Every washing machine comes with a small but essential part that often gets overlooked—the lint filter. Its job is to trap dirt, lint, and other debris that come off your clothes during each wash cycle. Over time, this filter can get clogged with all sorts of buildup, and if you don’t clean it regularly, that grime can end up back on your clothes. You may notice mysterious stains or find your laundry feeling sticky or smelling musty even after a wash. That’s often because the filter hasn’t been cleaned, causing dirt to cycle back into the drum.

Most people don’t realize how easy it is to clean this part of their washing machine. If you take a little time to figure out where the lint filter is located on your specific model, it’s simple to remove it, scrub it, and get everything back in place. Giving it a quick clean can make a huge difference in how fresh and clean your clothes come out—and it doesn’t take much effort.

The placement and design of the lint filter depend on the type of washing machine you have. If you own a front-loading machine, you’ll typically find the filter on the outside of the washer, near the bottom front panel. It’s usually behind a small door that you can open without tools. On the other hand, if you have a top-loading washing machine, the lint filter is often located inside the drum itself. It might be attached to the side of the drum or sometimes under the central agitator. Some models even have multiple filters in different spots, so it’s worth checking your user manual to be sure you’re not missing any.

Once you find the filter, removing it is pretty straightforward. For front-loading machines, there’s usually a small plastic cover at the bottom of the washer. You’ll want to pop this open to reveal the filter compartment. Inside, there’s often a round cap that you’ll need to twist or unscrew. Be ready with a towel because a little water might spill out when you open it. Pull out the filter and you’ll probably find it covered in lint, hair, and other debris. Give it a good rinse under running water, and if there’s stubborn grime, an old toothbrush works wonders for scrubbing it clean. After that, dry it off and put it back in place, making sure it’s secure.

For top-loading machines, you may need to remove a screw to detach the lint filter from the drum. Again, it’s a good idea to have a towel nearby to catch any drips. Once it’s free, follow the same process—rinse, scrub, dry, and reinstall. While you’re at it, take a moment to wipe down the inside of the drum with a clean cloth to remove any lingering dirt or residue. It’s a quick job, but it goes a long way in keeping things sanitary.

Experts recommend cleaning your washing machine filter at least once a month. If you use your washer frequently or have pets that shed a lot, you might need to do it even more often. Regular cleaning keeps your machine running efficiently, prevents strange odors from developing, and extends the life of your washer. It also ensures that your laundry smells fresh and comes out looking spotless.

In addition to cleaning the filter, it’s smart to give your entire washing machine some TLC now and then. One easy way is to run an empty cycle with hot water and a couple of cups of white vinegar. This helps dissolve soap scum, mildew, and any lingering bacteria inside the drum and hoses. If you prefer, you can buy washing machine cleaning tablets at most stores, which do the same job.

Unfortunately, many households tend to forget about the lint filter altogether, especially in homes where nobody pays much attention to the appliances. Some people assume the machine cleans itself, but that’s far from the truth. Neglecting to clean the lint filter can lead to musty-smelling clothes, reduced washing performance, and even costly repairs down the line. Taking a few minutes to clean it once a month is a simple habit that can save you a lot of trouble.

So, if you haven’t checked your washing machine’s lint filter in a while, now’s the perfect time. Your clothes—and your nose—will thank you.