A lot of it depends on the size of your load, the soil level, the rinsibility of the detergent, capacity of your washer, and water conditions.

For example, I have hard water that varies between 8 to 10 grains. My washer is a Frigidaire Affinity FL which is big enough to wash comforters in. If I were using Tide HE liquid and doing a full very soiled load, I would fill to line 2 or 3 and then use extra rinses. If using the same Tide I was washing a full load that was not heavily soiled (just basic stuff like mild body oil and such), I would only put in half way up to line one.

It would work out the same with other brands too, but you would have to experiment with what amounts get what loads clean. I merely used Tide HE as an example as it is the #1 selling HE detergent on the market and I had tried it along with many other brands when I first got my FL.

I hope this helps.

Thanks happymomof2kids,

I guess I will have to experiment to find the right amount....

Look at the bottle of detergent you have and you will find an 800 number to their customer service. Call and explain the types of wash you do and the condition of your water source. They will be able to tell you the amount and types of detergent you should use. They will also send you coupons for your next purchase.

I had a repair man come out and fix my rubber seal on my Bosch washer. He looked at the seal and told me I was using too much detergent. Recommended no more than 1 tablespoon per load! Much less than it says on the detergent bottles. I use that amount now, and everything comes out clean, and less on the rinse cycle.