What is HE detergent and why should I use it?

HE detergent, or high efficiency detergent, which is low sudsing and quick dispersing, is especially designed to work in front-load machines and top-load machines that can run low-water wash cycles. Find out why it’s important to use HE detergent in a high-efficiency washing machine and learn how you can impact your appliance’s performance if you use regular detergent in your HE washer.

What’s important to know about HE laundry detergent?

Like cars that run best on their recommended fuel grade, if you want optimal performance from your washer, then you need to use HE detergent. To ensure that the detergent you’re using is made for your washer look for the HE symbol.

To better understand HE detergent, let’s start with what detergent does.

Creates suds to help break apart stains and release soils.
Suspends stains, soils and dyes in water so they’re not redeposited on clothes
Freshens clothes

Regular laundry detergent and HE laundry detergent comparison

How is HE detergent made for HE washers?

Low-sudsing and quick dispersing, high-efficiency detergent is specially formulated to work in HE washers which clean clothes with lower water levels. By producing fewer suds and dispersing dirt and dyes quickly soils won’t redeposit on clothes.

Graphic for if you use he detergent in a regular washer

Can you use regular detergent in an HE washer?

Using regular detergent in an HE washer produces too many suds. This could potentially lengthen the wash cycle, affect cleaning action or overflow the machine.

How much HE detergent to use in the washer

Can you use HE detergent in a regular washer?

Yes! There might be fewer suds, but you’ll get a great clean. Because there’s more water in a regular washer, however, you’ll need more detergent – usually about ¼ cup for a regular-sized load.

How much detergent to use in an HE washer?

Consult your user’s manual for the recommended detergent amount. Usually 2 tablespoons.

Find your next HE washer at Maytag

If you need a new high-efficiency detergent washing machine, trust Maytag for a quick, thorough clean. Browse our washing machines to find a new HE model or learn more about our complete lineup of washers and dryers.