When Should You Put Detergent in a Washing Machine?
Based on one effective method for washing clothes, you should put detergent in the washing machine after the water has started filling the tub but before or as you add your laundry items.
Getting the timing right when adding detergent can significantly improve washing results and prevent common issues. While the process can vary slightly depending on your washing machine model, the core idea is to ensure the detergent is properly dissolved and distributed in the water before it interacts heavily with the clothes.
Method Based on the Reference
According to the provided reference, a recommended approach, particularly for machines where you add items directly into the tub, is to:
- Start the washing machine and allow the water to begin filling the drum.
- Add the correct amount of laundry detergent into the filling water.
- Add your laundry items into the tub as it is filling.
This technique, as highlighted in the reference, ensures that "the soap gets distributed throughout the water," promoting a more even clean.
Why This Timing is Beneficial
Adding detergent at this stage offers several advantages:
- Improved Detergent Distribution: Mixing the detergent with water before the clothes are fully submerged helps it dissolve completely and spread evenly throughout the wash water. This ensures all items are exposed to the cleaning solution from the start.
- Reduced Risk of Residue: Pouring concentrated detergent directly onto dry fabric can sometimes leave streaks or spots, especially with powder detergents or on certain fabrics. Diluting it in the water first minimizes this risk.
- Prevents "Floating Clothing": The reference specifically states that adding clothes as the tub fills helps "avoid the dreaded floating clothing problem that can happen if you wait to add clothing until the water has filled the wash tub." This allows clothes to integrate smoothly with the water and detergent.
Machine Specific Considerations
- Standard Top-Loaders (without Dispensers): The method of adding water, then detergent, then clothes as it fills is best suited for these machines.
- Modern Top-Loaders & Front-Loaders (with Dispensers): Most newer machines feature dedicated detergent dispensers (for liquid, powder, and pods). For these, you typically add the detergent to the designated compartment before starting the cycle. The machine automatically releases it at the appropriate time. Always consult your machine's user manual for precise instructions on using dispensers.
Regardless of your machine type, the aim is always to ensure the detergent is effectively activated and distributed in the water for the most efficient cleaning cycle.
