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

Is your front load washer leaving stains on your clothing instead of getting them clean? Don’t worry, this is a frustrating but fairly common 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

Mold or mildew

Front-load washing machines can be more prone to mold and mildew growth due to the design of the door seal and the presence of moisture in the drum after a wash cycle which can then transfer to clothing as brown or black spots.

• Regularly wipe down the door seal and the interior of the drum with a cleaning solution specifically formulated for removing mold and mildew. This helps eliminate any existing growth and prevent future occurrences.
• After each use, leave the washing machine door open to allow the drum to fully dry, reducing moisture buildup. Some models have a built-in magnet to keep the door slightly ajar to allow it to dry safely.
• Periodically run a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of hot water and bleach to disinfect the machine and remove any lingering mold or mildew.
• If the door seal is damaged or not properly sealing, it can contribute to moisture buildup and mold growth. Replacing the door seal may be necessary.
• A faulty door hinge can prevent the door from closing properly, leading to air circulation issues and increased moisture retention. Replacing the door hinge may be required.
• Avoid leaving wet clothes in the machine. Remove clothes from the washing machine after a cycle to prevent them from sitting in a moist environment.

Rust

Any metal parts, such as the drum, 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 drum 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 drum 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.
• If rust is a persistent problem and the cost of repairs becomes significant, it may be worth considering upgrading to a newer, more rust-resistant model.

Read more: Pros And Cons Of Top-Load Vs Front-Load Washing Machines

Dirt and debris

Lint, pet hair, and other small items can accumulate in any small, hard to reach areas of the washing machine. Bits of dried, caked-on debris can flake off the tub cover and dissolve in the wash, leaving behind spotty or streaky marks. Some fabrics, such as towels and clothing with fuzzy textures, can produce more lint than others, contributing to the buildup in the machine.

• Front-load washers have a rubber gasket around the door to create a tight seal. This gasket can collect lint, hair, and grime over time. Regularly wipe down the rubber gasket with a damp cloth or run a cleaning cycle.
• The drum itself can also accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener, and other debris, especially in the crevices and corners. Leave the door and detergent drawer open after each wash cycle to allow the machine to dry out completely.
• Run a hot wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a vinegar solution periodically to help kill any mold or mildew.
• Use a small brush or toothpick to remove any hardened residue in the tub.
• Check for debris build up on the door where it meets the gasket when closed.

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.

Be sure to subscribe to us on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!