People are only just finding out what three washing machine compartments are actually for
A woman took to TikTok to explain the purpose of the three compartments in the washing machine drawer, and people were astonished to learn they had been using them incorrectly
You might consider yourself a laundry pro whether you choose to sort colours with precision, select the perfect detergent, and ensure your clothes come out fresh and clean every time. But have you ever stopped to wonder whether you’re actually using the correct compartments in your washing machine’s detergent drawer?
It turns out, many people have been getting it wrong, and they’re only just realising it thanks to a viral TikTok video. A user named Elle took to the platform to clear up the confusion once and for all, and viewers were left gobsmacked by her revelation.
Most washing machines come with a three-compartment drawer, but their purpose isn’t always immediately clear. Elle explains that each section is designed for a specific product, and using them incorrectly could be affecting your laundry results more than you realise.
The first compartment, typically the largest, is meant for the main detergent. Whether you’re using powder or liquid detergent, this is the section to fill before starting a standard wash cycle.
Elle advises measuring out the correct amount based on your load size, noting, "Do a cup full or however much you think is enough." It is important to note that a small or half load requires less detergent than a full load.
The second compartment, which is often the smallest, is reserved for fabric softener. This section is usually marked with a line indicating the maximum fill level, as only a small amount of softener is needed for ultimate effectiveness.
Finally, the third compartment, usually the second largest, is for pre-wash treatments, such as stain removers. If you're dealing with heavily soiled clothes, adding detergent to this section before the main wash cycle can help tackle stubborn stains more effectively.
While washing machine models may differ slightly, most drawers include symbols to help guide users. A single line typically represents the pre-wash compartment, two lines indicate the main detergent section, and a flower symbol is used for the fabric softener slot.
Elle’s explanation struck a chord with viewers, many of whom admitted they had been unknowingly misusing their detergent drawer for years.
One shocked user commented, "OMG, I’ve been putting my powder in the wrong drawer this whole time!" Another confessed, "I just wing it and hope for the best." A third added, "Yeah… I’ve been doing this all wrong."
With so many people making the same mistake, Elle’s video has become an unexpected eye-opener. So, if your laundry hasn’t been coming out quite as fresh as you'd like, it might be time to check your detergent drawer because you could have been using it incorrectly all along.