Washing machines are essential in any household – we rely on them constantly. And if you’ve ever used powder or liquid detergent, you’ll know about the detergent drawer. But do you actually know what each of the three compartments is for? And are you confident you’re using them correctly?

It might seem obvious, but it turns out it’s not always so clear, and many of us might be getting it wrong! That could mean people are putting detergent in the wrong section, potentially leading to residue build-up or less-than-clean laundry.

Let’s break it down and take a closer look at what each compartment does, and how to keep them clean and working properly.

1. The pre-wash compartment

Starting on the right-hand side, the pre-wash section is usually the second-largest space in the drawer. It’s where you put detergent specifically for the pre-wash part of your cycle – perfect for tackling stubborn stains or when washing heavily soiled clothes like muddy kits or workwear.

To use it, just pop your pre-wash detergent into the top left part of the drawer before starting your washing machine. But remember not to go over the recommended amount – too much can cause damage to clothes or even the washer itself.

Laundry tip: You don’t have to buy a special pre-wash product – regular detergent will do the trick. And if your machine doesn’t run a pre-wash, don’t worry. It will still flush this compartment, even if you didn’t select that setting.

2. The main wash compartment

This is the most used compartment – the main wash section – and you’ll usually find it on the left-hand side. It’s also the largest of the three.

This is where your everyday detergent goes, whether you prefer powder or liquid. The washing machine will draw from this compartment when the main cycle begins. Always check the recommended dosage for your detergent – using too much or too little can affect your results.

Laundry tip: Some washing machines come with an auto-dosing feature, which takes the guesswork out of detergent amounts. Just keep the detergent topped up and let the machine do the rest.

3. The fabric softener compartment

That slim compartment in the middle? That’s for your fabric softener. It’s designed to release during the final rinse, giving your laundry that fresh, soft finish. A little goes a long way, so there’s no need to overfill it.

Softener isn’t a must for every load, but it’s especially nice for things like towels and bed linen.

Caring for your detergent drawer

Keeping your detergent drawer clean is simple but really important. If you don’t clean it regularly, detergent can build up and cause blockages – or worse, mould.

Thankfully, most drawers are removable. Look for a release button, press it down and gently pull the drawer out.

For cleaning, use a mild detergent or a non-abrasive cleaner with warm water. A toothbrush is great for getting into small corners and tackling residue. And before you slot the drawer back in, make sure it’s completely dry.

Looking to upgrade your washing machine?

We’ve got lots of advice on washing machines, and what to look out for when you are getting a new machine, or upgrading to tackle more laundry loads; find out more HERE.