Innovative design ideas often go unnoticed, even though they can save you money. A hidden flap in many washing machines is one such example.
Many manufacturers are constantly coming up with new features for their appliances that are designed to make life easier. Some of these are often hidden or their function is not immediately apparent. One example is the small blue flap that can be found in the detergent compartment of many washing machines.
In some washing machines, the small plastic part is located directly on the detergent dosing chamber. In most cases, it covers one-third of the compartment (as shown in the photo above). What many people don’t know is that the cover can be moved. It can be pulled forward and then folded down.
Two functions
The small flap can be used as a measuring aid. If you look closely, you can see millilitre markings on the front – the scale ranges from 50 to 200 millilitres. So if you add detergent to the dispensing chamber, you no longer need to measure it out in the dispensing cap. Especially since many liquid detergents no longer come with a dispensing cap. You have to request it from the manufacturer or even buy one.
Practical tip
You can order the insert for the dispensing chamber from a specialist retailer if your washing machine is not equipped with one.
If, on the other hand, you never used a measuring cap, the flap makes it easier to see how much detergent you are actually pouring into the compartment. This helps you to avoid overdosing and underdosing. It’s practical and saves money.
What’s more, the flap prevents the detergent from flowing into the machine too early. This sometimes happens when the pre-wash function is used. If this flap is closed, it opens after the pre-wash – so the detergent only reaches the laundry then.
