Water is a basic component of many cleaning tasks. But some attributes, such as mineral content, salt water and temperature can affect cleaning power. 

Hard Water: Although soap is a good cleaning agent, its effectiveness is reduced when used in hard water. Hardness in water is caused by the presence of mineral salts – most commonly calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg), but sometimes also iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). The mineral salts react with soap to form an insoluble precipitate known as soap film or scum. 

Soap film does not rinse away easily. It tends to remain behind and produces visible deposits on garments and can make fabrics feel stiff. It also attaches to the insides of bathtubs, sinks, and washing machines. 

Some soap is used up by reacting with hard-water minerals to form the film. This reduces the amount of soap available for cleaning. Soap molecules are not very versatile and cannot be adapted to today’s variety fibers, washing temperatures and water conditions. It may be necessary to use more than the recommended amount of detergent. 

Soft water: Even when clothes are washed in soft water, some hardness minerals are introduced by the soil on clothes. Slightly less than the recommended amount of detergent can be used in soft water but too much reduction in the detergent dosage will result in poor soil removal. In addition, soil may be redeposited on the clothes during the wash cycle. Measuring is the only way to use a detergent both effectively and economically. 

Saltwater: There are specifications for products that are intended to work in saltwater but they are designed for limited to work in saltwater but they are designed for limited use in unusual circumstances, such as by the U.S. Navy. In general, soap developed for general consumer use are not formulated for use in saltwater. 

Water temperature: 90% of the energy used to wash clothes goes to heating the water. Save energy, money, and make your clothes last longer by washing in cold water. There are a few times when you should wash in warmer water, such as when washing baby clothes or diapers, dish towels, pet bedding, grease or oil stains, or if someone in the home is sick. 

Water conservation: Washers have become more and more efficient when it comes to energy use and water consumption, with current machines using between 20% and 60% less than the old-school agitator washers.