How to Use Liquid Detergent in LG Automatic Washing Machine

Let’s be real—using liquid detergent in your LG automatic washing machine shouldn’t feel like defusing a bomb. Yet many find themselves puzzled by the dispenser drawer or scratching their heads at “Max” lines. Fear not, dear laundry warrior: this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of liquid detergent usage so your clothes come out sparkling and your machine keeps humming along like a champ!

Before we dive into “how,” it’s worth geekin’ out a moment on why liquid detergent is a top pick for LG washers. Liquid detergents dissolve faster than powders, making them ideal for cold water cycles and quick wash options. Plus, they tend to leave less residue and simplify pre-treating stains right in the bottle. If your LG washer supports high-efficiency (HE) detergents—and it should!—using an HE liquid detergent keeps those suds perfectly balanced, avoiding foam overload that can gunk up your washer’s sensors or plumbing. (Source)

If you use the wrong soap, you might as well be pouring bubbles into a black hole. Avoid that with HE liquid detergent, specially formulated for the lower water use in modern LG machines. Regular detergent can cause excessive suds, resulting in poor rinsing and potential mechanical issues. So, the first step is to reach for a detergent package clearly marked “HE.” Need a reliable option? Check out these handy picks: India availability or Global including USA.

For an LG automatic washer (both front-load and many top-load models), the magic happens in the detergent dispenser drawer. This drawer commonly has compartments labeled for prewash, main wash, fabric softener, and sometimes bleach. Keep your detergent organized here to make sure the machine dispenses it at just the right time.
Pro tip: Don’t toss liquid detergent directly into the drum unless your LG top-load washer’s manual specifically says so. Usually, that’s a no-go to prevent staining and improper dosing. (Source)

Many LG washers include a removable liquid detergent cup that slots inside the main wash compartment. This cup ensures liquid detergent releases properly during the wash cycle, preventing it from mixing too soon or too late. Not every model has this cup, but if yours does, resist the urge to skip it.
If your machine has this cup, pour the recommended amount of liquid detergent into it—never exceeding the “Max” line etched in the compartment or cup. Overfilling can cause detergent to release too early or spill out, leaving a sticky mess. (Source)

Some tougher loads demand a prewash cycle. In those cases, your detergent drawer will have a separate compartment for prewash detergent. Use this slot for about half the recommended detergent amount, while the other half goes into the main wash compartment.
Yes, splitting detergent sounds like math homework, but it really helps tackle the grime without adding extra suds or residue. And if you skip prewash, just put all detergent in the main wash compartment and call it a day. (Source)

Now that detergent is nestled comfortably in its drawer, load your laundry. Don’t be the person who crams the drum full to overflowing; overcrowding sabotages wash quality and wears machines faster. For typical loads, fill the drum loosely around two-thirds full.
Then pick your cycle based on fabric type and soil level. LG washers often have smart features or app integration that recommend or fine-tune settings, making your laundry game strong.
Wanna geek out on top tips for LG washing cycles? Check this detailed guide on How to Use LG Washing Machine Liquid Detergent Like a Pro.

Just like there are laundry victories, there are also detergent tragedies. Avoid these to keep your LG washing machine and clothes happy:

• Don’t mix powdered detergent with liquid detergent cups. Remove the cup if using powder to prevent clogging and residue.
• Avoid overfilling compartments. Excess detergent can cause early dispensing and wasted soap.
• Never pour liquid detergent directly into the drum unless your user manual explicitly grants permission – mostly for top-loaders.
• Use the correct compartment for fabric softener and bleach. Overuse or mixing here can cause fabric damage and machine malfunctions.

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If your LG washing machine sports the fancy ezDispense® feature, congrats—you’ve hit the lottery of laundry convenience! Just add liquid detergent to the reservoir once, and the machine automatically dispenses the perfect amount during each cycle. No guesswork, no spills.
Watch this in action here: How to Add Detergent & Use ezDispense.

Every LG washing machine model has quirks, so it’s always smart to consult your user manual, especially about detergent types and dispenser details. But following these general tips will get most LG automatic washers running smoothly on liquid detergent. So next time laundry day rolls around, you’re armed with the know-how to wash like a pro.

For more detailed tips on washing machine usage, explore our guide on How to Use Laundry Bag in Washing Machine Like a Pro and how to fine-tune other machine features. Your clothes—and your peace of mind—will thank you.