Polymers help to trap and hold dirt and dyes. Each polymer performs a specific function, such as keeping stains from depositing themselves onto other garments after they’ve been removed by the surfactants.

Most of us use our washing machines several times a week or more, but how many of us are confident that we’re using the correct amount of washing powder each time we do our laundry? With all these detergents, though, the most important thing is knowing how much detergent to use. Too much and you’re wasting Ariel laundry detergent, while your garments may get detergent marks on them. Too little and you may not get clean clothes after the wash. Could damage clothes: There has been some discussion as to whether washing powders can damage clothes more easily than liquids because they contain more chemicals and can be more abrasive. This hasn’t been proven, and the wear and tear of clothes are more likely to be caused by the agitation of clothes in the washing machine. However, some people prefer to use liquid washing detergent for more delicate clothing to be safe.Tablets also have this convenience, but can contain bleach, making them perfect for whites. Washing powders are also great for whites, and you can dose flexibly into the dispenser drawer.

Most manufacturers offer free dosing devices for powder or washing liquid, so it’s worth sending off for one and using it each time you do use your washing machine.Washing powder doesn’t work as effectively in hard water areas because less lather is produced to clean the clothes properly. This can result in the clothes soaking up all the water, preventing the detergent from dissolving properly. There’s never been a bigger choice of laundry detergents on the market than there is now, and the main decision for many of us is whether to use washing powder or liquid.

Choosing which type of detergent is about more than just personal preference, then. Gels are great for washing coloured loads, as they contain no bleach. Likewise liquitabs, like Ariel All-in-1 PODS Washing Tablets, are also great for their simplicity: just place one Ariel All-in-1 POD in the bottom of the drum before the wash for outstanding laundry results. Bleach and enzymes are used to remove stains and whiten garments. So these are best for getting really white whites. Powders contain bleach, so try Ariel Original Washing Powder for your white load for whites that shine bright. Another benefit of using a detergent that contains bleach is that it kills bacteria: hypochlorous acid, the active ingredient in bleach (and the same compound our immune system releases to fight microbial intruders), causes the proteins making up the bacteria to unfold, thus destroying the puny prokaryotes.The UK is mostly made up of limestone and chalk which causes hard water, and around 60% of homes in England and Wales have a hard water supply. Stabilisers help provide the detergent formula stability and keep the enzymes active. Convenience and versatility Trying to work out exactly the right amount of powder to use might seem confusing, but if we follow some basic advice we can get it right each time and get the best possible cleaning results. Enzymes break down amino acids in protein-based stains such as blood and egg, so they are more easily removed. There are several different types of enzymes present in your washing detergent, each of which works to break down and remove a specific type of stain. If you’re looking for a more natural and eco-friendly choice, Bio-D’s washing powder could be a good option.