You’ve measured the perfect amount of detergent, but where you put it is just as important for getting a great clean. Putting detergent in the wrong spot can lead to poorly washed clothes, sticky residue, and even issues with your washing machine.

The right place depends entirely on the type of machine you have. This guide breaks down the process with simple, clear instructions for every kind of washer.

Front-Loading Machines

Front-load washers almost always use a dispenser drawer to add detergent and other laundry products at the precise time in the wash cycle. Putting detergent directly in the drum can result in a less effective clean.

How to Use the Dispenser Drawer: Slide the drawer out and you will typically see three compartments:

• Main Wash Compartment: This is the largest section, usually marked with “II” or “MAIN.” This is where you put liquid or powder detergent for a standard wash cycle.
• Pre-Wash Compartment: A smaller section often marked with “I” or “PRE-WASH.” Only add detergent here if you are using a pre-wash cycle for heavily soiled clothes. Otherwise, leave it empty.
• Fabric Softener Compartment: This section is typically marked with a flower icon (🌸) or “SOFTENER.” It’s designed for liquid fabric softener or distilled white vinegar, which is released during the final rinse cycle. Never put detergent in this compartment.

Some drawers may have an additional small compartment for liquid chlorine bleach, often marked with a triangle icon.

Top-Loading Machines

Top-loaders can be a bit more varied. The key is to know whether your machine has a dispenser or not.

A. Top-Loaders WITH a Dispenser Newer high-efficiency (HE) top-loaders often have a dispenser drawer similar to a front-loader, or dedicated compartments under the lid.

• How to Use: Simply add your detergent, fabric softener, or other products to the correctly labeled compartments before starting the cycle. The machine will release them automatically.

B. Top-Loaders WITHOUT a Dispenser (Traditional Models) These are the classic washers with a central agitator. For these machines, the order is crucial for preventing detergent residue on your clothes.

How to Use:

1. Add the liquid or powder detergent directly into the empty wash drum FIRST.
2. Turn on the water and allow the drum to fill slightly, letting the detergent dissolve for a minute.
3. Add your clothes LAST.

This method ensures the detergent is evenly distributed in the water before it comes into contact with your laundry. For more details on best practices for your specific model, major brands like GE Appliances offer helpful guides.

What About Laundry Pods and Packs?

The rule for pods is the same for all machine types (front-load, HE top-load, and traditional top-load):

• Place the pod in the empty drum FIRST.
• Put it in the very back of the drum.
• Then, add your clothes on top of it.

Never put laundry pods in a dispenser drawer. They are designed to dissolve in the drum with maximum water contact and will not work properly in a dispenser.

Quick Reference Guide

Following these simple rules ensures your detergent works as intended, giving you the cleanest, freshest laundry every time.