Fairy is available in many formats: liquid, liquitabs, powder and tablets but the powder is definitely the best - better value and less gimmicky. They have made the recipe slightly more concentrated now, meaning it will last longer than it used to. It comes in a light blue cardboard box with their trademark drawing of a baby in a terry nappy.

You can be sent a free dosing device for either powder or liquid if you enter your details at this webpage http://www.fairynonbio.co.uk/offers_dosingball.htm . It is well worth sending off for one as it can help prevent you using too much.

My entire family has many allergies and very sensitive skin (including dermatitis and eczema) so we prefer to use non-bio as it is less irritating to our skin. We have found Fairy to be the most effective at stain removal without the need for irritant enzymes.

For me, the smell of clean clothes is very important and Fairy is the only washing powder that leaves a long-lasting fragrance that is as effective as a fabric conditioner. As it also softens the clothes very well, it reduces the need for conditioner which makes it economical.

Occasionally, if you have run an especially heavy washload, the powder does not always seem to rinse from the clothes properly. It is also prone to leaving small amounts in the drawer. I have found that using a slightly hotter wash than 30 can remedy both of these problems; also pouring some boiling water into the drawer will rinse it out too.

I have used Fairy non-bio washing powder for years, it is definitely my favourite and whenever my budget allows it I will choose it over cheaper alternatives. Fairy recently brought out their own fabric conditioner to complete the set, I cannot wait to try it out - perhaps it will become another favourite of mine?!