Have you ever wondered why your clothes don’t come out as fresh, soft, or clean as you expected — even though you used good detergent and followed all the steps? The secret might not be in your detergent but in how you use your washing machine’s detergent drawer.
Most people don’t realize that the compartments in the washing machine drawer are not the same and are designed for specific products. Using the wrong one can affect how your detergent dissolves, how clean your clothes get, and even how long your machine lasts!
Let’s finally clear up the mystery behind those numbered sections.
🧩 Understanding the Three Compartments
Most washing machines have three compartments in the detergent drawer, usually marked with symbols or numbers — like in the image above.
Here’s what each section really means:
🔹 Compartment 1: Pre-Wash Detergent
Marked as: Ⅰ or number 1
This compartment is for pre-wash detergent.
You only use this section if you’re running a pre-wash cycle — ideal for very dirty or stained clothes (like muddy sportswear, work uniforms, or children’s clothes).
If your laundry isn’t heavily soiled, you can skip this compartment altogether.
👉 Use: Add a small amount of detergent (liquid or powder).
👉 When it activates: During the first rinse cycle before the main wash.
🔹 Compartment 2: Main Wash Detergent
Marked as: Ⅱ or number 2
This is the most important compartment — the one responsible for the main washing cycle.
Here’s where you should always pour your main detergent — whether it’s powder, liquid, or a capsule dissolved in water.
This section is where most people make mistakes — they often put detergent in the wrong slot (like the pre-wash section), which means the soap is used up too early and your clothes don’t get properly cleaned!
👉 Use: Main detergent (powder, liquid, or pods if dissolved).
👉 When it activates: During the main wash cycle when clothes are being deeply cleaned.
💡 Tip: If your clothes aren’t smelling clean or look dull, check if you’re using this correct compartment for your detergent!
🔹 Compartment 3: Fabric Softener
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