What is High-Efficiency (HE) Laundry Detergent?
High-efficiency (HE) laundry detergent is specially formulated for HE washing machines, which use less water than regular washers. They are formulated to be low-sudsing and quick dispersing to hold soils and dyes suspended in the low water volumes found in HE washers.
If you haven’t seen the high-efficiency (HE) laundry detergent symbol before, it’s a blue and white oval shape with a lowercase “h” and “e” in the center. The HE symbol looks like this:
Look for the HE symbol on the front or back of a detergent label. It should be pretty visible, and often featured near the cap.
HE Detergent vs. Regular Laundry Detergent
All laundry detergents are designed to freshen clothes, remove odors, brighten fabrics, and wipe out stains as they clean, but how they do this varies.
We talked about how high-efficiency laundry detergents are low-sudsing. Conversely, traditional laundry detergents produce more suds. Because of the higher sudsing, they suspend soils and dyes in washers with higher water volumes. For that reason, they are meant for use strictly in regular or standard top load washers.
What is a High Efficiency Washing Machine?
High-efficiency washers tend to be front-load washers, though there are some high-efficiency top loaders. The difference between a HE top-loader vs. a regular top-loader is the space inside the drum. Most HE top-loaders are designed to handle low-water volumes and do not have agitators, which gives them more space for larger loads.
The type of laundry detergent you use matters if you have an HE washer. Always use HE laundry detergent with HE washing machines. You should never use regular detergent in an HE machine due to differences in how they suspend soils and dyes in water and the amount of suds generated.
Using regular detergents in HE washers can create too many suds. This can interfere with the machine’s tumbling action, which reduces stain removal performance and rinsing efficiency while potentially extending the length of the wash cycle. Additionally, excess suds can be harmful to the machine due to the risk of overheating, excess use of water, and residue build-up that can cause malfunctions or damage.
Check out our facts about high efficiency washing machines for more information on HE vs. traditional washers.
Can You Use HE Laundry Detergent in a Regular Washer?
Yes, you can use high-efficiency laundry detergent in a regular washer. Unlike regular laundry detergent, HE laundry detergents are compatible with any washer. You will see less sudsing and maybe a slight difference in post-wash fragrance when using HE laundry detergent in a regular washer – but the detergent will still clean clothes effectively.
Reasons Why You Should Use a High-Efficiency Laundry Detergent
As discussed, high-efficiency laundry detergents work in any washing machine. Although you might prefer traditional laundry detergents if you have a standard or regular top-load washer, you should consider going with an HE laundry detergent for the following reasons:
- Optimal Cleaning Performance: High-efficiency laundry detergents work to quickly disperse ingredients and, since they are formulated for low-water conditions, help to prevent dirt from redepositing on clothes.
- Help Save Water: HE laundry detergents are made for washers that use less water and longer soak-based cycles. HE laundry detergents are effective in cold water wash cycles, though you can also use them in warm water cycles.
- Prevent Residue Buildup: Using an HE laundry detergent can help reduce residue buildup in your washing machine. This, in turn, can help limit odor growth and possible washer malfunctions.
- Packaging Considerations: Most HE laundry detergents have concentrated formulas.
For all the above reasons, opting for an HE laundry detergent may help you achieve a greater sense of laundry sustainability!
*When using High Efficiency washing machines
How Much HE Laundry Detergent Should You Use?
When it comes to using HE laundry detergent, a little goes a long way. The right amount depends on your load size, soil level, water temperature, and the concentration of your detergent.
For best results, always refer to the product packaging for specific usage instructions. Following the manufacturer’s recommended dosage ensures your clothes come out clean while helping prevent residue and buildup in your washing machine.
Choose ARM & HAMMER™ High-Efficiency Laundry Detergents!
ARM & HAMMER™ Laundry Detergents are formulated for high-efficiency washers and are compatible with all machines. Below are some of the different types of formulas & forms so you can choose which is the best high-efficiency laundry detergent for you:
- ARM & HAMMER™ Plus OxiClean™ Odor Blasters™, Fresh Burst™ Liquid Laundry Detergent powers out dirt and odors using the power of OxiClean™ Stain Fighters.
- ARM & HAMMER™ Plus OxiClean™ Odor Blasters™ 5-in-1 Power Paks attack tough odors and can be thrown right in the washer before adding your clothes.
- ARM & HAMMER™ Free & Clear Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent delivers a powerful clean that’s gentle on skin. It’s dermatologist-tested and made with no dyes, no perfumes, and no parabens. This detergent is also certified by SkinSAFE™ to exclude 100% of their topmost considered skin allergens. In partnership with SkinSAFEproducts.com.
- ARM & HAMMER™ Deep Clean Stain Formula Laundry Detergent contains millions of ionic micro-scrubbers that penetrate between clothing fibers to help deep clean and remove the toughest stains from clothes. If you need to wash your workout clothes or eliminate musty towel odors, try the Deep Clean Odor Formula.
For effective stain and odor removal, choose any ARM & HAMMER™ Laundry Detergent in the format of your liking!
