AMERICA’S FIRST
SYNTHETIC DETERGENT
Dreft was released in 1933 by Procter & Gamble and originally sold for about 25 cents per box. This was the first ever synthetic detergent created in the United States, made from man-made products like petroleum or modified plant oils instead of natural fats. Dreft performed well in hard water and did not leave the sticky residue often associated with other non synthetic detergents.
FROM TOUGH STAINS
TO TENDER CARE
While Dreft was one of the original P&G laundry detergents it was not very effective at removing tough stains. They recognized this and began to advertise it as a detergent for delicate fabrics and lightly soiled clothing. Over time, Dreft became primarily marketed to mothers as a gentle detergent for baby clothes due to its safe for skin mild formula.
