We’ve become so used to buying laundry liquid in big plastic bottles that we rarely question what we’re carrying home. The laundry liquid runs out. The bottle goes in the recycling. Another one goes in the trolley. You need clean clothes. But do you need another plastic bottle?
A big bottle looks like value. The word “concentrated” sounds reassuring. Neither tells you what each wash actually costs.
You might be able to make your current detergent last longer. And when it runs out, there’s an alternative to bringing home another bulky bottle.
At Biome, we question the idea that sustainable choices always cost more. Our Laundry Liquid Concentrate Bar makes four litres of laundry liquid using water from your tap and a suitable container you already own.
Quick answer: How can I save money on laundry detergent?
Compare the cost per wash and measure the right dose for your load. A cheaper bottle or larger pack isn’t automatically better value.
Biome’s $25 boxed Laundry Liquid Concentrate Bar makes up to 80 washes at approximately 31c each, using 50ml per wash. Larger or heavily soiled loads may need more.
Does a bigger bottle mean better value?
Not necessarily. Compare the cost per wash, rather than the size of the bottle.
Different formulas need different doses. A large, inexpensive bottle can cost more per load than a smaller concentrate if you need more liquid each time, so comparing bottle sizes or prices per litre can be misleading.
Purchase price ÷ number of washes = detergent cost per wash.
Use the wash count at the dose your laundry needs, taking account of load size, soiling and water conditions.
Are you using more detergent than you need?
A generous pour is easy. Paying for it again and again is less appealing. Measure your detergent instead of pouring by eye. Check the dosing instructions for your load rather than assuming a full cap is always the right amount.
- ✓ Read the dosing instructions: match the amount to your machine, load and water conditions.
- ✓ Match the load: a smaller, lightly soiled wash may need a different dose from a large, dirty one.
- ✓ Measure rather than guess: use a clearly marked measuring cup.
- ✓ Treat stains directly: follow fabric and product instructions instead of adding extra detergent to every load.
There’s no universal “two tablespoons” rule for every product. Concentration, machine size and water conditions vary. The aim is enough detergent to do the job, without paying for extra you don’t need.
What does Biome’s laundry concentrate cost per wash?
One Biome Laundry Liquid Concentrate Bar makes four litres. At the $25 boxed price, here’s how the cost changes with your dose:
| Dose per wash | Washes per bar | Approximate cost per wash |
|---|---|---|
| 50ml | 80 | 31c |
| 100ml | 40 | 63c |
We recommend 50ml to 100ml depending on your load, soiling and local water. Compare the amount you actually need with your usual detergent. Clear numbers make a better comparison than a big bottle or a bold promise.
Based on the $25 boxed bar price checked 21 October 2026. Figures are rounded and exclude water, energy, delivery and additional treatments. Prices may change.
Is liquid laundry detergent mostly water?
Water is often a major ingredient in liquid laundry detergent, although the amount varies between formulas.
Water has a purpose. It helps dissolve and carry ingredients. Our question was simpler: does that water need to travel to your home in another plastic bottle?
With a solid concentrate, you add it yourself. The bar brings the cleaning ingredients. Your tap supplies the water.
That means a compact refill and a container you can keep using, without buying another bottle or refill pouch.
What makes Biome’s laundry concentrate different?
We wanted to change more than the packaging. Our bar is made in Australia, with a formula that leaves out palm oil, synthetic surfactants and synthetic fragrance.
- ✓ Four litres from one bar: add water at home.
- ✓ Reuse a suitable container: no new bottle with every refill.
- ✓ Australian made: a compact concentrate made here.
- ✓ Palm oil free: no palm oil or synthetic surfactants.
- ✓ No synthetic fragrance: the scented bar uses essential oils.
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- ✓ Make what you need: prepare a smaller batch and keep the remaining concentrate dry.
- ✓ Less packaging on repeat: choose the no-box option when you already have the instructions.
You do need to dissolve the bar before washing. That small step lets us leave the added water and bulky bottle out of the product you bring home.
Our laundry concentrate guide covers detailed preparation, dosage and storage.
Explore the Laundry Liquid Concentrate Bar →
A refill our customers keep coming back for
Wondering whether a little bar can handle your laundry? Here’s what customers say after putting it to work.
★★★★★ What I’ve been waiting for
“I’ve tried a few ‘natural’ laundry detergents but have not been happy with the result. This laundry bar scores big on all levels. I love that it’s compact, saves on plastic containers and shipping, comes package free and that it works brilliantly.”
★★★★★ Better product than the big names
“I have been using this for a while now and I will not be going back to store bought. It washes really well, is easy to use and no plastic involved!”
★★★★★ A value buy
“Cleans well, lasts well. I cut up the bar and make the mixture up in a recycled jar so I’ve got a little bit handy. Easy to use. Smells great in the cupboard and clothes are cleaned well.”
★★★★★ I’m impressed
“I was sceptical about how effective this would be but I am impressed with it! I have been using this for a couple of weeks now and have found it to be fresh smelling without being overpowering and cleans well. It is easy to make up, I love the plastic free packaging and that it is Australian made. Highly recommended.”
★★★★★ Great Plastic Free Laundry Liquid
“We have been using this liquid concentrate bar for a couple of years and will continue to use it. It does a good job at cleaning the clothes. It doesn't have an overpowering scent. And it's petrochemical free. And we take a couple of squares on holidays and reuse a passata jar to make our own detergent away from home. Can't think why we would ever go back to those big plastic bottles!”
Your next refill doesn’t need a bottle.
Keep the container you already own. Add water from your tap. Put the concentrate to work.
One bar makes four litres. Your bottle gets another life.
Saving money on laundry detergent: FAQs
How can I get laundry detergent cheaper?
Compare sale prices by cost per wash, using the dose your laundry needs. A bulk pack only saves money if it lowers that cost and you’ll use it. Measuring accurately can also make your current detergent last longer.
What is the best laundry detergent for value for money?
One that cleans effectively at a cost per wash you’re happy with. Check suitability for your machine and fabrics, and factor in any extra treatments you regularly need. A low purchase price means little if you need more product to get the result.
How much should I spend on laundry detergent?
Multiply your cost per wash by your usual number of loads. At Biome’s $25 boxed price and a 50ml dose, five loads a week cost approximately $1.56 in detergent. Larger doses and additional treatments increase that amount.
Can I dilute my usual laundry liquid to save money?
Adding water doesn’t add cleaning ingredients. If you use more diluted liquid to deliver the original dose, there’s no detergent saving. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Biome’s concentrate is specifically designed to have water added before use.
Are laundry sheets the same as a concentrate bar?
No. They have different ingredients and preparation requirements. Compare the formula, dose and cost per wash. Our guide to laundry sheets explains what to look for.
Related reads
Laundry liquid without the plastic bottle: preparation and FAQs →
Are laundry sheets really eco-friendly? →
Think Again: what’s the value behind the price tag? →
