My plumber told me that you should use half of the recommended detergent for your washing machine and your dishwasher. That’s really all that you need and the manufacturers of the detergent recommend that you use more so you run out faster and have to buy more.

The plumber said this is better for your pipes too because the extra suds can contribute to clogs in your pipes, so you really are better off using less.

better for the environment too because fewer chemicals will be leached out into the waterways and you’ll reduce your plastic waste.

You can use even less detergent if you live in an area with soft water which lathers much easier than hard water, requiring less detergent, soap, toothpaste, etc.