At a Glance:
Safe Soaps for Laundry Machines
Top-Rated Washers with Efficient Cleaning Capabilities
Having trouble knowing just how much laundry detergent to use? We have you covered. In fact, we will say that most laundry detergent cap measurements by far exceed the amount of laundry detergent you should put in a washing machine. Whether you have a traditional side-by-side laundry pair or a stackable washer and dryer set, we have put together a guide that is all about laundry soap.
Below we talk about how much detergent to put in washing machine whether you have a top loader or a front loader. Then we will share an easy 2-step process on how to use liquid detergent the correct way. Next, we will talk about the different types of soap that can be used in washing machines. Finally, we will showcase two impressive washing machines, one from Maytag and one from LG.
How Much Soap to Put in Washing Machine
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one answer to this question. The amount of laundry detergent you use depends on the detergent’s concentration levels and what type of washing machine you are using. It also depends on if you have soft water or hard water. Standard washing machines usually need two tablespoons of laundry detergent, whereas HE (high-efficiency) washing machines only need one to two teaspoons of laundry detergent.
How much liquid detergent to use in top loader?
If you have a top load washer and are wondering how much liquid detergent to use, we have the answer. Top load washers (that are not HE washers) need two tablespoons of laundry detergent, on average.
How much liquid detergent to use in a front loader?
Whether you have a top loader or a front load washer, the same amount of recommended laundry detergent should be used.
How To Use Liquid Detergent
To know that you are using liquid detergent the correct way, here’s a brief guide.
Step 1: Find the best detergent for your washing machine
There are three types of laundry detergent: liquid detergent, powder detergent, and pods. Liquid detergents are easier to pour into the washing machine and clean grease and dirt well, but they can sometimes make a mess if detergent drips down the bottle. Powder detergents, on the other hand, are still effective but they can leave a residue on clothes if too much is used. Pods are convenient and mess-free, but they are poisonous if ingested by animals or children.
Step 2: Consider your load size
The amount of detergent needed depends on your load size. Is your washer going to be mostly full or are you washing a few small things? To help determine your load size, here is a quick reference guide:
- 25% Full = Small load
- 50% Full = Medium load
- 75% Full = Full load
Once you have determined your load size, you can read the recommendations on your laundry detergent packaging to see what is recommended. Keep in mind that these ‘bottle recommendations’ often suggest using more detergent than needed. If you are unsure how much to use, reference the previous section.
✱ As a rule of thumb, the washer should never exceed 75% full. Overloading the washing machine can create performance and cleaning issues.
Related: Steam Dryers: 2022 Laundry Game-Changers
Safe Soaps for Laundry Machines
We briefly mentioned this earlier, but there are a few different types of soaps you can choose to use with your washing machine. We will expand on them below.
Liquid Detergent
Liquid detergent is the most common type of soap for laundry machines. As we said earlier, liquid detergents help to remove grease and dirt from clothing. They can be messy, but they dissolve quickly in water for a good cleaning. Just make sure to not overdo it and pour too much detergent in!
Powder Detergent
Powder detergent is a great soap option if you are trying to save money. It is typically less pricey than liquid detergent yet still efficient in cleaning. The disadvantage of powder detergents is that they do not always dissolve as easily as liquid detergent does and may need to be mixed with some warm water before adding it to the washer.
Pods and Tablets
Some homeowners prefer to use pods or tablets because it doesn’t involve having to measure a liquid or powder. Pods and tablets can simply be added to the washing machine without much thought. The majority of loads require one pod or tablet but there may be cases where heavy loads or extra-dirty loads will require two pods or tablets. While these are convenient forms of laundry soap, they are dangerous around animals and small children and may not be worth the risk to use them.
HE Detergents
HE detergents come in liquid form, powder form, and pod/tablet form just like standard laundry detergents. This type of detergent is made specifically for high-efficiency washing machines since these appliances don’t use as much water as traditional washing machines. While you don’t need to use as much HE detergent per load, the detergent you purchase will probably cost more than non-HE detergent.
