Using shampoo to wash your clothes instead of detergent is not recommended, as it can have several negative effects on your clothes and the washing machine:
Cleaning efficacy: Shampoos are specifically designed for cleaning hair and the scalp, not for removing stains, dirt, and grime from clothes. Detergents contain surfactants and enzymes that help break down and remove different types of stains and soils. Shampoo may not effectively clean your clothes, leaving behind residues and odors.
Residues and build-up: Shampoos may contain conditioning agents and other ingredients that can leave residues on your clothes. These residues can build up over time, making your clothes feel stiff and less clean. They may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some cases.
Damage to fabrics: Shampoos may not be formulated to protect the various fabrics and dyes used in clothing. As a result, they could cause colors to fade or bleed, and delicate fabrics may become damaged.
Impact on washing machine: Using shampoo in your washing machine may create excess suds that can damage the machine's components. Excessive suds can lead to overflows and malfunctions, potentially causing costly repairs.
Environmental impact: Shampoos are not designed to be environmentally friendly in the context of laundry use. Laundry detergents, on the other hand, often have eco-friendly options available that are less harmful to the environment.
If you find yourself out of laundry detergent, it's better to look for alternatives specifically designed for laundry, such as dish soap or even baking soda and vinegar in a pinch. These alternatives may not be as effective as regular laundry detergent, but they are generally less harmful to your clothes and washing machine than shampoo.
Ultimately, using the appropriate laundry detergent is the best way to ensure that your clothes are cleaned effectively and maintain their quality over time.