While it is possible to use washing up liquid (dish soap) in the washing machine as a temporary substitute for washing powder or laundry detergent, it is generally not recommended. Washing up liquid is formulated for dishwashing and may not be suitable for use in a washing machine for several reasons:
Excessive foaming: Washing up liquid tends to produce a lot of foam when agitated, which can cause excessive sudsing in a washing machine. The high amount of foam can lead to overflow and potentially damage the machine.
Residue buildup: Washing up liquid is designed to leave a residue on dishes to enhance drying and remove grease. However, this residue may not rinse out completely from the fabrics in the washing machine, resulting in a sticky or soapy residue on your clothes.
Lack of cleaning power: Washing up liquid is primarily formulated to cut through grease and remove food particles. It may not have the same cleaning power as laundry detergent, which is specifically designed to remove stains, dirt, and odors from fabrics.
If you find yourself without washing powder or laundry detergent, it's generally best to wait until you can obtain the appropriate product. However, in a pinch, you can use a small amount of washing up liquid as a temporary solution. Be sure to use it sparingly, and run an extra rinse cycle to minimize residue buildup. It's important to note that this method is not ideal for regular use and should only be considered as a short-term solution until proper laundry detergent is available.