Step away from that detergent cap for a second—let’s talk laundry. If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably been using way too much detergent and fabric softener without even realizing it.
Laundry expert Taryn Rooms from Washerman’s Laundromat (@washermanslaundromat) recently shared some eye-opening insights on TikTok, and it’s something we all need to hear.
Her video, which has already racked up over 180,000 views, reveals that detergent companies are actually banking on us not knowing how to do laundry properly.
Yep, they’re counting on our assumptions so we end up using (and buying) more detergent than we really need.
Think about it—logic might tell you that more soap means cleaner clothes, but the truth is, using too much detergent can actually leave your clothes dirtier. Who knew, right?
Expert Advice You Need to Hear!
Holding up a bottle of fabric softener, Rooms points out that the brand claims you can get 105 loads out of it. “They’re not lying to you,” she says, “but they’re taking advantage of the fact that you make assumptions.”
She goes on to explain that instead of filling the cap to the brim, you’re only supposed to use a fraction of what you probably do.
Imagine if you started using just a quarter of what you’ve been using—you’d get four times more washes out of each bottle. That’s a serious money saver!
And here’s a tip for fabric softener users: overusing it can actually make your clothes more flammable, especially when it comes to children’s clothes. So, it’s definitely something to keep in mind.
If you’re looking for a more natural alternative, vinegar and baking soda are great options.
Not only are they effective, but they’re also safe—and no, your clothes won’t smell like vinegar. Just add baking soda directly to the drum and vinegar to the fabric softener compartment.
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So, How Much Detergent Should You Really Use?
The average load of laundry weighs about 8 pounds, and for that, you only need one tablespoon of detergent. (Yes, just one!)
For a large load, around 12 pounds or more, two tablespoons will do the trick. If you’re using high-efficiency detergent, you’ll need even less since it’s super concentrated.
Pro tip: Instead of using the detergent cap, try using a shot glass to measure out the right amount. Consumer Reports suggests one shot for a regular load and two for a larger or dirtier load.
And remember, some detergent manufacturers might exaggerate on the label because, after all, they want you to buy more. But knowing how much to really use can save your clothes—and your wallet.
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Got Detergent Buildup?
If you’ve been overdoing it with the detergent, your clothes might have a buildup that makes them feel waxy or crunchy, or look dull with visible detergent stains. Not to mention, all that extra detergent can be harmful to our water systems.
The easiest way to get rid of that buildup is to soak your clothes in a mixture of water and vinegar—Wirecutter recommends one cup of vinegar for every quart of water.
If you’re looking for detergent suggestions, experts suggest sticking to liquid detergents over pods or powders since they dissolve better.
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Commenters Have Their Say!
The comments section on the Rooms’ video lit up with people sharing their thoughts. One commenter wrote, “That’s the amount you’re supposed to use… always … More detergent just makes dirty clothes because the machine can’t rinse it properly.”
Another shared, “I will be doing my laundry and my dad is like no do another cap full. And I’m like ANOTHER?!! He’s like it’ll rinse out and I’m like NO.”
And of course, someone couldn’t resist saying, “Buut it leaaveees my clothess smellinngg geeewdd,” while another added, “Fabric softener makes my clothes feel waxy I do not ever use it.”