How to Clean Washing Machine Filter

What Does the Washing Machine Filter Do?

The washing machine filter (also called the pump filter or coin trap) catches lint, hair, coins, buttons, and other debris before they reach the drain pump. A clogged filter causes slow draining, standing water in the drum, bad odors, and in severe cases, pump damage. Cleaning it every 1–3 months keeps your machine draining properly and smelling fresh.

Where Is the Washing Machine Filter?

• Front load washers: Usually behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine — look for a small door or flap near the floor
• Top load washers (older models): Often inside the drum near the agitator, or along the top rim of the drum
• Top load washers (newer HE models): Many don't have a user-accessible filter — check your manual
• If you can't find it, check your machine's manual or search your model number online

What You'll Need

• A shallow tray or towels to catch water
• A microfiber cloth
• An old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
• Mild dish soap

Step-by-Step: How to Clean the Filter

1. Turn off and unplug the machine before starting
2. Locate the filter access panel — on front loaders, it's usually at the bottom front
3. Place a shallow tray and towels under the filter area — water will spill out when you open it
4. Slowly unscrew the filter cap counterclockwise — let the water drain gradually into your tray
5. Remove the filter completely and check for debris — coins, hair, lint, and small items are common
6. Rinse the filter under warm running water
7. Scrub with an old toothbrush and mild dish soap to remove any slime or buildup
8. Wipe the filter housing inside the machine with a damp microfiber cloth
9. Reinsert the filter and screw back in firmly — make sure it's fully sealed to prevent leaks
10. Run a short cycle to check for leaks before doing a full load

How Often Should You Clean the Filter?

• Every 1–3 months for regular use
• Monthly if you wash pet bedding, heavily soiled items, or have hard water
• Immediately if you notice slow draining, standing water, or a bad smell from the machine

Signs Your Filter Needs Cleaning Now

• Water draining slowly or not at all after a cycle
• Standing water remaining in the drum
• Musty or sewage-like smell from the machine
• Error codes related to drainage on the display
• Clothes coming out wetter than usual after the spin cycle

Quick Tips for Filter Maintenance

• Check pockets before washing — coins and small items are the most common cause of filter clogs
• Clean the filter the same day you clean the drum and rubber seal for a complete monthly maintenance routine
• Keep a small tray stored near the machine for easy filter cleaning

Recommended Products

• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths — lint-free cloths for wiping the filter housing and drum interior
• Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner — run after cleaning the filter for a complete machine refresh