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How to Clean a Washing Machine Filter in 5 Fast Steps
The often-overlooked filter is the key to clean
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A clogged washing machine filter collects lint and debris just like your dryer filter, and cleaning it every four months helps your washer run efficiently.
Washing machine filters are hidden in different spots depending on your model, often inside the center agitator or behind a front-panel door on the machine.
Your clothes send clear signals when your filter needs attention, including detergent residue buildup, slow drying, or lint appearing in the drum after washing.
Hiring a local washing machine repair professional provides reliable support with filter housing inspections and maintenance tasks, especially if your machine develops leaks or drainage issues.
SKILL LEVEL
Easy
COMPLETION TIME
1 hour
COST
Up to $25
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Tub
- Towel
- Toothbrush
SUPPLIES
- Liquid laundry detergent
Often hidden out of sight, your washer has a filter that, just like the one in your dryer, collects lint and other debris. But knowing how to clean a washing machine filter isn’t as straightforward as a dryer’s lint trap.
Luckily, this task is much easier than it might sound. The simple maintenance task of cleaning your filter every four months will prolong the life of your appliance and increase your machine’s efficiency—a win-win.
Prepping to Clean a Washing Machine Filter
Photo: Елена Гурова / Adobe Stock
Before you can learn how to clean a washing machine filter, you have to find it—and it’s not as prominently placed as a dryer’s lint filter. Hopefully, you still have your washer’s user manual, as that can point you in the right direction.
If not, here are some tips to locate it, depending on the type of machine you have. Prior to removing the filter, turn all the knobs to “off” and unplug the appliance.
Top-Loader Washing Machines
Start by looking on the top rim of the washer tub—there might be a removable screen for lint. Sometimes, the filter is inside the center agitator. To access it, you should be able to unscrew the top of the agitator.
The last place to check is near the water pump or at the end of the drainage hole.
Front-Loader Washing Machines
The filter is usually located on the bottom right side of front-loading washing machines via a trap door. Behind the door, you should find a lint filter as well as a water pump filter.
Some newer models of washing machines don’t have removable filters. Instead, they have self-cleaning filters that are located in the pump mechanism. These machines don’t require manual filter cleaning, but do have a cleaning cycle you should run once per month.
While you’re already working to clean your washing machine’s filter, you might as well do a deep clean of your washer to remove mildew and other funky stuff from growing in there. It’s another step toward extending your washing machine’s lifespan and increasing its performance.
If you want to clean the washing machine as a whole, you’ll need a few more products, including vinegar and baking soda.
Wipe the Washing Machine Filter
Now that you’ve completed the prepping step, you’re ready to learn how to clean a washing machine filter.
Place a towel below the filter’s housing (if it’s outside of the machine) to catch any water that may fall out. Next, wipe away lint and debris from the filter using a damp cleaning cloth. You should also wipe down the filter’s housing, and do a thorough inspection to be sure to clean the area well.
Soak the Filter
Fill a basin with hot, soapy water (1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid or detergent is fine for this). Place the filter in the basin and let it soak for at least 10 minutes.
Scrub the Filter
You’re already almost done—we told you learning how to clean a washing machine filter was easy! Now, all you need to do is gently scrub away any dirt with a toothbrush or other soft bristle brush.
Return the Washing Machine Filter to Its Housing
Now that the filter is clean, you can return it to its home. The washing machine filter does not need to be fully dry before being placed back in the washer; they’re made to withstand moisture and water.
Run the Machine
Run a short cycle on the machine to confirm the filter is securely in place. If everything seems to be working, you’re good to go. If something seems off—for instance, if you notice a water leak—take the filter out again and place it back into its housing properly.
DIY Cleaning Your Washing Machine Filter vs. Hiring a Pro
If you have an annual maintenance package for your washing machine, cleaning the filter should be one of the included tasks. If not, consider hiring a local washing machine repair service.
You’ll pay anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour for washing machine repair costs, so weigh the pros and cons to decide if having a pro clean your washer for you is worth it. But if you are motivated, learning how to clean a washing machine filter is pretty simple and can be done on a leisurely weekend afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Small appliance repairs reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
5.0★ avg. • 2 total reviews
- Julio V.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The Waterworks - Brent C.
Carpet repair done well. Scheduling was easy. Showed up on time.
BR Flooring Installation - Mike Z.
As usual with ECO, tech Jordan was outstanding, very professional, very knowledgeable, and very thorough with repairs made to tankless water heaters. Very highly recommend ECO!!!
Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Micki B.
Everything from initial contact to completion was absolutely top notch. We contacted the business during off hours to leave a message, and the owner still reached out to feel out the issue within minutes. We were scheduled and repaired within 48 hours. I cannot say enough about the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Donald L.
Ace Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
Ace Fireplace Services - Lisa S.
On Sunday 2/26 I requested quotes via Angi from 4 refrigerator repair businesses. Northwest Appliance responded to me Monday morning (2/27) and my refrigerator was repaired by noon the same day. Great communication, they did everything they said they would. The technician had the parts on...
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Excellent! We were very satisfied with the service provided and the entire experience from start to finish. Very friendly and professional staff. I was able to instantly get in contact with them for a quote and the response time and overall communication remained quick and easy throughout the...
Prime Cleaning Service - Michael H.
Description says they handle window repair including rotten hardwood - they called me back right away but didnâ t leave a voicemail. I followed up 3 days later and they said they donâ t do that kind of work.
Window-Gurus - Evan O.
I needed reliable, affordable help the day of with moving a couple of appliances and misc items. It was a relief to hear back from Tanzillo almost instantly that morning so I could stop looking and move on to plan and prepare. Every part of the move was friendly and professional. Next time I...
Tanzillo Concrete & Landscape
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