13 Dec 2022
The smol guide to washing machine drawer compartments:
- I or 1 = pre-wash (for extra dirty loads & rarely needed)
- II or 2 = main wash (for your detergent or stain remover)
- flower/star or 3 = softener (for your fabcon, if you're using it)
Capsule user? Ignore the drawer and toss it in the drum.
What’s with the mysterious washing machine drawer?
If you’re a smol laundry capsule user, you might be wondering what that dusty compartment in your machine is even for.
But for anyone using liquid detergent (hello smol liquid lovers) fabric conditioner, or even powder (retro vibes), your washing machine drawer has three separate sections, and using them correctly makes all the difference to how your laundry turns out.
let’s break it down.
1. the pre-wash compartment (I or 1)
If you’re running a pre-wash cycle, this is where you need to put in some extra detergent.
But take note… you only need to use this for the seriously grubby stuff. Think muddy football kits, spaghetti explosions that have set in, or clothes that have been living in the laundry basket for a little too long.
Look for a “1” or “I” label on the drawer.
In summary: most of us don’t need it. Today’s laundry detergents (especially when you use smol) combined with modern machines, are powerful enough to get the job done so there’s no extra cycles required.
Try smol stain gel instead or some laundry liquid applied directly to areas of concern for targeted pre-treating.
2. the main wash compartment (II or 2)
This is the star of the show. It’s where you put your liquid or powder detergent along with any stain remover, if you’re not using capsules.
Look for the “2” or “II” symbol.
The detergent from this section will be added into the machine drum once the main wash cycle starts properly and this is what gives your clothes their deep clean.
Using capsules?
- No need to open the drawer at all.
- Just pop one straight in the drum and press go.
- It’s why capsules are the no-measure, no-mess champions.
3. the softener compartment (flower/star symbol or 3)
The smallest section, marked with a flower symbol, star, or “3”, is where you pour your fabric conditioner or fabric softener.
But remember:
- Never pour softener directly into the drum.
- Never use an “all-in-one” capsule with conditioner built in.
- Both these actions mean your detergent will wash the softener away.
Your machine drawer releases fabric conditioner at the end of the rinsing cycle (after the detergent’s done its job), so it actually stays on the clothes where it belongs.
extra drawer FAQs.
do I need to use all 3 compartments?
No. For most everyday loads, you’ll only need the main wash section (II) and maybe the softener one if you’re using it. For all you capsule users? You can ignore the drawer.
can I put detergent straight into the drum?
Yes if it’s a capsule. Liquids or powders should go in the main wash section of the drawer so they dissolve properly and don’t stain your clothes.
why does my drawer get gunky?
Fabric softener and detergent residue can build up over time. Here’s how to clean your washing machine (including the drawer).
in short: 1, 2, 3 = sorted.
Your washing machine drawer isn’t there to confuse you. Each compartment has a role to play, but only if you’re still using liquids, powders or softeners. And if you’re a capsule convert, most of the time you can close that drawer and forget it exists.
Which honestly... feels kind of great.