What Is "Sudsing" in Washing Machines?

Washing machines use a combination of water and laundry detergent to create a soapy mixture that is agitated with the clothes and then drained away. This is called “sudsing” and is a normal part of washing-machine cycles.

Use only the recommended type and amount of laundry detergent to help avoid oversudsing.

Sudsing is a problem only when too many suds are created, which can cause a leak, leave residue on the clothes, or create drainage problems.

Sudsing

Sudsing, by definition, is soapy water. When used in conjunction with a washing machine, the sudsy water is created from laundry detergent and water that enters the machine and is used to clean the items within the washer. The soapy water agitates with the items to clean them and then drains out of the washing machine.

Low Sudsing

Many newer washing machines are high efficiency, which typically means that they use less water and less energy and should be used with high-efficiency (HE) laundry detergent. HE laundry detergent creates less sudsing action than traditional laundry detergent and is designed specifically for use in these machines. Using a traditional laundry detergent in a high-efficiency washer may create oversudsing, which can leave a residue in the washing machine tub and can potentially create a leak or drain problems.

Over Sudsing

Over sudsing, or an excess of soapy water, can be created if users add more than the recommended amount of detergent to the washing machine. It may also occur if regular laundry detergent is added to an HE machine or a detergent not meant for use with washing machines is used, such as regular soap or dish-washing detergent.

Problems

Potential problems caused by over sudsing in a washing machine include longer wash times, reduced cleaning effectiveness, increased likelihood of mold in the machine, washing machine control-panel errors and obstructed drainage and water leaks. If over sudsing has occurred, run an extra rinse and drain cycle to remove the extra soapy water. Wipe down the tub with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.

The Drip Cap

Washing machines use a combination of water and laundry detergent to create a soapy mixture that is agitated with the clothes and then drained away.
Using a traditional laundry detergent in a high-efficiency washer may create oversudsing, which can leave a residue in the washing machine tub and can potentially create a leak or drain problems.
Wipe down the tub with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.