Pros

  • Strong, effective cleaning power that tackles dirt and grime reliably
  • Convenient pods require no measuring—just toss and go with zero mess
  • Fresh, pleasant fragrance that lasts on clothes after drying for many users
  • Excellent value at this price point with 76 loads per bucket
  • HE Turbo technology and color protection features included

Cons

  • Fragrance is overwhelmingly strong for many users—some describe it as harsh, chemicaike, or even reminiscent of vinegar/pickle
  • The scent has reportedly changed dramatically from the original formula, with some users noting a significant shift in summer 2023
  • Blue dyes can leave stains on light and white clothing
  • Some users find it ineffective compared to earlier batches of the product
  • Overpowering scent can cause discomfort and may interfere with sleep for sensitive individuals
  • May require up to 3 pods per full load for optimal cleaning performance rather than just one

Bottom Line

Tide PODS deliver powerful cleaning convenience in an easy-to-use format, but there's a catch: the fragrance is genuinely polarizing. While some love the fresh scent, a significant portion of reviewers find it overwhelmingly strong—and several have noted the formula changed noticeably in 2023 to a scent many describe as unpleasant. If you're fragrance-sensitive, have light-colored clothing you're worried about staining, or prefer the classic Tide scent, you might want to consider the fragrance-free version instead. For those who don't mind a bold scent and want reliable stain removal with minimal fuss, this is still a solid choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$19.97 at The Home Depot
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