How to Locate the Lint Filter in a Washing Machine

The filter in a washer keeps lint off your clothes.

Older washing machines are equipped with a lint trap, also known as a lint screen or filter, that captures lint, specks of dirt and other debris that would otherwise settle on your clean clothes. Over time, the filter becomes filled with lint and must be removed for cleaning before it will work properly. Newer washing machines, including models sold by Sears under the Kenmore and Whirlpool brand names, may not use a lint filter. If your washer is less than five years old, check the manual that came with the appliance to confirm whether it uses a filter.

Instructions

1. Turn off the washing machine and open the lid or door if you have a front-loading appliance.

2. Place your hand on the upper lip of a front-loading or top-loading washer tub and feel around the circumference for a flat tab. Pull out this tab, which is the handle for the lint filter. If you cannot find a tab on a top-loading washer, continue troubleshooting.

3. Unscrew the cap on the top of the agitator in a top-loading washer. The agitator is the center cone inside the appliance.

4. Pull the lint filter out of the agitator and rinse under cold, running water to clean.

5. Slide the filter into position as far as it will go. Replace the agitator cap if your appliance uses a lint filter in the agitator.

References

• House Cleaning Central: How To Clean The Washer and Dryer
• NS Fire.org: Clothes Washer and Dryer Safety