On what parameters do we compare soaps and detergents?

Answer 1

Marketing. Simply marketing. Bright colors on the container. Whatever "mom" used.
The fact of the matter is also simple. Soap - any soap and/or detergent - causes only one primary reaction...it makes water "wetter" and thus the water becomes more penetrating. That's why your hands clean up better with soap and water versus just water.
Try all the soap/detergent brands on your dirty hands. Some brands contain softeners, bleach or hints of disinfectants and/or perfumes, but basically, all of them will do the same for your dirty hands. The dirt will come off faster with soap than without.

Our favorite brand, then, comes down to personal preference based on marketing, mom and whatever it is about whatever it is that makes you feel good about whatever it is.
Manufacturers and brand marketing companies know this simple fact. That's why the same basic product is packaged and marketed in a zillion different ways.

Answer 2

Both are surfactants, or surface active agents, which basically means a washing compound that mixes with grease and water. Soaps are made of materials found in nature. Detergents are synthetic (although some of the ingredients are natural).

A big drawback of washing with soap is that the minerals in water react with those in soap, leaving an insoluble film. This can turn clothes grayish, and the film can leave a residue (such as is found on shower stalls, for example). Detergents react less to minerals in water and for all practical purposes are the product of choice for laundry, unless you have very soft water.

Answer 3

Effectiveness, Price, Comfort (skin irritation)