Second compartment Also known as the main wash compartment, this is usually labelled as '2' or 'II', and this is where you put your laundry detergent when you clean your clothes.
Decoding washing machine symbols
Here's what they typically mean: "II" or main wash symbol: This is where you put washing powder or liquid detergent for the main wash. "I" or pre-wash symbol: Use this compartment if you're running a pre-wash cycle. Flower symbol: This indicates where fabric softener should go.
The detergent for the main cycle goes into the slot marked "II" (or 2). This is the most frequently-used slot. The amount of detergent you put in it depends on how dirty your laundry is.
Putting detergent in the wrong compartment can also result in detergent residue remaining on the fabric, which can cause skin irritations, according to the IKW.
The powder detergent goes into the largest section of the drawer, usually on the left-hand side. If in any doubt, check your washing machine's manual. The liquid softener goes into the partially covered section of the drawer with the flower symbol.
This is the section labelled II (or sometimes 2) and is the one that you'll need to use for your doses of liquid or powder if you're not a capsule convert. It's also the section you'll need to use if you're adding a stain remover to your wash.
As indicated in the name, the 3-compartment sink method requires three separate sink compartments, one for each step of the warewash procedure: wash, rinse, and sanitize. Although the 3-sink method uses three sinks to perform three different procedures, the entire cleaning process actually has five steps: Prep.
Use powder detergent as a presoak solution to remove heavy soil and stains. For cotton clothes, dissolve powder detergent in hot water before adding the clothes. For synthetic fabrics, dissolve the detergent in hot water and add cool water to the mixture before soaking the clothes.
Laundry Powder is easy to use, but it must be dissolved during the wash cycle to effectively clean your clothes. For best results, follow these steps: Use the right amount of powder for your machine and load. Place powder directly in the washing machine drum before adding clothes.
Pour the detergent into the detergent compartment, or if your HE top-loader machine doesn't have one, pour it directly into the washing drum. Proceed to load your garments loosely into the washing drum, distributing the load evenly around the edges of the wash plate.
Things You Should Know. Load powder detergent in the little drawer that pops out in your machine. Put the powder in the same container where liquid detergent goes. If you don't have a container for detergent, load your clothes and pour the powder directly into the drum.
Another way in which the washing powder can clog up in the drawer is if you're doing several washing loads one after another and if the draw is still wet from the previous cycle and you're putting powder into it, again the powder is going to get damp and clog up in the drawer.
Powder, liquid, gel or tablet – which is best? In the GHI's detergent tests, powdered laundry detergent almost always out-performs liquids and gels when it comes to stain removal. But it also comes down to personal preference and your budget.
Bek claims that putting the powder in the drawer clogs your machine. Over time, this could build up and cause damage. She says putting the washing powder straight in the drum with your clothes will help the water to foam up.
Johanes Godoy, laundry and cleaning expert at Liox Clean agrees: 'I suggest adding liquid laundry detergent directly to the washing machine drum instead of the detergent drawer. This approach ensures the detergent dissolves properly and spreads evenly throughout the wash.
The main wash compartment is (you've guessed it) the main section of the drawer. It's generally located on the left and is the most frequently used compartment. It's also the largest compartment. This is the place to put your regular washing detergent - either liquid or powder.
For best results, use a high-efficiency detergent because they are designed for top load washers like yours, which use less water. High-efficiency detergents are also formulated to reduce soap suds and ensure proper cleaning.
Front loading washing machine
Inside will be 3 separate compartments, each with their own symbol: I - 'Pre wash' II - 'Main wash' Flower symbol - 'Fabric softener'
By transferring the powder to an airtight container, you can help ensure its longevity and effectiveness. If you're looking for a stylish and functional storage option, consider repurposing a glass jar or metal tin with a tight-fitting lid.
Which tray does the detergent go into? If your laundry is very dirty and needs a pre-wash, put your detergent in the first tray. Add detergent to tray 2 for the main cycle. For a normal wash, put your detergent in tray 2.