How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine Filter?
Neglecting this one step could be ruining your laundry. Here’s how often (and how) to clean your washer’s filter to avoid damage, odors, and dirty clothes.
Why Cleaning the Washing Machine Filter Matters
Your washing machine filter is responsible for catching lint, hair, coins, and debris during wash cycles. Over time, it can get clogged - causing drainage problems, foul odors, and even machine damage. Ignoring this small maintenance task may lead to bigger, more expensive issues down the line.
How Often Should You Clean the Filter?
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the washing machine filter every 3 to 4 months, or every 30–40 wash cycles. However, you should consider cleaning it more frequently if:
- You have pets that shed hair.
- You wash heavily soiled clothes (like work uniforms or muddy kids' clothes).
- You notice water draining slowly or strange odors from the drum.
Signs Your Washer Filter Needs Cleaning
Don’t wait for the worst to happen. Look out for these warning signs:
- Slow drainage after a cycle
- Unpleasant smell inside the washer
- Visible lint or debris around the door seal
- Washed clothes not smelling fresh
Where Is the Washing Machine Filter Located?
- Front-load washers: Usually behind a small door panel at the bottom front of the machine.
- Top-load washers: Often hidden inside the agitator or along the drum’s rim.
- High-efficiency (HE) machines: May have self-cleaning filters but still benefit from regular descaling and debris removal.
How to Clean the Filter Safely
- Turn off the washer and unplug it from the power outlet.
- Open the filter compartment and place a towel or bowl underneath to catch water.
- Unscrew or pop out the filter.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water using an old toothbrush if needed.
- Reinstall the filter securely and run a rinse cycle.
Bonus Tip: Use Tablets to Keep Your Washer Clean
Cleaning the filter is only part of the story. To keep your drum, pipes, and internal parts in pristine condition, try adding these powerful washer cleaning tablets to your routine. Just drop two into the empty drum, run a cycle, and let the fizzing action tackle the grime you can’t see.
Related Posts:
- If you own a Samsung washer, don’t miss our guide on the best cleaning tablets made specifically for Samsung machines — safe, effective, and easy to use.
- Want to know a dirty secret most washer owners miss? You're probably skipping this one critical step in your cleaning routine. Find out what it is (and how to fix it today) →
- Not sure how to actually clean your washer filter? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you do it safely without damaging your machine - it’s easier than you think.