Why the filter matters
The drain pump filter (sometimes called the lint trap or coin trap) catches lint, hair, coins, buttons and grime before they reach the pump. Over time it clogs, and a blocked filter is the single most common reason a washing machine won’t drain, leaves clothes wet, or smells of stagnant water. Cleaning it takes ten minutes and prevents most drainage problems.
Where the filter is on each type
- Front-loaders (all brands): behind a small flap or kick-panel at the bottom front, usually a corner. This applies to LG, Samsung, IFB, Bosch, Whirlpool, Haier and Godrej front-loaders.
- Fully-automatic top-loaders: often a small lint filter clipped to the inside of the drum or tub wall, rather than an external pump filter.
- Semi-automatic machines: a lint collector net inside the wash tub.
Step-by-step: cleaning a front-load drain filter
- Turn off the machine and make sure the drum is empty of water.
- Open the bottom flap. Use a coin or flat tool to release the panel at the lower front.
- Drain the water first. Place a shallow tray and towels under it. If there is a small drain hose, use it to empty the water; otherwise water will gush out when you open the filter.
- Unscrew the filter. Turn it anticlockwise and pull it out.
- Clean it. Remove lint, coins and debris, rinse under the tap, and check the impeller behind it spins freely.
- Refit firmly. Screw it back in clockwise until snug (a loose filter leaks), close the flap, and run a short rinse to confirm no leaks.
How to clean a top-load lint filter
- Locate the lint net or filter case inside the tub.
- Lift it out, turn it inside out, and rinse off the trapped lint.
- Refit it securely.
How often to clean it
- Front-load drain filter: once a month, or sooner if you wash lots of pet hair or fluffy items.
- Top-load lint filter: after every few washes.
The filter is part of a full clean — see cleaning the drum and filter together. A clogged filter is also the first thing to check when clothes come out wet or the machine won’t drain.
When to call a technician
If the filter is clean but the machine still won’t drain, the drain pump itself may be jammed or burnt out, or the drain hose may be blocked deeper down. A technician can test and replace the pump.