How to Clean Built Up Fabric Softener Residue From a Washing Machine

Getting Rid of Residue

• 1

  Empty your washer completely.

• 2

  Pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar in the loading area. Run the washer on a normal cycle with hot water.

• 3

  Check the washer for residue. Repeat the cycle with 1/2 cup baking soda instead of vinegar, if necessary.

• 4

  Repeat this step once a month to keep fabric softener and soap residue from building up in the washer and hoses.

Other Ways to Fight Residue

• 5

  Run your washing machine on hot cycles for a while. Cold and warm water may be responsible for leaving fabric softener and even soapy residue.

• 6

  Reduce the amount of fabric softener and detergent when you wash your clothes. Using too much contributes to residue build-up. Use no more than 1 tbsp. laundry detergent for a high-efficiency, front loader machine.

• 7

  Replace your fabric softener with 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar during the last rinse cycle. The vinegar softens clothes, removes soap and prevents yellowing. Dryer sheets offer a less eco-friendly alternative, but your washing machine won't experience the buildup from liquid softener.