Detergents and additives
Choose the detergent you
find most effective
(modern detergents are
all designed to give good
wash results while being
gentle on colours and
fabrics). Make sure to
select detergent that is
designed for use in
washing machines.
Help in choosing a
detergent
The type of detergent
depends on:
the type of fabric:
cottons, synthetics,
delicates, wool - (use only
specific detergents for
wool);
the colour;
the wash temperature;
the degree and type of
soiling.
Note:
Whitish residues on dark
fabrics are caused by
insoluble compounds used in
modern phosphate-free
powder detergents.
If this occurs, shake and/or
brush the affected items or
use liquid detergents.
Detergent dosages
Follow the instructions on
the detergent pack regards
to the degree and type of
soiling in the load;
full load-follow the
detergent manufacturer's
instructions;
half load-3/4 the amount
used for a full load
minimum load (about 1
kg)-half the amount used
for a full load
Generally, more detergent is
required when the domestic
water supply contains a high
concentration of lime (hard
water), or for large and
heavily soiled loads. Use less
detergent in soft water areas
or for less soiled items.
Ask for information about
water hardness in your area
to the water company.
Note:
Too much detergent can
result in excess lather, which
reduces the effectiveness of
the wash. If the appliance
senses an excessive amount
of foam it may not spin.
Insufficient detergent may
result in grey laundry,
deposits on the drum, tub
and heater.
Additives
Many detergents on the
market today already contain
additives designed to ensure
that whites stay on white
and also help remove more
stubborn stains. In certain
cases, however, normal
detergents alone is not
sufficient and the addition of
the following additives might
be necessary:
Perborate: effective at 60°
on stains of plant origin and
safe on colours and
synthetics (Grass, sauces,
etc.).
Bleach safe for use on
cotton: this is more
aggressive than perborate,
although gentle bleaches
safe even on coloured
garments are now available.
Bleaching agents for
yellowed silk and wool, are
to be used strictly in limited
quantities.
Never use bleach,
perborate and whiteners
together.
Fabric softener: a good
fabric softener added to the
last rinse cycle smoothes the
fibres of fabrics, making
ironing easier, and leaves
laundry smelling fresh.
