No one cleans this small thing hidden in the washing machine, then clothes smell bad, threads will stick to them

If lint, hair or threads remain stuck on your clothes even after coming out of the washing machine, there is no need to blame the detergent or the machine every time. The real reason for this could also be a small lint filter present inside the washing machine. This filter collects the fibers, hair and dirt that come out while washing clothes, so that they do not stick to the clothes again and the drainage system of the machine also does not get clogged.

Often people clean the drum, detergent tray and rubber gasket, but do not pay attention to this small filter. Gradually a lot of dirt accumulates in it, due to which the performance of the machine starts getting affected. The good thing is that it only takes 5 minutes to clean, but this small habit can extend the life of your machine.

Why is cleaning lint filter important?

The job of lint filter is to stop the fibers and threads coming out of the clothes. If this filter gets filled, the water from the machine cannot drain out properly. This puts more pressure on the drainage system and the washing cycle also starts taking longer than usual.

Not only this, when the filter is filled, the accumulated lint again circulates with the water and sticks to the clean clothes. This is the reason why sometimes even washed clothes appear dirty.

How does a dirty filter damage clothes?

If cotton or small fibers are visible on the clothes after every wash, then it is time to clean the filter. Due to accumulation of dirt and moisture for a long time, bacteria and fungus can also grow, due to which the clothes start smelling.

Its effect is more visible on expensive clothes, woolen clothes, cotton and delicate fabrics, because lint easily gets stuck in them and becomes difficult to remove.

Correct way to clean lint filter

In front load washing machines, this filter is usually behind a small cover at the bottom. Whereas in top load machines it is found inside or on the side of the drum.

Take out the filter gently and clean it thoroughly with running water. If there is excessive dirt, remove it with the help of a soft brush. After this, dry the filter thoroughly and put it back in its place.

In how many days should it be cleaned?

If the washing machine runs daily in the house, then it is considered better to clean the lint filter once every 15 days. During monsoon, when clothes are washed more and things like towels, bedsheets or pet beds are washed more, it would be good to check the filter once a week.

The lint filter of the washing machine may be small, but cleaning it is very important for both your machine and clothes. This work of just 5 minutes can save you from many problems like drainage problems, bad smell, lint and machine malfunction. If you have not paid attention to this filter till now, then next time you must clean it before washing clothes.