How to Avoid Detergent Stains on Clothes for Good

It’s one of the most frustrating things about doing laundry: you’ve washed your favourite clothes, only to pull them out of the machine with mysterious white, chalky streaks all over them. The good news is, a cleaning expert has revealed why it happens and how to stop it for good.

A recent survey from found that one in three Brits don’t follow the guidelines for how much detergent to use, a habit that is one of the main causes of those unwanted stains.

“The issue is simple,” says Nigel Bearman, a cleaning expert at Daily Poppins. “The machine can’t dissolve the soap properly. We all think that more is better, but it just clumps up and gets trapped in the fabric, especially in the creases of your clothes.”

How to avoid detergent stains for good

The solution is easier than you think. By making a few small changes to your laundry routine, you can ensure your clothes come out stain-free every time.

1. Measure your detergent properly: Stop guessing! Use the cap or a measuring ball to get the right amount for your load size. The instructions are on the bottle for a reason.
2. Add the detergent first: For liquid detergents, pour it directly into the empty drum before you add your clothes. This gives it a head start to dissolve as the water rushes in.
3. Don’t overstuff the machine: Give your clothes some room to move. If you cram too much into the drum, there’s no space for the water and detergent to circulate and rinse properly.

“This is not about being a perfectionist,” says Bearman. “It’s about understanding a simple chemical process. When detergent is over-concentrated, it can’t interact with the water as it’s meant to, leaving residue. Following the golden rules of laundry ensures a more effective and complete wash.”

Additional tips

• Check the temperature: If you’re washing in cold water, opt for a liquid detergent over a powder, as it dissolves more easily.
• Clean your machine: A dirty machine with built-up residue can transfer stains to your clothes. Run a hot, empty wash with white vinegar once a month.
• Use a laundry ball: Place a laundry ball or pod directly into the drum. This helps ensure the detergent is released evenly and directly into the heart of the wash.

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