Scent boosters are generally not bad for your washing machine if used correctly, meaning you add them directly to the drum before clothes and don't overuse them; however, improper use, such as putting them in the dispenser or using too many, can lead to residue buildup, clogged drains, and potential strain on the drain pump, especially with cold washes. Following instructions and doing regular maintenance washes (like with white vinegar) helps prevent issues like waxiness on towels and machine clogging.
If too many scent beads are added or if they do not dissolve completely, they can accumulate in the drum or pipes. Over time, this may lead to clogs, reduce washing efficiency, and even create unpleasant odors.
The biggest secret is to switch your detergent/softener. It can be the same brand, just a different scent. Your laundry probably smells great, but because all of your clothes smell that way, and because you smell it all of the time, you are desensitized to it.
However, the good news is that with a little care and caution, you can safely use essential oils in your WEILI Global washing machine without worrying about damage. The key is to use only a small amount of the oil and to add it directly to the wash cycle, rather than putting it in the detergent dispenser.
There are several different ways you can use essential oils for washing clothes. One of the easiest methods is to add a few drops of oil to the last rinse water. You can also drip a few drops of oil directly onto a stain or add a few drops of oil to your washing machine with your washing powder.
The 30/50/20 rule for essential oils is a blending guideline for creating balanced, harmonious scents, suggesting you use 30% top notes, 50% middle notes, and 20% base notes for longevity and depth. Top notes are light and fast-evaporating (like citrus), middle notes are the heart of the blend (like florals/herbs), and base notes are grounding and long-lasting (like woods/resins). For a 10-drop blend, this means 3 drops top, 5 drops middle, and 2 drops base.
FALSE: While PVA may dissolve in water into smaller pieces that may not be readily visible, it does not actually disappear. Instead, these smaller plastic particles persist in our environment as microplastics and nanoplastics. PVA is one of the most ubiquitous wastewater pollutants in the U.S.
For pipe health, plumbers recommend using pre-measured dishwasher pods, like Cascade Platinum, as they dissolve properly and prevent buildup better than liquids, with natural/unscented options like The Unscented Company Dish Tabs also being a good choice for less harsh chemicals. The key is proper use—placing pods in the dispenser—and choosing high-quality, enzyme-rich formulas that break down food effectively to avoid clogs, says Simply Recipes.
The Best Laundry Detergents of 2025
Clothes smell after washing due to bacteria buildup in your washing machine, leaving wet clothes in the washer too long (8+ hours), or using too much/too little detergent.
Here are 10 ways to make your laundry smell better:
The truth is, when used correctly, scent booster beads should not damage your machine. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure the beads are placed directly into the empty washer drum before adding clothes.
One such hack involves adding fabric softener to the toilet tank in an effort to reduce the smell of the toilet. Some people even claim that the fabric softener helps to keep the toilet clean.
Coins, excess detergent, hardware, and pet hair are the four common culprits that can cause serious damage. Maintaining careful washing habits and performing regular maintenance are the two biggest things you can do to keep your machine running smoothly.
Bargain brands might tackle dirt and everyday stains with ease, but for stubborn grime or heavily soiled garments, you might need something with a bit more muscle. Premium detergents often boast advanced formulations and specialty ingredients designed to combat even the toughest of stains.
First, empty the dishwasher. Then put one cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run the hottest cycle on the dishwasher. Skip the drying cycle and open the dishwasher door to let it air-dry.
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is the film that contains detergent in Tide Pods and other similar products. It dissolves when coming into contact with water, but studies have argued that the process leaves behind microplastics that go on to pollute the water supply, according to the New York Post.
BLUELAND 100% Plastic-Free Dishwasher Detergent Tablets, 60 Count, Free & Clear, Eco-Friendly Dishwashing Pods, Natural, USDA Certified biobased.
Avoid washing plastic dishes in the dishwasher, or avoid using plasticware altogether and replace what you can with glass, bamboo, and/or stainless steel. Don't microwave plastic containers. Maintain appliances properly to ensure they operate efficiently and reduce the risk of microplastic contamination.
There are two exceptions to this rule, lavender and tea tree essential oils can be applied “neat” or undiluted to the skin.
6 Popular Scent Combinations
Bergamot is very versatile in its blending and will go with most essential oils. It blends very well with other citrus oils as well as floral oils. We like blending Bergamot with Cypress, Sandalwood, Juniperberry, Coriander, Black Pepper, Ginger, Clary Sage, Rosemary and Frankincense.