Detergent for top-loading washing machines: which type, where to pour it and how much

Quick answer: top-loaders work with almost any detergent, including 2-in-1 wash-and-soften types. Pour it into the detergent compartment (if there is one) or dissolve it in the water first, before adding clothes. Dose by load weight, for example 50–70ml per 5–7kg with SPY Ultra Clean Plus.

Top-loaders vs front-loaders

	Top-loader	Front-loader
How it washes	Drum fills with water and agitates	Little water, tumbling
Foam	Handles normal foam	Needs low-foam detergent
Detergents	Almost any	Types labelled for front-loaders

For front-loaders, see: Detergent for front-loading machines

Where to pour it

• Machines with a detergent compartment at the top of the drum or in the lid: pour it there before starting.
• No compartment: let some water into the drum, dissolve the detergent, then add clothes. Don’t pour it directly onto dry clothes, which can leave marks.
• The softener compartment (if there is one) is only for softener, not 2-in-1 detergent.

How much

Always follow the pack. For SPY Ultra Clean Plus, Ultra Clean and Deep Clean Plus: 50–70ml per 5–7kg of clothes.

• Low water level, small load: use the low end.
• Heavily soiled, high water level: use the top of the range.
• Detailed dosing table: How much concentrated detergent should you use?

Common top-loader mistakes

• Overfilling: clothes can’t move, so they don’t clean or rinse properly.
• Too much detergent: heavy foam and stiff fabric.
• Leaving clothes in the drum: they start to smell damp. Hang them as soon as the cycle ends.
• Never cleaning the drum: see how to clean your washing machine drum.

Detergent suggestions for top-loaders

• Everyday family laundry with a lasting scent: SPY Ultra Clean Plus, a concentrated 2-in-1.
• Whites and uniforms: SPY Super White with Tinopal.
• Sportswear and clothes worn all day: SPY Deep Clean Plus with Tinosan HP100 to help remove odours.

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