Shout Vs OxiClean (A No Nonsense Comparison)
You’ve got a stubborn stain. Again. And once more, you’re staring at two familiar bottles in your laundry room: Shout and OxiClean.
But despite both being stain-fighting staples, they’re not two sides of the same coin. One’s engineered for immediate, on-the-spot action; the other for soaking, lifting, and reviving over time.
So which deserves your trust (and your shelf space)?
In this post, I'll compare Shout vs OxiClean to help you decide what to get.
Spoiler: the “winner” depends entirely on what you’re trying to clean.
#1 Main Ingredients
OxiClean is all about oxygen power. Its main ingredient, sodium percarbonate, activates when it hits water and releases oxygen bubbles that break down stains.
It also has surfactants to help loosen dirt and brighten whites.
OxiClean’s oxygen-based formula packs a bigger punch for old or deep stains.
Shout goes in a different direction. It relies on enzymes and surfactants instead of bleach.
Enzymes are great at breaking down organic stains like food, sweat, and body oils. They literally “eat away” the gunk. Plus, it’s gentle on colors because it doesn’t use any type of bleach.
Also Read: Tide Vs All Free And Clear
#2 Cleaning Effectiveness
When it comes to cleaning performance, both have their own strong suits.
OxiClean is a champ at removing tough, set-in stains that have been sitting there for days. Grass, wine, coffee, mud - OxiClean can usually pull them out with a good soak or pre-wash treatment.
It’s especially great for brightening whites and reviving dingy laundry.
Shout, on the other hand, is amazing for fresh stains. Got ketchup on your shirt? Hit it with Shout right away, toss it in the wash, and it’s gone. It’s also really good on oily or greasy stains since the surfactants cut through the slick stuff easily.
If you mostly deal with fresh spills, Shout will do the trick. But if you’re trying to save that favorite white T-shirt from a red wine disaster, OxiClean will give you better odds.
Winner: OxiClean
It’s just more powerful overall, especially on old, set-in stains that other removers give up on.
#3 Versatility
OxiClean is kind of the Swiss Army knife of cleaners. You can use it in the washer, as a soaking solution, or even for cleaning carpets, grout, patio furniture, and upholstery.
It’s not just a laundry product, it’s more like a multipurpose cleaning powder.
Shout, though, is mostly focused on laundry. It’s made for spot-treating clothes and removing stains before a wash. Some people use it on upholstery or car seats, but it’s not officially made for that kind of stuff.
Also Read: Tide Detergent Bleach Alternatives
Winner: OxiClean
You can use it in so many ways, from brightening whites to scrubbing tile. Shout is more of a one-job wonder.
#4 Best For
Shout is great for fresh stains, food spills, grease, or makeup smudges. It’s perfect for quick pre-treating before laundry.
OxiClean is ideal for older, stubborn stains, dingy whites, and deep cleaning whole loads.
If you’re the type who catches stains early and wants a fast fix, Shout fits your routine better. But if you’re the type who finds a stain three days later and still wants to save the shirt, OxiClean is your best friend.
Winner: Tie
They each serve different purposes perfectly. Shout wins for fresh, fast fixes. OxiClean wins for deep, tough cleaning.
#5 Ease Of Use
This one’s all about convenience.
Shout couldn’t be easier to use. You spray it, let it sit a few minutes, and toss the item in the wash. It’s simple and portable - you can even keep it near your laundry basket or carry a travel-size version in your bag.
Also Read: Good Linoleum Floor Cleaners
OxiClean takes a bit more effort. If you’re using the powder, you have to mix it with water, soak clothes, and then run a wash cycle. Some liquid versions are easier, but still, it’s not as instant as Shout.
So if you want quick, no-mess cleaning, Shout’s your guy. If you’re okay with a little prep time for better results, OxiClean’s worth it.
Winner: Shout
It’s faster, cleaner, and easier to use when you’re in a rush.
#6 Prices
Prices can vary depending on where you shop, but here’s the general breakdown.
Shout usually runs around $4 - $6 for a 22-ounce spray bottle.
OxiClean classic powder tub (about 3 lbs) costs around $8 - $10, and it lasts a while since you only need a scoop or two per use.
So per use, OxiClean actually gives you more value. But if you’re only treating the occasional spot, Shout might make more sense because you’re not buying a big tub you barely use.
Winner: OxiClean
It’s the better long-term value, especially for households that do lots of laundry or big loads.
#7 Range Of Products
OxiClean has really expanded over the years. You’ve got powders, liquid sprays, detergent boosters, pre-measured pods, carpet cleaners, and even baby-safe or color-safe versions.
It’s pretty easy to find a version that fits your exact needs.
Shout’s product line is smaller, but still practical. It offers sprays, gels, foams, and wipes. The wipes are super handy for quick cleanups or traveling, but overall, there’s less variety compared to OxiClean.
Winner: OxiClean
It covers more bases and gives you more ways to tackle stains. Shout’s variety is good, but OxiClean has something for almost every cleaning job.
Should I Get OxiClean Or Shout?
If you want the short answer: get both. Seriously. They’re not really direct rivals in function and they complement each other.
Keep Shout in your laundry area or even your purse for quick fixes. When a stain happens, hit it fast before it sets. It’s your first line of defense.
Then, use OxiClean for the heavy lifting when stains won’t budge, when whites need brightening, or when you’re doing deep laundry day cleanups. It’s like the “reset button” for your clothes.
If you only want to pick one, think about your habits.
Do you act fast on stains and hate extra steps? Go with Shout.
Do you want something that can handle almost anything and don’t mind soaking? Pick OxiClean.
Bottom Line
The main difference between Shout and OxiClean is that OxiClean is more powerful, more versatile, and offers better value for large or stubborn cleaning jobs. It’s designed for deep cleaning and can be used on more than just clothes.
Shout, on the other hand, is cheaper upfront, easier to use, and gentler on fabrics, making it the more convenient option for quick, everyday stain removal.