Laundry Soaps
Laundry soaps are typically basic forms of soap that are appropriate for washing machines. You will most likely see laundry soap bars or laundry soap flakes rather than liquid, powder, or pod/tablet detergents. Some homeowners choose to use laundry soaps as a base to make their own laundry detergent.
Related: Find Your Perfect Fit: How to Measure for Washer and Dryer
Top-Rated Washers with Efficient Cleaning Capabilities
Below are two impressive washing machines: the Whirlpool top load washer and the Maytag washer and dryer. If you are considering replacing your old washing machine with a more efficient model, keep reading to hear what makes these two washing machine models stand out.
Maytag® 4.7 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Shop This Maytag Top Load Washer
With a Power™ Agitator and auto-sensing technology, this Maytag top load washer efficiently cleans laundry. This washing machine also features a Deep Fill Option that fills the basket with extra water, Quick Wash Cycle for small loads done in 30 minutes or less, and Slow-Close Glass Lid for a clear view of laundry.
Extra Power Button
If you need a stain-fighting boost, Maytag’s Extra Power Button allows both hot water and cold water to be used to wipe out stains since stains are removed easier with cold water or hot water.
Wi-Fi Compatible
Enjoy accessing your washing machine’s settings straight from a smartphone through the Maytag app. Homeowners can literally manage their laundry loads and receive end-of-cycle notifications without stepping foot into their laundry room!
Advanced Vibration Control™
Tired of your shaky washing machine? With Advanced Vibration Control, this washing machine will run through its cycle without disrupting the peace. This Maytag washer runs quietly thanks to its powerful shock absorbers and springs.
Featured buyer review: “Glad I got one with an agitator and ability to put clothes in after cycle starts.”
LG 5.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop This LG Front Load Washer
Compared to the Maytag washer that was just reviewed, this LG front load washer holds 5.0 cubic feet of laundry which is great for families and those with a lot of laundry to do. Built into this LG washing machine is AI technology that helps homeowners by choosing the best wash settings for each laundry load. If you choose to purchase the compatible LG dryer, the washer can automatically select a drying cycle that complements the selected wash cycle.
Allergiene™ Cycle
Have any issues with allergens? With the Allergiene™ Cycle, 95% of pet dander and dust is removed from each wash load. This is thanks to the LG washing machine being AAFA certified.
ColdWash™ Technology
LG knows that warm water is sometimes the best way to get stains out of clothing, but it is not the most energy-efficient cycle to run. With ColdWash™ technology, this washing machine will blast clothes to clean them thoroughly just as if they were being washed with warm water.
TurboWash™ 360° Technology
To get a deep clean on your clothes or laundry load in under 30 minutes, take advantage of TurboWash™ 360° Technology. This technology uses five jets to powerfully spray laundry from various angles in the tub. For parents or those who want the option to get a load of laundry cleaned well in a short amount of time, this LG washer is for you.
Featured buyer review: “As a family of 6, this machine is an absolute gem. Instead of 2-3 loads of laundry, we only need to do 1. This is a time saver. The cycle options cover about every scenario possible. We especially love the bedding option; it makes washing sheets so simple.”
Knowing how much soap to put in washing machine might not seem like a big deal, but using the right amount of laundry soap will prevent your machine from overworking, save you money, and keep your clothes from getting damaged. It’s a small tip worth keeping in mind, and one that can have a dramatic impact on your appliance’s lifespan. For more tips on how to do laundry right, make sure to visit your local Don’s Appliances online or at one of our Pittsburgh appliance stores near you!
Why Trust Don’s Appliances?
Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.
Shop Washers at Don’s Appliances
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop washers online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you learn how much soap to put in washing machine — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!
Learn More: Steam Dryers: 2022 Laundry Game-Changers