Why Isn't My Washing Machine Dispensing Fabric Softener?

Common Reasons and Fixes for Fabric Softener Not Dispensing

Washing machine not dispensing fabric softener is a surprisingly common issue. It can be frustrating as you'd expect your clothes to come out soft and fresh, but instead they feel kind of stiff with the machine utilising only the washing detergent.

Various factors could be causing this problem, some of them more typical the others - from clogged compartments to mechanical faults. In this article we have listed the reasons why your washing machine is not taking fabric softener, why is it happening, and how to fix it.

1. Clogged Fabric Softener Dispenser Drawer

This is the most common reason your washing machine is not dispensing fabric softener. Over time, if the fabric dispenser is not regularly cleaned, it gets clogged with softener residue, blocking its own way into the washing machine.

How to Fix It:

• Remove the detergent drawer from the washing machine.
• Soak it in warm, soapy water for 15-30 minutes.
• Scrub well using a toothbrush.
• Rinse thoroughly and let it dry before reinserting it in the washing machine.

2. The Fabric Softener Compartment Is Overfilled

When you dd too much softening detergent, it will lead to overflowing when the softener absorbing cycle begins. This is because at that time of the cycle water flows in the dispenser to take the softener into the drum, and if it's fuller than it should be, it may not drain properly.

How to Fix It:

• Check where the compartment's max fill line is, and make sure to not fill above it.
• You can dilute thick fabric softeners with a little water before pouring them in, to help with better absorption.

3. Water Inlet Valve Issues

Washing machines use water to bring the fabric softener into the drum. When the water inlet valve is clogged or faulty, the softener may not be washed away. If you have the knowledge, and it's safe to do so, you can fix the problem on your own, otherwise contact a professional kitchen appliance repair technician. Always take safety precautions when undertaking home repairs.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the water supply and unplug the washing machine.
• Inspect the water inlet valve to see if it's clogged.
• Clean it with a brush or replace it if necessary.

4. The Siphon Mechanism Is Blocked

Most washing machines use a siphon system to dispense fabric softener. When it gets blocked with thickened softener, water is unable to create the suction that is necessary to pull the softener into the drum.

How to Fix It:

• Remove the siphon cap from the drawer, if your machine has one - it could be on either side of your detergent drawer.
• Clean it under running water, checking for blockages. Make sure to clean well softener residue and mould - mould often finds its way into the drawer, even if it's cleaned regularly.
• Reinstall the drawer and test the machine, hopefully it will be dispensing softener after a good clean.

5. The Machine Is Not Level

If your washing machine is not well levelled, it can stop the softener from draining properly.

How to Fix It:

• Use a bubble level to check if the washing machine is balanced correctly.
• Adjust the feet if necessary.

6. Using the Wrong Wash Cycle

Not all washing cycles use fabric softener. If you're doing a quick wash, delicate, or rinse-only cycle, the softener might not dispense.

How to Fix It:

• Read the machine's manual to see which cycles use fabric softener.
• Choose the correct cycle to make sure softener is included.

7. Faulty Dispenser Mechanism

If none of the above is an issue, the problem might be mechanical, such as stuck mechanism or a broken part.

How to Fix It:

• Inspect the dispenser to see if it's damaged.
• Contact a professional technician if a repair or replacement if necessary.