The drum and seal of my washing machine get covered in a white residue from my washing powder that transfers onto my clean clothes - how can I stop this happening? The experts at Persil say ,"Most powder detergents include zeolite, an insoluble ingredient that can leave a residue if washing conditions are not right - for example, if you overload your machine, especially on quick cycles." Alternatively, try a liquid washing detergent that has the cleaning detergent already dissolved in it.