The definitive guide to laundering powder quantities in washing machines
In the quest for cleaner laundry, it's essential to strike a balance between using enough detergent and avoiding excess. According to industry recommendations and expert advice, for soft water and lightly soiled clothes, about 1½ tablespoons (approximately 22 ml) of liquid laundry detergent per load is sufficient. This is less than for hard water or heavily soiled laundry because soft water requires less detergent to achieve good cleaning, and lightly soiled clothes do not need extra detergent.
If you prefer using pre-measured detergent packets, use only one packet regardless of water softness, but adjust the quantity of liquid detergent accordingly. For lightly soiled clothes, avoid adding extra detergent; instead, treat any stains separately with a small amount of detergent or pre-soak if necessary.
Always follow the specific detergent manufacturer's dosing instructions, adjusting for load size and soil level using the measuring cap. Reducing the detergent dosage for soft water is appropriate, but in harsh or untreated water conditions, it is not advised to reduce the dosage significantly.
Marina Zhukova, a domestic expert, claims that much less detergent is needed for effective washing. She bases her advice on years of experience. For concentrated detergents, one to two tablespoons are sufficient for any soiling.
Using less detergent than recommended can minimize chemical residue on clothes, reduce the risk of skin irritation, and save detergent and money. However, for heavily soiled laundry, particularly in hard water, double the recommended amount of detergent per kilogram is appropriate. In such cases, adding a tablespoon of stain remover or bleach can further enhance the cleaning power.
It's important to note that excess detergent can lead to unnecessary expenses, leave white streaks on clothes, clog the machine's compartment, and cause an unpleasant smell. In regions with soft water, special detergents are often preferred due to the low mineral content.
For bedding, one tablespoon of detergent and one tablespoon of oxygen bleach per kilogram, at a temperature of 60°C, is sufficient. The basic rule of dosing is one tablespoon (about 25 grams) of detergent per kilogram of dry laundry. There are exceptions to this rule, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
The correct approach to detergent dosing ensures high-quality washing without unnecessary expenses and damage to household appliances. A 450-gram package of detergent would only last for three cycles at the recommended dosage, so it's crucial to use the right amount each time.
Remember, using more laundry detergent than recommended does not improve washing quality. Instead, it can lead to over-sudsing and potential damage to your clothes and washing machine. So, wash smarter, not harder, and enjoy cleaner, fresher laundry!
In the realm of home-and-garden care, Marina Zhukova, a domestic expert, advocates for the use of less laundry detergent for effective washing. For concentrates, she recommends one to two tablespoons for any soiling. Using less detergent, as suggested by industry recommendations, can minimize chemical residue on clothes, reduce the risk of skin irritation, and save detergent and money. However, for heavily soiled home-lifestyle items, particularly in hard water, a higher dosage may be required.
