Liquid Detergent Placement in Washing Machines (Guide)

Knowing where to put liquid detergent in your washing machine is more than just a routine, it’s crucial for maintaining the longevity of your appliance and the cleanliness of your clothes.

Pouring detergent incorrectly could lead to subpar washing results or even damage to your machine.

To use liquid detergent in a washing machine, pour it directly into the drum or the designated compartment in the dispenser drawer, if available. This ensures even distribution and effective cleaning. If there’s no drawer, add detergent to the drum after the water has entered.

In this blog post, we will explore where and how to add liquid detergent to the washing machine to get the best possible results.

Where to Put Liquid Detergent in a Top-Loading Washing Machine?

pouring liquid detergent directly into the top load washer

The procedure for adding liquid detergent to a top-load washing machine is straightforward. You need to introduce the detergent into the drum before loading your clothes.

This order is vital as it ensures the liquid detergent is evenly distributed during the wash cycle, contributing to thoroughly cleaned laundry.

In addition to pouring the detergent directly, you also have the option of using a dosing ball.

This device is particularly handy in measuring the correct amount and dispensing the detergent effectively across the drum, promoting uniform washing and minimizing wastage.

It is advisable to avoid adding liquid detergent directly to the pre-wash compartment in top-loaders.

Such a misstep can lead to an uneven wash, causing certain parts of the fabric to be less clean compared to others.

Where to Put Liquid Detergent in a Front-Loading Washing Machine?

Putting Liquid Detergent in a Front-Loading Washing Machine

In the case of a front-loading washing machine, you should add liquid detergent to the detergent drawer, specifically locating the compartment labeled as “main wash” or “II”.

This compartment is designed for the main washing cycle, ensuring that the detergent is released at the optimal time for thorough cleaning.

While doing so, caution should be exercised to avoid adding detergent to the pre-wash or fabric softener compartments, as this could disrupt the washing process and the final results.

To get more clarity on using all the compartments in the washing machine detergent drawer read this.

Where to Put Liquid Detergent in Washing Machine Without Dispenser?

For washing machines lacking a dispenser, the approach to using liquid detergent is slightly varied but still straightforward.

Begin by ensuring the washing machine is empty with the door or lid open.

Subsequently, measure the appropriate amount of liquid detergent for your load, following the detergent label’s dosing instructions based on load size and soil level.

Once measured, pour the detergent directly into the drum of the washing machine, either before or after loading your clothes, ensuring it’s evenly spread across the drum.

After loading your clothes and closing the machine door or lid, select your desired wash cycle, water temperature, and other settings, and initiate the washing cycle.

The liquid detergent will blend with the water as the machine fills, securing proper distribution and decent cleaning of your clothes.

Additional Tips

  • Follow Instructions: Always follow the guidelines and instructions provided on your liquid detergent bottle to optimize cleaning efficiency and safeguard your clothes and the appliance.
  • Correct Amount of Detergent: Measure and use the appropriate amount of detergent based on the size of your load and the type of clothes you are washing. Each fabric and load size requires a specific quantity for effective cleaning.
  • Avoid Overusing Detergent: Excessive use of detergent can result in residue build-up on your clothes, diminishing wash quality and potentially affecting the functionality of your washing machine. Balancing the right amount is essential for maintaining the condition of both your clothes and appliances.

The Benefits of Using Liquid Detergent

The use of liquid detergent in a washing machine offers several advantages that make it a popular choice.

Not only does it cater to a variety of washing needs, but it also ensures that your clothes are treated with utmost care.

Here are some of the key benefits of using liquid detergent in the washing machine:

  • Effective Stain Removal: Liquid detergents are renowned for their ability to remove greasy and oily stains effectively, making them the go-to option for eliminating tough food stains and similar marks.
  • Pre-Treatment: The versatility of liquid detergent allows it to be applied directly to stubborn stains as a pre-treatment, thereby enhancing its stain removal effectiveness and ensuring pristine laundry results.
  • Suitability for Hard Water: Unlike other forms, liquid detergents do not react adversely with the minerals commonly found in hard water. This characteristic ensures a thorough cleaning and prevents residue build-up, even in areas with hard water.
  • Convenience: The liquid form is easy to measure and pour, thereby minimizing the risk of overuse or spillage, a common issue with powders.
  • Machine Compatibility: Liquid detergents seamlessly integrate with a variety of washing machines, including both top-loading and high-efficiency models, making them a versatile choice for all your laundry needs.

Incorporating these benefits into your laundry day routine can significantly enhance the quality of your wash, ensuring that your clothes are not only clean but also well-maintained.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Pour Liquid Detergent on Top of Clothes?

It’s advisable to pour the detergent into the washing machine first, before adding your clothes. This method helps ensure that the liquid detergent is evenly distributed throughout the load once the machine is turned on, preventing it from concentrating in one area and leading to uneven cleaning.

How Much Liquid Detergent to Use in a 7kg Washing Machine?

For a 7kg load in standard washers, about 2 tablespoons of concentrated detergent should be ideal. For high-efficiency washing machines, approximately 1 teaspoon should be good. If you are using liquid detergent of brands like Ariel, the recommended dosage is about 80 ml for top load fully-automatic machines but always refer to the detergent label for specific dosing instructions.

Hemant Sarkar is a seasoned techie with a diploma in computer science and an impressive track record of over 15 years in dealing with speakers, kitchen appliances, and various home appliance-related issues. He is widely recognized for his exceptional expertise in repairing dryers and washing machines from all major brands. In addition to his appliance repair prowess, Hemant maintains engaging blogs on topics related to music and speakers. For any inquiries or assistance regarding appliances or tech-related matters, you can reach out to him at: hemant (at) theportablelaundry.com.