Why Is My Washer Leaving Stains? Causes & How to Fix

Nobody wants to invest time and energy in laundry only to have shirts, pants, or towels come out looking worse than before. Fortunately, knowing why your washing machine leaves stains can help you prevent these mishaps and keep your washer working its best.

Below, we’ll explore the common reasons your washing machine may be staining your clothes, along with simple fixes and preventive tips.

 

 

Common Causes of Washer Stains

There’s nothing more disappointing than pulling a fresh load of laundry from the washer and discovering new stains you didn’t see before. When this happens, most people wonder, “Why is my washer leaving stains on clothes?” Let’s look closer at the potential reasons:

Residue in the Washer Drum

A dirty washing machine drum is the top reason a washing machine leaves stains on clothes. Over time, residue from dirty laundry, soap scum, grease, or even small debris can accumulate inside the drum. This gunk sticks to the walls and transfers onto fabrics during wash cycles.

How to Spot It
If you see spots on your clothes that look like dirt or grimy streaks, do a quick test. If the drum is dirty, wipe the inside of the washer drum with a clean white cloth. If the fabric comes away soiled, your washer drum likely needs a thorough cleaning.

Quick Fix
Cleaning the drum is relatively easy. Run an empty hot-water cycle with a cup of white vinegar instead of detergent. Vinegar helps dissolve buildup, and it’s gentle on your washer. After the cycle, wipe the drum and rubber seal (especially important for front-load washers) with a soft cloth to pick up any lingering residue.

Too Much Detergent or Fabric Softener

Many people assume extra detergent means extra clean clothes. Instead, using too much detergent can create concentrated areas of suds that don’t rinse away. This can leave streaks or spots on your freshly washed clothes. Fabric softeners can similarly pool in one area when overused, leaving greasy-looking marks.

How to Spot It
If you notice soap-like or greasy patches on clothes, or if the fabric feels stiff or filmy, detergent or softener overuse could be to blame.

Quick Fix
Use the amount of detergent recommended on the package or, if possible, even a bit less. Modern washers often require less detergent than older models. Avoid overfilling the washer so there’s enough room for water to circulate, and thoroughly rinse everything.

 

 

Mold and Mildew Growth

In front-load washing machines, mold often thrives in the rubber gasket around the door. When moisture gets trapped in small crevices, and the machine isn’t aired out, mold or mildew can grow. This typically leaves dark specks or splotches on laundry.

How to Spot It
Look for black or gray marks on your clothes or a musty odor in your washer. Check the rubber seal closely. If it’s slimy or has visible spots, mold is taking hold.

Quick Fix
Wipe the gasket with a cloth dipped in a diluted bleach or vinegar solution. Make sure to move and fold back the rubber seal gently so you reach every crevice. Leave the door open after each cycle to let the drum and seal dry out. Run a hot cycle with a washing machine cleaner designed to remove mold for a deeper clean.

 

 

How to Fix a Washing Machine Leaving Stains on Clothes

Once you know why your washer is leaving stains, you can tackle the problem directly. Below, we’ll go over practical solutions that help you restore your washer’s cleaning power.

Clean Your Washer Drum Regularly

Regularly clean your washer, particularly the interior and the dispensers, to prevent buildup. A cycle with hot water, vinegar, or baking soda every month can do wonders.

1. Empty Cycle: Remove all laundry.

2. Select Hot Temperature: Warm or hot cycles loosen grime.

3. Add Vinegar or Baking Soda: Use about one cup of vinegar or half a cup of baking soda.

4. Run the Cycle: Let the machine work through a full wash.

5. Wipe Surfaces: Give the drum, door, and dispensers a final wipe.

For an even easier solution, consider a washer with a self-cleaning function, like the Whirlpool 5.0 cu. ft. Front Load Washer (Model: WFW8620HC). Its Load & Go dispenser and built-in cleaning cycle make it simple to maintain and keep your laundry fresh.

Adjust Your Detergent Usage

Read the labels on your detergent and follow their guidelines. High-efficiency washers (HE) often require specifically labeled detergents that produce fewer suds. As a rule of thumb, less is more. Over-sudsing leads to residue.

Target Mold and Mildew

If you see mold or mildew, address it before it spreads:

• Wipe Seals and Gaskets: Use a diluted bleach solution or a commercial mold remover.

• Run a Washer Cleaning Cycle: Some washers have a dedicated “clean washer” mode.

• Air It Out: Leave the door and detergent drawer open so moisture can escape.

 

 

Explore Stain-Fighting Washers at Van Vreede’s

Ready to find the perfect washer to upgrade your laundry day? Head over to Van Vreede’s! Our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the right new laundry appliances and guide you through the selection process. 

Contact us or visit our appliance store locations in Appleton, Green Bay, and Oshkosh to shop for the best top-load matching washers, commercial washers, dryers, washer-dryer combos, and more to improve your laundry routine. We also carry a wide variety of popular brands like GE Profile, Electrolux, Speed Queen, and more.

Related readings from our blog:

• Are Washer Dryer Combos Worth It?

• Are Stackable Washers and Dryers Good?

• Pros vs. Cons: Top-Load Washers

Transform your home today by shopping with Van Vreede’s—where quality meets style.

 

 

FAQ: Common Questions About Washer Stains

1. Why is my washing machine leaving grey marks on my clothes?
Grey marks usually come from detergent or dirt buildup on the drum or seal. Run an empty hot cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner, then wipe down the inside to prevent future residue.

2. Why am I seeing oily spots on my clothes after washing?
Oily spots can appear if there’s leftover grease inside the washer or worn seals. Clean the machine with a hot cycle and washer cleaner, and check seals or hoses for leaks.

3. Why are there brown marks on my clothes after washing?
Brown marks often indicate rust or hard-water minerals. Inspect for rusted parts, then sand and repaint if it’s minor, or consider a new washer if the issue is widespread.

4. Why are my clothes patchy after washing?
Patchiness occurs when detergent doesn’t fully dissolve. Use the recommended detergent amount, avoid overloading, and pick a cycle that allows enough rinsing.

5. Why is fabric softener staining my clothes?
Too much softener or direct contact with fabric can leave greasy spots. Dilute it or use an automatic dispenser, and stick to the recommended amount to avoid staining.