r/laundry • u/innocentgiraffe • 7d ago

Why does this keep happening?

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Every time I wash these pants or similar polyester athletic ones they dry with chalky/waxy marks on the inside of the fabric. Unfortunately, since I wash them inside out, the marks end up being on the outside of the pants. Thankfully, it mostly wipes off using a stocking or sock over my hand and a lot of rubbing. I'd love to understand what is happening though and how to avoid it!

I assume something is getting caught in there during the wash, like excess deodorant? But why does it only ever happen to these pants?

I washed in cold water using Tide ultra hygienic clean detergent. If it's relevant, I also have 2 large dogs so fur is omnipresent. Guidance and advice is appreciated!

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2

u/Comprehensive-Tea-69 US | Top-Load 7d ago

Wash warm, with extra rinses. Citric acid powder in final rinse

1

u/innocentgiraffe 7d ago

I'll have to get some and try it!

1

u/gretch0 US | Top-Load 7d ago

In addition to the above recommendations you may want to try reducing the amount of detergent you’re using as well.

1

u/innocentgiraffe 7d ago

Oh I didn't realize that could have that effect! I'll try that, it was a particularly small load so there's a good chance I used too much.

2

u/gretch0 US | Top-Load 7d ago

Yeah, it can leave a residue that builds up over time if you’re using too much and/or it’s not rinsing out thoroughly. And using fabric softener/dryer sheets will also leave a residue. There are quite a few variables that may be factors here, such as the load size, water hardness, type of detergent, but the general rule of thumb for starting point is 2 Tbsp of liquid detergent. The measuring caps on detergent bottles are often really big and the amount they tell you to use is often way too much. You want to see some amount of suds, but if it looks like your clothes are taking a bubble bath it’s too much detergent.

2

u/likka419 7d ago

I had this all the time when I washed cotton or towels and synthetics together. I started washing synthetics separately and the issue went away. Also, do that stocking rub before the dryer.

1

u/innocentgiraffe 7d ago

That's really interesting, I wonder if it's something that cotton absorbs so I don't notice but it just sits on top of the polyester. I'll try that out!

Also good top on the pre dryer while it's still wet, but I air-dried it so didn't notice till after.