GST rate and HSN code for detergent
GST on detergent is 18% (HSN 3402) from 22 September 2025: washing powder, liquid detergent, dishwash liquid and floor cleaners did not get the 5% rate. Laundry and dishwash bars (3401, other than toilet soap) are also 18%. Only bathing soap bars moved to 5%, so the two must not share an item code.
HSN code and GST rate for detergent
| Condition | HSN | GST | CGST + SGST | IGST | Schedule entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detergent powder, liquid, dishwash liquid | 3402 | 18% | 9% + 9% | 18% | Notification 9/2025-CT(Rate), Schedule II, S. No. 67 |
| Washing (laundry) and dishwash soap bars | 3401 | 18% | 9% + 9% | 18% | Notification 9/2025-CT(Rate), Schedule II, S. No. 66 |
In force from 22 September 2025. Inside your State, half the rate is CGST and half SGST; for a buyer in another State the full rate is IGST (same entries in Notification 9/2025-IT(Rate)). Entry wording (shortened): “Surface-active, washing and cleaning preparations (3402); soap other than toilet soap bars (3401)”.
What to print on the bill
- Washing powder, liquid detergent, dishwash gel: 3402 at 18%.
- Laundry and dishwash bars: 3401 at 18%.
- Phenyl and disinfectants: 3808 at 18%.
- HSN digits: 4 if your turnover last year was up to ₹5 crore, 6 above that; up to ₹5 crore you may leave HSN off bills to unregistered buyers (Notification 78/2020-CT). More in B2C bill rules.
Common mistakes
- Billing detergent at 5% after reading that 'soap is 5%'.
- Billing a dishwash bar at 5% as a soap bar.
- Using 3401 for detergent powder.
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Questions about GST on detergent
Did detergent get cheaper in September 2025?
No. Washing and cleaning preparations of 3402 stay at 18% (Schedule II, S. No. 67).
Is a washing soap bar 5% like bathing soap?
No. The 5% entry is only for toilet soap. Other soap in bars is 18%.
What is the GST on tissue paper?
Toilet paper, tissues and paper napkins (4818) are 18%.
More items in HSN chapter 34 and soap, cosmetics and personal care
Look up another item in the HSN and GST rate finder, or see all GST rates by category.
General information, not tax advice. Rates are taken from Notification No. 9/2025-Central Tax (Rate), dated 17 September 2025, as amended, and were last checked on 16 October 2026. The rate depends on the exact description and classification of your product: check it with your CA.