There are several reasons for your washing machine to make laundry stiff. The most likely reason is leftover detergent on the laundry. Please see if one of the following will solve the problem.
Avoid using too much detergent
You may be using too much detergent or an inappropriate type for your appliance. Read the instructions on the detergent packaging to find out if it’s the right type for your washing machine. Make sure that you’re using no more than the recommended dose.
Make sure the detergent is put in the appropriate compartment
There are three compartments in the detergent drawer, two of which are for detergent and one for softener.
The compartment labelled “I” is for the pre-wash and the other labelled “II” is for the main wash. The compartment in the middle is for the softener. Make sure you’re putting detergent in the correct compartment.
Be sure to put detergent in the first compartment only if you’re running a programme with a pre-wash cycle. Otherwise, your washing machine will only take in half the detergent. The remaining amount may then be released into the drum during the rinsing process. The detergent won’t fully dissolve at this point and may cause stains.
Make sure softener and detergent don’t mix
When detergent gets mixed with the softener, it’ll be released again at the softening stage. This causes laundry to come out stiff. If you suspect this to be the case, wash and clean the drawer with lukewarm water. Be sure to put the detergent and the softener in their own compartments.
Avoid overloading the appliance
Washing machines come in various loading capacities. If your machine is overloaded, detergent may get stuck between the creases of your clothes and not dissolve completely. Please consult your user manual for programmes and their laundry capacities. If you’re having trouble finding your manual, download it here using your product’s model number.
For more laundry tips, see our guides on how to load your washing machine properly and how much load your washing machine can handle.
Check the water hardness
In areas with high levels of water hardness, using insufficient amounts of detergent can also lead to the laundry becoming stiff. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the detergent packaging and increase the dose if necessary.