing excessive foaming Silicone-based antifoaming agents 0.05-1

Builder Enhancing detergent performance Sodium Carbonate 1-10

Sodium Silicate
Sodium Polyacrylate

Buffers & pH regulators Controlling pH Sodium Hydroxide 0.1-1

Citric Acid

Optical brighteners Enhancing color brightness Tinopal CBS-X 0.1-1

Colorants Providing color Dyes: Direct, Acid, and Basic Pigments 0.001-1

Fragrances Providing scent Essential oils 0.1-1

Synthetic fragrances
Ingredient Function Common Options Weight ratio, %
(By active content)
(https://yeserchem.com)
Preservatives Preventing microbial growth Benzisothiazolinone (BIT) q.s.
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
Sorbic Acid
Sodium Benzoate

Thickeners Viscosity building Salt 0.1-3

Acrylates Copolymer
Cellulose Derivatives
Amides

Deionized Water Solvent, Carrier Deionized Water q.s. to 100%

Laundry detergent liquid components overview

Essential Ingredients in Laundry Detergent Liquid Formulation

1. Primary Surfactants: These are the core active ingredients in laundry detergent
liquids that play a crucial role in foaming and cleansing. Some common primary
surfactants include Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) (https://yeserchem.com/sodium-
lauryl-sulfate-sls/), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
(https://yeserchem.com/sodium-lauryl-ether-sulfate/), and Alkyl Benzene
 Sulfonate (LABSA) (https://yeserchem.com/linear-alkyl-benzene-sulphonic-acid/).
These surfactants work by reducing the surface tension of water, enabling it to
(https://yeserchem.com)
spread and penetrate the fabric more effectively. They also help lift and remove
dirt, oils, and stains from the fabric.
2. Secondary Surfactants: These ingredients work alongside primary surfactants to
enhance detergency, foaming, and wetting properties. Common secondary
surfactants include Fatty Alcohol Polyoxyethylene Ether (AEO)
(https://yeserchem.com/fatty-alcohol-polyoxyethylene-ether/), Cocamide DEA
(CDEA) (https://yeserchem.com/cocamide-dea/), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)
(https://yeserchem.com/cocamidopropyl-betaine/), and Cocamidopropylamine
Oxide (CAO) (https://yeserchem.com/cocamidopropylamine-oxide/). These
surfactants provide additional cleaning power and can help stabilize foam and
boost the overall performance of the detergent.
3. Chelating Agents: These agents play a crucial role in preventing metal ion
interference, which can impede detergent performance. Common chelating agents
include Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA), sodium gluconate, and
Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA). They work by binding to metal ions,
such as calcium and magnesium, in hard water, rendering them inactive and
improving the overall cleaning effectiveness of the detergent. Amongst, EDTA-2Na
(https://yeserchem.com/edta-2na/) is the most commonly used one in liquid
detergents.
4. Enzymes: These proteins target specific stains and soils, breaking them down for
more effective removal by the detergent’s surfactants. Proteases
(https://www.novozymes.com/en/solutions/fine-
chemicals/biocatalysis/proteases) are a common enzyme used in laundry
detergents to target protein-based stains like blood, egg, and grass. Other
enzymes, such as amylases and lipases, target carbohydrates and fats,
respectively.
5. Builders: These ingredients enhance detergent performance by maintaining an
alkaline pH, softening hard water, and preventing soil redeposition. Common
builders include sodium citrate, sodium bicarbonate, and complex phosphates like
sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). By working in conjunction with surfactants,
builders improve the overall cleaning efficiency of laundry detergent liquids.
6. Bleaching Agents: These chemicals whiten and brighten fabrics by removing color
from stains and soils. Common bleaching agents include hydrogen peroxide and
 sodium perborate. They work by oxidizing the organic materials within stains,
making them more soluble and easier to remove.
(https://yeserchem.com)
7. Optical Brighteners: These ingredients enhance color brightness by absorbing
ultraviolet light and emitting visible light, creating the illusion of brighter and
cleaner fabrics. Common optical brighteners include stilbene-based compounds,
distyrylbiphenyl derivatives, and coumarin derivatives. The most commonly used
optical brightener in liquid detergent is Tinopal CBS-X (https://www.homecare-
and-i-and-i.basf.com/products/products-detail/Tinopal-CBS-X/30475071) by
BASF.
8. Foam Control Agents: These agents, often silicone-based, reduce the foaming
tendency of detergent solutions. Excessive foam can negatively impact cleaning
performance by preventing effective contact between the detergent and the fabric.
High-efficiency(HE) detergents (https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-he-laundry-
detergent-do-you-need-it-2145975) for laundry in HE washers. AEO-9, which is
commonly added into HE laundry detergent formulas as a secondary surfactant,
also can serve as a defoaming agent (https://yeserchem.com/secret-ingredients-
he-detergents-aeo-9-sodium-polyacrylate-enzymes/).
9. Fragrances, Colorants, and Preservatives: These ingredients enhance the
presentation, appeal, and shelf life of laundry detergent liquids. Fragrances
provide a pleasant scent, while colorants add visual appeal. Preservatives, such as
benzisothiazolinone (BIT) and methylisothiazolinone (MIT), prevent microbial
growth and extend product shelf life.
By understanding the roles of each component and their interactions, industry insiders
can design innovative and high-performance laundry detergent liquid formulations that
meet consumer needs and adhere to regulatory standards.

