Washer Leaving Grease Spots on Clothes

Quick answer

Grease spots on clothes likely come from a leaking water inlet valve or a worn transmission seal. Turn off the washer's power and water supply, then check the inlet valve for leaks or damage. Replace the faulty part if necessary.

Confirm the symptom

• Clothes have oily or greasy stains after washing
• Stains appear consistently on the same areas of clothes
• Grease spots are more noticeable on white or light-colored fabrics
• Smell of oil or grease near the washer

Tools and prep

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Adjustable wrench or pliers
• Bucket or towel for water collection
• Work gloves for protection
• Turn off the washer's power at the circuit breaker
• Shut off the water supply valves

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Inspect the Water Inlet Valve
   Do: Look at the water inlet valve for signs of oil or grease leakage around the connections.
   Observe: Visible oil or grease on the valve or water lines
   Means: The water inlet valve is likely leaking oil from a damaged seal.
   Next: Replace the water inlet valve.
2. Check the Transmission Seal
   Do: Remove the washer's back panel and inspect the transmission for oil leaks.
   Observe: Oil pooling around the transmission or on the floor beneath it
   Means: A worn transmission seal is allowing oil to escape.
   Next: Replace the transmission seal.
3. Examine the Motor Seal
   Do: Look for oil or grease near the motor and its connections.
   Observe: Grease on the motor casing or surrounding area
   Means: A damaged motor seal may be causing the issue.
   Next: Replace the motor seal.
4. Inspect the Drum Bearings
   Do: Spin the drum by hand and listen for unusual noises or feel for resistance.
   Observe: Greasy residue on the drum or a gritty feeling when spinning
   Means: Worn drum bearings can cause oil to leak onto clothes.
   Next: Replace the drum bearings.
5. Check the Pulsator or Agitator (if applicable)
   Do: Remove the agitator or pulsator and inspect for oil or grease.
   Observe: Grease buildup inside or around the agitator/pulsator
   Means: A damaged seal in the agitator/pulsator is allowing oil to transfer to clothes.
   Next: Replace the agitator/pulsator seal.
6. Clean the Washer Tub
   Do: Run a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.
   Observe: Reduction or elimination of grease spots on clothes after cleaning
   Means: Residual grease in the tub may be transferring to clothes.
   Next: Continue regular cleaning to prevent future buildup.

Common causes

Parts matching

Common parts that may need replacement to fix grease spots on clothes include:

• Water Inlet Valve
• Transmission Seal
• Motor Seal
• Drum Bearings
• Agitator/Pulsator Seal
• Washing Machine Cleaner

When purchasing replacement parts, ensure they are compatible with your washer's make and model.

When to call a professional

• You are unable to locate the source of the oil leak.
• The oil leak is coming from the transmission or motor, requiring complex disassembly.
• You are unsure about how to safely replace the affected part.
• The problem persists after replacing the suspected part.

FAQ

Related guides

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