Unilever logo




By Cleanipedia Team

laundry bottle on top of washing machine


Why is using your washing machine properly important?



Where to put detergent in washing machines

How concerned are you about disinfecting while cleaning?

If you’re looking for where to put detergent in washing machines, the answer is usually fairly simple. Your washing machine should have a detergent drawer, and if you’re struggling to locate this, it should be detailed in your instruction manual. The detergent drawer tends to be the biggest one, although this can vary across different models. You may also see a separate compartment for your softener, which is a good way to keep your clothes free of wrinkles while they are being washed, and avoid wear and tear in the future.

How to use washing powder in a washing machine





How to use liquid detergent in a washing machine



  • If you use a product like Persil, make sure you use the handy dosing ball to measure the right dose.


  • Always check the instructions on the packaging before use.

How much detergent should I use?


  • Remember to think about how dirty your clothes are - heavily soiled clothes will need a stronger dose.

  • You also need to consider whether you’ve got hard or soft water. If you have hard water, you may need to use more detergent as soaps do not foam as well when they’re contending with the natural minerals found in hard water. 


  • Most liquid detergents will come with a measuring device too and are usually designed to need only 1 dose per wash. If you're wondering how much washing machine liquid laundry detergent to use, the dosing ball and is a great way to help you measure the right amount of detergent for your wash. 


What type of detergent is best?



Liquid detergent




  • It's a suitable option for cold and quick washes.

  • It is typically cheaper than capsule detergent but maybe a little more expensive than powder.

Powdered detergent

  • Powdered detergent is a more traditional form of detergent.








Top loading detergent




Front-loading detergent

  • Front-loading detergent is specifically designed to minimise soap suds. 



Stain removal detergent

  • Stain removal detergent offers built-in stain removal properties.



Read other articles from the Clothing Care category

How to get colour run out of clothes

What do the symbols on washing machines mean

How to remove static from clothes

How to stop clothes bobbling

How to make clothes smell good and stay fresh

Originally published