Putting washing up liquid of any kind into your washing machine is definitely not a good idea. Not only is it potentially problematic for the washing machine itself, but it can also cause some very interesting bubble-related side effects.
Putting washing up liquid in your machine may be somewhat effective at cleaning your clothes since it is still a strong soap, but it is not designed to dissolve in your machine and often can result in extreme foaming and over-sudsing.
It is highly likely that your machine will overflow with bubbles and foam, causing a slippery, soapy mess and a real nightmare to clean up. It could also begin to cause issues with the pumps and drains in your machine.
What Should You Use Instead?
Generally, it’s best to stick to products that have been specifically created for use in a washing machine, as they are designed to dissolve into the water in your machine and treat the dirt and stains on your clothes.
Stain remover can be put into your machine, either on the garment before the wash or into the machine before you set the cycle to go. It will work to dissolve, emulsify, and remove any lingering stains.
If you don’t use a stain remover, that is absolutely fine, as many laundry detergents, especially powders, will have some type of bleach within them and are often highly effective against stubborn stains. They also work well at lower temperatures.
Fabric softener is also approved for use in your washing machine. It is important to make sure that this goes into the right part of your machine though, as it is usually only added into the cycle a little later.
If you have run out of all approved products for your washing machine and have no option but to start improvising, the best thing to do would be to run your normal cycle with no soap at all.
In addition, if you’re trying to clean the inside of the machine itself, you could try running through a cup or two of white vinegar and maybe some bicarbonate of soda, but preferably nothing that contains soap.
The best advice, in this case, is to always try to follow the advice provided by manufacturers and within machine guides and manuals.
Diverting from the approved products is risky and could prove to be expensive if the build-up of soapy lather causes permanent damage to your machine.
An adventurous book lover with an animal obsession and a proclivity for travel and spontaneity. Used to passionately despise cleaning but has grown to enjoy it thanks to learning all the best tricks and shortcuts to guaranteeing a stress-free routine and a spotless home.
