How do you wash in a washing machine?

Washing clothes in a washing machine is easy when you know a few basic steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to washing clothes in a washing machine:


Step 1: Sort the Clothes


  1. Sort by color: Divide the laundry into light, dark, and colored clothes.
  2. Sort by material: Separate delicate fabrics like wool and silk from robust materials like cotton and denim.
  3. Check washing symbols: Read the label on the clothes for specific washing instructions.



Step 2: Pre-treat Stains

  • Use stain remover on visible stains. Follow the instructions on the stain remover.



Step 3: Load the Washing Machine

  1. Filling: Place the clothes in the washing machine drum. Do not fill the drum completely; leave some space so that the clothes can move during the wash cycle.
  2. Distribution: Distribute the clothes evenly around the drum to avoid imbalance.


Step 4: Add Detergent and Fabric Softener

  1. Detergent: Add the correct amount of detergent to the detergent drawer or directly into the drum, depending on the instructions on the packaging.
  2. Fabric softener: You do not need fabric softener if you use Västerbottenssåpa's All-purpose detergent.


Step 5: Select Wash Program

  1. Program: Choose a wash program based on the clothes' material and color. Common programs include cotton, synthetics, delicate wash, and quick wash.
  2. Temperature: Set the temperature according to the washing instructions on the clothes. Common temperatures are:

    • 30°C: For delicate and colored clothes.
    • 40°C: For normal wash, such as mixed materials.
    • 60°C: For towels and bed linens.

    • Be realistic about the washing temperature; a low temperature is good, but think of a piece of chocolate, it melts in your hand, i.e., 37°C, but not at a lower temperature. What temperature is reasonable to remove chocolate or other greasy stains?

  3. Spin cycle: Choose the spin speed depending on the clothes' material. Lower speeds for delicate clothes and higher for robust materials.


Step 6: Start the Washing Machine


  • Start button: Press the start button to begin the wash cycle.


Step 7: After the Wash Cycle

  1. Take out the clothes: When the wash cycle is complete, take out the clothes as soon as possible to avoid bad odors and wrinkles.

  2. Drying: Hang up the clothes to air dry or use a tumble dryer if the clothes can tolerate it (check the label for drying instructions). Some garments should be dried flat or drip-dried.


Tips for Best Results

  • Use the right amount of detergent: Too much detergent can lead to residue on the clothes, while too little may not clean properly.
  • Do not overload the machine: It can affect the wash result and damage the machine.
  • Maintain the machine: Clean the detergent drawer and rubber seal regularly. Run an empty machine with a little vinegar to keep the machine fresh.

By following these steps, you can effectively wash your clothes and keep them in good condition longer.


To make the washing process even easier and more efficient, we recommend that you try our laundry package that includes both detergent and a stain removal kit. With this package, you have everything you need to handle both daily laundry and tough stains.

Complete laundry package with stain removal - Scent of Citrus
Complete laundry package with stain removal - Fragrance-free & Sensitive

Order natural cleaning products here: Västerbottenssåpa

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