How to Measure Laundry Detergent Without a Cup
By Plant-Based Cleaning Products - L'AVANT Collective | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
No measuring cup? Use these simple, accurate methods to dose liquid laundry detergent without waste, spills, or guesswork.
Quick Answer
You can measure laundry detergent accurately without a cup using common kitchen spoons, bottle caps, or a simple weight-based method. Each approach works with liquid detergents like L'AVANT's and helps you avoid over-dosing.
Why Accurate Dosing Matters
Using too much detergent doesn't make clothes cleaner—it can leave residue and waste product. Too little, and you might end up with a second wash. Accurate dosing keeps your laundry fresh and your detergent lasting longer.
Liquid detergents are concentrated, so a small difference in volume can matter. That's why having a reliable measuring method is key, especially if you're using a bulk gallon refill.
5 Ways to Measure Laundry Detergent Without a Cup
- Use a standard kitchen tablespoon: One tablespoon equals about 15 ml. For a typical 25 ml dose, use about 1.5 tablespoons; for 50 ml, use about 3.5 tablespoons. Level the spoon for accuracy. Check your detergent's recommended dose on the label first—adjust the spoon count accordingly.
- Use the bottle cap as a guide: Many detergent caps have fill lines. If yours does, fill to the line for a standard dose. If not, fill the cap once and note the level—then you can replicate it. Mark the cap with a permanent marker once you find the right level, so you don't have to guess next time.
- Weigh the detergent: If you have a kitchen scale, weigh the detergent. Liquid detergents typically weigh about 1 gram per milliliter, so 25 ml weighs roughly 25 grams. Place a small bowl on the scale, tare it, and pour until you reach the target weight. This method is most accurate for larger loads or if you're refilling a travel bottle.
- Use a shot glass or small measuring spoon: A standard shot glass holds about 44 ml—close to a 50 ml dose. For a 25 ml dose, fill it halfway. If you have a 1-ounce (30 ml) shot glass, use it for a 25 ml dose and add a little more. Keep a dedicated shot glass in your laundry area to avoid mixing it with kitchen use.
- Try the cap of a different product: If you have a cap from an old detergent or cleaning product with clear markings, rinse it well and use it as a measuring tool. Just make sure it's clean and dry before using. Label the cap with the dose amount to avoid confusion with other products.
A Handy Tool for Accurate Dosing
- Laundry Detergent Measuring Cup, Silicone: L'AVANT's silicone measuring cup has clear markings for 25ml and 50ml doses, is safe to toss in the washing machine, and helps prevent spills and wasted detergent. If you prefer a dedicated tool, this cup removes guesswork and is easy to clean—just throw it in with your laundry.
Laundry Detergent Measuring Cup, Silicone
