Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Filter Should Be Your New Favorite Chore
Let’s be real — cleaning your washing machine filter isn’t exactly the highlight of anyone’s day. But ignoring it? That’s basically the washing machine equivalent of skipping dentist appointments. Your washer’s filter traps lint, stray hairs, buttons, and other sneaky debris that otherwise would wreak havoc on the motor and drainage. Over time, this gunk builds up, inviting funky odors, drainage issues, or worse, costly repairs.
Regularly cleaning this humble (but mighty) filter keeps your laundry fresh and your washer running smoothly. It’s like giving your machine a spa day — refreshing, rejuvenating, and highly satisfying.
Locate That Filter: The Hunting Game Begins
Every washing machine is a little different, so finding the filter can feel like a mini treasure hunt. For front-load washers, the filter usually hides behind a small access door at the bottom front panel. It might be a rectangular flap or a circular cover that you’ll need to pry open gently.
If you have a top-loading washer, the filter’s best friends are either inside the agitator (the central post in the drum) or wedged around the drum rim. If you’re scratching your head, a quick peek at your washer’s manual or a search online by your exact model can save you plenty of head-scratching moments (Maytag Guide).
Prepare for the (Mild) Water Splash: Tools and Setup
Before you unleash the filter, get ready for some water escape artists. There’s almost always a little bit of standing water trapped inside the filter housing, and once you open it up — splash! You’ll want:
- A shallow container (baking dish or tray works well) or a shallow bowl.
- Old towels or rags to catch splashes and wipe up drips.
- A soft brush or old toothbrush for gentle scrubbing.
- Optional but handy: rubber gloves if you want to keep your hands pristine.
Place your container right below the filter access to catch whatever tries to escape when you open the filter cover or unscrew it. If you didn’t want to do a mini kitchen flood cleanup, this step is your best friend.
Out With the Old: Removing and Cleaning the Filter
When you’re ready, gently unscrew or pull the filter out. Brace yourself for any water and debris – you might spot some loose change, buttons, hairballs (yes, really), and plenty of lint.
Rinse the filter under warm running water while using your brush to scrub away any stubborn built-up gunk. If your filter’s mesh has persistent grime, a mixture of water and mild dish soap can help loosen things up.
Don’t forget to clean the filter housing as well—run a damp cloth around inside to remove any residue or mold. Keeping this area tidy helps stop stubborn odors from developing.
Reassemble and Celebrate Small Victories
Once the filter gleams like a diamond, pop it back carefully into place and secure it tight to avoid any leaks. Close up any access panels, and give the surrounding area a final wipe-down.
Voilà — your washing machine just got a mini makeover. You’ll likely notice better drainage, fresher-smelling laundry, and might even hear your washer humming a little happier tune.
How Often Should You Clean the Washing Machine Filter?
Experts recommend giving your washing machine filter a good scrub every 3–6 months, but if your family tends to leave pockets full of tissues or you’re washing lots of pet blankets, more frequent cleaning might be on the cards.
Ignoring this task can lead to trapped water, bad odors, and clothes not drying or rinsing properly. Regular maintenance keeps your washer—and your laundry—at peak performance.
Pro Tips and Common Pitfalls
- Turn off power and water supply: Safety first; unplug your machine and shut off water valves before starting.
- Don’t force it: If your filter won’t budge, double-check for locking tabs or screws to avoid breakage.
- Keep spare towels handy: You never know when the water splash fight breaks out.
- Use gentle brushes: Avoid metal or rough brushes that might damage your filter mesh.
- Check manufacturer recommendations: Following your washer’s manual ensures no warranty violations or mishaps.
When to Call in the Pros
If after cleaning your filter, your washer is still acting up — draining slow, making weird noises, or flooding your floor — it might be time for a service visit. Professional technicians can dig deeper into pump or drain line issues and keep your machine in tip-top shape.
Bonus: Recommended Tools for Easy Filter Cleaning
For the full DIY enthusiast, equipping yourself with the right tools makes this chore easier. Consider snagging a small brush set with detailed tips for scrubbing filters, a drainage tray, and microfiber cloths for cleanup.
Check these out for quick purchase:
Keep Your Washing Machine Happy and Healthy
So there you have it — cleaning your washing machine filter isn’t just another boring household task. It’s a simple, satisfying way to keep your laundry fresh, your machine running smoothly, and save some cash on costly repairs later on.
Want more handy cleaning tips? Check out how to clean your washing machine thoroughly and discover bonus hacks to level up your laundry game.