Too Much Detergent Can Wreck It: Here’s How Much You Need | March 22, 2025

Too Much Detergent Can Wreck It: Here’s How Much You Need

Using too much detergent can make your clothes less clean and can harm your washing machine. Learn how to dose your detergent correctly for optimal results and a long-lasting machine.
Too Much Detergent, a Common Mistake
It’s tempting to think that more detergent means cleaner clothes. In reality, this idea is a myth. Using too much detergent often produces too many suds, which makes rinsing difficult and leaves residue on clothes. This residue then attracts dirt, making your clothes sticky or stiff after washing. Additionally, too much detergent can clog your machine, leading to unpleasant odors and premature wear.

Laura Johnson, R&D Analyst at LG Electronics, explains: “Using too much detergent can require more water to rinse, affecting the effectiveness of the wash and increasing the risk of residue inside the machine.”

Why Less Detergent Is Better

Modern washing machines, especially high-efficiency (HE) models, are designed to use less water and detergent. Unlike traditional machines, HE models work best with less detergent. Using too much detergent in an HE machine can leave suds on your clothes, even after multiple rinse cycles. It can also lead to residue buildup in the machine, creating musty odors or malfunctions.

Clorox Laundry Expert Mary Gagliardi says, “HE machine detergents are specially formulated to clean with fewer suds, which is key to avoiding residue on clothes and in the machine.”