[Pam Denny]

I have not known how to open the detachable fabric softener dispenser for as long as I have had the machine. Therefore, I am not able to properly clean it.
I spoke with someone on the phone today who told me to push up on the top with my thumbs, but it must take someone with stronger thumbs than me to get this thing open. I have tried twisting, pulling with pliers, bottle openers, etc. to no avail. I am going to tear it up before I get satisfactory results!

I have ordered a new one in the hopes that this one is just defective.

Any suggestions in this matter is appreciated!

[Bob K]

For years I have struggled with THAT! I don't think it does come apart. I have just spent the better part of the last 2 hrs rinsing, shaking, rinsing, etc I have tried draino and other solvents to loosen the gunk and put it in the dishwasher!! I had given up on it altogether for quite some time and used those softner BALL dispensers that float around BUT the machine dispenser works better. So, I have no recommendations but to SOAK it in hot water, SHAKE, Rinse, REPEAT till all or MOST is out.

PS throwing against the wall does NOT seem to help - now i have to look at a DIY wall repair site ;-) JK LOL

[rnelson35]

The dispenser will come off very easy. there is a blue color ring at the bottom of the dispenser. You need to lift this ring up about a 1/2 inch, then the dispenser will come off the the agiater. Cleaning it is another problem. You can buy a new for under $10.00, It might be the best way to go. But you can run hot water in them and shake it, more hot water and more shaking.

[Frankl]

I have what sounds like a similar dispenser that clogged. It is one piece. I put about a tablespoon of baking soda in it, then dumped a few ounces of white vinegar and immediately pressed the palm of my hand firmly over the top opening to prevent air leakage. The reaction generates CO2 and builds pressure until it blows out some of the gunk. Then I used a dental pick to reach in from the bottom to clean out more gunk. A few rinses with *hot* water and it was good as new!