Clothes still very wet after the wash cycle finishes

Symptoms

• Clothes dripping when removed
• Spin cycle seemed shorter or slower than usual
• Load felt heavy or lopsided going in
• Problem happens mainly with bulky items like towels or bedding

Likely causes

• CommonUnbalanced load limiting spin speedThe machine automatically reduces or skips high spin speeds when it detects an uneven load for safety.
• CommonWrong cycle selected for the load typeDelicate or hand-wash cycles use lower spin speeds by design, leaving more moisture.
• CommonOverloading the drumToo many items prevent proper tumbling and spinning needed to extract water.
• PossibleDrain pump partially clogged, limiting spin effectivenessIf water can't drain fast enough, the machine may cut the spin cycle short.
• PossibleWorn drive belt slipping during high-speed spinA belt that slips can prevent the drum from reaching full spin speed.

What to do

1. Redistribute the load evenly and rerun just the spin cycle if your machine allows it.
2. Check that you selected a normal or high-spin cycle rather than delicate or hand-wash for regular loads.
3. Reduce load size, especially for bulky items like comforters or towels that clump easily.
4. Check the drain pump filter for clogs that could be limiting drain speed and slowing the spin.
5. Listen for slipping or squealing sounds during spin, which can indicate a worn belt.
6. If the problem continues with balanced, appropriately sized loads on the right cycle, have a technician check the belt and pump.

Tools and parts

When to call a pro

If proper loads and cycles still leave clothes very wet, an appliance technician can check the drive belt and drain pump.

Safety