How much laundry detergent do you use? HE or Regular formula?

Question

What prompts the question is that ...

I had to go to the laundromat to wash our comforters and noticed how much detergent some other people were using in their loads. One family used a whole cup of Tide detergent for one load of laundry and 1/2 cup of bleach for the load. It smelled so bad.

The recommended amount is way less than a whole measuring cup of detergent. I haven't used regular formula detergent in 5 years so I am unfamiliar how much is appropriate saying that I am sure that 1 cup of detergent is too much.

Answer 1

First of all, you mentioned H.E., that means High Efficiency. The washers that are 'H.E.' use less water and so less detergent. They clean the clothes by agitating them more, and only dipping them in the water. You do NOT want to put too much detergent in those it would likely ruin your clothes. Read the package the detergent comes in to determine how much to put in. If it sounds like it's not enough...believe me it is!

In regular washers more isn't always better either. Too much can stain your clothes. I suggest a couple things. You're going to have to take into consideration how full the load is, how much water you're going to use, and if the water will be hot, warm, or cold. (Wow! All this for laundry? Did we take Mom for granted or what???!)

Again, check the package of detergent. For instance, Tide sells a detergent made for cold water loads. Also, you can buy 'bleach' that is for colored clothes...do not confuse this with the bleach for whites or you can ruin your colored clothes!! Read labels and take your time. Make sure you buy what you like and feel free to stop and smell the fragrances. Not all smell so great. You mentioned that the other people next to you had a stinky load of laundry...that was probably the bleach for white clothes. It does stink, but it sure makes your whites white!

Good luck!

Answer 2

I have an HE machine. I strongly urge that you do not put regular detergent into your machine. Regular detergent in smaller amounts may not cause a lot of suds, but it will still build up in the washer and end up damaging the machine. It will end up violating any warranty you have on the machine. Also, smaller amounts of a regular detergent will not clean as effectively as just putting in some HE detergent. If you are trying to use up your old detergent, just use it elsewhere. You can clean your bathroom with it. That is what I did. Did a good job too. If price is the issue, do a net search. You can find plenty of deals on different HE detergents that are cost effective. Keep an eye out for sales and coupons. HE detergent is not as expensive as people think and you are better off in the long run. I am even seeing HE detergents at dollar stores and seeing store brand HE detergents which really helps with cost. I personally use Charlie's Soap Laundry Powder. It works out to about 10 cents or less a load as I do not always need a full TBSP for every load of laundry.

Answer 3

its all based on personal preference.and for some people who have machines at home, it depends on the type and quality of their water..

I only use Regular TIDE, and the amount is based on how big of load and what exactly Im washing...
I dont use any color safe bleaches for colors, for whites I use clorox gell bleach, again amount dependig on how big my load of whites is...
and I use Downey with febreeze as a fabric softner with all loads..I simple use the downy ball and just fill it to the line...

Answer 4

HE detergent is used in front loading washers. Not top loaders.

Answer 5

use the recommended amount, . too much detergent requires extra rinsing & do not over bleach.also use fabric softner for anice smell

Answer 6

I use what the box or bottle says..Liquid I use a full cap

Answer 7

COLDWATER TIDE