How to Use a Washing Machine: The Right Way

When it comes to household appliances, one cannot forget the washing machine. Since its invention, the washing machine has greatly assisted in human life, helping to save labor and reduce more than half the time and effort for the cleaning process of dirty clothes.

However, not every user knows how to use the washing machine correctly. One common mistake or confusion that many people make in using the washing machine is a seemingly simple step: adding detergent/fabric softener. So why can this simple task be done wrong?

A seemingly simple task that not everyone knows how to do correctly (Illustrative image)

The important factor that determines whether the task is done wrong or right lies in the different compartments within the overall detergent tray of the washing machine. Many users do not pay attention to the symbols written on these compartments, leading to confusion. In fact, each compartment is designated for a different type of cleaning agent.

Specifically, each compartment for detergent is usually divided into 2 or 3 compartments, depending on the type of washing machine. For front-loading washing machines, the compartments are designated as follows: The compartment with the symbol “I” in Roman numerals is for adding fabric softener; the compartment with the symbol “II” in Roman numerals is for adding detergent; and the compartment with the flower symbol is for adding water conditioner. If there are no symbols, these compartments will also have English labels. In some models, instead of 3 compartments, there are only 2 compartments, where detergent and fabric softener are used interchangeably in one compartment.

These compartments will be labeled inside…

…or have English labels on the outside for users to differentiate (Illustrative image)

For top-loading washing machines, most of them will have 2 compartments or no separate compartments specifically for water, detergent, or other laundry cleaning agents. However, experts suggest that if the washing machine does not have a separate compartment, users should still pay attention to the process of adding detergent to the machine. The standard process is usually to add the appropriate amount of detergent or fabric softener for the amount of clothes first, then add water conditioner to the machine before adding the laundry.

Cleanipedia, a website by Unilever – one of the leading brands in household cleaning agents, also advises that if users have already added the cleaning agent directly to the tub, they should not add it to the detergent tray (if available). This can cause the clothes in the machine to become stained.

Illustrative image

The experts also added that adding cleaning agents in the wrong compartments, positions, or processes can result in clothes not being cleaned or fragrant as desired. The clothes can even have an unpleasant odor, color fading, or yellow stains.

In addition to adding water, detergent, or fabric softener in the right compartments, following the correct process, here are some other tips that users should keep in mind to ensure more effective and safe washing:

– When purchasing detergent, fabric softener, or water conditioner, it is necessary to carefully check if they are suitable for the washing machine. If there is information about whether they are specifically for top-loading or front-loading machines, it is even better. Choosing the right detergent or fabric softener will provide optimal hygiene for clothes.

– For colored clothes, it is best to avoid pouring the detergent directly onto the clothes. It can cause color fading and damage to the garments.

Consider choosing specialized detergent for each type of washing machine (Illustrative image)

– Use a balanced amount of cleaning agents, neither too much nor too little. Using too much can make the machine work harder to clean the soap suds, or it may not clean completely. The clothes may still retain soap residue, which can damage the fabric. On the other hand, if you use too little, your clothes will not be thoroughly cleaned. Most current types of detergent and fabric softener have suggested dosage information on the packaging, which users can refer to for correct usage.

– Consider using multi-functional laundry pods. These laundry pods are priced similarly to regular detergent or fabric softener but integrate multiple functions in one small pod. Each laundry pod is suitable for about 7kg of clothes. When using, simply put the pod directly into the tub and then add the clothes. The laundry pod will dissolve on its own and effectively clean the clothes.

Multi-functional laundry pods are gaining popularity (Illustrative image)

 

Source: Trí Thức Trẻ