Practical Liquid Detergent Formulations

A. Common Standard Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

Presenting a widely adopted standard laundry detergent liquid formula, this
comprehensive list encompasses the vital ingredients along with their respective
weight percentages and the role they play within the formulation. This carefully crafted
combination of components ensures optimal performance, resulting in efficiently
cleaned and refreshed laundry.
(https://yeserchem.com)
Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Caustic soda 0.83% Neutralizer

LABSA 96% 6.2% Primary Surfactant

SLES 70% 9.0% Primary Surfactant

CDEA 70% 2.0% Secondary Surfactant

AEO-9 1.0% Secondary Surfactant

EDTA-2Na 0.5% Chelating agent

Fragrance, Dye, Preservatives q.s. Additives

Deionized water q.s. to 100% Solvent, Carrier

Salt (NaCl) q.s. to achieve desired viscosity Thickener

Citric acid q.s. to achieve desired pH (7-8) pH Adjuster

A Typical Standard Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

In this standard formulation:

Caustic soda serves as a neutralizer.

LABSA and SLES are the primary surfactants for core cleaning and foaming
properties.

CDEA and AEO-9 function as secondary surfactants to enhance performance and

stabilize foam.

EDTA-2Na is used as a chelating agent to improve surfactant efficiency.

Fragrance, dye, and preservatives are added for product aesthetics and shelf-life.

Deionized water acts as a solvent and carrier for the ingredients.

Salt (sodium chloride) is used as a thickener for desired viscosity.

Citric acid adjusts the pH to an optimal range (7-8).

 (https://yeserchem.com)

B. High-efficiency (HE) Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

HE laundry detergents are specifically designed for use in high-efficiency washing
machines that use less water. These formulations have reduced sudsing and are highly
concentrated, delivering exceptional cleaning performance with smaller amounts of
water and detergent.

Here is an example:

Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Caustic soda 0.4% Neutralizer

LABSA 96% 3.0% Primary Surfactant

SLES 70% 10.0% Primary Surfactant

CAB 35% 10.0% Secondary Surfactant

OP-10 4.0% Secondary Surfactant

AEO-9 4.0% Secondary Surfactant

EDTA-2Na 0.2% Chelating agent

Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Fragrance, Dye, Preservatives q.s. Additives

(https://yeserchem.com)
Deionized water q.s. to 100% Solvent, Carrier

Salt (NaCl) q.s. to achieve desired viscosity Thickener

Citric acid q.s. to achieve the desired pH (7-8) pH Adjuster

An Ultra-concentrated HE Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

In this formulation:

LABSA and SLES function as primary surfactants, providing the core detergency
and foaming properties.

