How To Clean A Top Load Washing Machine Filter To Prevent Moldy Smells

A top-loading washing machine is a workhorse in most households, but even the most reliable appliances can develop problems over time. One of the most common complaints isn’t mechanical failure—it’s odor. That musty, mildew-like smell wafting from your washer after every cycle is not only unpleasant but often indicates a deeper hygiene issue. While many assume detergent buildup or dirty clothes are to blame, the real culprit frequently lies hidden: the washing machine filter.

Unlike front-load models, which have easily accessible drain pumps and filters, top-load machines don’t always feature a visible filter. However, that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free. In fact, sediment, lint, hair, and soap scum accumulate in drainage pathways and internal traps—especially in high-efficiency (HE) models. Over time, this organic debris becomes a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, leading to persistent foul odors. The good news? A thorough cleaning of your machine’s filtration system can restore freshness and extend its lifespan.

Why Your Top Load Washer Develops Moldy Smells

Mold and mildew thrive in dark, damp environments—exactly the conditions inside a washing machine between cycles. Even though you're using water and detergent, residual moisture remains in hoses, basins, and hidden compartments. When combined with organic matter like fabric fibers, skin cells, and leftover detergent, it creates a perfect ecosystem for microbial growth.

Many modern top-load washers use recirculation systems to conserve water. These systems pull water from the tub during the wash cycle and reuse it before draining. While efficient, they also trap particles that eventually settle in low-flow areas such as pump filters or sump hoses. If left uncleaned, these deposits decompose and emit volatile organic compounds responsible for the “wet dog” or “basement” smell.

“Odors in washing machines are rarely about the drum itself—they stem from trapped debris in drainage components. Regular filter maintenance stops 90% of these issues before they start.” — Dr. Linda Reeves, Appliance Hygiene Specialist, Consumer Home Labs

Locating and Identifying the Filter in a Top Load Washer

One reason so many homeowners overlook filter cleaning is confusion about where it is—or whether one exists at all. Unlike front-loaders, top-load machines typically do not have a user-accessible filter behind a service panel at the bottom front. Instead, their filtration mechanisms vary by brand and model:

• Lint traps inside the agitator: Some models feature removable caps on the central agitator post that house fine mesh screens designed to catch lint.
• Drain pump filters: Found near the base of the machine, accessible by removing a small access panel (common in newer HE top loaders).
• Sump hose filters: Located between the tub and pump, these collect debris before water exits the system.
• Self-cleaning systems: Certain brands claim “no maintenance” designs, but even these benefit from periodic deep cleaning.

To determine if your machine has a cleanable filter, consult the owner’s manual or search your model number online. Look for terms like “pump filter,” “drain trap,” or “lint screen.” If no external filter exists, focus shifts to internal components and preventive cleaning routines.

Tip: Use your smartphone flashlight to peer into the space between the agitator and inner tub—visible lint or grime suggests it's time for a deep clean.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning the Filter and Preventing Odors

Cleaning your top load washer’s filter—or equivalent filtration system—should be done every 1–3 months, depending on usage. Follow this detailed process to eliminate odor-causing buildup:

1. Unplug the machine and shut off water supply. Safety first. Disconnect power and turn both hot and cold water valves to the off position.
2. Remove visible components. If your model has an agitator cap or removable center post, gently lift it out. Check for mesh screens underneath and rinse under warm running water.
3. Access the drain pump (if applicable). For models with a service panel (usually at the lower front), unscrew or pop open the cover. Place towels underneath—some water will spill out.
4. Locate the filter housing. It may be a twist-lock cap or a pull-out drawer. Turn counterclockwise or pull straight out slowly to avoid sudden water release.
5. Empty debris manually. Use gloves to remove clumps of hair, coins, buttons, or fabric scraps. Rinse the filter under warm water until clear.
6. Inspect the sump area. Shine a flashlight into the opening. If residue is visible, use a soft brush or cloth on a stick to wipe away buildup.
7. Clean surrounding components. Wipe down the filter compartment, hose connections, and door gasket (if present) with a vinegar-dampened cloth.
8. Reassemble carefully. Reinsert the filter, secure the cap, and close the access panel. Ensure everything is tightly sealed.
9. Run a cleaning cycle. With the machine empty, run the hottest water setting with either two cups of white vinegar or one cup of bleach (not both). Add half a cup of baking soda for extra deodorizing power.
10. Wipe exterior surfaces. Don’t forget control panels, lids, and rubber seals. A microfiber cloth with diluted vinegar cleans without damaging finishes.

