If you want to wash your clothes efficiently and save water, energy, and detergent, you need to know how to choose the right laundry load size for your washing machine. In this article, we will explain what laundry load size means, how to calculate it, and how to load your washing machine properly.

What is Laundry Load Size and Why is it Important?

Laundry load size is the amount of clothes you can put in your washing machine at one time. It is important to know your washing machine’s load size so that you can use it efficiently and avoid overloading or underloading it. Overloading your washing machine can damage your clothes and your machine, while underloading it can waste water, energy, and detergent.

How to Calculate Laundry Load Size?

There are two ways to calculate laundry load size: by volume or by weight. By volume, you can estimate how much space your clothes take up in the washing machine drum. By weight, you can measure how heavy your clothes are before putting them in the machine. Here are some general guidelines for both methods:

Medium or regular load: When the drum is roughly halfway filled, it is a medium or regular load. This is about 6 pounds or 3 kgs of clothes.
Large load: When the drum is three-quarters filled, it is a large load. This is about 9 pounds or 4.5 kgs of clothes.
Extra-large load: When the drum is almost full, it is an extra-large load. This is about 12 pounds or 6 kgs of clothes.

However, these are approximate values and may vary depending on the type, size, and fabric of your clothes. You can also use your arms as a quick way to gauge how much laundry you have. If you can easily lift one armful of clothes, it is a medium or regular load. If you can barely move an arm, it is a large load. If you need both arms to carry your clothes, it is an extra-large load.

How to Load Your Washing Machine Properly?

Loading your washing machine properly is essential for getting the best results and preventing any damage. Here are some tips to follow:

Sort your clothes by fabric, color, and dirtiness. This will help you choose the right wash cycle, temperature, and detergent for each load. You can also avoid color bleeding, shrinking, or stretching of your clothes.
Check the care labels on your clothes and follow the instructions. Some clothes may need special attention, such as hand washing, delicate cycle, or cold water.
Empty your pockets and close any zippers, buttons, or hooks. This will prevent any items from getting lost or damaging your clothes or your machine.
Do not overload or underload your machine. Make sure your clothes can tumble freely inside the drum and do not pack them too tightly. Leave some space at the top of the drum for the water and detergent to circulate.
Use the right amount of detergent for your load size and water hardness. Follow the directions on the detergent package and adjust the dosage according to your needs. Too much or too little detergent can affect the cleaning performance and leave residues on your clothes or your machine.

How to Choose the Right Washing Machine Capacity?

Washing machine capacity is the size of the drum and how much clothes it can hold. It is measured in liters or cubic feet. Choosing the right washing machine capacity depends on your household size, laundry frequency, and personal preference. Here are some factors to consider:

Household size: The bigger your family, the bigger your washing machine capacity should be. A small washing machine (65-70 liters or 2.3-2.5 cubic feet) is suitable for a single person or a couple. A medium washing machine (87-113 liters or 3.1-4 cubic feet) is suitable for a family of three or four. A large washing machine (119-141 liters or 4.2-5 cubic feet) is suitable for a family of five or more.
Laundry frequency: The more often you wash your clothes, the smaller your washing machine capacity can be. If you wash your clothes once a week or less, you can choose a bigger washing machine and do fewer loads. If you wash your clothes every day or every other day, you can choose a smaller washing machine and do more loads.
Personal preference: The final choice of washing machine capacity depends on your personal preference and lifestyle. You may prefer a bigger washing machine if you have bulky items, such as blankets, comforters, or curtains. You may prefer a smaller washing machine if you have limited space, budget, or environmental concerns.