It might seem harmless to pour in a little extra detergent “just in case,” but more isn’t always better. Using too much or too little can lead to unclean clothes, residue buildup, or even damage to your washer.

In this guide, we break down how much detergent you really need, based on load size, water type, and washer type.

But if you’d rather leave the laundry science to a professional laundry service, Tumble is always here to help.

‍

Why Using the Right Amount Matters?

When it comes to doing laundry, detergent seems like the easiest part. Pour some in, press start, done. But here’s the thing: using too much or too little detergent can actually do more harm than good.

Overdosing can leave behind residue, irritate sensitive skin, and even damage your washing machine over time. Meanwhile, using too little detergent means your clothes won't get properly cleaned, leaving behind dirt, sweat, and bacteria. The key is finding the perfect balance.

‍

Factors That Affect How Much You Need

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how much detergent you should use. Several key factors play a crucial role in determining the right detergent amount:

1. Load Size: Larger loads require more detergent, but not proportionally. A full load doesn't mean doubling your detergent.

2. Water Hardness: Hard water makes it harder for detergent to dissolve and do its job, so you might need to use more than usual. Meanwhile, soft water requires less.

3. Washer Type: High-efficiency (HE) machines need less detergent than traditional top-loading washers. Using too much can create excess suds that prevent proper cleaning.

4. Fabric Type: Delicate fabrics need gentler, often less concentrated detergent, while heavy work clothes might require a more robust cleaning dose.

5. Soil Level: Heavily soiled clothes need more detergent, but not to the point of overwhelming the wash cycle.

6. Detergent Concentration: Some detergents are 2x, 3x, or even 4x concentrated. Always check the label to ensure you're using the right amount.

Understanding these factors will help you optimise your laundry cleaning process and avoid common mistakes.

‍

Signs You're Using Too Much or Too Little

If your detergent game isn’t quite right, your laundry (and machine) will let you know. Watch out for these common signs!

You’re using too much if…

❌ Clothes feel stiff or soapy after washing

❌ There’s a sour or musty smell coming from the drum

❌ Your washer is foaming excessively or takes longer to rinse

❌ Skin feels irritated after wearing freshly washed clothes

You’re using too little if…

❌ Clothes still smell sweaty or dirty

❌ Stains don’t come out after one wash

❌ Whites look dingy or greyed over time

‍

Recommended Detergent Amounts

Choosing the right amount of detergent isn’t just about avoiding waste. It helps protect your clothes, keeps your washing machine running smoothly, and ensures every load comes out fresh and clean.

Here’s a quick guide to how much detergent you typically need for everyday laundry situations.

• For most everyday loads in a standard washer: Use about 1/4 cup (30–40g) of powder detergent or 2 tablespoons of liquid detergent. This amount is usually enough to clean lightly to moderately soiled clothes without leaving residue.

• For large or heavily soiled loads: Go up to 1/3 cup (45–50g) of powder or 3 tablespoons of liquid detergent. This gives extra cleaning power when dealing with dirt, sweat, or tough stains.

• For high-efficiency (HE) machines: Reduce the amount to around 2 teaspoons of liquid or 2–3 tablespoons (15–20g) of powder. HE machines use less water, so a little goes a long way.

• When using pods: One pod is enough for most regular loads. Use two only for oversized or very dirty loads in standard machines. Never use more than one in HE machines.

‍

Extra Tips

✅ Always check the detergent label for dosing instructions.

✅ Use the right detergent for your washer type (especially for HE machines).

✅ Measure, don’t eyeball. A small cup or scoop goes a long way.

✅ Adjust based on water hardness or how dirty your clothes are.

✅ Try pre-measured options like pods if you want an easy, mess-free solution.

‍

How We Handle Detergent at Tumble

At Tumble, detergent use is never a guessing game. Each load is treated with the right type and amount of detergent based on the fabric, soil level, and washer requirements.

Whether it’s delicate silk or everyday cotton, we choose detergents that are tough on stains but gentle on clothes, and measured out with care to avoid waste, residue, or damage. No over-pouring, no shortcuts.

So if you're tired of figuring out how much is too much, we’ve got it handled.

‍

Final Thoughts

When it comes to detergent, more isn’t always better. Using the right amount helps your clothes come out clean, soft, and fresh, without putting extra strain on your washer or irritating your skin.

By paying attention to your washer type, load size, and detergent formula, you’ll make every cycle more effective and efficient.

And if you ever want to skip the measuring and second-guessing, Tumble is always here to help. Book a laundry service at Tumble today and take the hassle out of laundry.