This full maintenance routine removes existing contamination and disrupts microbial colonies. Performing it quarterly keeps your washer operating efficiently and smelling neutral.

Do’s and Don’ts of Washing Machine Filter Maintenance

Do	Don’t
Clean the filter every 1–3 months based on usage	Wait until you notice strong odors or poor drainage
Use vinegar or bleach monthly to sanitize the drum	Mix vinegar and bleach—they create toxic fumes
Leave the lid open between cycles to dry the interior	Close the lid immediately after use, trapping moisture
Check pockets before washing to reduce debris	Overload the machine, which strains drainage systems
Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent only	Use regular detergent, which creates excess suds and residue

Real Example: How Sarah Fixed Her Smelly Washer in One Weekend

Sarah from Portland had grown used to the faintly sour smell coming from her five-year-old HE top-loader. She tried running empty hot cycles, switched detergents, and even wiped down the drum—but nothing worked long-term. After reading about internal filters, she searched her model number and discovered a hidden pump filter behind a small front panel.

With YouTube tutorials guiding her, she removed the cover, braced for leaks with towels, and pulled out the filter. What came out wasn’t just lint—it was a dense tangle of pet hair, a lost earring, and black sludge. She cleaned it thoroughly, scrubbed the housing, and ran a vinegar cycle. The difference was immediate. Not only did the odor vanish, but her whites came out brighter, and clothes felt cleaner.

Now, she schedules filter checks every two months and leaves the lid propped open when not in use. “I wish I’d known how simple it was,” she says. “It’s like my washer got a second life.”

Essential Checklist for Ongoing Filter Care

Monthly Maintenance Checklist:

• ☐ Inspect agitator cap or center post for lint screen
• ☐ Run hot cleaning cycle with vinegar or bleach (alternate monthly)
• ☐ Wipe down rubber gaskets and lid seal
• ☐ Leave washer lid open between uses

Quarterly Deep Clean:

• ☐ Locate and remove pump or sump filter (if accessible)
• ☐ Clear debris manually and rinse filter
• ☐ Clean filter housing with brush and vinegar solution
• ☐ Reassemble and test drain function

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every top load washer have a filter?

No—not all models have a user-serviceable filter. Many rely on self-cleaning pumps or internal traps that require professional servicing. However, even “no-filter” machines accumulate residue and should undergo regular cleaning cycles with vinegar or bleach to prevent odors.

Can I use bleach instead of vinegar?

Yes, but not simultaneously. Bleach is more effective at killing mold spores, while vinegar dissolves mineral buildup and soap scum. Rotate them monthly: use bleach one month, vinegar the next. Never mix them, as this produces dangerous chlorine gas.

My washer still smells after cleaning—what now?

If odor persists, check secondary sources: the detergent drawer (if detachable), drain hose, or standing water in the floor pan. Also, ensure your machine is level—tilting prevents complete drainage, leaving stagnant water. Consider scheduling a technician visit if internal hoses need flushing.

Protect Your Appliance and Your Laundry

A clean washing machine filter does more than eliminate bad smells—it protects your clothes, improves cleaning performance, and reduces wear on internal components. Mold and bacteria aren’t just smelly; they can transfer back onto fabrics, especially on low-temperature cycles. By integrating simple filter care into your home routine, you ensure every load comes out truly fresh.

Modern appliances are built to last, but longevity depends on proactive upkeep. Just as you change air filters or clean dryer vents, treating your washer’s filtration system with attention prevents costly repairs and maintains hygiene standards. Whether your machine has an accessible filter or relies on internal traps, regular cleaning is non-negotiable for a healthy laundry environment.

💬 Have you cleaned your top loader’s filter recently? Share your experience or ask questions in the comments—help others break the cycle of smelly laundry!