3 Ways to Use Laundry Detergent Pods Correctly
Detergent capsules are dissolvable capsules containing the right amount of detergent, stain remover, and bleach for one load of laundry. However, not everyone knows how to use them properly. At the same time, it can be a very handy product. So, in this article, we will tell you about the key steps for using laundry capsules.
What are detergent pods?
A laundry pod is a small container filled with concentrated liquid detergent in a measured dose. Sometimes these capsules also contain powdered ingredients. This product was introduced to the market in 2012 and has gained great popularity ever since.
The outer wrapping of a laundry pod is a water-soluble polymer (polyvinyl alcohol). The capsules use low-sudsing detergents. This is especially good for washers that use a small amount of water during the last rinse. A small amount of suds doesn’t make the wash less effective. On the contrary, too many suds can redeposit soil on clothes.
Types of laundry detergents
- Washing powder is a loose product, which is dosed using a scoop. The powder goes into the detergent drawer of a washer.
- Liquid detergent is a liquid laundry product sold in bottles. The right amount of this detergent is usually measured using a bottle cap and poured into the detergent drawer.
- Laundry pods are special capsules containing the right dose of concentrated detergent. They are usually sold in boxes and are placed directly into the drum of a washer.
- Laundry tablets are small blocks of compressed washing powder. They are usually sold in boxes. Before using them, a tablet should be placed in the detergent drawer.
Laundry pods, pros and cons
Pros:
- Simplicity: washing capsules don’t require dosing. The right amount of detergent is already measured and sealed in the capsule.
- Convenience: As a rule, it’s more convenient to store a box of pods than a bottle. In addition, pods are easier to carry along.
- Cleanliness: When pouring liquid detergent into the drawer, it’s easy to spill it. It’s even more complicated with powder detergent: it can get into neighboring drawers or fall on the floor. This will never happen with pods.
Cons:
How to use pods
There are a few important rules for using pods.
- Make sure your hands are dry before picking up a pod. Otherwise, the film wrapping may dissolve before you actually use it.
- Place the pod into an empty drum.
- Load in the dirty laundry.
- Set the temperature according to the instructions on the package. Most capsules dissolve at any temperature.
- Start the cycle.
- Reseal the box. Store it in a dry and cool place.
How much detergent to use
One of the main advantages of laundry pods is that you don’t have to measure out the right amount of detergent.
If you’re wondering how many capsules you should use, consider that 1 pod should be enough for 15 pounds of laundry. If you have an extra-large capacity washer (that can hold more than 22 pounds) and you’ve fully loaded it, it’s better to put in 2 pods.
The main principles of using pods
- Optimal loading: Don’t overload your washer. Pods require enough space to move freely and dissolve well. When loading, it’s recommended to leave about 4 inches (10 centimeters) between the laundry and the top of the drum.
- Correct temperature: In order to determine the optimal temperature for washing, carefully read the packaging of the pods and clothing labels. If the instructions say that you need to use a temperature above 85°F, it means that the pod will only activate and dissolve if you set the machine at that temperature.
- Put the capsule in first, placing it on the bottom of the drum. Only then should you load the laundry.
💡In winter, it’s advisable to dissolve laundry pods in hot water before placing them into your washer, as cold water may not dissolve them completely.
Safety
- Laundry capsules are totally safe for your washer. They are great for front and top loaders.
- The pod wrapping is a water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) film. This material is safe, non-toxic, and biodegradable.
- Pods dissolve in water, so they can’t clog the sewer. Make sure you use them according to the instructions.
- Avoid storing laundry capsules in jars that look like food containers. Keep them in their original packaging and store them in a cool and dry place after each use.
- Laundry pods can attract children because they look like candy. So keep them away from children and pets.
- Call your local emergency services right away if laundry pods are ingested or have come into direct contact with eyes.
- If you have sensitive or damaged skin, avoid direct contact with the wash solution.
- Do not use detergent capsules in combined washers and dryers.
- Make sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly after using washing capsules.
Problems that can be caused by laundry pods
- If you see that your pods don’t dissolve in the washer, soak them beforehand. To do this, take a container with warm water (about 1 liter) and dissolve a pod in it. Add the resulting liquid directly to the drum of the washer before loading dirty laundry.
- If the capsules get stuck in the washer door, you may be placing them on top of your dirty laundry. If this is not the reason, try setting a different temperature or using a different brand of pods.
- If the pods consistently leave marks on your clothes, make sure you wash them at the right temperature, put the pod on the bottom of the drum, and don’t overload your washer. This can also happen when using too many capsules. In most cases, one pod per load is enough.
What to do if you find residue on your clothes
If a pod doesn’t fully dissolve during washing, residue may remain on the clothes. This usually happens when the washing machine is overloaded.
In this case, you need to wash the soiled clothes again, but without adding capsules or powder detergent. At the same time, watch the loading of the machine — the clothes should move freely in the water. In order to ensure you completely remove the remains of the laundry capsules, the best option is to set your washing machine to its largest load capacity.
Don’t put items with residue on them in the dryer. Exposure to high temperatures will make these marks more difficult to remove.
Do you use pods to do your laundry? What other tips would you add for using pods? Tell us in the comments!