The efficiency of your washing machine depends greatly on the type of detergent and how you use it for washing.
However, there are many types of detergents in the market, making customers confused about the one they should choose. Some are designed to be used for hand washing, or with only washing machines; some are made for removing tough stains, and some are for delicate items like silk and woolen.
Also, due to the differences in washing mechanisms, there are different detergents for front load and top load washing machines. While top load washing machine requires detergent that creates a lot of suds as they have an agitator in the drum, and need more water and washing cycles to clean your laundry. However, due to their lower water usage, front load washer performs better with high efficiency (HE) detergent with a low suds formula. This detergent produces less lather, removes dirt and detergent residue with less water.
Zanussi Egypt will compare different types of detergent and some tips & tricks to help you choose the best powder for your automatic washing machine.
What are different types of detergents available in the market?
Hand wash powder is designed for washing clothes by hand or for semi-automatic washing machines which need more water and suds (foam) to remove stains with less agitation. Since this type of detergent produces more suds, it takes more time in dissolving.
Machine wash powder is commonly used in a fully automatic washing machine where you generally require less water and detergent to clean your laundry. It takes less time to dissolve, yet it is harsher on your clothes and not suitable for hand washing.
Liquid detergent is the most widely used detergent and can completely dissolve in the water even in cold water, thereby not leaving any residue on the clothes. It is also can be used in a fully automatic washing machine.
The table below summaries the different usage of those three detergents:
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Hand wash powder |
Machine wash powder |
Liquid detergent |
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Do’s |
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Don’ts |
Fully automatic washing machines |
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>>> Learn more: how to operate an automatic washing machine - step-by-step guide
How to choose the proper detergent for your washing machine?
Best detergent powder for top load washing machine
A top-load washing machine needs a detergent that generates a lot of suds because it has an agitator or pulsator in the drum. It also requires more water and washing cycles to clean your laundry.
Best detergent powder for front load washing machine
However, since a front-load washing machine uses less water than its top-load counterpart, it requires a high efficiency (HE) with low suds detergent. The low suds formula of the HE detergent produces less lather and removes all the dirt and detergent residue with less water.
If you add any other kind of detergent to a high-efficiency washer, then it may cause excessive foam, which creates a residue of detergent over the clothes and machine. Plus, this can also block up the system, which can prevent the washer from draining out water from the washer and, in turn, cause more suds.
>>> Read more tips & tricks when using washing machines:
- 8 tips on how to save electricity when using a washing machine
- complete guide on how to clean a washing machine
FAQs about washing machine detergents
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1. Can we use top load detergent in front load washing machine?
No, absolutely not. Top load detergent produces more lather and so leaves more residue behind, thus your clothes may not be effectively washed if you use top load detergent for front load washers. Your clothes may appear dark and dirty due to the detergent residue sticking to their fabrics.
Plus, excessive forth will build up and clog the parts of the washing machine, deteriorating its lifespan.
So, we would recommend using only HE (high efficiency) low suds detergent in front load washing machine. -
2. Can we use hand wash detergent in washing machine?
No, hand wash detergent takes more time to dissolve residue and produces the highest amount of soapy lather, which may harm both your clothes and your washer.
Only use the detergents that are recommended by your washing machine’s manufacturer. An improper detergent will harm the washing and rinsing process, or even overflowing. -
3. How do I know if the detergents that are displayed in the shops are suitable for top load or front load washing machines?
You should take time to read the label as the usage of the detergents is normally specified on the packaging or represented with a picture of a front load washing machine in front of the packet or box.
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4. Can I mix detergents when using front load or top load washing machine?
Mixing liquid and powder detergents can cause the dispenser to clog. So, don’t mix detergents.
Zanussi washing machines for a more sustainable laundry routine
Zanussi washing machines do more than just clean. With PreMix technology, you don’t have to be worried about the amount of detergent used. PreMix technology blends detergent with water and pressure sprays it onto the load to reduce detergent residue. The cooler clean keeps your clothes color sharp and bright.
Plus, our PlusSteam gives your clothes a hygienic and efficient clean. This helps reduce 99.9% bacteria and allergens from your clothes, and supports better laundry hygiene.
See some top pick Zanussi washing machines for your choice:
- Quick 20-minute refresh program for small loads
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- Laundry is washed quietly and efficiently with the inverter motor.
- 4-step Time Manager
- XXL Door for easy, effortless loading and unloading
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- 4-step Time Manager
- Quick 20-minute refresh program for small loads
