We all love the feeling of slipping into a clean, freshly scented shirt or getting into a bed with crisp-smelling sheets. Laundry beads, also known as in-wash scent boosters, have become a popular way to lock in that fresh scent long after the wash is done.
Unlike traditional fabric softeners that can sometimes be too heavy or don’t last, these tiny beads are designed to infuse your clothes with a long-lasting fragrance.
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best laundry beads for 2025, from classic brands to eco-friendly alternatives, to help you find the perfect one for your home.
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Gain Fireworks In-Wash Scent Booster Beads
Key Ingredients:
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): This is a polymer that serves as a carrier for the fragrance, ensuring the beads dissolve evenly in water.
- Encapsulated Perfume Oils: These are microscopic, polymer-shelled capsules containing concentrated fragrance oils. They are engineered to remain stable during the wash cycle.
- Starch: A plant-derived polysaccharide that acts as a binding agent and bulking component, giving the beads their solid form.
Key Features:
- Scent Encapsulation Technology: The core feature is the patented encapsulation technology, which protects the fragrance until it’s released by physical friction.
- Intense, Long-Lasting Aroma: Known for a very powerful, “just-washed” scent that can last for weeks.
How It Works: The beads are added directly to the washing machine drum. As the wash cycle begins, the PEG-based matrix dissolves, releasing the perfume microcapsules. These scent-filled capsules mechanically bind to the fabric fibers during the rinse cycle. The fragrance is not released until the capsules are broken by friction, such as when you wear the clothes or fold your laundry, providing bursts of scent over an extended period.
| Pros | Cons |
| Provides a very strong, long-lasting fragrance | Some users may find the scent to be overpowering |
| Easy to use; simply toss into the washer drum | Made with synthetic ingredients, which may not appeal to those seeking natural products |
| Wide variety of scents to choose from |
Method Fragrance Booster
Key Ingredients:
- Sodium Cocoate: A sodium salt of fatty acids derived from coconut oil, acting as a gentle cleaning agent and surfactant to aid in bead dissolution.
- Sodium Sulfate Anhydrous: A mineral salt used as a filler and to help with the dissolution of the beads.
- Fragrance (Parfum): A blend of plant-derived and synthetic fragrance compounds.
Key Features:
- Cruelty-Free: This product is not tested on animals.
- Biodegradable Formula: The components are designed to break down naturally, reducing environmental impact.
- Sophisticated Scents: The brand is known for its subtle, unique fragrance blends.
How It Works: When added to the wash, the sodium cocoate and other ingredients work to quickly dissolve the solid beads. This dissolution releases the fragrance molecules, which then adhere to the fabric fibers. The formula is designed to deliver a more subtle and clean fragrance that is not overwhelming, providing a fresh scent without the use of harsh chemicals or overwhelming perfumes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cruelty-free and eco-friendly ingredients | The scent may not be as strong or long-lasting as some mainstream brands |
| Offers unique, pleasing scent options | Some customers report the beads not dissolving completely in cold water |
| Leaves no residue on clothing |
LENOR Unstoppables in-Wash Laundry Scent Booster Beads
Key Ingredients:
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): A perfume carrier that helps to distribute the fragrance.
- Perfume Dispersants: These are agents that ensure the fragrance is evenly distributed throughout the wash and binds to the fibers.
- Proprietary Perfume Blend: A concentrated mixture of fragrance oils.
Key Features:
- Extended Freshness: Lenor Unstoppables are engineered to provide up to 12 weeks of freshness in storage.
- Concentrated Scent: The beads contain a highly concentrated fragrance to deliver a powerful scent with a small dose.
- Compatibility: Works in all types of washing machines and is safe for use on virtually all fabrics.
How It Works: The solid beads, containing a high concentration of fragrance, are added to the washer drum at the start of the cycle. They dissolve rapidly in water, releasing their perfume and dispersants. These compounds then infuse into the fabric fibers, creating a long-lasting fragrance that is slowly released over time. The concentrated nature of the formula means a little goes a long way.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unrivaled scent longevity (lasts for weeks) | Some people find the scent to be too strong and artificial |
| Works in all types of washing machines and fabrics | Contains dyes and synthetic perfumes that may irritate sensitive skin |
| Easy to use and dose for a customizable scent level |
Roobi Sustainable Laundry Scent Booster Beads
Key Ingredients:
- Natural Corn Extracts: These extracts, derived from renewable resources, form the base of the beads. They serve as a natural carrier for the fragrance and aid in odor neutralization.
