Detergent
34
The correct detergent
All detergents produced for automatic
front loading washing machines are
suitable. Follow the manufacturer's in‐
structions and dosage recommenda‐
tions on the packaging.
The right amount to dispense
will depend on the following:
– The soiling level of the laundry.
– The quantity of laundry.
– The water hardness level.
Check with your local water supplier
if you do not know the water hard‐
ness level in your area.
Definition of the soiling level
– Lightly soiled
No visible dirt or stains. Possibly
slight body odour.
– Normally soiled
Visibly dirty and/or just a few slight
stains.
– Heavily soiled
Stains and soiling clearly visible.
Water hardness levels
Hardness range
Hardness level
soft
< 17 mg/L CaCO
3
slightly hard
17 – 60 mg/L CaCO
3
moderately hard
60 – 120 mg/L CaCO
3
hard
120 – 180 mg/L CaCO
3
very hard
> 180 mg/L CaCO
3
Detergent dispensing aids
Use dispensing aids, (e.g. balls) if these
are supplied with the detergent, partic‐
ularly when using liquid detergent.
Refill packs of detergent
When purchasing detergent, buy refill
packs wherever possible. This helps re‐
duce the amount of waste packaging.
Water softeners
A water softener can be used to cut
down on the use of detergents in areas
with water hardness levels II and III.
Dispense according to the amount
specified on the packaging. First add
detergent and then the water softener.
You can then use the recommended
amount of detergent for water hardness
level I.
Fabric softeners and liquid
starch
Fabric softeners
make garments soft to handle and help
prevent static cling when tumble drying.
Fabric shapers
are synthetic starches and give an even
stiffer hold.
Starch
stiffens and gives body to items of
laundry, e.g. shirts, tablecloths and bed
linen.
