The myth that more detergent gives cleaner clothes
Short answer: More detergent does not make clothes cleaner. Overdosing leaves residue in the fabric that can make it stiff, irritate the skin and attract dirt. The right dose depends on water hardness, load size and how dirty the clothes are.
Why more does not help
Detergent works by loosening dirt and grease so the water can rinse them away. When too much goes in, the machine cannot rinse it all out again. The residue stays in the fibres. Modern washing machines use less water than older models, which makes overdosing a bigger problem today than it used to be. More foam does not mean more cleaning either, and too much foam can even dampen the movement of the wash and make it less effective.
Signs of overdosing
Clothes that feel stiff or slightly sticky after washing may contain detergent residue. Dark clothes get white streaks, and towels absorb less well. Some people notice itching or redness on the skin, especially where clothes fit closely. Smell can be a sign too, because residue binds dirt and bacteria that turn sour after a few days. The machine itself can build up deposits in the detergent drawer and around the rubber seal.
Finding the right dose
Read the instructions on the pack. They give the dose according to water hardness and how dirty the load is. In areas with soft water you need less. Lightly worn everyday clothes need less than stained work clothes. A half load needs less than a full one. Many people use the same amount every time without thinking about it. Try cutting back a little and see whether the clothes come out just as clean. They often do, and the fabric feels better for it.
Delicate fabrics and close fitting underwear
Underwear and clothes worn next to the skin benefit most from the right dose, because residue is felt most there. Viscose from bamboo is a soft fabric that does best with a mild wash and a detergent without bleach. An undershirt worn close to the body all day should be rinsed well. See bamboo undershirt for women. Tights and other fine knits can be washed in a mesh bag to protect the stitches. See bamboo tights for women.
Fabric softener is not needed
Many people use fabric softener to make clothes feel soft. But softener leaves a film on the fibres that can reduce the fabric's ability to absorb moisture. That matters especially for towels and sportswear. Viscose is soft to begin with and rarely needs it. If clothes feel stiff, the cause is often too much detergent, and then cutting back helps more than adding something else on top.
Bed linen and large items
Large items such as sheets and duvet covers take up a lot of room in the machine but do not weigh much. Do not fill the drum completely, so water and detergent can reach everything. Dose according to weight, not according to how full the machine looks. An extra rinse can be a good idea if someone with sensitive skin sleeps in the bed. See bamboo fitted sheets. If you have ongoing skin problems, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Do clothes get cleaner with more detergent
No. Overdosing leaves residue in the fabric that can make it stiff and cause odour.
How can you tell you are using too much detergent
Clothes feel stiff, dark garments get white streaks and towels absorb less well.
Does viscose need fabric softener
Rarely. Viscose is soft to begin with, and softener can leave a film on the fibres.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