CAB, OP-10, and AEO-9 are secondary surfactants that enhance cleaning
performance and foam control.

Caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) neutralizes acids in the formulation.

EDTA-2Na, a chelating agent, binds and stabilizes metal ions to improve

surfactant efficiency.

Fragrance, dye, and preservatives are added as per requirement to improve

product aesthetics and shelf-life.

Deionized water acts as a solvent and carrier for the detergent ingredients.

Salt (sodium chloride) functions as a thickener to achieve the desired viscosity.

Citric acid is used to adjust the pH of the formulation to an optimal range (7-8).
 (https://yeserchem.com)

C. Economical Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

Featuring an affordable yet effective blend of ingredients, this economical laundry
detergent liquid formula provides an acceptable level of cleaning performance at a
reduced cost, making it an ideal solution for consumers seeking a budget-friendly
option for maintaining clean and fresh laundry.

Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Caustic soda 0.2% Neutralizer

LABSA 96% 1.5% Primary Surfactant

SLES 70% 3.0% Primary Surfactant

CDEA 70% 1.0% Secondary Surfactant

EDTA-2Na 0.2% Chelating agent

Fragrance, Dye, Preservatives q.s. Additives

Deionized water q.s. to 100% Solvent, Carrier

HPMC 0.3% Thickener

Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Salt (NaCl) q.s. to achieve desired viscosity Thickener

(https://yeserchem.com)
Citric acid q.s. to achieve desired pH (7-8) pH Adjuster

An Economical Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula

In this economical formulation:

Caustic soda neutralizes acids in the formulation.

LABSA and SLES function as primary surfactants for core cleaning and foaming
properties.

CDEA acts as a secondary surfactant, enhancing performance and foam

stabilization.

EDTA-2Na performs as a chelating agent to improve surfactant efficiency.

Fragrance, dye, and preservatives add aesthetics and shelf-life to the product.

Deionized water acts as a solvent and carrier for the detergent ingredients.

HPMC functions as a thickener to achieve the desired viscosity.

Salt (sodium chloride) is also used as a thickener for desired viscosity.

Citric acid adjusts the pH of the formulation to an optimal range (7-8).

 (https://yeserchem.com)

D. Mild Laundry Detergent Liquid Formula for Sensitive Skin

Formulations intended for sensitive skin are free from known irritants, such as
fragrances, dyes, and certain enzymes. These products prioritize gentle cleaning
agents, hypoallergenic ingredients, and thorough rinsability to minimize the risk of skin
irritation.

A Sensitive Skin Liquid Laundry Detergent Formula:

Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Alkyl Polyglucoside (APG) 4% Primary Surfactant

Sodium Cocoamphoacetate 2% Secondary Surfactant

Sodium Citrate 3% Builder, pH adjuster

Glycerin 1.5% Humectant, Mildness Enhancer

Protease Enzyme (non-proteolytic) 0.3% Stain and Soil Remover

Amylase Enzyme 0.3% Stain and Soil Remover

Sodium Gluconate 0.8% Chelating Agent

Ingredient Wt, % (as is) Function

Aloe Vera Extract 1% Soothing Agent, Mildness Enhancer

(https://yeserchem.com)
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) 0.5% Fabric Softener, Mildness Enhancer

Deionized water q.s. to 100% Solvent, Carrier

A mild laundry detergent liquid formula for sensitive skin

This Sensitive Skin Liquid Laundry Detergent Formula features:

Alkyl Polyglucoside (APG) as a primary surfactant that provides gentle and

effective cleaning performance.

Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, which acts as a secondary surfactant and helps

enhance the overall detergency while maintaining mildness.

Sodium Citrate as a builder and pH adjuster, contributing to improved cleaning

efficiency while ensuring a skin-friendly pH level.

