Washers Greasy or Oily Stains

There is nothing within the washer itself that would be the source of the oily stains, so the stains are either coming in on the clothing, are being caused by a laundry additive (such as liquid fabric softener), or, in some instances, can even be coming in as part of the water supply. Food or cooking oil will spot or stain most common fabrics. These spots or stains are sometimes called "invisible stains" because they may not be noticed as the clothes are put in the washer. If oily soils are not completely removed in the wash, the oily spots may pick up dirt from the wash water. The spots will then be very visible. These spots are not caused by the washer.
 

How to Remove Oily Stains from Your Clothing

Oily stains should come out in subsequent washings if fabric softener is not used. Multiple washings may be needed if the stains are heat-set by the dryer, but they should come out. Rub in undiluted detergent directly on the stain, let stand for 30 minutes, and rewash using the hottest water that is safe for the clothing items, preferably Hot. The Normal cycle should be used with detergent dosed per the detergent manufacturer's recommendations; no fabric softener. An OXY additive, in addition to the detergent, will also help remove the stains.
 

How to Prevent Oily Stains on Your Clothing

Provided the stains are removed by following the procedure above, here are some tips for preventing such stains going forward:
  • Wash the garments as soon as possible after wearing them. Use more detergent than normal and the hottest wash water the fabric can stand.
  • When using a liquid fabric softener, use the Deep Rinse option if it is available in your washer.
  • Carefully measure the amount of liquid fabric softener used per manufacturer's recommendations and put that in the Softener Dispenser (if available on your model); do not overdose.
  • Ensure that liquid fabric softener does not contact clothing directly; clothes must be saturated with water before contact.
  • Occasionally run loads without using fabric softener to help remove buildup, if fabric softener is generally used on all loads.
  • Washing loads in warmer water temperatures (versus just using cold water) will help prevent fabric softener buildup as well.
 

Additional Support

For additional information on how to use your washer, please check out the Owner's Manual for your specific model.