Tip of the Day: Use the right type and amount of laundry detergent
February 1, 2010 4:45 PM
Don't overdose when doing laundry.
No washing machine, no matter it rank in our continuously updated ratings of front-loaders and top-loaders (available to subscribers), can perform at its best if you don't use the right type or amount of detergent. Follow this advice from our February 2010 report on washers and dryers to be sure your loads come out looking good.
Pick the right laundry detergent. Regular detergents are too sudsy and can affect the performance of front-loading and high-efficiency top-loading machines. (What's more, using regular detergents might void the warranty on a front-loader or HE top-loader.) That's why manufacturers recommend HE detergents. Check out our ratings of HE and conventional laundry detergents (available to subscribers).
Use the correct amount of cleaner. Today's detergents are more concentrated, so you need to use less cleaner. You should measure carefully and add the proper quantity, since overdosing can affect performance and prolong the wash cycle. Follow directions and highlight fill lines on laundry caps as a reminder. For more on proper dosage, read "Some Laundry-Detergent Caps Can Lead to Overdosing," and learn about the new Method Laundry Detergent With Smartclean technology.
Finally, if you own a front-loader, remember that the door seal can trap moisture and debris, leading to mold and odor. According to the Annual Product Reliability Survey conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, 8 percent of front-loader problems were caused by mold or mildew. LG and Maytag front-loaders were slightly more susceptible than most brands covered in the survey.
If you don't have young children at home, leave the washer door ajar, allowing air to circulate, and wipe dry the door gasket and glass. Also clean dispensers monthly. Some manufacturers suggest that you regularly run an empty load with bleach added. Wipe under and around the dispenser and run another load after that to remove residual bleach. Whirlpool claims its Affresh tablets can prevent odor by removing residue, but in our tests the residue remained.
Essential information: When you're in the market for a new washer, use our free buyer's guide to washing machines. If washers are eligible for a rebate in your state, take advantage of the $300 million cash for clunkers for appliances program. And before you buy, find out where to get the best deals on appliances.
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AS
March 1, 2010 2:30 PM
Talking about front loading washing machines, they may be more efficient, but I don't feel the clothes come nearly as clean. How could clothes wash as well in a front loader compared to a top loader that keep the clothes emerged in soap and water for most of the cycle. My wife disagrees, but she still thinks the Orik vacuum cleaner is the bees knees. Poor woman can't see the tree for the forest.
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