Cleaning the lint trap from your dryer is something you may have heard of. But did you know your washer needs to be cleaned too? While high-efficiency washers do not have washing machine lint traps because of their self-cleaning mechanism, most household washers have lint traps located within their washing system. Depending on the model, you may find the lint trap either within the centre agitator or along the drum’s top rim. Mesh traps are also commonly located in the washer lint hose. Check your manual for the exact location.
How Often to Clean the Lint Trap
If your washer stacks up on the lint from every wash, it will reflect on the durability of your machine. This is why it is recommended to clean the washing machine filter after every wash. If the the lint is not removed after every wash and if it stacks up for a long time, you may notice that your washer is not cleaning properly. The stains on your clothes may remain unwashed or sometimes the clothes may not seem clean at all. Many new models of washers come with a built in reminder for lint trap cleaning.
How to Clean Removable Lint Traps (Step-By-Step Process)
Almost 80% people do not clean lint trap after every wash or couple of washes. This is because they are unaware of this part of the washing machine or because they feel their machine self cleans. It is important read the manual of your washer and check if your washer requires lint cleaning. It is not a long process once you get in the habit of cleaning it. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to clean washing machine lint filter:
Step 1: Locate the filter
If you have lost the manual and are not entirely sure about where the filter is located, check these three places:
- Top rim of the washer tub
- Top or side of the centre agitator
- Near the water pump
- At the end of the drain hose
Step 2: Soak the Filter
Once you locate the filter, check if the screen is removable. If the screen is removable, leave it to soak in hot soapy water made from regular dishwashing detergent. For lint filters that are not removable, use a toothbrush or a paper towel to gently remove the lint.
Step 3: Clean the Location of The Filter
If the washing machine filter is removable, you will see that there is some lint trapped outside the filter as well. Use a small toothbrush and clean the area and then use a delicate sponge with dishwashing detergent to sanitize the area. Wipe it clean with a dry paper towel and put the filter back in its place.
It is always advised to invest in the complete professional cleaning of your washer from time to time to ensure that lint and dirt trapped in all parts of your washer are removed thoroughly. For a good washer health, you must invest in professional cleaning between every 6 to 10 months.