How to Clean the Washing Machine Filter Properly

Among the household appliances used most often each day, the washing machine is frequently overlooked when it comes to cleaning. Yet its filter, which is often forgotten, has a direct effect on washing efficiency, laundry hygiene and even electricity consumption.

Why is it important to clean the washing machine filter?

The filter collects lint, hair, small objects and detergent residue released from garments during wash cycles. Once it becomes full, water can no longer circulate properly, so the machine has to work harder to finish the programme, increasing both wear and energy use.

From a hygiene perspective, poor maintenance creates a damp environment that encourages fungi and bacteria, which may spread through the drum and hoses. This can leave clothes smelling unpleasant even after washing, while also increasing the likelihood of faults, unusual noises and error messages on more modern models.

How often should you clean the washing machine filter?

The recommended cleaning schedule depends on how often the washing machine is used and the types of laundry washed. For households that run the machine several times a week, technicians advise cleaning it every 15 to 30 days. This interval should be shorter where use is heavy, such as when washing dirty workwear, bulky bedding or pet items.

The type of appliance also makes a difference, as top-loading and front-loading machines use different filtration systems. On some models, the filter is visible inside the drum; on others, it is positioned at the lower front behind a cover. Even when following the manual, professionals note that slightly more frequent cleaning can help prevent blockages and unexpected stoppages during rinsing or spinning.

What signs show it is time to clean the washing machine filter?

Certain machine behaviours act as “silent warnings” that the filter needs cleaning. Noticing these day-to-day changes can prevent more serious damage and make it easier to schedule maintenance before the issue worsens.

• A persistent unpleasant smell coming from the drum or the outside of the machine.
• Clothes emerging from the wash covered in lint, hair or small fragments.
• Water remaining in the machine, or an unusually long time taken to empty the drum at the end of a cycle.
• Different noises while draining or spinning.
• Error messages on the control panel, or a programme stopping before it has finished.

How to clean the washing machine filter and what are the benefits?

The basic cleaning process is straightforward and can generally be carried out by any household member. First, unplug the appliance, find the filter - in the drum, on the inner side or at the lower front - and carefully remove it. Rinse it under running water, using a soft brush if needed, then check the compartment for debris before refitting the filter securely.

This quick routine offers practical benefits: it improves washing performance, reduces strain on the pump, hoses and motor, lowers the risk of blockages, helps keep internal odours under control and can extend the washing machine’s service life, avoiding unexpected maintenance costs.