Your washing machine has a hidden filter that’s vital for catching dirt, lint, and debris from your laundry. While small, this filter plays a huge role in keeping clothes clean and the machine working well. When it isn’t cleaned regularly, buildup can block it, causing grime to return to your clothes during washing. This can stain fabrics and leave them feeling sticky or rough. It can also cause your washer to smell bad and perform poorly. Cleaning the filter every month helps avoid these problems.
Finding and cleaning your filter depends on your washing machine type. Front-load washers usually hide the lint filter behind a door near the bottom front. For top-loaders, the filter is often inside the drum, either on the side or under the agitator. Some models might have more than one filter, so always check your user guide.
To clean a front-loading machine’s filter, open the small door, unscrew the cover, and carefully pull out the filter. Expect some water to leak. Rinse it thoroughly, using a brush for tough dirt, then dry and put it back securely.
In top-load machines, you may need to unscrew and remove the filter inside the drum. Clean it well, wipe the inside of the drum, dry it all, and reinstall.
If you do heavy-duty laundry or have pets that shed hair, clean the filter more often. Also, occasionally clean the entire washing machine by running a hot cycle with white vinegar or use commercial cleaner tablets to remove soap residue and bacteria.
While many overlook cleaning the washing machine filter, it’s a quick and important task. Doing it regularly keeps your laundry smelling fresh, your clothes cleaner, and your machine in good shape for years to come.
