Preventing Detergent from Re-depositing on Clothing
How to Prevent Detergent from Re-depositing on Clothing
Detergent re-deposition happens when detergent particles cling back to fabrics after washing, making clothes appear dull and unclean. This issue can be frustrating, especially when you've made an effort to keep your laundry fresh and clean. Knowing how to prevent detergent from re-depositing on clothing is crucial for maintaining clean garments.
Several factors contribute to detergent buildup on clothing. One major reason is using too much detergent for a load. Overloading the washing machine can also hinder proper rinsing, leaving residues on clothes. Furthermore, using the wrong type of detergent, especially in high-efficiency machines, can worsen the problem since these machines require low-sudsing detergents.
Best Practices for Washing Clothes
Use the Right Detergent
To ensure your clothes come out fresh and free of detergent residue, start with the right detergent. Choose a high-quality, low-sudsing detergent formulated for your washing machine type. For instance, if you have a high-efficiency washer, opt for a detergent labeled as HE. This type of detergent works effectively in low water conditions, reducing the chance of residues building up on your garments.
Check your detergent: Older laundry detergents, especially powdered detergent, do not dissolve well in the washer. Keep detergent containers closed to extend the shelf life.
Maytag recommends using Swash® Laundry Detergent. It is designed to work in both high-efficiency (HE) and non-HE washing machines. With an 8x concentrated formula, you’ll use about a quarter of the detergent you’d need with a traditional 2x concentration detergent. It may look like a small amount, but you’ll be amazed at its effectiveness.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Always follow the detergent manufacturer's directions regarding the amount needed. Measure the detergent before putting it in the washer. You may need less detergent if you have very soft water or a very lightly soiled load. If too much detergent is used, it won't be easy to rinse it away thoroughly.
Detergent pacs also come in different sizes; larger pre-measured ones should only be used for large or heavily soiled loads.
HE detergents come in many different concentration levels, such as 2x, 4x, and 8x. It is important to follow the detergent manufacturer's dosage amount based on soil level and load size. Using too much detergent can potentially lead to longer cycle times, oversudsing, poor rinsing, and poor cleaning performance.
Check your concentration settings if you use the bulk dispenser on your Maytag washer. When using detergents labeled higher than 2x, the concentration level should be updated to match the detergent concentration. Since so little detergent is needed, it is easy to use too much.
Use the Right Cycle and Setting
Pay attention to the washing machine settings. Maytag machines offer specific cycles tailored to different fabric types and soil levels. To prevent detergent re-deposit, select a cycle with an extra rinse option. This additional rinse helps flush out any leftover detergent, ensuring your clothes come out clean and residue-free.
Laundry detergents are formulated to clean well at temperatures above 60°F (15.6°C). Water temperatures below 60°F (15.6°C) do not dissolve detergents well, especially powdered detergents. Use liquid detergent for colder water temperatures. Run hot water in the sink nearest the washer before starting to ensure hot water in the water lines.
Don't Overload the Washer
Proper load size and arrangement also impact wash effectiveness. Avoid overloading the washing machine; this can prevent detergent from circulating properly and rinsing out completely. Aim for a balanced load that allows water and detergent to move freely around the clothes. Arrange larger items, like towels, with smaller items to ensure even distribution and optimal cleaning results.
Leave enough space in the washer to allow the load to move freely. Tightly packed clothing in the washer may trap the detergent and not allow it to dissolve completely. Reduce load size if needed.
Clean your Maytag regularly
Regular cleaning of your washing machine is essential to prevent detergent from re-depositing on your clothing. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and other debris can accumulate in your machine, leading to poor washing performance and re-depositing issues. affresh® Washing Machine Cleaner offers a powerful solution specifically designed for cleaning washing machines, ensuring they stay in optimal condition.
It is generally recommended to clean your washing machine at least once a month. However, if you have hard water or use your machine frequently, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Cleans even where you can't see
affresh® cleans deep inside your appliances reaching components such as the tub, racks, pump, valves, drain, and recirculation hoses.
Cleaners are available at many retailers or can be purchased here at affresh®.
Flipping the detergent world on its cap.
Just flip it, squeeze it, and start your laundry cycle. With this easy squeeze, you get the right amount and the clean you want every time.
Shop Swash® HE Ultra-Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent.