Can Front Load Detergents be used in the Top Load Washers?

Did you order a detergent that says “front load suitable”? Or have you noticed a “HE” mark on the label?

If yes, then these detergents are suitable for Front-load and HE washing machines.

Even though there is no harm in using a front-load detergent in any washer, you may slightly get confused with the dosage.

Front Load Detergents can be used in Top Load Washing Machines without any problems as they will still clean the clothes. However, A Top Load Washing Machine will use a larger dose of HE-Detergent than a front loader in order to clean your clothes effectively.

Difference between the top load and front load detergents?

The main difference between a top load and front load detergent is the amount of lather they produce. A normal top load detergent will produce more suds than a HE-detergent.

High Later content does not go well with a HE-Washing Machine as it can lead to a prolonged washing cycle.

Sometimes, the wash cycle may stop for a while to avoid the leakage caused by excess suds.

Disadvantages of Using Front Load Detergents in Top Loaders

The only disadvantage of using a front-load detergent in top-load washers is that you will have to use more detergent than what is required.

This is because, in order to get the same cleaning results, a top load washer needs more detergent than a front load washer.

What this means is cost-benefit factor won’t make sense here as you will end up using more detergent and paying more in the long run.

So, if you have a front-load detergent and want to use it in your top load washer, go ahead.

Just make sure to use the right amount of detergent.

But, if you want to get the best results, then we would recommend you to use a top load detergent in your top load washer.

Also Read: 20 Things you must know about fabric softeners

Useful tips for using a front-load detergent

  • Avoid using a non-suitable detergent for any washer type.
  • If you are adding a front-load detergent in a top load washer then you may have to increase the quantity of the detergent by at least 30%, because a top load washer requires more suds to clean your clothes.
  • Liquid detergents can be added directly to the washtub filled with minimum water.
  • Do not add too much detergent in any specific wash program.
  • The Front-load detergents are not suitable for handwashing, hence it is recommended to use them with washing machines to clean your fabrics.
  • HE (High-Efficiency) detergents are expensive as compared to standard detergents, therefore using them in a top loader may not be efficient.

Also Read: What is Soil Level in the Washing machine?

Final Thoughts

It is always advised to use a suitable detergent for your fabrics and the washer type with an adequate quantity during every wash.

So, If you are using a HE detergent in a top loader, increase it up to 30% for best results.

Furthermore, Detergents come in both powder and liquid forms.

Liquid detergents are preferred by many and are considered to be better than powdered ones as it mixes quickly.

Lastly, you must know that the efficiency of your washer depends on the type and quality of the detergents you use to clean your fabrics.

Do not always use a HE (High-Efficiency) detergent in a non-HE washer.

Also Read: Top Load VS Front Load Detergents

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s take a quick look at some of the frequently asked questions about using front-load detergent in top-load washers.

Does using excess detergent in the washer clean better?

Using excess detergent may be required while cleaning heavily soiled clothes in your washer. On the other hand, adding excess detergent for every wash may result in an overflow and leakage caused due to excess suds.

So, always balance the load depending on the size of the laundry and how heavily soiled they are.

For Instance, If you are washing 2 or 3 heavily soiled clothes and using a little bit of extra detergent, that should not have any impact. But if you are using excess detergent as well as higher laundry loads then it may impact the washer.
Instead of using extra detergent, use the pre-wash function if you have that feature.

Can I use liquid detergent in my top load washer?

Liquid detergents give you the best results compared to powdered detergents. It dissolves with water in a very short time and cleans the fabrics effectively, also it does not leave the detergent residues behind.

So read the label of your detergent bottle before using it in any washer type. If your Top Loader is a high-efficiency model you may need to use the quantity described in the label.

If the washer is a Non-HE version, increase the quantity of the detergent.

Manish Singh is an expert in electrical engineering with a Diploma in the field. With over 12 years of experience, he specializes in repairing music systems, washing machines, dryers, and other laundry-related appliances. His in-depth knowledge in electrical repairs and decent knowledge about garment care makes him a trusted authority in the field of appliance repair and laundry related topics. If you have any questions or need assistance with your appliances, you can reach out to Manish through email: manish.singh (at) portablelaundry.com