I hate to be blunt but essentially you've provided us with no useful information. There are many different models of the cabrio spanning quite a few years. In other words, we need the model number.

1. How long have you had the machine?
2. What cycles are you using?
3. What is the quality of your water?
4. What detergent are you using?
5. What water temps are you washing in?

In other words, we need more information.

I'm not positive, but I think the Cabrio, Oasis or Bravo will not let you soak clothes. I have read where they will let you pause them but it is only for maybe 5 minutes. Then if you do not restart cycle it automatically does a drain.
If you want the bleach to be in there for a while I believe your best bet would be let it wash for about 5 minutes, then open it and add your bleach to the wash tub not the dispenser. Dilute your bleach with water first before adding. Also use one of the longer cycles like Heavy Duty-Heavy Soil or Whitest Whites Heavy Soil for the most wash action and most exposure to bleach water.