If you accidentally put fabric softener in the detergent compartment of your laundry machine, a few things may happen:
Reduced Cleaning Power: Fabric softeners are designed to soften fabrics and reduce static cling, but they do not have the same cleaning properties as laundry detergents. Using fabric softener instead of detergent may result in less effective cleaning of your clothes. It may not remove stains, dirt, and odors as effectively as detergent would.
Residue on Clothes: Fabric softeners are typically thicker and more concentrated than detergents. If you use fabric softener in place of detergent, it may leave a residue on your clothes, making them feel greasy or sticky.
Potential Damage to the Machine: While using fabric softener in the detergent compartment is unlikely to cause immediate damage to your laundry machine, repeated use may lead to buildup and clogging. Over time, this can affect the performance and longevity of the machine.
To mitigate the effects, here's what you can do:
Rewash the Clothes: If you realize the mistake immediately, it's best to rewash the clothes with the appropriate amount of detergent to ensure proper cleaning.
Rinse the Machine: If fabric softener was used in the detergent compartment, consider running an empty cycle or rinsing the compartment thoroughly to remove any residue. This helps prevent buildup and keeps the machine functioning properly.
Read Labels Carefully: Take care to read labels and follow instructions when adding products to your laundry machine. This helps prevent similar mistakes in the future.
Remember, it's important to use the correct products for each step of the laundry process to achieve the best results in terms of cleanliness, fabric care, and overall garment longevity.