Rust stains are a common household issue. These reddish-brown discolorations often appear unexpectedly, leaving clothes permanently marked and washers coated in stubborn buildup.
In many cases, rust stains from the washing machine signal a deeper issue: high levels of iron in your water. This is especially common in homes with well water, though it can also occur in homes connected to municipal water systems under certain conditions.
Understanding the link between rust stains and water quality is the first step toward preventing these issues. With the right preventative measures, you can help keep your clothes cleaner, brighter and rust-free.
What Are Washing Machine Rust Stains?
Rust stains from washing machines typically appear as reddish-brown or orange marks on clothing, especially on white or light-colored items. They may also show up as spots, streaks or cloudy blotches. Some homeowners notice these stains after every wash cycle, while others see them intermittently.
These marks often resist standard laundry detergent and can become more visible after drying. Rust spots may also be visible inside the washing machine drum, on the detergent dispenser or along gaskets and seals. If you notice metallic discoloration inside your washer, that’s a sign your water has high levels of iron.
What Causes Rust Stains in the Washing Machine?
The primary cause of rust stains from the washing machine is elevated iron content in your water.
Dissolved iron is naturally present in many groundwater supplies and is an especially common issue for private wells, where there is no treatment prior to the water reaching your home. When iron-rich water flows through your washing machine, it can leave behind visible rust stains, especially as the water interacts with air and oxidizes.
This oxidation process converts dissolved iron (known as ferrous iron) into solid particles of ferric iron, which settle on fabrics and machine surfaces during the washing process. These rust particles are particularly difficult to remove once they’ve dried, making prevention critical.
How Iron Levels Impact Staining
According to both Health Canada and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), iron levels above 0.3 mg/L can cause a noticeable metallic taste and staining on plumbing fixtures, dishes and clothes. Despite causing these aesthetic issues, this isn’t generally considered a health risk.
Because iron is more prevalent in well water, homeowners using private wells should be especially proactive about testing. Culligan’s in-home consultation and water testing services can help identify your specific iron levels and determine the best solution to address your issues.
Worried about your well water?
H2: How To Remove Rust Stains From Clothes
Once rust stains set into clothes, they can be difficult to remove. The key is to avoid conventional stain removers that aren’t designed for metal-based stains and to act quickly before the stubborn rust stains have a chance to bond more deeply with the fabric.
Here are a few tips:
1. Use a Rust Remover Product Formulated for Laundry
Look for a commercial rust remover specifically labeled for use on clothing. These products are designed to target iron stains and may be more effective on tough stains. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions and test on an inconspicuous area first, especially when treating delicate fabrics.
2. Avoid Chlorine Bleach
Chlorine bleach can actually set rust stains rather than lifting them. That’s because the chemical reaction between bleach and iron can darken the stain, making it permanent.
3. Try a Vinegar and Salt Solution
Mix equal parts white vinegar and salt to form a paste. Apply the mixture directly to the rust spots, let it sit for 30 minutes, then gently scrub with a nylon brush. Rinse with cold water and repeat as needed. This method works best on light fabrics and fresh stains, but may not be suitable for delicate fabrics. Just remember: Always conduct a spot test first.
4. Apply a Baking Soda Paste
Combine baking soda and water to create a thick paste. Apply it to the rust marks, then use a clean cloth or brush to scrub in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly before placing items in the wash cycle.
5. Avoid Hot Water and Fabric Softeners
When treating rust stains, wash with cold or lukewarm water. Hot water may set the stain. Skip the fabric softener during stain treatment, as it can leave residue that interferes with stain removal.
Cleaning Rust Buildup in Your Washing Machine
Cleaning the inside of your washer is just as important as treating stained clothes. A washing machine with internal rust buildup can continue to stain future loads, especially if the rust is coming from a corroded drum or components inside the system.
To clean rust from your washing machine, try the following steps:
- Run an empty wash cycle using two cups of white vinegar. Set the machine to the hottest water setting and the longest wash cycle. This helps break down rust particles, detergent buildup and mineral deposits.
- After the cycle completes, wipe down the drum, detergent dispenser and door seals with a clean cloth. Check for lingering rust marks or discoloration.
- If your machine has a filter or lint trap, remove it and rinse thoroughly.
- For persistent rust issues, consider contacting an appliance repair technician. Internal corrosion, especially in older models, may require part replacement or more extensive service.
How To Prevent Rust Stains in Your Washing Machine
Preventing rust stains starts with addressing the root cause. Here’s how to stop rust before it leaves its mark:
Filter Iron at the Source
The most effective long-term solution is to install a whole-house water filtration system designed to target iron. Culligan’s iron filters, such as the Smart HE Iron-Cleer® Whole House Water Filter and Iron-OX5 Water Filter, reduce iron before it reaches your washer, plumbing or laundry.
Homes with well water are especially likely to benefit from this type of treatment, as iron concentrations tend to be higher in untreated groundwater.
Test Your Water and Find the Right Solution
The best way to find out if you have elevated iron levels is to test your water. Culligan offers a free, in-home water test and consultation that includes inspecting your plumbing, assessing your water usage and identifying potential contributors to rust stains from your washing machine.
From there, your local Culligan expert can recommend a customized solution. For instance, Culligan’s iron filtration systems target the root cause of rust marks, helping reduce rust buildup and stubborn rust stains. Take the first step today to learn what’s in your water.
*Contaminants may not be present in your water.
