How to Clean a Washing Machine Filter — Step by Step
If your washing machine is draining slowly, making a strange noise, or leaving lint on your clothes, there's a good chance the filter is blocked. Cleaning it is a simple job that most people can do in under 10 minutes.
Here's a step-by-step guide for both front loaders and top loaders.
Why Does a Washing Machine Have a Filter?
The filter (also called a drain pump filter or coin trap) catches small items before they reach the drain pump and cause damage. This includes:
- Coins, keys, and small objects left in pockets
- Lint, hair, and fluff
- Bobby pins, rubber bands, and buttons
Manufacturers recommend cleaning the filter every 1–3 months. Most people never do it.
How Often Should You Clean It?
- Every 1–2 months for a household of 3+ people
- Every 3 months for 1–2 person households
- Immediately if the machine is draining slowly or making a grinding noise
Cleaning the Filter on a Front Loader
Most front loaders have the filter behind a small rectangular panel at the bottom front of the machine.
What You’ll Need:
- A shallow tray or bowl
- An old towel
- Pliers (sometimes useful)
Steps:
- Switch off and unplug the machine. Always cut the power before you do any maintenance.
- Open the access panel. On most machines, this pops open by pressing at one corner. Some have a small tab or screws.
- Locate the drain hose. There's usually a small drain hose next to the filter cap. Pull it out and remove the plug to drain residual water into your tray.
- Unscrew the filter cap. Turn it anti-clockwise. Water will come out — let it drain into the tray.
- Remove the filter. Pull it straight out.
- Clean the filter. Rinse it under running water. Use an old toothbrush to remove stubborn lint or debris from the mesh.
- Check the filter housing. Look inside the cavity for any objects (coins, bobby pins) and remove them.
- Reinsert the filter and screw it back in clockwise until it's hand-tight.
- Replace the drain hose plug and push the hose back in.
- Close the access panel and run a short cycle to check for leaks.
Cleaning the Filter on a Top Loader
Top loaders often have a different filter setup. Common types include:
Mesh lint filter inside the drum
Some top loaders have a mesh filter that clips onto the agitator or sits in the drum rim. Remove it, rinse under warm water, and replace it.
Built-in self-cleaning filter
Many modern Samsung and LG top loaders have a self-cleaning filter. Run a Tub Clean cycle monthly to maintain it.
External pump filter
Some Fisher & Paykel and older top loaders have a pump filter similar to front loaders, accessed from the back or underside.
Check your manual if you're not sure which type your machine has.
What If I Can’t Open the Filter?
If the filter cap is stuck, don't force it with a tool that might damage the plastic. Try:
- Using a rubber grip pad for extra grip
- Wrapping a cloth around the cap and using gentle pressure
- Running a hot wash cycle first — the heat can loosen the cap if residue has sealed it
Signs the Filter Was Overdue
- Water pooling in the drum after a cycle
- Longer drain time than usual
- Clothes still wet or damp at the end of the spin
- Error code on the display (varies by brand)
Need Help with Your Washing Machine?
If your machine is showing error codes or not draining even after cleaning the filter, there may be a pump issue. Visit Oceania Appliances at 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, or browse our washing machine range online. We deliver across Sydney and can advise on repairs vs replacement.