Cindy - You didn't bother to say what make and model washing machine you have but, in general, there is some kind of syphon arrangement that drains the softener compartment. Find it, disassemble and clean out the crud. Check out the manual if you can find one or download one from the Internet.
These may help
http://www.whitegoodshelp.co.uk/fabric-softener-compartment-full-of-water/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsCF-FdxFz4
Next time, try a Google search for yourself
XXXXX, September 2015
