Is laundry detergent always left behind in clothes?

Question

Irrespective of the amount of rinse cycles, there always seems to be some detergent film left on clothes, esp. black sweaters.

Why does vinegar remove some of the detergent?

Answer 1

That happens most often when you use detergent powder rather than liquid. Also it happens if you put the clothes in first and then pour the detergent on top of the clothes. If you use liquid detergent and don't pour it on top of the clothes, the problem should be eliminated.

Answer 2

You may have a few of factors occurring.

If the "detergent film" appears as a whitish powder:

1. Mineral deposition - typically calcium, sometimes iron, more often with hard water and detergents without chelators and cold water.

2. Flowing agents - in some powdered detergents.

3. Optical brighteners - can appear white on a dark material.

If the "detergent film" feels waxy or sticky:

4. Anti-static and anti-wrinkle substances, which can be in the detergent, added as a softener, or from excessive use of dryer fabric softener sheets.

If the residue is soapy:

5. Too much detergent, not enough water.

6. Poor dissolution and mixing of detergent in water. Insufficient agitation and too much clothes are also possible, but most washers have enough agitation and I assume your problem is independent of load size.

7. Very soft water.

For 1-4, try a different detergent, perhaps one that can work in cold water, liquid, no softeners or brighteners,

For 5-7. adjust the amount of detergent or water although changing the detergent may also work. Generally you don't want to change too many things at once or you won't know what had caused the problem.

Also for 7. adjust your water softener.

You'll have to make sure the inside of the drum and the agitator surfaces are clean. Try wiping with a wet, rag to see if there is residue on these. If your agitator is easily removable, check the underside. Also check for residue buildup on the inner upper lip of the drum and where it meets the top. [Assuming it's a top-loading washer.] Sometimes there can be substantial residue from foam accumulating onto this area, esp. since it is not touched by the rinse water.

The P&G websites have various laundry tips and products which have low/no residue. Personally, I've had good luck with Costco's Kirkland dye and perfume free, Arm & Hammer dye and perfume free, and Amway SA-8+.

Answer 3

The white film or specks are flowing agents such as Si O2 (silicone dioxides) and Zeolite (used in phosphate free detergents which has a low water solubility).

* Change to a liquid detergent and

If hard water is a problem:-

* Descale your washer at least twice yearly using approx 2 Cups of Vinegar at low water level.

Good Luck!!

Answer 4

Use a liquid detergent and use only 1/2 the amount the bottle tells you to. You'll get plenty of cleaning action and the washer is better able to rinse it all away. The detergent company's want your money so they want you to use more than you need.

Answer 5

Whether you use liquid or powder, you're obviously using too much soap. Follow the directions on the package. Also, rinse your clothes with a cup of vinegar instead of fabric softener, it will release the excess soap from the clothes. It will not make the clothes smell like vinegar, I promise. It will actually leave a fresh smell. Once in awhile, use nothing but vinegar to wash the clothes to get rid of the rest of the leftover soap.

Answer 6

No matter how careful and skillful you are you can never avoid detergent residue. Doesn't matter the type you use. The detergent bonds with the fabrics and can never be completely removed.

Answer 7

if it is a powder and it is not totally dissolved,yes. if you use too much powder, yes. if this continues to be a problem, wash again without any detergent, a hassle, i know, but, if you need to, to need to. use a liquid and don't use to much.

Answer 8

yes ,that why its always better to use liquid detergent