Yes, you can put laundry detergent straight into the drum of your washing machine, and it is a common practice for many people. This method is often referred to as "drum dosing" or "direct dosing." Putting the detergent directly into the drum has become more popular with the advent of modern washing machines that have larger drum capacities and detergent compartments designed to handle different detergent forms.
There are a few key points to keep in mind when using this method:
Load Size: Measure the appropriate amount of detergent based on the size of your laundry load and the detergent's usage instructions. Using too much detergent can lead to excessive suds, and using too little might result in inadequate cleaning.
High Efficiency (HE) Detergents: If you have a high-efficiency washing machine, make sure to use an HE detergent, as it is specifically designed for these machines and produces fewer suds.
Avoid Overloading: Putting the detergent directly into the drum works best when the load is not overloaded. Ensure there is enough space for the clothes to move freely and get thoroughly cleaned.
Avoid Detergent Contact with Clothes: Place the detergent into the drum before adding the clothes. This helps prevent the undiluted detergent from coming into direct contact with the fabrics, reducing the risk of detergent stains.
Pre-Dissolving Detergent: If you're using powdered detergent and are concerned about potential residue, you can pre-dissolve the detergent in water before adding it to the drum.
While putting detergent directly into the drum is a convenient method and is generally safe for most modern washing machines, it's a good idea to check your washing machine's user manual for any specific guidelines or recommendations from the manufacturer regarding detergent usage. If in doubt, you can use the detergent compartment if your washing machine has one, which is still the traditional and widely used method for adding detergent.