Loading your washing machine can feel like a chore, especially with piles of laundry waiting. But experts say there's a perfect amount to fill your washer to get clothes truly clean and protect your fabrics.
- Leave space to fit one hand inside the washer drum
- Avoid washing single bulky items over 15 pounds
- Dryers have smaller capacity—split large loads if needed
What happened
Laundry experts have highlighted the importance of not overloading washing machines despite the temptation to do fewer loads. Modern machines can handle large loads, but packing the drum too tightly prevents clothes from moving properly, leading to less effective cleaning and increased wear. Similarly, overcrowded dryers can leave clothes damp, wrinkled, and needing extra drying time.
Carolyn Forté, a former executive director of the Home Care Cleaning Lab, shares a practical rule for loading washers: clothes should have enough room for one hand to fit inside the drum and move around freely. This space allows fabrics to be cleaned gently but thoroughly and helps preserve their quality over time.
Why it feels good
Following this advice means your clothes get the proper wash they need to be fresh and clean without damage. Clothes rubbing too much when squished together can cause fabric strain and wear out your favorite items prematurely. By leaving enough room, your laundry comes out looking and feeling better.
Additionally, not overloading washing machines and dryers reduces the risk of machines working harder than needed, potentially extending the lifespan of your appliances. This efficiency also prevents frustrations like rewashing or re-drying clothes, saving time and energy on laundry day.
What to enjoy or watch next
Try this simple hand-fit rule on your next laundry day: load your machine until you can comfortably fit your hand between clothes and drum. Notice the difference in how clean and fresh everything feels, and see how long your clothes last compared to when the washer was packed tight.
If you have bulky, heavy blankets or weighted items, consider washing them separately or by hand, especially if they weigh more than 15 pounds. Also, be mindful of dryer capacity and consult your manual to avoid overloading. Splitting large drying loads into smaller batches can help clothes dry evenly and reduce wrinkles.