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A recent debate has sparked on TikTok about the correct amount of laundry to put into your washing machine to ensure clothes are cleaned properly.
It all started when one user posted a video of her loading the washing machine half full, saying it was because “there’s enough room for the clothes to move around in the washing machine in order for the clothes to be cleaned properly.”
It wasn’t long until passionate users flooded the comments with conflicting opinions, which sparked the question about washing machines: to fill or not to fill?
Many viewers were concerned about the financial cost of not filling their washing machine, for example, if they were using detergent every time. One user commented: “We know this Rachel, but in the UK we have the cost of living.”
Another chimed in: “I fill it to the brim and hope for the best.”
An appliance expert revealed the truth behind the big question, and it seems we’ve been doing it wrong this whole time.
Matthew Ayres from RDO Kitchens and Appliances weighed in on the debate. The expert confirmed that we should in fact be aiming to load our machines up to about 75% full capacity for the best results.
He said: “It’s important to be economical when filling your washing machines and washer dryers while ensuring that you get the best performance from your appliances.
There are multiple sizes of washing machines available, from small to medium and large loads, which can hold over 10kg of clothes at the time of use. The load capacity of the washing machine is always referred to as dry laundry.”
Mr Ayres went on to share that the information for the load size of machines can be found either on the machine itself or in the user manual, advising you on the maximum amount of clothes the washing machine should hold.
“When loading the machine, ensure you’re not packing the laundry down. The clothes should be in a loose pile, so if you have to push the laundry down to fit more in, you are overloading your washing machine.”
He explained that by leaving some room, it gives your clothes space to move around, and in doing so, water and detergent can clean your clothes effectively.
Matt also made it clear that overfilling your washing machine does come with its consequences. He said: “At the cost of fitting in an extra pair of jeans or two soon, it could cost £100s in repair fees or even lead to having to buy a new washer.
“This is because when a machine is overfilled regularly, it can put unnecessary stress on the motor, which is responsible for the drum spinning, resulting in breakage. Similarly, loads that are too big can damage the machine’s bearings, preventing it from functioning effectively, leading to damage.”
