Laundry is part of daily life, and anything you can do to make it quicker must be good! Once you’ve sorted the clothes, loaded the drum, and closed the door it’s time to add your detergent and get back to your family – but where do you put detergent in a washing machine? The last thing you want when putting on your latest load of washing is to be left asking questions. Luckily, we’ve got the answers to help you put your detergent in the right place.
Where to put detergent in the washing machine
Did you know washing capsules go straight in the drum before your clothes? Or that liquid detergent is added after the clothes? Knowing where to put detergent in the washing machine may not be as easy as you think so it’s important to always check the packaging.
How to use washing machine capsules
Ready to use capsules are a valuable time saver for many families. If you’re looking for a convenient option that takes the hassle out of laundry, then learning how to use washing machine capsules is highly recommended.
Use one capsule at a time – unless washing a heavily soiled load
Place the capsule at the back of the empty
Load the clothes on top
Close the door
Select your wash cycle and temperature, and enjoy more time with your family!
Remember: colourful laundry capsules can look tempting to inquisitive little fingers so always store your capsules safely and out of reach of children. The same applies to all other detergents and household cleaners.
How to use liquid detergent
Great for pre-treating stains, liquid detergents are easy to use once you know how.
Pre-treat stubborn stains with a small amount of liquid detergent applied directly the the fabric and rubbed in gently
Add your clothes to the machine and measure liquid detergent with the dosing ball
Place the dosing ball on top of clothes in the drum
Select your wash cycle and temperature
Remember: Always follow the dosing guide on the packing to make sure you measure the correct amount and be careful to wipe up any spills or drips immediately. Our dosing guide overview can help you work out how to load the correct amount of detergent for front- and top-load machines.
How to use powdered detergent
Washing powder is a traditional type of detergent that is loaded into the drum – although some varieties can be placed in the drum to allow the detergent to dissolve quicker. Your two main options when using powdered detergent are:
Place it directly into the compartment drawer of your washing machine – you should consult you washing machine manual to learn which is the correct compartment to use.
Place the powder in a mesh bag directly in the drum to allow it to dissolve quicker. Always check the instructions on your detergent first to make sure it can be used this way.
Powdered detergent is also available as washing tablets. These are typically loaded into the same compartment on your washing machine as loose washing powder but offer a pre-measured dose of detergent to cut down on mess.
Remember: it’s important to only use the recommended amount of detergent when washing your clothes. Read the detergent’s packaging to find the correct dose or take a look at our Dosing for Powders and Dosing for Washing Tablets guides.
Getting the most from your detergent
Now you know where to put detergent in a washing machine, doing the laundry should become much easier. We have plenty of other washing tips to help you get the most out of your detergent and a few you might like to try include:
Not overfilling your washing machine – leave enough room for clothes to move
Not underfilling your washing machine – select a shorter wash cycle instead
Selecting an appropriate wash cycle – consider the spin cycle, duration, and speed
Setting the right temperature – check your clothing’s care labels and instructions on your detergent to find the best temperature