What the three compartments in your washing machine are REALLY for and where you should NEVER put the powder detergent

PEOPLE are finding out they've been using their washing machine wrong for years – and they've been left shocked by the right way to use it.

If you're one of the many people across the nation who just slings their washing powder into any of the three compartments of your machine's detergent draw, you'll be interested to know each section serves its own purpose.

TikTok user Elle (@ellelouisa.xo) posted a clip to the video-sharing platform, explaining the proper way to use the detergent drawer, Plymouth Live reports.

First, it's important to check the manual that accompanies your washing machine, as some compartments vary in appearance or order depending on the brand or model.

Elle told viewers:”First draw, washing powder!”

She advised them to use a ‘cupful' or however much they think is enough.

“Liquid detergent can also be used in this section, as it will be dispensed at the start of the wash cycle,” says Plymouth Live.

She then advised them to fill the second draw with fabric conditioner, and pointed out a maximum fill line for people to look out for.

The third and final section is for “pre-wash treatments, such as stain removers.”

This is where you want to add your stain-busting pre-wash detergent to help tackle those really stubborn marks.

Once you've prepared your draw in the correct order, you simply close it up and start your wash.

And while there is some difference between machines, there are usually helpful symbols to help you.

“A single line indicates the pre-wash compartment, two lines represent the detergent section, and a flower symbolises the softener slot.”

In the comment section, people said they found adding the powder straight to the drum of the machine made their clothes smell fresher.

Elle advised against this, saying: “Putting it in the drum can sometimes make the clothes come out with powder marks on it.”

Instead, she advised to stick to the machine's draws, as intended.

TikTok users react

People in the comment section couldn't believe what they were seeing.

One person said: “Thank you, I just put it in a random one and hope for the best!”

A second person wrote: “Thank you so much why do they not teach this anywhere.”

A third person commented: “Omg I've been putting my powder in the wrong drawer.”

Somebody else said: “Yeah, I’ve been doing this all wrong.”

While another person said: “I just chuck in the drum and hope for the best.”

And another user wrote: “I just wing it and hope for the best.”