Frequently Asked Questions

•      What is Purex Natural Elements detergent?

  Ultra Purex Natural Elements laundry detergent contains naturally sourced ingredients and natural fragrance extracts that deliver the same great cleaning as regular Purex detergents. It’s available in several fantastic nature-inspired fragrances, which are also available in Natural Elements liquid fabric softeners. All varieties are hypoallergenic and free of dyes.

•      Aren’t detergents with naturally sourced cleaning ingredients usually more expensive than regular detergents?

  Typically, yes. But Purex Natural Elements detergent actually costs the same or less than other brands. And with its biodegradable formula and natural fragrance extracts Purex Natural Elements products are an even greater value.

•      What is DfE, and how did Purex detergent receive special recognition?

  The United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) Design for the Environment (DfE) Program works in partnership with a broad range of stakeholders to reduce risk to people and the environment by preventing pollution. Purex applied for DfE recognition by sending Natural Elements detergent formulas to the EPA. The EPA then worked with the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) to review all submitted ingredients. The EPA only allows use of the DfE logo when a product is best in its class, and Purex Natural Elements was the first major brand in the laundry care category to be selected to receive DfE recognition. For more information, visit the DfE Web site.

•      Where can I buy Purex laundry detergent?

  You’ll find Purex products and our other great laundry care brands at many retailers throughout North America. Find a store near you.

•      I used to buy Purex 2x Ultra Concentrate detergent. Is it still available?

  Yes! We’ve rebranded all of our Purex 2x Ultra Concentrate detergents as Ultra Purex products and they now come in packaging with a great new look.

•      At what water temperature does liquid detergent work best?

  Ultra Purex liquid detergents work great in all temperatures. But to keep your clothes from fading, and to consume less energy, always use water that is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or colder.

•      Do you have any tips for washing in hard water?

  Believe it or not, more than 85% of homes in the U.S. have hard water, and clothes that are washed in hard water tend to look dingy and feel harsh. Try adding ½ cup of 20 Mule Team® Borax to your wash load. It will help soften water and prolong the life of your clothes.

•      Why are there different fill lines in the cap? Which one should I use?

  A variety of Ultra Purex detergent products are specially formulated with added benefits, and may require a different amount of liquid per load than our regular Purex detergents. Always check the back label on the back of the package—you’ll find the accurate cap fill levels there.

•      How much laundry is in a normal size load?

  A normal size load is approximately 6 lbs of dry laundry.

•      Is Ultra Purex liquid detergent safe for septic tanks?

  Yes, Purex liquid detergent is safe for your septic tank.

•      Any tips for getting the best results when doing laundry?

  You came to the right place! For best results, we recommend that you:
  1. Check all fabric labels for special laundry care instructions.
  2. Pre-treat any visible stains using Purex detergent or Zout® stain remover. Learn more about how to remove tough stains.
  3. Start the washer using the temperature setting noted on fabric care labels.
  4. Measure and add Purex detergent. For hard water, we also recommend adding ½ cup of 20 Mule Team® Borax.
  5. Add laundry, washing similar colors together.
  6. For extra softening and static control, consider adding Purex liquid fabric softener during the final rinse cycle. You can also add Purex fabric softener sheets to the dryer.