Using fabric softener in a front load washer is straightforward; you add it to a specific compartment in the dispenser drawer before starting the wash cycle.
Adding fabric softener to a front-loading washing machine ensures your clothes come out feeling soft and smelling fresh. The process is simple, primarily involving locating the correct dispenser compartment.
Where Does Fabric Softener Go?
For a front loading washing machine, fabric softener is placed in your machine at the same time as the detergent, before you start a wash. You don't need to wait for a specific point in the cycle.
Your washer's dispenser drawer, typically located at the top left of the machine, contains separate compartments for detergent, and often, bleach and fabric softener.
Finding the Softener Compartment
The dispenser drawer should have a special compartment specifically for liquid fabric softener. This compartment is designed to hold the softener until the correct point in the wash cycle when the machine automatically dispenses it.
Look for markings or icons near or on the compartments to identify them. The fabric softener compartment is usually marked with a common symbol:
- A star (*)
- A flower icon
These symbols distinguish it from the main detergent compartment (often marked with 'I', 'II', or a number) and the bleach compartment (sometimes marked with a triangle).
Steps to Add Fabric Softener
- Open the Dispenser Drawer: Pull out the drawer at the top of your front load washer.
- Locate the Softener Compartment: Find the section marked with the star or flower icon.
- Pour Fabric Softener: Pour the recommended amount of liquid fabric softener (check the product bottle for dosage) directly into this dedicated compartment. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause it to dispense too early.
- Add Detergent (and other additives): Add your laundry detergent to its designated compartment. Add bleach or other additives to their respective compartments if using them.
- Close the Drawer: Gently push the dispenser drawer back into place.
- Start the Wash Cycle: Select your desired wash cycle and start the machine. The washer will automatically dispense the fabric softener during the rinse portion of the cycle.
Following these steps ensures the fabric softener is added at the correct time to effectively soften your clothes and reduce static.
