Where to put detergent in a washing machine

Did you know that using the wrong compartments in your washing machine’s detergent drawer could stop your clothes from being properly cleaned? It could even cause blockages or affect how well your washer works.

Don’t worry though, we’re here to help. We’ll walk you through where to put detergent and how to use each section of your washing machine drawer, so every load comes out fresh and clean, keeping your washing machine in good working order.

Pull your washing machine’s detergent drawer open and you will find that this part of the appliance is split into three compartments.

Here’s what each one is used for:

The main wash compartment

Symbol or text to look out for – This compartment can be identified by either looking for the symbol ‘II’ or the text ‘main wash’.

Cleaning materials which can be put into this compartment – Regular washing detergent should be used in this compartment, with both powder and liquid formats fine to be applied.

Key features & characteristics – The largest compartment of the three in your washing machine’s detergent drawer, this is often located on the left of the drawer.

The pre-wash compartment

Symbol or text to look out for – This compartment can be identified by either looking for the symbol ‘I’ or the text ‘pre-wash’.

Cleaning materials which can be put into this compartment – Pre-wash detergent should be placed in this compartment, though only when the pre-wash function has been selected at the start of a laundry cycle.

Key features & characteristics – This is the second largest compartment in your washing machine’s detergent drawer. It is also usually positioned on the right of the drawer.

The fabric softener compartment

Symbol or text to look out for – This compartment can be identified by either looking for a symbol of a flower or the text ‘softener’.

Cleaning materials which can be put into this compartment – Only fabric softener should be put into this compartment.

Key features & characteristics – The compartment that is either on the left-hand side of your detergent drawer or in the middle of your washing machine’s detergent drawer. It is not as large as the other two compartments, as only a small amount of fabric softener is needed for each wash load.

You can learn much more about using fabric softeners in laundry by reading our in-depth guide on the products here.

If you are still unsure where to put laundry detergent into your washing machine though, you should check the manual that your appliance was delivered with. If you have a Hotpoint washing machine, download your manual here, you’ll just need your appliances model number, which can usually be found inside the door.

Whichever way you are approaching laundry day, make sure the detergent you use can be most effective at cleaning your fabric type by following this advice:

·       Always check the label of the detergent or softener you are using to see how much should be used for the size of your laundry load.

·       Never exceed any of the maximum level indicators found on the compartments of your washing machine’s detergent drawer. 
A drawer that has been overfilled with detergent can cause excessive foaming to develop inside the appliance’s drum during a wash, affecting both the laundry and the machine.

·       Regularly clean the detergent drawer of your washing machine. Doing so will prevent a build-up of detergent, which can lead to blockages, cause leaks and or mould can form as it’s a damp environment. 
This how-to guide will instruct you how to easily remove the drawer, while we also encourage you to read up on our simple tips on cleaning your entire washing machine.

When we build our washing machines here at Hotpoint, we aim to ensure the appliances will deliver the utmost care to your laundry.

You will be able to remove the guesswork from your laundry day by making use of our auto dose technology, for example. This handy feature automatically measures and dispenses just the right amount of detergent for each wash, for up to 21 washes!

We also understand that a detergent drawer can be difficult to open and access when an appliance has been integrated into your laundry room’s cabinets. That is why our built-in washing machines feature a different detergent drawer design to our freestanding models, which can be opened with ease no matter the layout of your home.

Find the perfect washing machine for your household online today. Don’t forget to register for our newsletter if this is your first order with us, to receive free delivery of your new appliance.