How to Use Tide PODS®: Step-by-Step Guide for Clean Laundry

With Tide PODS®, laundry is as easy as dropping a pod into the drum, loading your clothes and pressing start. These 3-in-1 pods combine detergent, stain remover, and a solution for brightening and whitening in one compact dose, working in any machine and at any temperature—even cold water. Use this guide to get the best results, helpful tips, and maximize your laundry routine with Tide PODS®.

Using Tide PODS® in Different Laundry Machines

Tide PODS® make laundry simple, no matter what type of washing machine you have. From top-loaders to high-efficiency and front-loading machines, each type has a few easy steps to get the best clean. Explore the instructions below to find the best method for your machine.

High-Efficiency (HE) Top-Loading Washing Machines

Step 1

Start by placing Tide PODS® directly at the bottom of the empty drum. This helps the pod dissolve quickly as it will be in direct contact with the water at the beginning of the cycle. The number of pods you should use depends on the size of your load. For an optimal clean, use two for standard size loads, and customize from there.

Step 2

Add your laundry on top of the Tide PODS®. It’s best not to overload the machine to allow the water and detergent to circulate properly. This means ensuring the laundry doesn’t exceed the top of the agitator, or if your machine doesn’t have an agitator, the top of the drum.

A person holding 2 Tide PODS washing capsules

Step 3

Choose the appropriate wash cycle for the type of clothes you are washing (e.g., normal, delicate, heavy-duty). Tide PODS® are formulated to clean effectively in cold water, so feel free to choose a cold setting to save energy and protect fabrics from shrinking or fading.

A person holding one Tide PODS washing capsule

Step 4

Begin the wash cycle and let the Tide POD® do its work. You don’t need to add any other detergent, as Tide PODS® contain both detergent and stain removers in a single dose.

A person placing a denim jacket into the drum of a washing machine

Step 5

After taking a pod out, make sure to securely close the container. This helps keep the pods fresh and prevents moisture from affecting them. Plus, it ensures they’re safely stored away from children and pets.

A hand showing how to select the wash cycle and water temperature on your washing machine

Front-Loading Washing Machines

Step 1

Place the Tide PODS® directly into the empty drum, not in the detergent drawer as this ensures the pod dissolves correctly in front-load washers.

Step 1

Place the Tide PODS® directly into the empty drum, not in the detergent drawer as this ensures the pod dissolves correctly in front-load washers.

Step 2

Add your laundry on top of the pod. Use the handshake trick to ensure you’re not overstuffing the drum, which can prevent the pod from dissolving properly: stick your palm vertically into the drum, as if you’re giving a handshake. If you can fit your palm comfortably between the clothing and the drum, your load is the perfect size.

Step 2

Step 3

Choose the best cycle for your load and begin wash. Selecting the right cycle is important as front-load machines use tumbling motions rather than an agitator.

Step 3

Choose the best cycle for your load and begin wash. Selecting the right cycle is important as front-load machines use tumbling motions rather than an agitator.

Step 4

Seal the container after removing a pod and store it in a cool, dry place, safely away from children and pets.

Step 4

Seal the container after removing a pod and store it in a cool, dry place, safely away from children and pets.

Explore Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Tide PODS® should I use per load?

A:As a rule of thumb, use two Tide PODS for standard loads to guarantee the best clean. For smaller loads use one Tide POD, for larger loads of laundry, use three Tide PODS. If you’re regularly tackling large loads of laundry, consider Tide POWER PODS, which have 85% more Tide in every pod, compared to original Tide PODS.

Can I use Tide PODS® with my HE washing machine?

A:Yes, Tide PODS® are HE-compatible and safe for all machine types.

Where do I put the Tide PODS® in the washer?

A:Place the Tide PODS® directly into the empty washer drum. Then add your laundry on top to ensure the pod dissolves completely.

Are Tide PODS® septic safe?

A:Yes, Tide PODS® are designed to be septic-safe, so they can be used in households with septic systems without concern. Learn more about how Tide PODS® work.

Are Tide PODS® better than liquid detergent?

A:Tide PODS® offer the convenience of pre-measured doses and include a 3-in-1 formula with detergent, stain remover, and a solution for whitening and brightening. They’re an easy, mess-free alternative to liquid detergent with similar cleaning power, especially in cold water. Learn more about how Tide PODS® work.

Do Tide PODS® expire?

A:While Tide PODS® don’t have a strict expiration date, they should be used within 15 months of purchase for optimal performance. Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming sticky or less effective.

How do I remove Tide PODS® stains?

A:Tide PODS should not stain your clothes when used properly. This means always adding the Tide POD to the drum first, followed by laundry, and not overstuffing the drum. If the Tide POD does leave a stain, it means it was not fully submerged in water throughout the wash cycle. Remove any undissolved residue by rewashing the affected areas in warm water. If needed, gently rub with a damp cloth or sponge.

Why are my Tide PODS® not dissolving?

A:If the Tide POD is not fully dissolving, it means it is not being fully submerged in water throughout the wash cycle. To ensure adequate water exposure, always put the Tide POD into the machine first, followed by your clothing. Another important factor is to avoid overstuffing the drum.

Do Tide PODS® dissolve in cold water?

A:Yes, Tide PODS® combine powerful ingredients in a three-compartment design, dissolving fully in any water temperature for a thorough clean. Learn more about the benefits of washing in cold water.