Why a top load washer leaves stains on clothing & how to prevent it

Is your top load washer doing the opposite of what it’s supposed to do and leaving stains on your clothing? Don’t worry, this is a problem that you can fix yourself and we’re here to help you figure out how!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes, and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Detergent residue

Using more detergent than recommended or not enough water can leave behind a sticky or powdery white residue on clothes, even after the wash cycle. If the washing machine is not able to properly rinse out all the detergent, it can leave streaks, spots, a film or residue on the clothes.

• Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate detergent amount based on the load size and water hardness. Start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.
• If too much detergent was used, run an additional rinse cycle to make sure all the detergent is flushed out.
• Running a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner can help remove any lingering detergent residue from the drum.
• Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent that’s formulated to produce less suds, which can help reduce residue buildup.
• Over time, the detergent dispenser can accumulate buildup, preventing proper rinsing. Remove and clean the dispenser parts. If the dispenser is damaged or heavily clogged, it may need to be replaced.
• Check the water inlet valve. This part controls the water flow into the washing machine. If it is not functioning properly, it can affect the machine’s ability to fill with enough water to rinse effectively. Also make sure the washer is not set for a very small load size or low water usage setting.
• Check the water pressure and pressure switch. Low water pressure can also contribute to inadequate rinsing and detergent residue. Make sure the water supply to the washing machine is sufficient and the pressure switch is working correctly.
• Cooking oils, machine oils, or other greasy substances can leave behind persistent stains. Pre-treat grease or oil stains with a stain remover or degreasing agent before washing.

Read more: 10 Washing Machine Tips to Get Stains Out

Fabric softener buildup

Fabric softeners often contain oils to provide that soft, slippery feel. If too much softener is used or it doesn’t rinse out completely, it can leave behind greasy stains or marks on fabrics. This is more common on absorbent fabrics like cotton or microfiber. The oils and conditioning agents can also cause certain fabrics, especially white or light-colored clothes, to yellow or discolor over time. Areas that get the most contact with the washing machine drum, like collars and cuffs, are prone to softener residue build-up.

• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the appropriate amount of fabric softener based on the load size and water hardness. If the fabric softener doesn’t fully dissolve or distribute evenly, it can leave behind visible spots, streaks, or blotchy areas on clothes.
• If too much is used, run an additional rinse cycle to remove all the fabric softener from the machine and clothes.
• Over time, the fabric softener dispenser can become clogged with buildup. Remove and clean the dispenser.
• Check the fabric softener holder or detergent housing. If the dispenser is heavily clogged or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
• Avoid using fabric softener with every wash as it can contribute to buildup in the machine over time.
• Clean the washing machine drum periodically by running a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mix of hot water and vinegar to help remove any residue in the tub.
• Check the water pressure as low water pressure can impact the machine’s ability to properly rinse out fabric softener, leading to buildup.

Hard water

Water with high concentrations of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, can reduce the effectiveness of detergents and lead to the buildup of soap scum and scale in the washing machine. If the washing machine is not able to properly rinse away the mineral deposits, they can remain on the clothes, causing brown stains and discoloration.

• Investing in a whole-home or point-of-use water softener can effectively remove the minerals from the water, improving the washing machine’s performance and reducing the chances of hard water stains.
• Periodically running a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of hot water and white vinegar can help break down and flush out any existing mineral buildup in the machine.
• With hard water, you may need to use a smaller amount of detergent, as the minerals can interfere with the detergent’s cleaning ability.
• Check the water inlet valve. This part controls the flow of water into the washing machine. If it becomes clogged with mineral deposits, it may need to be replaced.
• In severe cases of hard water buildup, the drain pump may become obstructed, requiring replacement.
• Use a water softener additive. Adding a water softener additive to the wash cycle can help counteract the effects of hard water and prevent mineral buildup.
• Consider using distilled or purified water. For heavily affected washing machines, using distilled or purified water in the wash cycle can help mitigate the hard water issues.
• Inspect and clean the drain pump filter. The drain pump filter can become clogged with mineral deposits, which can impact the machine’s ability to rinse effectively. Regularly cleaning the drain pump filter is important.

Read more: Pros and cons of using fabric softener

Rust

Any metal parts, such as the tub, can corrode and develop rust over time, especially in the presence of moisture and from scratches in the anti-rust coating. The mineral content in hard water can also accelerate the corrosion.

• Regularly cleaning the washing machine tub and other metal components with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of hot water and vinegar can help remove deposits that can wear away the metal coating.
• Investing in a water softener or using a water softener additive can help reduce the mineral content in the water, slowing down the corrosion of metal parts.
• Using the recommended amount of detergent and ensuring proper rinsing can help prevent the accumulation of detergent residue, which can contribute to rust formation.
• If the washing machine tub is heavily rusted, it may need to be replaced. Most washer models feature stainless steel or other rust-resistant materials for the drum and other metal parts, reducing the risk of rust.
• Regularly inspecting the washing machine for signs of rust, such as pitting or discoloration, can help you address the issue early before it becomes more severe.

Read more:  Seven Steps to Master Your Laundry Day: A Complete Guide

Damaged agitator

When the agitator is not functioning correctly, it may not be able to properly circulate the water and detergent solution throughout the load, leaving behind dirt, stains, and other residues on the clothing. This can result in clothes coming out of the wash still looking dirty or with persistent stains.

• The “dogs” or clutch mechanism that connect the agitator to the transmission can wear out, causing the agitator to slip or spin ineffectively.
• The fins or vanes on the agitator are designed to create turbulence and move the clothes through the water. If these fins become worn down, cracked, or broken, they will not effectively circulate the clothes and water.
• There is a seal around the base of the agitator that helps direct water flow. If this seal becomes cracked or worn, water may bypass the agitator, reducing its cleaning ability.
• The central post of the agitator can become loose, bent, or damaged, causing the agitator to not spin or move properly. This disrupts the washing action and prevents thorough cleaning.

Read more: Your Laundry Cleaning Chemical Guide

Additional information

Thank you for reading! If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog, and more.

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