How to Clean Your Washing Machine Filter

If your washing machine has started smelling funky, draining slowly, or leaving lint and debris on your clothes, the culprit might be your washer’s filter. 

This small but important component traps lint, hair, coins, and even bits of fabric that come off during washes. Over time, the filter can clog, causing odors and performance issues.

The good news? Cleaning your washing machine filter is a simple DIY task you can do at home in less than 20 minutes. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from finding your filter to cleaning it safely and keeping your washer running like new.

Table of Contents

• Why Cleaning the Washing Machine Filter Matters
• What You’ll Need
• Step 1: Locate the Filter
• Step 2: Prepare the Area
• Step 3: Remove the Filter
• Step 4: Clean the Filter
• Step 5: Check the Filter Housing
• Step 6: Reinstall the Filter
• Step 7: Test the Machine
• How Often Should You Clean the Filter?
• Final Thoughts

Why Cleaning the Washing Machine Filter Matters

Your washer filter is essentially a lint trap. When it’s clogged:

• Water may drain slowly or not at all.
  
• Clothes can come out with residue or odors.
  
• The machine may start to smell musty.
  
• In severe cases, standing water inside the filter compartment can cause leaks or mildew.
  

Regular cleaning — ideally once a month — helps prevent these issues and keeps your laundry fresh and clean.

What You’ll Need

Before starting, gather a few household essentials:

• A shallow bowl or dish (to catch water)
  
• An old towel or rag (for spills)
  
• A soft brush or old toothbrush
  
• Warm water + mild dish soap (or vinegar solution for odor removal)
  
• Optional: Gloves, if the filter is especially dirty
  

Step 1: Locate the Filter

Most front-load washing machines have the filter located behind a small panel near the bottom front of the machine. Some models may place it at the back or even inside the drum system.

👉 Tip: If you’re unsure, check your washer’s manual or search your make and model online for the exact location.

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Before opening the filter, place a towel on the floor to prevent mess. Position your shallow bowl under the filter compartment — this will catch any excess water that drains out.

If your washer has a small drainage hose next to the filter cap, gently pull it out, remove the plug, and let the water drain into the bowl.

Step 3: Remove the Filter

Once most of the water has drained:

1. Twist the filter cap counterclockwise and pull it out slowly.
   
2. Be prepared — you may find lint, hair, food particles, coins, buttons, or even small objects left in pockets. (Some people even report finding money in there!)
   
3. Place the filter on a towel for cleaning.
   

Step 4: Clean the Filter

• Rinse the filter under warm running water.
  
• Use mild dish soap and a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) to scrub off stubborn debris.
  
• If there’s mold or mildew, soak the filter in a vinegar solution (1:1 vinegar and water) for 10 minutes, then rinse.
  

⚠️ While bleach can kill bacteria, frequent use isn’t necessary and can be harsh on the plastic parts. Stick to soap and water for regular cleanings.

Step 5: Check the Filter Housing

Before reinstalling, shine a flashlight into the filter housing (the cavity inside the machine). Remove any debris, lint, or small objects that may be stuck. This ensures proper drainage and prevents future clogs.

Step 6: Reinstall the Filter

1. Insert the filter back into its slot and twist it clockwise until it’s firmly sealed.
   
2. Double-check that the drainage hose (if present) is securely plugged.
   
3. Wipe the area dry and close the access panel.
   

⚠️ Important: If the filter isn’t tightly sealed, water can leak out during the next wash cycle.

Step 7: Test the Machine

Run a short rinse-and-spin cycle without clothes to confirm everything is sealed properly and the machine drains correctly.

How Often Should You Clean the Filter?

For best results, clean your washer filter once a month. If you wash heavily soiled clothes, pet bedding, or use your washer frequently, you may need to clean it more often.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your washing machine filter may not be the most glamorous chore, but it’s one of the easiest ways to keep your appliance running smoothly. A clean filter means:

• Better water drainage
  
• Fresher-smelling laundry
  
• Longer lifespan for your washer
  

Make this part of your monthly cleaning routine, and your washing machine will thank you with years of reliable service.