Where the filter is and why it needs cleaning

Samsung washing machines have a drain filter that traps lint, coins, buttons, and other debris before water leaves the machine. Over time this filter clogs, which slows drainage, causes odors, and can damage the pump. Cleaning it takes about 10 minutes and requires no tools.

The filter sits behind a small panel at the bottom front of your machine. You'll access it from outside the washer, not by opening the drum. On most Samsung models, the panel is either a flip-down door or a removable plastic cover held by one or two screws.

You should clean the filter every month if you wash regularly, or every two to three months for lighter use. If water drains slowly or you smell mildew, clean it when ready—that's a sign the filter is blocked.

Key Takeaways

  • The drain filter sits behind a panel at the bottom front of your Samsung washer and traps lint and small objects before water exits the machine.
  • You need a small container to catch water that drains when you open the filter housing, and a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away buildup.
  • The filter itself usually twists counterclockwise to remove, and you rinse it under running water rather than soak it.
  • Check the filter housing for trapped debris while it's open—coins and small items often lodge in the cavity behind the filter.
  • Cleaning takes about 10 minutes and requires no special tools or parts.

What you need before you start

Gather a small container (a shallow bowl or baking pan works well), a soft brush or old toothbrush, and a dry cloth. You may also want a flashlight if your laundry area is dim. That's all—no screwdrivers, no special cleaners, no replacement parts needed.

Wear old clothes or an apron because water will spill. The water in the filter housing is usually clean but can be cold and may have a musty smell. Place your container on the floor directly under the filter panel before you open it.

How to access and remove the filter

Turn off the washing machine and unplug it from the wall outlet. Wait at least 5 minutes for any remaining water in the drum to drain down into the filter housing. This step prevents a large spill when you open the panel.

Locate the small panel at the bottom front of your machine, usually 2 to 4 inches above the floor. If it has a small screw or two, remove them with a screwdriver and set them aside in a safe place. If it's a flip-down door, straightforward pull the bottom edge toward you until it opens.

You'll see a small cylindrical filter with a handle or knob on the end. Place your container underneath it. Slowly turn the filter handle counterclockwise (to the left) until it stops—do not force it. Water will begin to drip into your container. Once the dripping slows, pull the filter straight out toward you.

Rinsing and scrubbing the filter

Hold the filter under warm running water from your sink. Let the water flow through the mesh screen from the inside out, pushing debris away from the holes. Use your soft brush or old toothbrush to gently scrub the outside of the mesh in circular motions. Do not use a hard brush or scrub aggressively—the mesh is delicate and can tear.

Pay special attention to the pleated ridges where lint collects. If you see stubborn buildup, soak the filter in warm water for 5 minutes, then brush again. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear and you see no lint or residue on the mesh.

Inspect the filter for cracks or holes. If the mesh is torn or the plastic casing is cracked, the filter no longer works and must be replaced. If it looks intact, you're ready to reinstall it.

Checking the filter housing for trapped items

Before you put the filter back, shine a flashlight into the empty housing cavity. Coins, buttons, small stones, and bits of fabric often lodge in this space and never make it to the filter itself. Use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to remove anything you find.

Wipe the inside of the housing with a dry cloth to remove lint and dust. This step takes only a minute but prevents debris from clogging the pump or the drain hose that connects to your plumbing.

Reinstalling the filter and closing the panel

Insert the clean filter back into the housing by pushing it straight in until it seats fully. Turn the handle clockwise (to the right) until it stops. You should feel gentle resistance—do not over-tighten, as this can crack the plastic. The handle should be snug but not require force.

Close the access panel by pushing it up and in until it clicks, or replace the screws if your model uses them. Tighten screws by hand only—you don't need a power tool and over-tightening can strip the plastic.

Plug the machine back in and run a short drain cycle or a rinse-and-spin cycle to confirm water drains normally. Listen for any unusual sounds and check under the machine for leaks. If water drains slowly or leaks appear, turn off the machine and check that the filter is seated correctly.

Signs your filter needs when ready attention

Water drains very slowly or not at all during the spin cycle. The drum fills with water that won't empty. You smell a strong musty or sour odor coming from the machine. The machine makes a grinding or squealing sound during drainage. Any of these means the filter is blocked and needs cleaning right away.

If you clean the filter and the problem persists, the blockage may be in the drain hose or pump rather than the filter itself. Check that the drain hose behind your machine is not kinked or pinched. If the hose is straight and the filter is clean, the pump may need service from a technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the filter?

Clean it every month if you wash clothes regularly, or every two to three months for lighter use. If you notice slow drainage or odors, clean it when ready regardless of the schedule. Families with young children or people who work outdoors may need to clean it more often because of extra lint and dirt.

What if the filter is cracked or torn?

A damaged filter no longer stops debris from reaching the pump, so it must be replaced. Order a replacement filter from Samsung using your model number (found on the back of the machine or in your manual), or purchase one from an appliance parts retailer. Installation is the same as removal—insert, twist clockwise, and close the panel.

Can I use vinegar or bleach to clean the filter?

Plain water and a soft brush are all you need. Vinegar or bleach can damage the mesh or the plastic casing over time. If the filter smells bad, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before brushing, then rinse well under running water.

Why is water still in the housing after I unplug the machine?

Water sits in the filter housing by design—it's the lowest point in the drain system. This is normal. Place your container under the filter before opening the panel to catch this water. If an unusual amount of water spills (more than a cup or two), the drain hose may be blocked upstream.

What should I do if the filter won't turn?

Stop when ready—forcing it can break the plastic. Wait 10 minutes, then try again with a gentle, steady pressure. If it still won't budge, the filter may be stuck due to mineral buildup. Soak the area with warm water for 15 minutes and try again. If it remains stuck, contact a Samsung service technician rather than risk damaging the housing.