How much laundry may go in the machine

Short answer: Fill to two thirds. You should be able to lay a flat hand on top of the laundry when the drum is loaded.

Why two thirds

Laundry has to move freely to get clean. With the drum filled to the brim, the clothes are pressed together, the water does not reach everywhere and the detergent is not rinsed out properly. The result is laundry that is neither clean nor rinsed.

The hand test

Lay a flat hand on top of the laundry in the drum. If it fits without pressing, the load is right. If it does not, take something out. See bamboo clothing for women.

The exceptions

Bedding and large items need more room than ordinary clothes, because they wrap around the rest. Fill no more than halfway when washing a duvet cover. See bamboo bedding and bamboo towels.

Frequently asked questions

What happens with an overfilled machine

The laundry does not get clean, it creases more, and detergent residue stays in the fabric.

Is a half empty machine wasteful

Yes, of water and electricity. But it is better than an overfilled one.

Should dosing follow the load size

Yes. A half load needs less detergent than a full one.