How to use fabric softener in top-loading and front-loading washing machines

Quick answer: pour fabric softener into the flower-shaped compartment in the drawer, below the MAX line, at the dose on the pack. The machine adds it automatically in the final rinse. Don’t pour softener straight onto dry clothes, as it can leave marks.

Front-loading machines

1. Pull out the drawer at the front. It usually has three compartments: pre-wash, main wash and a flower-shaped compartment for softener.
2. Pour softener into the flower compartment, below MAX.
3. Pour detergent into the main wash compartment, close the drawer and choose your programme as usual.

Top-loading machines

• With a softener compartment: usually on the rim of the drum or under the lid, marked with a flower or “Softener”. Fill it before starting; the machine adds it in the final rinse.
• Without a softener compartment: wait for the final rinse (many machines have a pause button), add softener to the water in the drum, then let the machine continue.

Hand washing

1. Wash and rinse out the detergent as usual.
2. In the final rinse, mix softener into a basin of clean water.
3. Soak the clothes for a few minutes, wring gently and hang to dry.

How much to use

Follow the pack. For example:

• SPY Nature Care: 50–100ml for each 5–7kg load, in the final rinse.
• SPY 5-in-1 Fabric Softener: 50–100ml for 5–7kg, in the final rinse so the scent lasts longer.

Use less for small loads. Too much doesn’t make clothes much more fragrant, but it leaves residue in the drawer and on fabric.

Common mistakes

• Filling above MAX: softener may drain into the drum early and be rinsed away.
• Using the main wash compartment: softener goes in at the start and is washed out with the detergent.
• Pouring onto dry clothes: can leave marks on dark fabrics.
• Softener not draining: see Why isn’t my fabric softener draining from the drawer?

Do I need softener with a 2-in-1 detergent?

Not necessarily. A 2-in-1 detergent already contains softening and fragrance ingredients. You can add softener if you’d like a stronger scent, for example for bedding and towels. See: What is 2-in-1 laundry detergent?