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 drum. Over time this filter clogs, which slows drainage, causes odors, and can damage the pump. Cleaning it takes about ten minutes and costs nothing.
The filter sits at the bottom front of the machine, behind a small panel or door. On some models it is a cylindrical cartridge you unscrew; on others it is a mesh screen you pull straight out. Both types need cleaning every month or two, depending on how much lint your clothes shed.
A clogged filter is the most common reason a Samsung washer drains slowly or stops draining altogether. Clearing it often fixes the problem without a service call.
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 drains.
- You should clean the filter every one to two months by opening the access panel, removing the filter, rinsing it under running water, and reinstalling it.
- Before you open the filter, run a drain cycle or place towels underneath to catch water that will spill out.
- If the filter is cracked or the drain still backs up after cleaning, the filter cartridge may need to be replaced rather than cleaned.
What you need before you start
Gather a small flashlight, a bucket or shallow pan, and old towels. You do not need tools — the filter unscrews or pulls out by hand on all Samsung models.
Wear clothes you do not mind getting wet. Water will spill when you open the filter housing, especially if the machine has been running or the filter is very clogged.
Step-by-step: removing and cleaning the filter
Step 1: Prepare the area. Place towels on the floor in front of the washer and set a bucket or pan nearby. If your machine has a drain cycle or emergency drain option in the menu, run it now to empty standing water. If not, you will catch the spill with towels.
Step 2: Locate and open the access panel. Look at the bottom front of the washer. Most Samsung models have a small rectangular door or panel, usually white or gray, about 3 to 4 inches wide. On some models the panel snaps off; on others it hinges down. Use your fingers to pry gently at the edges until it swings open or comes free.
Step 3: Remove the filter. Behind the panel you will see either a cylindrical cartridge with a handle or a flat mesh screen. If it is a cartridge, grip the handle and turn it counterclockwise (left) until it comes free — it usually takes two or three full turns. If it is a mesh screen, pull it straight toward you. Water will drip, so keep the bucket ready.
Step 4: Rinse the filter. Hold the filter under warm running water and use your fingers or a soft brush to remove lint and debris. Rinse from the clean side (outside) toward the dirty side (inside) so particles wash away rather than deeper into the mesh. If lint is packed tight, soak the filter in warm water for five minutes first, then rinse again.
Step 5: Check for damage. Look for cracks, tears, or holes in the filter material. If you see any, the filter needs to be replaced, not reinstalled. If it looks intact, proceed to step 6.
Step 6: Reinstall the filter. Slide the filter back into its housing, making sure it sits flush. If it is a cartridge, turn it clockwise (right) until it is snug — do not force it. If it is a mesh screen, push it in until you hear or feel it seat. Close the access panel until it clicks or snaps shut.
What to do if water still backs up after cleaning
If the washer drains slowly even after you have cleaned the filter, the problem may be downstream. Check the drain hose where it connects to the wall or standpipe — kinks, clogs, or a hose bent too sharply will block water flow even if the filter is clean.
Straighten the hose and make sure the end sits at least 30 inches above the floor but no higher than 96 inches. If the hose itself is clogged, disconnect it (have a bucket ready) and run water through it to clear the blockage.
If the hose is clear and the filter is clean but the machine still drains slowly, the pump itself may be failing. That requires a replacement part and is beyond a cleaning task.
How often to clean and when to replace
Clean the filter every month if you wash heavily or have pets that shed, every two months for average use. If you notice water pooling in the drum after a cycle, clean the filter when ready — do not wait.
A filter usually lasts two to three years with regular cleaning. If you see cracks, tears, or holes, or if the plastic is warped or discolored, replace it. Samsung sells replacement filters for most models; the part number is on the old filter or in your manual. Replacement filters cost between $20 and $50 and take the same ten minutes to install.
Common mistakes that damage the filter
Do not use a pressure washer or blast the filter with a hose at full force — this can tear the mesh or push debris deeper into the material. Rinse gently under warm running water instead.
Do not reinstall a cracked or torn filter. A damaged filter will let lint and debris into the pump, which is expensive to repair. If the filter is broken, order a replacement before you run the machine again.
Do not forget to close the access panel completely. A loose panel can rattle during the spin cycle or allow water to leak during the next wash.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Samsung washer has a filter?
All Samsung front-load and top-load washers have a drain filter. Look at the bottom front of the machine for a small panel or door. If you see one, your machine has a filter behind it. Check your manual if you cannot find the panel — it will show the exact location for your model.
Can I run the washer without the filter?
No. Running the washer without the filter will allow lint and small objects to enter the pump and drain hose, which causes expensive damage. Always reinstall the filter before you run another cycle, even if you are just testing the drain.
What if the filter is stuck and will not unscrew?
Soak the filter in warm water for ten minutes to soften any mineral buildup or dried lint, then try again. Grip the handle firmly and turn slowly — do not force it or you may crack the cartridge. If it still will not budge, the filter may need to be replaced rather than cleaned.
Is there a filter inside the drum I also need to clean?
No. The drain filter at the bottom front is the only filter you need to clean on a Samsung washer. Some models have a rubber seal around the drum door that can trap lint, but that is separate from the drain filter and does not need regular cleaning.
Why does my washer smell bad even after I cleaned the filter?
A clean filter helps, but odor can also come from mold in the rubber door seal or detergent buildup in the drum. Run a cleaning cycle with hot water and a commercial washer cleaner, or run the machine empty on the hottest setting with two cups of white vinegar. Clean the door seal with a damp cloth while you are at it.