If you wash a load of laundry without detergent, several things may occur:
Limited Cleaning: Detergent is designed to remove dirt, oils, stains, and odors from your clothes. Without detergent, the cleaning efficacy will be significantly reduced. The water and mechanical action of the washing machine alone won't be sufficient to remove all types of dirt and stains effectively.
Lingering Odors: Without detergent, unpleasant odors may not be effectively eliminated from your clothes. Detergents contain ingredients that help break down and remove odors, leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean. Without detergent, the odors may remain or even become more noticeable.
Stains and Grime: Detergents contain surfactants and enzymes that help break down and lift stains from fabric fibers. Without detergent, stains and grime may not be adequately treated, resulting in clothes that appear dingy or still have visible stains after the wash.
Bacterial and Microbial Residue: Detergents also help in removing bacteria and other microbial contaminants from your clothes. Skipping detergent increases the likelihood of bacterial residue remaining on your garments, which can lead to hygiene issues and potential odors.
It's important to use an appropriate amount of detergent when doing laundry to ensure effective cleaning and to maintain the freshness and appearance of your clothes. If you find yourself without detergent, it's generally better to wait until you have detergent available to achieve the best results.