When was the last time you cleaned your washing machine filter? Rest assured that you’re not alone if your answer is somewhere between “never” and “Does my washer even have a filter?” While you may already be cleaning the exterior and internal drum of your washing machine, it’s more common to neglect this particular part of the appliance. For models that require this kind of cleaning, a neglected drain pump filter can lead to unpleasant smells and poor performance. Luckily, learning how to clean your washing machine’s filter is simpler than it sounds, and doing so regularly can save you a repair bill down the line.
In this guide, we’ll explain why your washing machine filter matters, if and how often you should clean it, and how to do so properly. Remember: Your washer does a lot of dirty work— sometimes it needs some extra TLC to keep it running optimally.
According to Lindsay Jones, integrated brand manager at Maytag, the …