The Importance of Cleaning Your Washing Machine’s Lint Trap
When it comes to laundry, you’re probably familiar with the lint screen in your dryer. But did you know that your washing machine may also have a lint trap? Cleaning this often overlooked component is essential to prevent lint buildup and ensure that your clothes come out clean and free of lint.
What is a Washing Machine Lint Trap?
A washing machine lint trap is a device that collects lint and prevents it from clogging your drains or ending up on your clothes. Some washers have cleanable filters, while others feature mesh lint traps. Regardless of the style, their purpose remains the same: to keep lint away from your laundry and promote proper water drainage. It’s crucial to clean these traps regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Where to Find the Lint Trap on a Washing Machine
The location of the lint trap may vary depending on the age and type of your washing machine. To find it:
- Refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions
- Check along the top rim of the washer drum. You may encounter a screen that can be pulled out to remove lint. Take caution to move slowly and avoid getting your fingers caught
- If you have a top-loading washer, inspect the center agitator. In some cases, the cover can be removed to reveal a lint trap inside
- At the end of the drainage hose, a small mesh screen may be attached to prevent lint from escaping
If you’re unsure about locating the lint trap, the owner’s manual or a professional appliance technician can provide guidance.
Why Don’t High-Efficiency Washers Have a Lint Filter?
Unlike traditional washing machines, high-efficiency (HE) washers typically do not have a lint filter. These machines are designed to use less water and require special detergents that generate less lint. The absence of a lint filter simplifies the maintenance process but does not mean that lint cannot accumulate. Regular cleaning of the washing machine and the lint trap, if applicable, is still necessary.
Cleaning Your Washing Machine’s Lint Trap
To clean the lint trap:
- Make sure the washing machine is turned off
- Refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions on removing and cleaning the lint trap
- If using a removable lint trap, rinse it under running water and manually remove any visible lint
- For mesh lint traps, gently scrub them with a soft brush to dislodge and remove lint
- Ensure the lint trap is completely dry before reinserting it into the washing machine
Regularly cleaning your washing machine’s lint trap is essential for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan.
Make Your Own DIY Lint Trap
If your washing machine does not have a lint trap or you want additional lint-catching measures, you can create your own DIY lint trap for the washing machine hose. Follow online tutorials or consult with a professional to learn how to construct and install one properly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Washing Machine Lint Traps
Here are some common questions and answers:
Q: Is your lint trap damaged?
If you suspect that your lint trap is damaged or not functioning correctly, it’s best to contact a professional appliance technician to inspect and replace it if necessary. They can quickly identify any issues with your washing machine and ensure that the replacement part is installed correctly.
Remember, keeping your washing machine’s lint trap clean is an essential maintenance task that will help preserve your machine’s performance and prevent lint-related issues. Add it to your regular cleaning routine to keep your laundry fresh and lint-free!
Lint Trap Maintenance for High-Efficiency Washers
If you own a high-efficiency (HE) washer, you may have noticed that it doesn’t have a traditional lint trap like other washing machines. Instead, HE washers rely on a self-cleaning pump filter to remove lint from the wash. However, it’s still important to maintain and clean this filter regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Checking and Cleaning the Water Pump Filter
While high-efficiency washers don’t have lint traps, their water pump filters can still get blocked. Front-loaders typically have a small door near the bottom of the appliance where you can access the water pump filter. It’s essential to check this filter regularly for any blockages.
If you notice that your clothes come out of the wash still dirty or the washer has trouble draining, it’s a good indication that the water pump filter needs cleaning.
Steps to Clean the Lint Trap in Your Washing Machine
To keep your washing machine running smoothly, it’s recommended to clean the lint trap every three months. Here’s how:
- If the lint trap screen is removable, soak it in hot water for 10 minutes to loosen any residue.
- If the filter is secured in place, use a soft brush or paper towel to clean lint and debris from it.
- If the lint trap is disposable, replace it with a new one when it becomes clogged.
Performing this quarterly maintenance on your lint trap will help ensure efficient washer operation, better drainage, and reduced lint deposits on your clothes.
FAQs about Washing Machine Lint Traps
- Is there a lint trap in my washing machine?
If you have a new high-efficiency washing machine, it likely does not have a lint trap. Look for a symbol shaped like a whirlpool with a lowercase “he” inside the symbol. This indicates that your machine is a high-efficiency washer and does not have a traditional lint trap.
If you encounter any issues with your washer, such as drainage problems or inadequate water supply, it’s advisable to contact a professional appliance repair technician to assess and resolve the issue.
Why don’t washing machines have lint filters anymore?
In the modern age of technology, many washing machines no longer feature lint filters. The reason behind this change is the advent of high-efficiency units. These advanced washers utilize a self-cleaning pump filter to effectively remove lint from the machine, eliminating the need for a traditional lint trap.
To maintain the cleanliness of these units, it is recommended to run an empty cycle at least once a month. This process ensures that the self-cleaning pump filter remains free from any trapped debris.
Where is the lint filter on a top loader washing machine?
However, if you own a top-loading washer that still includes a lint trap, you will typically find it inside the central agitator. Accessing the lint filter requires removing the cover on the top of the agitator. With this cover removed, you will be able to see the hollow center of the agitator, as well as the lint trap.
If your washing machine requires repairs, whether it be a washer, dryer, or any other household appliance, you can rely on the expertise of Mr. Appliance®. Our team of professionals is equipped with the necessary experience to get your appliance working efficiently again. Find your local Mr. Appliance® team, conveniently schedule a service online, or give us a call today.