What is HE Detergent? And How Is It Different From Regular Detergent?

HE detergents are non-foaming, quick-cleaning detergents designed for high-efficiency washing machines, whether its front-loading or top-loading washing machines. 

These machines use less water and have a stronger spin cycle than regular washing machines. HE detergents are marked with a small “HE” symbol on the product label. 

Washing machine manufacturers recommend only using HE detergents in high-efficiency washing machines.

But why is that? Well, read on to learn more about the HE detergents and why it is specifically formulated for the high efficiency washing machines?

HE Detergent vs. Regular Detergent

If you spotted a HE symbol on any detergents, stain removers, boosters or fabric softeners, it is most likely that it is specially designed for use in high-efficiency and low-water washing machines.

A high-efficiency washers use only 20-60 percent of water compared to regular washing machines (about 11 to 14 gallons or 42 to 53 liters give or take).

With that being said, the high-efficiency washer needed a special detergent to hold soil in suspension in a lower volume of water so that it’s not going to be redeposited onto clean clothes.

This is also because a standard regular detergent usually produces much more suds that in return requires more water to wash away (around 40 gallons during one load of laundry).

Can HE Detergent and Regular Detergent Used Interchangeably?

It’s generally considered safe to use high-efficiency detergent in a regular washing machine, but never use regular detergent in a washing machine marked” HE” as these machines require high-efficiency detergent.

HE detergents are more concentrated, low-sudsing detergents that are made specifically for high-efficiency washing machines that use very little water and can’t properly rinse away the  suds produced by standard detergents.

So, if you use traditional detergent in a high-efficiency washer, the excess suds will interfere with the tumbling action used to clean clothes in front-loading or top-loading HE washers. 

And in addition to that, the excessive suds can also overflow and cause electrical failure to the electric panel of the HE washers.

Other than that, using regular detergent in HE washers can also be a breeding ground for odorous and unhealthy mold due to the sticky residue left by excess suds and soil.

But, if you have a regular washer and also have a bottle of HE detergent, you can use it, but unfortunately you won’t see many satisfying suds. But despite that, your clothes will likely get just as clean.

The rule of thumb on using HE detergent in a regular washer is, for a normal to large load, use no more than ¼ cup of HE detergent.

But what about hybrid washers? Can you use it? Well, hybrid washer is a top-load washing machine with a sensor that can detects water levels without the traditional top-load agitator.

Hybrid washing machines can provide a cleaner wash for bulky items and large sheets, giving you the best of both worlds – traditional laundry and high efficiency.

When using HE detergent in a hybrid washing machine, use the recommended amount for HE machines. 

As with using HE detergent in a regular machine, you’ll see less suds, but your clothes will still get clean.

Tips on Using HE Detergents

Here’s some useful tips if you’re about to use a high efficiency detergent!

• Follow Directions: ALWAYS read and follow the instructions on the packaging of your HE detergent to determine how much detergent to use as not all formulations are the same.
• HE Pods: Only use one or up to two pods per load, place them in the washer drum then add your laundry.
• Liquid or Powder Detergents: Most HE washers will accept both types, but it is best not to mix the two as it causes clogging.

So to conclude it, HE detergents are specifically designed for high-efficiency washing machines, which use less water and require a low-sudsing detergent to work effectively. 

These detergents help prevent excessive suds, ensuring proper cleaning while avoiding potential damage to the washer, such as electrical malfunctions or mold buildup. 

While it is safe to use HE detergent in a regular washing machine, it may produce fewer suds, but your clothes will still get clean. 

However, it is never recommended to use regular detergent in a high-efficiency washer due to the risk of overflowing suds and damage. 

Always follow the instructions for the correct amount of detergent based on your washer type and detergent form to ensure optimal performance and cleanliness.