Glycerin serves as a humectant and enhances the mildness of the detergent.

Protease (non-proteolytic) and Amylase enzymes for effective stain and soil
removal without causing irritation.

Sodium Gluconate as a biodegradable chelating agent, helping the detergent work

more effectively in hard water conditions.

Aloe Vera extract to add soothing properties and further enhance the mildness of
the formula.

Panthenol (Vitamin B5) functions as a fabric softener and provides an extra layer
of mildness.

Deionized water as the solvent and carrier for the detergent ingredients.
 (https://yeserchem.com)

Developing Advanced Surfactants

A. Novel High-performance Anionic Surfactants

To improve the cleaning performance of liquid detergents, research is being conducted
on developing novel high-performance anionic surfactants. These surfactants aim to
deliver excellent cleaning efficacy, superior foaming properties, and high
biodegradability.

B. Branched and Alkyl Polyglucoside Surfactants

Branched and alkyl polyglucoside surfactants are eco-friendly, nonionic surfactants
derived from renewable resources. They exhibit low toxicity, excellent foaming, and
superior cleaning performance, making them suitable for use in green and eco-friendly
liquid detergent formulations.
C. Biodegradable Surfactants
(https://yeserchem.com)
As environmental concerns continue to grow, the demand for biodegradable
surfactants has increased. Industry insiders are constantly researching and developing
new biodegradable surfactants to minimize the environmental impact of liquid
detergents and comply with stringent regulations.

Innovations in Enzymes and Biotechnology

A. Proteases and Lipases for Improved Cleaning

Innovations in enzymes have led to the development of new proteases and lipases with
improved cleaning performance. These enzymes provide enhanced stain removal,
better fabric care, and reduced environmental impact when incorporated into liquid
detergent formulations.

B. Engineered Enzymes for Enhanced Performance

Biotechnology advancements have allowed for the development of engineered
enzymes with enhanced performance characteristics. These enzymes provide
improved temperature and pH stability, substrate specificity, and resistance to inhibition
by detergents, leading to superior cleaning performance.

C. Enzymes for Cold Water Washing

As energy conservation becomes a global concern, industry insiders are working on
developing enzymes that maintain their activity and performance in cold water washing
conditions. Undertaking this would lead to reduced energy consumption and significant
cost savings for the consumer.
Optimal pH and Buffer Systems in Liquid
Detergents
(https://yeserchem.com)

The pH value and buffering capacity of a liquid detergent play a crucial role in its overall
cleaning performance. Most liquid detergents are alkaline, with a pH range of 7 to 11,
as alkaline conditions promote the solubilization of soils and enhance the
effectiveness of enzymes and surfactants. Buffer systems are employed to maintain
this optimal pH and resist changes during product storage and use. Common buffering
agents include sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium citrate.

Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

A. Environmental Regulations
Environmental regulations govern the use of certain chemicals, the biodegradability of
surfactants, and the incorporation of phosphates in detergent formulations. Industry
insiders must stay abreast of these regulations to ensure their products comply with
environmental guidelines and minimize the ecological impact.

B. Safety Testing and Labeling

Liquid detergents must undergo rigorous safety testing to establish their potential risk
to human health and the environment. Proper labeling is mandatory to communicate
hazards, precautions, and usage instructions to the consumer. Regulatory compliance
must be maintained for all aspects of safety testing and labeling.

C. Ingredient Restriction and Bans

Certain ingredients, such as phosphates, nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), and some
optical brighteners, are either restricted or banned in specific regions due to their
environmental impact. Industry insiders must be mindful of these restrictions and
develop formulations that do not rely on harmful or restricted ingredients.
Optimization and Cost Control in Formulation
(https://yeserchem.com)

A. Ingredient Selection and Sourcing

Sourcing high-quality, competitively priced raw materials is essential for optimizing and
controlling costs in liquid detergent formulations. Identifying reliable suppliers,
negotiating contracts, and maintaining a balance between cost and quality are crucial
aspects of ingredient sourcing.

