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Older washing machines, specifically non-high-efficiency models, have a lint trap similar to dryers.

You must manually remove the lint from the trap to keep the clothes fuzz-free and smelling nice.

The hot water solution will help to clear away any detergent or fabric softener residue that slows drainage.

how to clean a washer lint trap

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If the filter is not removable, use a small brush or paper towel to clean off the lint.

Be sure to get into the crevices.

Return the Filter

Put the filter back in its proper location before doing another load of laundry.

Collage of Seventh Generation Sensitive Skin Detergent on a blue background

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The cleaning cycle also helps control odors and disinfects your machine.

If you still see lint, the filter at your water pump may be clogged.

you could still help the performance of your washer by cleaning the water pump filter regularly.

A bottle of Gain Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap Plus Aroma Boosts on a marble countertop with laundry supplies

Clean the Drain Line Filter

Unscrew the drain hose from the back of the washer.

Keep some old towels handle to catch any drips.

Remove the filter and clean it well before reattaching the drain hose.

Person opening the lid of a Whirlpool Smart Top Load Washer

Synthetic fibers don’t break down easily and will continue to collect until they cause a problem.

There are external lint filters that can be connected to the washer to prevent this problem.

Remember to clean these regularly to prevent lint from redepositing on clothes.

Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner

materials for cleaning a washer lint trap

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locating the filter

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soaking the filter

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cleaning out the filter’s location

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replacing the washer filter

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Blue water pump filter detached to remove debris from washing machine

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Blue drain line filter rinsed under running sink water by hang

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Blue drain filter pushed back into washer with fingers connected to septic tank system

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