Generally, no, you should not use regular soap or dishwashing soap in a washing machine; you should use laundry detergent specifically formulated for washing machines.
Why Using Non-Laundry Soap is Problematic
While "soap" might seem like a generic term for cleaning agents, products like bar soap, hand soap, and especially dishwashing soap are formulated very differently from laundry detergent. Using these in your washing machine can lead to significant problems.
The Problem with Suds
One of the primary issues with using non-laundry soaps is excessive sudsing. Unlike laundry detergent, which is designed to produce a controlled amount of suds that rinse away easily in a washing machine environment, other soaps create abundant bubbles.
As the reference notes, "These products produce too many bubbles that will be difficult to remove during the rinse cycle." This means your clothes might come out still covered in soap residue, potentially irritating skin or attracting dirt more quickly.
Risks to the Machine
Excessive suds are not just a rinsing problem; they can actually harm the washing machine itself.
The reference specifically warns about dishwashing soap, stating, "Using dishwashing soap in a high-efficiency washer can produce so many suds that they will overflow and harm the machine's electronics system and void the warranty."
This overflow can cause damage to sensitive electronic components, leading to costly repairs. It can also void the manufacturer's warranty, leaving you responsible for any damage caused by improper use. Standard washers might not be as sensitive as HE models, but excessive suds can still strain the pump and motor and lead to poor cleaning performance.
What to Use Instead: Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent is specially formulated for washing clothes in a machine. It contains ingredients designed to lift dirt and stains effectively, perform optimally within the machine's cycles, and rinse away cleanly with the appropriate amount of water.
- Formulations: Laundry detergents come in various forms (liquid, powder, pods) and are often designed for specific machine types (standard or high-efficiency).
- Suds Control: They are formulated to create the right level of suds for effective cleaning without causing overflow or rinsing issues.
- Enzymes & Brighteners: Many laundry detergents contain enzymes to break down stains and brighteners to keep whites and colors vibrant, features typically not found in dish soap or hand soap.
Quick Guide: What to Use and What Not to Use
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Use in Washing Machine | Do NOT Use in Washing Machine | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Laundry Detergent | Dishwashing Soap | Excessive suds, poor rinsing, machine damage, warranty |
| Bar Soap (shredded or liquidized) | Excessive suds, poor rinsing, machine damage | |
| Hand Soap (liquid or foaming) | Excessive suds, poor rinsing, machine damage | |
| Body Wash / Shampoo | Excessive suds, poor rinsing, machine damage |
Summary of Risks
- Excessive Suds: Non-laundry soaps create too many bubbles, making rinsing difficult.
- Residue on Clothes: Soap residue can linger on fabrics, causing stiffness or skin irritation.
- Machine Damage: Overflow from excessive suds can damage electronic components, especially in HE washers.
- Voided Warranty: Using improper cleaning agents can invalidate your washing machine's warranty.
- Poor Cleaning: Clothes may not get properly clean or rinsed.
Always use a laundry detergent specifically designed for washing machines to ensure effective cleaning and protect your appliance.
