Is using excessive detergent harmful for washing machines?

Have you ever wondered if using excessive detergent can be harmful to your washing machine and your clothes in general? Let’s face it, in our day-to-day laundry routines, we often don’t give much thought to the amount of detergent we use. We just want our clothes clean, right? But what if more detergent doesn’t necessarily mean cleaner clothes? 

Contrary to popular belief, using too much detergent can actually damage your washing machine and leave a residue on your garments. Understanding the impact of detergent use is crucial for both your laundry and your appliance’s lifespan.

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In this guide, we’ll explain why using excessive detergent can be harmful to washing machines and answer the question: how much detergent is really necessary?

Can using excessive detergent be harmful to washing machines?

While it might seem like a good idea to use more detergent for a cleaner wash, using excessive amounts can actually mess up your washing machine. Over time, the extra detergent creates more suds than needed, which can overflow and clog the drainage system. This can cause malfunctions and even overflow in some cases. 

Plus, the detergent that doesn’t rinse out leaves a residue on your clothes and the washing machine itself. Over time, this residue builds up in hoses, valves, and other parts, messing with water flow and potentially causing damage.

Furthermore, the moist environment created by leftover detergent can become a breeding ground for mould and mildew, especially around the rubber gaskets of front-load washers. This can lead to unpleasant odours and even mean you’ll have to clean or replace those gaskets.

Also, too much suds can sometimes even interfere with the sensors in your washing machine, making it misjudge water levels and mess up your cycles. To avoid these problems, it’s always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the detergent packaging and adjust the amount based on the size of your load and water hardness.

How much detergent is really necessary?

The right amount of detergent depends on several factors, including your washing machine type and the size of your load. Front-load washers use much less water, so you only need about 1-2 tablespoons of detergent. On the other hand, top-load washers may require several tablespoons of detergent because they use more water. Additionally, smaller loads generally need less detergent.

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Another thing to consider is how hard your water is. Generally, hard water needs more detergent, while soft water needs less. Lastly, how dirty your clothes are also matters, since really dirty clothes might need a bit more detergent. 

A good rule of thumb is to start with a small amount and see if your clothes get clean. You can always add more if needed, but it’s harder to deal with excess suds and residue.