- Natural Fragrance: A blend of botanical and essential oils.
Key Features:
- Eco-Friendly: Formulated with natural ingredients and comes in a recyclable, plastic-free cardboard tube.
- Hypoallergenic: Designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and is free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and parabens.
- Vegan and Cruelty-Free: The product contains no animal-derived ingredients and has not been tested on animals.
How It Works: The plant-based beads slowly dissolve during the wash, releasing natural, botanical fragrances that infuse into the fabric. The corn extracts help to absorb and neutralize odors on a molecular level, providing a fresh, clean scent without the use of synthetic chemicals. The beads are designed to break down completely in the wash cycle, leaving no residue behind.
| Pros | Cons |
| Plant-based and eco-conscious formulation | Scent longevity may not be as long as synthetic brands |
| Safe for sensitive skin and baby clothes | Some users have reported issues with the beads not dissolving completely |
| Plastic-free and recyclable packaging |
Freelivity In-Wash Scent Booster Beads
Key Ingredients:
- Polyethylene glycol: A dissolvable carrier for the fragrance.
- Edible corn starch: A natural, biodegradable base for the beads.
- Natural fragrance: Proprietary fresh linen “Fresh Essence” scent.
- Microcapsules (natural resins): Corn-based microcapsules designed for long-lasting fragrance.
Key Features:
- Up to 70 Wash Cycles / ~18 Weeks of Freshness: Each 24-oz container (680 g) delivers freshness for up to 70 loads.
- Eco-Friendly & Safety-Focused: Biodegradable and hypoallergenic formula, free from formaldehyde, sulfates, parabens, optical brighteners, chlorine bleach, 1,4-dioxane, and CA Prop 65 chemicals; BPA-free packaging.
- Carbon-Neutral & Sustainable Packaging: Packaging is recyclable cardboard, and the included scoop is made from responsibly sourced schima superba wood.
- Cold Water & Machine Compatibility: Optimized for both traditional and HE washers, designed for effective release even in cold water cycles.
How It Works: You simply sprinkle the beads directly into the washer (they dissolve instantly in hot or cold water). The corn-based microcapsules release their “Fresh Essence” scent onto fabrics during the wash. As you wear or move, the microcapsules break, delivering bursts of long-lasting fragrance that can linger for weeks.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long-lasting, fresh linen scent — effective for up to 70 washes (around 18 weeks) | Adds fragrance—might be too strong for those sensitive to scents |
| Safe for sensitive skin, babies, and pets; hypoallergenic and free from many harsh chemicals | Not a cleaning agent—must still use detergent for dirty items |
| Eco-conscious packaging and ingredients, cruelty-free | May not be ideal for delicate fabrics or highly scented preferences |
| Works well in cold water and all machine types |
Purex Crystals in-wash Fragrance and Scent Booster
Key Ingredients:
- Sodium Chloride (NaCl): This mineral salt is the primary component and acts as a carrier for the fragrance.
- Fragrances: A blend of proprietary scents.
- Hydrated Silica (SiO2⋅nH2O): A natural compound that helps in the flow and consistency of the crystals.
Key Features:
- Odor Elimination: Uses “Odor Stop Technology” which neutralizes odors on a molecular level.
- Affordable: Known for being one of the most budget-friendly options on the market.
- Safe for All Loads: Compatible with all types of fabrics, including athletic wear and towels.
How It Works: The salt-based crystals dissolve quickly in water, releasing the fragrance and odor-fighting technology. The crystals infuse the scent into the fabric, providing long-lasting freshness and odor control.
| Pros | Cons |
| Very budget-friendly and great value | May not dissolve fully in some wash cycles, leaving residue |
| Effectively eliminates a variety of odors | The brand is not focused on sustainable or natural ingredients |
| Wide range of pleasant, popular scents |
Dreft Blissfuls In-Wash Laundry Scent Booster Beads
Key Ingredients:
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): A carrier for the fragrance.
