How much should I fill my washing machine?

While it may be tempting to pack your washing machine drum to its maximum capacity, overloading it can significantly affect its performance and even cause damage. Here are the key reasons why overloading is detrimental:

  • Ineffective Washing: When overloaded, the clothes form one large mass, preventing them from moving freely inside the drum. This limits the detergent’s ability to circulate and properly clean the laundry.

  • Increased Pressure: Overloading raises the pressure inside the drum, particularly during high-speed spins. This can damage the drum bearings and, in extreme cases, even cause the glass door to break.

  • Damage to Clothes: Clothes are pressed against the rubber door seal, causing them to rub against it during rotation. This can lead to marks or even tears in your garments.

How to load a washing machine

To get the best washing results, balance is key. You should fill the drum with enough laundry for an efficient wash, but leave sufficient space for the clothes to move freely. A good rule of thumb is to leave a hand’s width gap from the top of the drum — this is approximately three-quarters full.

This gap ensures that there’s enough water for the detergent to dissolve, while also allowing clothes to circulate properly. Be sure not to overload the drum, as this will reduce washing efficiency and might damage your machine.

On the other hand, underloading isn’t ideal either, as it’s less efficient and could result in unbalanced spinning, leading to loud noises during the spin cycle.

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