In the quest for cleanliness, it’s easy to assume that more is always better. More detergent equals more cleaning power, right? Well, not quite. It’s a common misconception that could be doing more harm than good to your clothes and washing machine. As a cleaning expert recently revealed, seeing a mountain of detergent bubbles in your washing machine is not the sign of a good clean you might think it is.
We all want the best for our homes and belongings, which is why we’re bringing you this essential piece of advice from the cleaning pros. Let’s dive into why those detergent bubbles might be a red flag and what you should be doing instead to keep your garments in top condition.
Firstly, let’s talk about the bubble trouble. A viral social media user named Gina showed a washing machine overflowing with foam, while her own laundry had significantly fewer bubbles. Confused, she wondered if she was using enough detergent. However, a cleaning expert named Russell responded to her concerns, explaining that a surplus of foam is not a good sign. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.
Modern detergents are formulated to be low-foaming, especially those designed for automatic machines, whether front or top loaders. The reason for this is simple: excess foam can actually trap dirt within the fabric rather than allowing it to be rinsed away. The agitation of the clothes in the water does most of the cleaning work, while the detergent is there to tackle stains and assist in the process.
Russell pointed out that the amount of detergent needed is quite small, and it’s the rinsing cycle that’s crucial for removing dirt. If your clothes are moving around in what appears to be dirty water, that’s because the dirt has been lifted from the fabric. The rinse cycle then spins out this dirty water and replaces it with clean water to wash away the remaining soap and grime.
But what happens when there’s too much detergent? The foam can prevent the rinse cycle from effectively removing all the dirt and detergent from your clothes. This can lead to skin irritation and damage to the fabric. Moreover, excessive detergent use can leave a residue inside your washing machine, resulting in unpleasant brown flakes known as soap scrud. These flakes can cling to your clothes and linens, requiring individual rinsing and potentially leaving a foul smell.
Another downside to using too much detergent is that it can prolong your washing cycle. Washing machines may add extra rinses to deal with the excess detergent, which explains why that ‘final minute’ on the machine seems to last an eternity.
Remember, the goal is effective cleaning, not a bubble bath for your garments. By keeping your laundry routine simple and efficient, you’ll find that less is often more when it comes to detergent. Sticking to the right amount ensures better results without overloading your machine or fabrics.
What’s your experience with detergent use in your laundry routine? Have you found that adjusting the amount makes a difference in the cleanliness of your clothes? We’d love to hear your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
Also read: The laundry mistake you need to avoid—and what you could do instead
