Question

Why is soapy water more effective for washing clothes than without soap

Answer 1

Detergent makes water “wetter”. More dirt comes up off the fabric in wetter water. There are other ingredients added to the detergent that keep the dirt in suspension until the water is drained. Overall, a better result than water alone.

This reduces the amount of soap available for cleaning. Even when clothes are washed in soft water, some hardness minerals are introduced by the soil on clothes. Soap molecules are not very versatile and cannot be adapted to today's variety of fibers, washing temperatures and water conditions.

Answer 2

it is because the stains a containsome kind of acid the Soapy water is a base so when the base reacts with acid it neutralizes it and thus Soapy water is more effective for washing clothes then without soap


acid+base=neutralization reaction
(stain)

hope it would be helpful:)