- Fragrances: Proprietary baby-fresh scent.
- Methyl Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate: This is a key antioxidant that helps to block odors.
Key Features:
- Baby-Fresh Scent: Specifically designed to bring back the nostalgic, gentle scent of clean baby clothes.
- Gentle on Fabrics: Can be used on all fabrics, including those for babies.
- Odor-Blocking Technology: The antioxidant actively helps to eliminate odors rather than just covering them up.
How It Works: The beads dissolve in the wash, releasing a gentle, baby-fresh scent. The antioxidant odor blocker in the formula helps to neutralize any unpleasant smells, leaving clothes smelling clean and fresh for an extended period.
| Pros | Cons |
| Provides a gentle, classic baby-fresh scent | Limited to a single, signature scent |
| Safe to use on all family clothes, including baby items | Contains synthetic ingredients and may not appeal to those seeking natural options |
| Effectively neutralizes odors for long-lasting freshness |
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Laundry Scent Boosters
Key Ingredients:
- Sea Salt (NaCl): A natural, mineral-based carrier for the fragrance.
- Fragrance: A blend of essential oils and plant-derived ingredients, such as honeysuckle flower oil and orange peel oil.
- Starch: Helps to form the bead’s structure.
Key Features:
- Plant-Derived Ingredients: Made with essential oils and other naturally derived components.
- Cruelty-Free and Leaping Bunny Certified: This signifies that no animal testing was performed.
- Garden-Inspired Scents: Known for their unique and sophisticated scents inspired by nature.
How It Works: The salt-based boosters dissolve in the wash, allowing the plant-based essential oils to infuse into the clothes. The natural ingredients provide a subtle yet lasting fragrance that is gentle on fabrics and the environment.
| Pros | Cons |
| Made with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils | The scent is more subtle and may not last as long as synthetic boosters |
| Gentle and eco-conscious formulation | Some users have reported clumping if not used with warm water |
| Offers unique, pleasing scents |
Recommended:
Lazy Coconuts Laundry Beads, Sweet Peach
Key Ingredients:
- Natural Corn Extracts: These extracts form the biodegradable base of the beads and serve as a natural carrier for the fragrance.
- Natural Fragrance: Made from a blend of natural botanicals and essential oils to create a subtle peach scent.
Key Features:
- Eco-Friendly and Plastic-Free: The product comes in a recyclable cardboard tube, eliminating plastic waste.
- Minimal Ingredients: Formulated with only a few simple, natural components.
- Dye-Free and Phosphate-Free: Free of harsh chemicals and additives.
How It Works: The natural corn-based beads dissolve in the wash, releasing the light, natural peach scent. This product is designed for those who want to add a pleasant fragrance without any synthetic chemicals or dyes, relying on simple, plant-based ingredients to get the job done.
| Pros | Cons |
| Highly sustainable and eco-friendly | The scent is very subtle and may not last as long as other brands |
| Made with simple, natural ingredients | Less widely available and can be more expensive |
| Plastic-free and zero-waste packaging |
Downy Unstopables In Wash Scent Booster Beads
Key Ingredients:
- Perfume Dispersants: Helps to spread the fragrance throughout the laundry.
- Perfume: Proprietary blend of long-lasting fragrance oils.
- Antioxidant Technology: A specific chemical formula that acts to neutralize odors by stopping the chemical reactions that cause them.
Key Features:
- Long-Lasting Freshness: Provides up to 12 weeks of lasting freshness from wash to wear.
- Odor Protection: Formulated with a special technology to fight and neutralize tough odors.
- Recyclable Packaging: The bottle is made with 50% recycled plastic.
How It Works: The scent booster beads contain tiny microcapsules of perfume that activate with movement. When you toss them into the washer drum, they dissolve, and the scent capsules cling to your clothes. The added antioxidant technology helps to neutralize odors on a molecular level. As you move throughout your day, the friction causes the capsules to break, releasing bursts of fresh scent.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely long-lasting and powerful scent | The strong scent may be overwhelming for some users |
| Effective at fighting stubborn odors | Contains synthetic fragrance and dyes |
| Available in a wide variety of scents and sizes |
