How to dose detergent correctly

Short answer: Too much detergent does not make clothes cleaner. It leaves residue that causes smell and itching, and reduces the ability of the fabric to take up moisture.

More is not better

Detergent works up to a limit. Above that limit the surplus simply stays in the clothes.

Read the water hardness

The dosage on the packet depends on how hard the water is. In soft water areas you need less than stated.

Half load, less detergent

The dosage applies to a full machine. If you wash a half load, put in correspondingly less.

Signs of too much

Stiff fabric, a smell that returns when you get warm, and itching are all signs of residue in the fibres.

Rinse again

If you suspect residue, run an extra rinse without detergent. That removes most of it.

No fabric softener

Fabric softener lays down yet another film. For bamboo viscose it is advised against entirely. See fabric softener and bamboo.

General washing

The rest of the rules are in the washing guide.

What residue does to bamboo viscose

Bamboo viscose depends on being able to move moisture away from the skin. A film of soap residue closes the fibres and destroys precisely that property. That is why dosage matters more here than on robust cotton items. See bamboo underwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

Do clothes get cleaner with more detergent?

No. Above a certain amount the surplus just stays in the fabric.

How do I know if there is residue?

The fabric feels stiff, and the smell returns when you get warm.

What do I do about residue?

Run an extra rinse without detergent.