How To Clean a Washing Machine Lint Trap
Updated: Jul. 25, 2024
Learn how to clean this often overlooked, but important part of your washing machine.
Introduction
You probably know that your dryer's lint trap needs regular cleaning, but did you know that there could be one in your washing machine, too? While washing machine lint traps need less frequent cleaning than the one in your dryer, it is still an important task.
"Your washing machine will last longer (if you clean the lint trap)," Janet Thaeler from Germaphobe and Clean Freak says. "Keeping up on this task will prevent costly plumber visits and help your machine work more efficiently."
Read on to learn how to clean a washing machine lint trap with tips from two cleaning pros — Thaeler and Justin Carpenter from Modern Maids.
Where Is the Lint Trap in a Washing Machine?
The make and model of your washing machine will determine whether it has a lint trap and where it is located. "Not all washing machines have lint traps in the same place or at all," Carpenter says.
For top-loader machines with an agitator, the lint trap can often be found in the top of the agitator, the top rim of the washer tub, near the water pump or at the end of the drainage hose.
Font loading models will often have a lint trap behind a small door near the bottom of the machine, around the door seal or through a built-in drain pump filter on front loader models.
Newer, high-efficiency washing machines often do not have lint traps at all, but instead rely on integrated, self-cleaning filters on the water pump.
"It's best to check your owner's manual to find out where yours is," Thaeler says.
There are also products called lint filters or catchers that are enclosed, fine mesh filters installed on a washing machine drainage hose. These are sold separately from a washing machine and are helpful to keep lint and cloth fibers out of a septic tank.
Tools Required
- Clean Rag
- Soft scrub brush or toothbrush
Materials Required
- All-purpose cleaner
- Mild detergent
Project step-by-step (9)
Locate your lint trap
- Consult your washing machine owner’s manual to determine the location of the lint trap and whether your unit has a cleanable trap.
Remove the lint trap
This step will vary depending on the washing machine’s make and model.
- For top loader machines: “You may need to unscrew or lift off the agitator cap to access it. Some lint traps are part of the agitator and can be pulled out directly,” Carpenter says. Lint traps in other locations should be able to be removed by hand.
- For front loader machines: Remove the lint trap by hand, but “water can come out, so put a container below to prevent a mess,” Thaeler says.
- For lint filters or catchers: This should be part of a separate unit connected to the drainage hose. Remove the reusable filter bag to clean.
Remove debris
Once your lint trap is free, remove large debris and lint.
- Use your fingers, a soft scrub brush or a toothbrush to remove visible lint clumps. “Be gentle to avoid damaging any components,” Carpenter says.
- For lint filters, empty the reusable bag when it’s half full (usually after about 8 to 15 loads).
Clean the lint trap
This step will depend on the level of dirt in your lint trap.
- Rinse the lint trap with warm water.
- Wash or soak the lint trap in mild detergent. “Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the trap,” Carpenter says.
- For tough-to-remove grime, Thaeler recommends spraying the lint trap with an all-purpose cleaner and scrubbing with a brush or toothbrush.
- Rinse the lint trap when done and let dry.
Clean area around or behind lint trap
While waiting for the washing machine lint trap to dry, return to the machine and clean the space around the lint trap.
- Use a rag and warm water to wipe away any debris or build-up that has been collected in the lint trap area.
Replace the lint trap
Once the washing machine lint trap is dry, replace and secure it into the machine.
- Reverse the steps you took to remove the lint trap.
Reduce lint levels in your washing machine
Take steps to keep your lint trap clean and reduce the need to clean it as often.
- Wash lint-shedding fabrics like towels and rugs separately from low-lint items like smoother cotton fabrics.
- Make sure any pockets are empty of tissues or paper before washing clothes. “These can break down during washing and contribute to lint buildup,” Carpenter says.
- Use less detergent to reduce lint. “For most loads you only need one to two tablespoons,” Thaeler says.
- Regularly clean your washing machine. Thaeler cleans hers monthly with an empty load and a bleach tablet.
- Before washing clothes that produce more lint, turn them inside out. “Or, wash on a gentle cycle with less agitation,” Carpenter says.
- Remove excess pet or human hair before washing. Thaeler recommends brushing or vacuuming items first and remove as much hair as you can before washing.
FAQ
Do all washing machines have a lint trap?
No, all washing machines do not have a lint trap. “I don’t have a lint trap because my washing machine is a high-efficiency model, and they self-clean,” Thaeler says. This is common in newer models.
How do you know if your washing machine has a lint trap?
Consult the owner’s manual for the location of the lint trap if your model has one.
Does a washing machine need a lint filter?
A washing machine does not necessarily need a lint filter. If a washing machine is designed to use one, then it should be in place to ensure optimal operation.
However, many newer washing machines do not utilize a lint trap. “Lint may be filtered out through the drainage system or during the wash cycle itself without the need for a separate lint trap that needs manual cleaning,” Carpenter says.
About the Experts
- Janet Thaeler is an expert cleaner at Clean Freak and Germaphobe, a popular website and YouTube channel devoted to home-cleaning tips, hacks and organizing. She has operated the site since 2018 and has over 240,000 subscribers.
- Justin Carpenter is the CEO of Modern Maids, a leading national house cleaning provider founded in 2017.
Originally Published: June 24, 2019
