Laundry powder - how much?

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I know this is probably a really basic question! I recently switched to laundry powder as it's more cost effective, but I think I'm using too much.

We live in a hard water area and our washing is averagely dirty ie no massive or ground in stains etc

I've measured washing powder according to the instructions on the side. But that amount is huge!

What is the most reliable way of measuring out washing powder please??

I soften the water in my washing machine (i use a magnoball which so far, so good, seems to work) and then measure out the amount for soft water. I have a scoop and I've drawn lines on it with a sharpie so I don't add too much by accident!

Hi I've recently seen a dermatologist ( eczema in family) and she said to use 50% of suggested dose.
Having done that we are still getting clean clothes so maybe try that and see how you get on.

Just experiment with using less if you want, but why do you think you're using too much? You say the amount is huge but what are you basing that on? You often need a fair scoop of powder for a load of washing.

I read somewhere that a tablespoon is the amount you need. That's what I use and it seems to work fine.

It looks like a lot and sometimes our clothes are a bit crispy despite using fabric softener

I'm expecting someone to come on here and say 1/4 of a teaspoon is all you need 😂

I’d say 1/4 cup, a little more if it’s a very dirty load.

I used to use just under 1/2 cup (cup measure, not just a random lying about cup).
I'm now down to less then 1/5 cup (probably about 3/4 of it) and my machine is still showing that it has soap residue left in it.

Thanks all for your advice! Will experiment with amounts.

I use about half the recommended dose. Gets out everything except grass stains on cricket whites (sigh) and sweat from DH’s shirts if he’s had a running around day.

I also use half the recommended dose and that works very well.