How detergent works chemically
Short answer: Detergent contains molecules with a water-loving end and a grease-loving end. They gather around grease stains, lift them from the fibre and hold them suspended in the water so they can be rinsed away.
Two ends with one job each
The active molecules in detergent have two ends with one job each. One end binds to grease, the other to water. It is a clever design, because grease and water do not normally mix. With a molecule that holds on to both, the grease can be drawn into the water and carried out.
How a stain comes loose
The molecules gather around the grease stain, with the grease-loving end toward the stain and the water-loving end toward the water. Together they lift the stain from the fibre, and it breaks off in tiny droplets. The movement in the drum helps tear the droplets loose and carries them into the water.
The dirt must not settle again
The detergent keeps the dirt suspended in the water until it is rinsed out. Otherwise it would settle back on the laundry and turn it grey. That is why enough water matters to carry it away. See also night t-shirts for men, which are washed often and should be rinsed well.
The water plays a part
Limescale in the water binds part of the detergent, so more is needed to get the same effect. In areas with hard water you may need a little more detergent than in areas with soft water. See bamboo towels and bamboo split sheets, where plenty of rinsing makes a difference.
Why detergent foams
Foam is a by-product and says nothing about how well the detergent cleans. The molecules collect air in small bubbles, and it looks as if something is happening. Many think more foam means a better wash, but too much foam can actually dampen the movement of the drum.
More detergent is not better
Follow the dose on the pack, and adjust it to how dirty the laundry is and how hard the water is. The excess is not always rinsed out and can stay in the fibres, where it makes the fabric stiff and can leave a greyish tone. A little too little beats far too much.
It works in cold water too
Modern detergents are made to work at low temperatures, which means you can wash gently without compromising the result. The chemistry runs a little slower at low heat, so the programme simply needs time. It is easier to lengthen the time than change the chemistry, so choose long time and low heat.
Liquid or powder
Both liquid detergent and powder contain the active molecules, but they are composed differently and each has advantages. Liquids dissolve easily in cold water, while powders often contain more additives. Choose what suits your laundry and your programme, and stick to one kind at a time.
Rinse and let it dry properly
In the end the loosened dirt and the last traces of detergent must be rinsed away. Choose an extra rinse if the laundry feels stiff or if you use a lot of detergent. Hang the laundry up straight away, so it does not lie damp and pick up an unpleasant musty smell.
Frequently asked questions
Why does detergent foam
Foam is a by-product. It says nothing about how well the detergent cleans, so you cannot judge a wash by the amount of foam, and too much foam can even dampen the drum.
Is more detergent better
No. The excess is not rinsed out and can stay in the laundry, where it makes the fabric stiff. Follow the dose on the pack and adjust it to the dirt and water hardness.
Does detergent work in cold water
Yes. Modern detergents are made to work at low temperatures, but the chemistry runs slower. Give the programme time, so the detergent gets to do its work.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
