Why should you use separate detergent for front-loading washing machines?

Do you own a front-load washing machine and wonder if you need to use a special detergent? The answer is YES, and using the right detergent for front-load washing machines will not only help your clothes get cleaner but also prolong the life of the device.

Many people think that all laundry detergents are the same, but in fact, the structure and operating principles of front-loading washing machines require a specially formulated laundry detergent. Ignoring this can lead to many unwanted problems.

Different operating principles of front-loading washing machines

To understand why a separate laundry detergent is needed, we need to look at how a front-load washing machine works:

• Less Water: The washing machine uses much less water than a top-loading washing machine. The clothes are tumbled horizontally, creating friction and helping with cleaning.
• Less suds: Due to the small amount of water and the drum mechanism, washing machines are very sensitive to suds. Too much suds can cause problems.

Problems when using regular laundry detergent for front-loading washing machines

If you use regular laundry detergent (usually for top-loading or hand-washing machines) for a front-loading washing machine , you may experience the following problems:

1. Too much foam affects washing performance

Regular laundry detergent is designed to produce a lot of suds, suitable for the larger water volume of a top-loading washing machine. When used in a front-loading washing machine, this suds will become excessive:

• Reduced cleaning efficiency: Too much foam reduces friction between clothes, making stains difficult to remove. Clothes may not be completely clean.
• Difficult to rinse: The washing machine will have to take more rinse cycles to remove suds, resulting in more water and electricity consumption, and wasting time.
• Leaves residue on clothes: Detergent foam and residue can cling to clothes, causing white streaks, stiffening fabrics, and possibly irritating the skin.

2. Damage to the washing machine

Here is a more serious problem when using the wrong type of laundry detergent:

• Foam overflow: Foam can overflow outside the washing drum, seep into the electronic components inside the machine, causing short circuits, damage and reducing the life of the machine.
• Sensor damage: Sensors in the washing machine can be affected by excessive suds, resulting in malfunction or damage.
• Clogged pipes: Foam and residue buildup over time can clog drain pipes, reducing performance and requiring costly repairs.

3. Creates a bad smell in the washing machine

Excess suds and detergent residue that is not rinsed out can build up in the washing machine drum, creating a moist environment that is ideal for bacteria and mold to grow. This can lead to:

• Unpleasant musty smell: Clothes after washing may still have a foul, even musty smell, even if you use scented laundry detergent.
• Health effects: Bacteria and mold from the washing machine can stick to clothes, causing itching and allergies to the wearer.

Benefits of using specialized detergent for front-loading washing machines

Laundry detergent specifically for front-loading washing machines (usually labeled “HE” – High Efficiency) is formulated with low foaming, more concentrated formula and dissolves easily in low amounts of water:

• Optimizing cleaning efficiency: With a low-foam formula and fast dissolving ability, HE laundry detergent helps maximize friction to clean clothes without leaving residue.
• Washing machine protection: Minimizes foam overflow, protects internal components, and prolongs the life of the device.
• Save water and electricity: The washing machine does not need to rinse too many times, helping you save on living expenses.
• Keep clothes durable and beautiful: Limits residue, helps clothes retain color and softness longer.
• Odor Prevention: Minimizes build-up of dirt and excess foam, keeping the washing machine drum clean and fresh.

Tip: To ensure your clothes stay sparkling clean and your front-loading washing machine lasts, always choose a detergent labeled “HE” or specifically for front-loading washing machines. It’s a small investment that pays big dividends for both your clothes and your appliance.

Hope this article helps you understand more about front-load washing machines and how to use separate detergent properly. For any questions, please contact THT Vietnam for support!