Where is the lint trap on a washing machine?
We all know that our dryers have a lint trap that collects all the accumulated fibers from our clothes. But did you know that some washers also have a lint trap installed?
As an extra precaution, some makers of washing machines have noted the importance of collecting lint before they get stuck in other important places. Hence, aside from putting traps in dryers, manufacturers like Samsung and LG used to place lint traps in washers as well.
Since most of us do not even know about its existence, it can be difficult to pinpoint its location for the first time.
Do all washing machines have a lint trap?
Most dryers have a lint trap. However, it is different with washing machines.
In most cases, only top load washing machines use a lint filter. This is because front loading washers use a debris or pump filter to collect other debris that includes coins and keys aside from
lint.
Why are lint traps necessary?
When we wash our clothes and linens, some fibers can come off and accumulate due to the
friction in the washing process. Some types of clothing generate more lint, especially if they are made of wool or cotton.
Since lint can get stuck on the other parts of our washer, lint traps are there to collect them in place. This prevents them from traveling to our washer’s pipes or by leaving a residue on our newly-washed clothing.
How to know if your washer has a lint trap
One of the easiest ways to determine if your washer has a lint trap is its age.
If you have been using your washing machine for several years now, chances are it comes with a lint trap. On the other hand, if you are using a modern machine, it will have a pump filter instead.
Of course, the best way for you to check is by looking at your washer’s manual. If your manual is no longer readable or in your keeping, you can check the manufacturer’s website. Make sure that you are reading the manual that is for your washer’s specific model.
How to locate the lint trap
If looking at manuals is not your thing and you prefer to look around your washer instead, we understand. Why read through a boring piece of paper when you can search for it by yourself instead?
The following are the parts of your washer you should check for, and you will be able to find the lint trap in one of them.
Check along the rim of the washing machine drum
Most washers place the lint trap on the rim of its drum. To look for it, open the lid of your washing machine and run your fingers all around the basin. If you feel a screen, you can gently pull it out and you will see the accumulated lint in your washer.
Check inside the center agitator
In top loading washing machines, lint traps are commonly placed along the center agitator. Inspect the agitator of your washer and you will see a removable lid that contains a lint trap inside. In some cases, you can easily pull out the trap or you may need to unscrew the top of the agitator first.
Check the drainage system of your washing machine
If you checked your washer’s drum and center agitator and you do not see a lint trap, you can still check the last location where it can be placed, which is around its drainage system. In other models, the lint trap may be near the drain line, water pump, or inside the water hose of your washer. Thoroughly check these places for a small mesh screen or lid that can be removable or screwed in place.
Is a lint trap and lint filter the same thing?
Is your washer’s manual calling it a lint trap or lint filter? Though it can be confusing, both of them are essentially a part that functions to collect lint from your clothes and linens.
If we want to get technical, lint filters are a type of lint trap, since they use a small pore mesh to gather and trap the debris and other materials from the washing process.
There are many names that manufacturers also call their lint traps, such as a Magic Filter. No matter what they are called, they are meant to do one thing – collect lint and prevent it from going to our washer’s pipes or in our clothes.
What happens if you don't use a lint trap?
If you do not use a lint trap, chances are there will be consequences in your machine and clothes. The debris will clog your washer’s pipes and will eventually cause it to function incorrectly. When it comes to your clothes, you may be able to see lint deposits clinging on them that will need to be dusted to remove them properly.
Of course, in modern washers, they use a self-cleaning pump filter to take care of lint, debris, hair, keys, and more. If you use a modern washing machine, there will be no need to have a lint trap.
On the other hand, if you use a machine that relies on a lint trap, you should use it, as it is there for a reason.
How do you clean your lint trap?
Most manufacturers suggest to owners to clean their lint traps at least once every three months. This makes the appliance work well for a long time and makes your clothes get washed in the best way without spreading lint on their surface. By ensuring that your appliance is not clogged, you can extend the life of your machine and you can get more of it for many years.
You will need:
• Dishwashing liquid
• Basin
• Hot water
• Paper towels
• Small brush
For removable trap filters
Step 1: Remove the filter
By pulling or opening the lid of the filter, gently remove it from its location. Collect the debris and lint that have accumulated and dispose of them properly.
Step 2: Soak the filter
On a basin, mix a part of dishwashing liquid and hot water solution. Get your filter and soak it in for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 3: Wipe the location of the filter clean
Get your paper towels and wipe the location of your filter thoroughly. In most cases, hair may also make its way in this part. You can also use a small brush to scrub areas that are difficult to reach.
Step 4: Brush the filter
Using your soft brush, gently scrub around the surface and crevices of your filter. Continue doing so until it is squeaky clean and wash it off with warm or tap water.
Step 5: Return the filter
Put the filter back in its location by placing it securely.
For non-removable filters
Take your paper towels and wipe around the filter thoroughly. Use your small brush to remove the accumulated lint and wipe it again until there is no more debris left.
For disposable filters
Once you see that your disposable filter is too clogged, it is time to replace it with a new one.