detergent residue

Leftover cleaning agent

Detergent residue is the soap or cleaning agent left behind after washing.

On dishes or laundry, it can leave a film, cause skin irritation, or affect taste: There's detergent residue on these glasses—run them through again.

In appliances, buildup can affect performance or harbor odors.

Related

rinse · extra rinse · laundry · washing machine · soapy · streaks · cloudy · dishes · fabric · fabric softener · softener · scum · white · powder · sticky · cling · wash · leftover

Opposites
cleanliness outcome

detergent residueresidue-free

Leaving no remnants

spotless · pristine · clear finish · immaculate

substance dissolution state

detergent residuewashed out

Faded or exhausted

no trace

surface/fabric condition

detergent residueclear finish

untainted · uncontaminated

Family

detergent, residue, detergents, deter, deterrent, deterrence, residual, residuals, residually

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G