Where do I pour liquid detergent into an Indesit washing machine?

For daily laundry care, most housewives use loose powder detergents, which do the job perfectly. However, sometimes a liquid detergent is the best option. This raises the question: can I use gel detergent in a washing machine whose dispenser isn't designed for such use? Where should I pour liquid detergent in an Indesit washing machine, whose dispenser doesn't have a special compartment for this type of detergent?

Where will we pour the product?

A standard Indesit washing machine has three compartments. The largest compartment holds the main wash detergent, while the slightly smaller one is used for extra washes. Another compartment is specifically designed for fabric softener.

Housewives often pour liquid detergent into the fabric softener compartment, thinking that since fabric softener is liquid, this compartment will also accommodate gel. This logic is flawed, as the machine will dispense the detergent during the rinse phase, not the main wash. This will rinse the laundry in soapy water.

In this situation, the optimal solution is to load the liquid detergent into the dry powder compartment. However, this method has one significant drawback. The gel poured into the main wash tray will immediately flow into the tank and get on the laundry, and the fabric may be damaged by contact with the concentrated composition.Stains may appear on clothing.

Then another question arises: if the gel doesn't stay in the detergent drawer but flows directly down the pipes, wouldn't it be easier to pour the detergent directly into the drum? Indeed, this method is entirely possible. The sequence of actions would be as follows:

• the required dose of detergent is determined using a measuring cup;
• the loading hatch of the machine opens;
• The liquid powder is poured into the drum. Wait until the mixture drains into the tank;
• A glass of clean water is poured onto the surface of the drum. This is necessary to wash away any remaining concentrate from the walls;
• the drum is rotated several times, this will allow the gel in the system to partially dissolve;
• a batch of laundry is loaded for washing;
• the hatch door closes;
• conditioner is poured into a special compartment of the cuvette (if necessary);
• the desired washing program starts.

The advantage of this method is that it eliminates the risk of damaging fabrics from contact with undiluted household detergents, but it's still far from ideal. Almost all programs stored in the washing machine's memory require a gradual withdrawal of detergent from the detergent container. The detergent is delivered to the drum in 2-3 passes, thereby achieving high-quality washing. In this case, the detergent is released into the system in full at once, rendering Indesit's attempts to dissolve the gel piecemeal ineffective.

If your Indesit washing machine does not have a compartment for liquid detergent, you can purchase a special container to compensate for the lack of this compartment.

Plastic cups or balls are available for purchase, designed specifically for washing machines whose powder containers don't have a liquid compartment. The gel is poured into the container, which is then inserted into the drum. The ball has special holes through which the gel is gradually released during the wash cycle. Of the three options listed, this method is preferable.

Gel dosage

The amount of liquid detergent required for a wash depends on the weight of the clothes loaded in the drum and the information on the packaging. When using a new detergent, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations until you have a clear understanding of the optimal amount to add.

You should also consider the cleaning program you choose. If the program requires a long wash with an extra rinse, you can add more liquid detergent. When choosing an express wash, it's important not to overdo it, otherwise it won't rinse out well. Comparing loose powder and gel, it is safe to say that the latter dissolves faster, penetrates the fabric fibers better, and is therefore used more economically.

However, it's important to remember that today, manufacturers offer many dry, concentrated powders with minimal consumption and high effectiveness. Choosing one product over another should be based on personal preference.

What types of liquid products are there?

The range of liquid detergents for automatic washing machines is vast. Some formulas boast high effectiveness, others deliver average results, and still others fail completely. Choosing a gel detergent for your Indesit washing machine requires careful consideration, taking into account all the characteristics of the composition. Here's an overview of liquid detergents from various manufacturers.

• LOREMS Universal Liquid Laundry Detergent. Suitable for both white and colored laundry. It tackles even the most stubborn stains. It dissolves in seconds, even in cold water. This concentrated product is economical, easy to dispense, and convenient to store. It's phosphate-free and hypoallergenic. A 3-liter bottle costs about $9.
• Tide Alpine Freshness Gel Concentrate. Can be used for both machine and hand washing. Suitable for all fabric shades. This product has earned numerous positive reviews from users for its high-quality cleaning and removal of even the most stubborn stains. A liter bottle costs approximately $2.80.
• Persil Color Gel is a concentrated detergent suitable for machine washing cotton and synthetic fabrics. It contains a liquid stain remover, which helps remove old, set-in stains. It preserves the brightness of clothes and leaves them looking fresh. A nearly two-liter bottle of Persil Color costs approximately $11.50.
• Frosch "Apple" liquid detergent for colored fabrics. It offers powerful cleaning properties and can not only preserve but also restore the intensity of vibrant colors. The average price for a 2-liter bag is $7.80.
• MYTH 3-in-1 Frosty Freshness Gel. This concentrated product gently cleans whites, light-colored items, and colored laundry. It effectively removes stains and leaves clothes feeling like a frosty morning. Contains conditioner and enzymes. To achieve optimal results, the manufacturer recommends pouring the gel directly into the drum, rather than into the powder compartment.
• Synergetic is a universal, hypoallergenic, biodegradable formula suitable even for washing baby clothes. Special additives prevent re-soiling of fabric fibers. The gel rinses easily and does not settle on clothes. Its pleasant scent is achieved through natural essential oils. A 1-liter bottle averages $3.20.
• PROSEPT Crystal liquid detergent concentrate is a phosphate-free product. It removes tough stains without leaving streaks on clothing. A 3-liter container costs approximately $5.30.
• Eared Nyan Gel. Its hypoallergenic formula is marketed as a baby laundry detergent, safe for even the most sensitive skin. Suitable for cleaning white, light-colored, and colored fabrics, it can remove tough stains such as juice, chocolate, grass, and more. Affordable price: about $1.90 per liter.
• Ariel Detergent Concentrate for Sensitive Skin. Its gentle formula is suitable for cleaning delicate fabrics. The gel is dermatologist-approved. For superior washing results, the capful is placed directly into the drum. The average price per liter is $3.60.

If your Indesit washing machine does not have a compartment for liquid detergent, it is advisable to pay attention to the products that, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, can be poured into the drum.

When searching for the perfect liquid powder, you may have to test more than one formula. When choosing a gel, consider both its characteristics and ingredients, as well as reviews from users who have already tried it.

   

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