Maytag top load washer fabric softener dispenser not draining

The fabric softener dispenser in a washing machine offers "set it and forget it" convenience for laundry day, eliminating the need to wait until just the right moment to add softener to the wash load. The more often the dispenser is used, the greater the likelihood it will clog. Some of the fabric softener says behind, even after the rinse cycle, eventually clogging the dispenser as the liquid dries and cakes in place. Cleaning the dispenser renders it useful once again; depending on the washing machine model, it may be removable or fixed in place.

Table of Contents Show

Cleaning Removable Dispensers
Cleaning Unremovable Dispensers
Unclogging your Maytag Front Load Washer Dispenser Drawer
The dispenser may be clogged if your additives do not release into the wash
Why won't my Maytag washer dispense fabric softener?
Why is my washing machine not draining the fabric softener?
Why is my fabric softener dispenser full of water?
How do I unclog my fabric softener dispenser?

Tip

If unable to tell if the fabric softener dispenser is removable, consult the washing machine owner's manual.

Dilute fabric softener when placing it in the dispenser to help avoid clogs.

Cleaning Removable Dispensers

1.
Remove the fabric softener dispenser from the washing machine by pressing a release lever, squeezing side tabs or simply lifting it out; the specific method varies by make and model.
2.
Rinse the dispenser under hot tap water, working some of the fabric softener free with your fingers.
3.
Set the dispenser in a bucket or wash tub. Add enough warm water to cover the dispenser. Mix in a tablespoon or two of liquid laundry soap, swirling it into the water with your hand. Allow the dispenser to soak for 10 minutes or so, touching the fabric softener buildup to see if it has loosened. If not, soak the dispenser for another 20 minutes.
4.
Rinse the dispenser under warm water to remove the fabric softener. Wipe it gently with a soft cloth if the softener does not rinse away on its own, suggests GE Appliances. Dry the dispenser with a fresh cloth, then put it back into position in the washing machine.

Cleaning Unremovable Dispensers

1.
Pour hot water into the dispenser. Add a few drops of liquid detergent and allow the solution to sit for 10 to 20 minutes.
2.
Flush the dispenser with hot water. If fabric softener is visible inside the dispenser, wipe it up with a soft cloth and rinse again.
3.
Run the washing machine through a rinse cycle several times, selecting warm water for the rinse, recommends Samsung. If warm is not a rinse option, pour hot water mixed with a splash of laundry detergent into the dispenser between rinses to help loosen the buildup.

Things You Will Need
- Clean bucket or wash tub
- Water
- Liquid laundry detergent
- Soft cloths
Warning
Do not scrub buildup in the dispenser with a stiff brush or steel wool, as these may scratch and damage the unit.

Last updated
Save as PDF

Unclogging your Maytag Front Load Washer Dispenser Drawer

The dispenser may be clogged if your additives do not release into the wash

A clogged dispenser can block the flow of water through the dispenser. Remove the dispenser, by pressing the release lever and rinse leftover detergent or additives that could clog the flow of water through the dispenser.

Check that the additives (detergent, fabric softener, liquid chlorine bleach and oxi) are in the appropriately marked compartments.

Detergent Dispensing:

Always measure the detergent before putting it in the appropriate compartment, following the detergent manufacturer's directions.
Liquid or powdered color-safe bleach or oxi products may be added to the main wash or detergent compartment, along with the same type of detergent, liquid or powdered. Always use only HE High Efficiency detergent.

CLICK HERE for more information on using HE detergent

Fabric Softener dispensing:

If Extra Rinse is selected, fabric softener will dispense in the last rinse.
Do not use more than the recommended amount.

Chlorine Bleach dispensing:

Chlorine Bleach dispenses during the first rinse in a front load washer. This allows the detergent enzymes to work. Chlorine bleach inhibits the enzymes from working.
Do not add powdered or color-safe bleach or Oxi products to the chlorine bleach compartment. Liquid or powdered color-safe bleach may be added to the Oxi dispenser if available or to the washer drum.
Liquid color-safe bleach is thicker than chlorine bleach and will not dispense properly from the chlorine bleach dispenser.

CLICK HERE for more information on cleaning your dispenser drawer

If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.

Why won't my Maytag washer dispense fabric softener?

If the fabric softener cycle option was not selected before the cycle was started, it will not dispense. Select the Fabric Softener option so that the desired product is added to the load at the correct time. If the Extra Rinse option is selected, fabric softener will be dispensed into the last rinse.

Why is my washing machine not draining the fabric softener?

Check the inlet hose screens to see if there are any blockages. If the washing machine does not have enough water pressure, the fabric softener will not drain. To check the screens, turn the water off with the water valves. Remove the hot and cold water hoses from the back of the washing machine.

Why is my fabric softener dispenser full of water?

It is normal to see water in the fabric softener compartment. This is a result of the siphoning action of the dispenser drawer.

How do I unclog my fabric softener dispenser?

Set the dispenser in a bucket or wash tub. Add enough warm water to cover the dispenser. Mix in a tablespoon or two of liquid laundry soap, swirling it into the water with your hand. Allow the dispenser to soak for 10 minutes or so, touching the fabric softener buildup to see if it has loosened.