Every washing machine has a filter that catches dirt, lint, and debris washed off your clothes. Although small, this filter plays a key role in keeping both your machine and laundry fresh. But if you neglect to clean it regularly, it can get clogged with buildup. When that happens, the trapped dirt can go back into the wash water, making clothes dirty again, causing stains, or giving fabrics a sticky or rough feeling. Plus, a dirty filter can slow down your machine and cause bad smells over time. Cleaning the filter monthly keeps your clothes clean and your washing machine running longer.
Cleaning the filter is not hard, but many people don’t realize how easy it is to do. First, you need to find where your filter is on your machine, since different models have different locations. For most front-load washers, the filter is on the lower front outside, hidden behind a small door. It’s easy to open and access. For top-load washers, the filter may be inside the drum area, sometimes attached to the side or under the agitator. Some machines have more than one filter, so check your manual if you’re not sure.
To clean a front-loader’s filter, open the cover on the bottom front. You’ll likely find a screw holding the filter in place; remove it carefully. Pull out the filter—watch out as some water may spill. Rinse the filter under running water and scrub stubborn grime with an old toothbrush if needed. When it’s clean and dry, put it back and screw the cover shut.
With top-load machines, the filter might need unscrewing from inside the drum. Once removed, clean it thoroughly and wipe down the drum’s interior to remove any leftover residue. Make sure the filter is dry before reinserting and securing it.
Experts recommend cleaning your washing machine filter at least once a month. If you often wash very dirty clothes or have pets that shed, you may need to clean it more frequently. Besides the filter, giving your entire machine a regular cleaning helps too. Running a hot water cycle with two cups of white vinegar or using washing machine cleaning tablets removes leftover soap and bacteria.
Sometimes, people forget how important this little filter is. They assume washing machines clean themselves, but that’s not true. Ignoring your filter can lead to smelly laundry, stains, and machine troubles. Spending a few minutes monthly on this simple task will keep your clothes fresh and your washer working well for years.