B. Production Efficiency
Efficient production processes lead to reduced waste, lower energy consumption, and
optimized output. Industry insiders must focus on improving production efficiency
through technology, process control, and workforce training to manage costs
effectively.

C. Packaging and Presentation

Packaging plays a crucial role in product attractiveness, usability, and environmental
impact. Selecting appropriate, cost-effective packaging materials and design elements
can improve consumer appeal, reduce packaging waste, and drive down overall
production costs.

Market Trends and Future Challenges

A. Personalization and Customization

As consumers increasingly demand personalized products, the liquid detergent
industry must adapt to accommodate this trend. Customized formulations tailored to
individual needs, preferences, and specific washing machine requirements can provide
a competitive edge in the market.
B. Sustainable and Green Formulations
(https://yeserchem.com)
The demand for sustainable and eco-friendly liquid detergents continues to grow.
Industry insiders must prioritize the use of renewable resources, biodegradable
ingredients, and sustainable packaging solutions to meet consumer expectations and
comply with stringent environmental regulations.

C. Integrating with Smart Home Technologies

The rise of smart home technologies presents new opportunities to connect liquid
detergent formulations with intelligent washing machines for optimized performance
and efficiency. Industry insiders will need to develop products compatible with these
technologies, offering tailored formulations, dosage recommendations, and
performance tracking.

Conclusion: The Future of Liquid Detergent

Formulation
As the landscape of the laundry detergent sector continues to transform, it is crucial for
industry professionals to excel in liquid detergent formulation. The creation of high-
performance, environmentally friendly, and inventive products that adhere to
regulations and satisfy consumer demands will propel the evolution of liquid detergent
formulation. By keeping abreast of market trends, surfactant innovations, enzyme
advancements, and biotechnological progress, industry insiders can stay ahead in this
rapidly changing and competitive field.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the essential components of a laundry detergent liquid formulation?

The essential components of a laundry detergent liquid formulation include primary

and secondary surfactants, chelating agents, enzymes, builders, bleaching agents,
optical brighteners, foam control agents, fragrances, colorants, and preservatives. Each
of these components plays a specific role in the overall effectiveness of the detergent.

(https://yeserchem.com)
2. What are the different types of surfactants used in laundry detergent liquid
formulation?

The surfactants used in laundry detergent liquid formulation can be primary or

secondary. Primary surfactants, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth
Sulfate (SLES), and Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate (LABSA), are the core active ingredients
that play a crucial role in foaming and cleansing. Secondary surfactants, like Fatty
Alcohol Polyoxyethylene Ether (AEO), Cocamide DEA (CDEA), Cocamidopropyl Betaine
(CAPB), and Cocamidopropylamine Oxide (CAO), work alongside primary surfactants to
enhance detergency, foaming, and wetting properties.

3. How are enzymes used in laundry detergent liquid formulation?

Enzymes are proteins that target specific stains and soils, breaking them down for
more effective removal by the detergent’s surfactants. Proteases are a common
enzyme used in laundry detergents to target protein-based stains like blood, egg, and
grass. Other enzymes, such as amylases and lipases, target carbohydrates and fats,
respectively.

4. What are the considerations for formulating laundry detergents for sensitive skin?

Formulations intended for sensitive skin are free from known irritants, such as
fragrances, dyes, and certain enzymes. These products prioritize gentle cleaning
agents, hypoallergenic ingredients, and thorough rinsability to minimize the risk of skin
irritation.

5. What are the future trends and challenges in the field of laundry detergent liquid
formulation?

Future trends in the field of laundry detergent liquid formulation include personalization
and customization of products, sustainable and green formulations, and integration
with smart home technologies. Challenges include adhering to environmental
regulations, safety testing and labeling, ingredient restriction and bans, and cost control
in the formulation.