Empty, clean and refit your washing machine's filter to clear blockages and stop bad smells or drainage faults.
WMF-01Unplug the machineSwitch off and unplug the washing machine at the socket before you start. This removes any risk of shock while you have your hands near the filter and the drain.
WMF-02Protect the floorLay old towels down in front of the machine. The filter chamber holds leftover water, and it will come out when you open the cap, so give it somewhere to go.
WMF-03Find the filter doorLook along the bottom front edge of the machine for a small hinged flap, sometimes hidden behind a decorative strip. Open it to reveal the filter cap, which usually has a small hose or drain tube just above it.
WMF-04Drain the residual waterPlace a shallow tray under the filter cap. If there's a small drain tube, pull it out first, remove its own cap, and let the water run into the tray or a jug before you touch the main filter.
WMF-05Unscrew and remove the filterTurn the filter cap slowly anticlockwise. Water will keep draining as you loosen it, so go gently and keep the tray underneath. Once the flow stops, unscrew it the rest of the way and pull the filter out.
WMF-06Clean out the debrisPick out hair, fluff, coins, buttons and grit by hand, then rinse the filter under a running tap. Use an old toothbrush to get into the grooves if it's caked with limescale or soap residue.
WMF-07Check the rubber sealLook at the rubber ring around the filter housing. It should be soft and undamaged. A cracked or perished seal will let water leak out again once the machine is back in use, so note it for replacement if it looks worn.
WMF-08Refit the filterPush the filter back into place and screw it in clockwise by hand until it's snug. Don't force it or use tools — it should tighten smoothly. Push the drain tube's own cap back on if you removed it, then close the flap.
WMF-09Test run and check for leaksPlug the machine back in and run a short rinse or spin cycle with no clothes inside. Watch the filter area for the first few minutes to make sure no water is seeping out.
WMF-10Tidy upBin the debris, rinse the tray, and wash or dry the towels. Wipe the floor dry if any water escaped during draining.
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