Common Drying Problems
Many drying problems involve poor soil and stain removal, residues of lint and scum, and fabric damage. For satisfactory wash-
ing results, follow these suggestions provided by The Soap and Detergent Association.
PROBLEM
POSSIBLE CAUSES
Greasy, oily
• Fabric softener sheet.
stains
Lint
• Overloading.
• Overdrying causes static
electricity.
• Lint screen not clean
when cycle began.
• Lint is attached to "pills."
Pilling
• Overdrying.
(Fibers break
off, ball up and
cling to fabric.)
Shrinking
• Temperature too high.
• Overdrying.
Wrinkling
• Overloading.
• Leaving items in dryer
after cycle ends.
Solutions to Common Problems
SOLUTIONS
• Rub fabric softener stains with bar
soap. Rinse and rewash.
• Reduce load size and rewash using
liquid fabric softener in the final rinse.
• Or, add a fabric softener sheet and
tumble without heat.
• Use lint brush or roller to remove lint.
• Use a lint brush or shaver to remove
pills.
• Irreversible condition.
• Reduce load size and tumble at me-
dium or low heat for 5-10 minutes.
• Remove items immediately. Hang
or fold.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
• Add a few bath towels to small
loads for proper tumbling.
• Some "silk-like" fabrics should be
air dried.
• Use proper drying temperature.
• Place fabric softener sheet on top
of load before starting the dryer.
• Do not overload dryer.
• Use fabric softener in washer or
dryer to reduce static electricity.
• Remove items when they are
slightly damp to avoid overdrying.
• Check that lint filter is clean and
in place.
• Use fabric softener to lubricate
fibers.
• When ironing, use spray starch or
fabric finish on collars and cuffs.
• Turn items inside out to reduce
abrasion.
• Follow fabric care label directions.
• If shrinking is a concern, check
load often.
• Remove items while slightly damp
and hang or lay flat to complete
drying.
• Block knits into shape.
• Do not overload dryer.
• Remove items as soon as cycle
ends.
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