Why less is more when it comes to washing machine powder, says cleaning expert

We often hear the mantra, “less is more” applied to seasoning food or decorating a space but did you know this should be applied to your washing powder use?

That’s the advice from one cleaning expert whose demonstration on social media has audiences transfixed by the results.

Cleaning expert Ann Russell shared a video on her TikTok account that showed two, front-loading washing machines operating side by side, originally uploaded by Gina from @itsginatok.

“I feel like I add so much detergent to my clothes and it’s never enough,” the text on Gina’s TikTok read.

In Gina’s video, one washing machine door is completely covered in foam while the other washing machine which Gina was using had hardly any bubbles even though it washing a full load of clothes.

“Mine is on the right and it looks like it’s just being washed in dirty water,” Gina wrote.

Russell reassured her that more foam in the washing machine isn’t better for your washing.

In addition, Russell explained that you only require a small amount of detergent because the movement of the clothes in the machine does most of the work, while the detergent removes stains, and the rinse cycle gets rid off dirt from clothes after they’ve been through the washing cycle.

“Detergents that are made to work in automatic machines, be they front loaders or top loaders, are designed to be low foam because the foam hinders the cleaning, it doesn’t help get the dirt out, it tends to hold it there and you want the dirt to come out and fall away,” Russell said.

“If you can’t rinse out the soap, you can’t rinse out the dirt.”

Watch on TikTok

Social media users added their own takes of the video and many included their experiences with their own washing machines.

“People can even small scale test the theory by putting too much dish soap in the sink when washing dishes… and then try to get rid of the excess bubbles. Too many bubbles takes forever to clear,” one commented.

“I’ve started using a lot less detergent and fabric conditioner after seeing your advice, clothes still smell clean and fresh and feel better,” another added.

“Learn something new everyday on Ann’s page,” one wrote.

“I get foam when I wash the dish cloth and tea towels. Realised I was not rinsing the dish soap off them before machine washing.”

If you are concerned about your dirty laundry, there are simple ways to make your washing machine run better.

1. Clear excess water after every use

Wipe out excess water from the rubber seal after each use. Keep a sponge nearby for this purpose. Cotton buds are also good for harder to reach places and will pick up excess dirt and grime.

2. Leave the door ajar when not using it to prevent mould build-up

For some of us, our washing machines are located in tiny rooms and dark spaces. Coupled with the heat of the running appliance and how humid it can quickly get, this provides a prime breeding ground for mould and other fungal undesirables.

Leaving the door open lets in fresh air and refreshes the room, reducing the chance of mould build up.

3. Clean out the soap dispenser regularly

If the unit comes out, take it out, rinse it and let it dry regularly. If not, still give it a good wipe out to remove built up soap and softeners.

4. Check the drain trap

If your machine has a little flap door on the bottom corner, this is a drain trap. Check it regularly for loose buttons and coins that have worked their way through the wash cycle. Keep a towel handy when opening the drain to catch any excess water.

5. Choose the right detergent for your machine

Front loader detergent produces less suds, thus preventing damage to the drum.

6. Wash your washing machine once a month

Run an empty cycle with distilled vinegar or bleach, on the hottest cycle, to give your machine a monthly clean.

7. Organise your washing machine and locate it in a safe place

Make sure your machine is level to prevent damage to the drum from excessive vibrations when in use.