Lint accumulating in washing machine drains is a common problem that many homeowners face. Over time, lint can build up in the drain pipe and cause clogging, water backups, and other issues. Thankfully, there are several easy ways to prevent lint buildup and remove existing lint from your washing machine drain.
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What Causes Washing Machine Lint?
Lint is made up of small fibers and particles that detach from fabrics during the wash cycle. These fibers get flushed down the drain with the water. Since they are so lightweight, they easily stick to the inside of drain pipes. Over time, the fibers collect and compact into hard clumps of lint that can block water flow.
Certain fabrics tend to produce more lint than others. Materials like cotton, towels, flannel sheets, and fleece fabrics are prime culprits. The higher the volume of these fabrics you wash, the more lint you’ll deal with.
Problems Caused by Lint Buildup
As lint accumulates in the drain line, you may begin to notice some warning signs, including:
- Water draining from the tub slowly
- Gurgling sounds from the drain line
- Water pooling in the bottom of the wash tub
- Wet floors from water overflow
- Error codes related to drainage issues
If the drain becomes completely clogged, the washer may stop draining at all. Continuing to use your washer with a clogged drain can lead to water overflow, electrical issues, mold/mildew buildup, and damage to parts. That’s why it’s important to prevent lint buildup proactively.
Tips to Prevent Lint Buildup
Here are some simple tips to keep lint under control:
1. Clean the lint filters regularly
Your washing machine has a lint filter that captures fibers during the wash cycle. By cleaning this filter out after each load, you can drastically reduce the amount of lint going down the drain. Use your fingers to pull out any visible lint clumps. Then hold the filter up to the light to spot any smaller particles stuck in the mesh screen. Rinse the filter so it’s completely clean.
2. Use a lint catcher
A lint catcher is a device that installs directly inside your washing machine’s drain pipe. As water flows out, the lint gets trapped in the catcher. This provides an extra layer of protection from lint clogs. There are a few types of lint catchers:
- Mesh bag – An inexpensive bag secured over the drain outlet to collect lint in the bag.
- Magnetic catcher – Uses magnets to attract lint so it adheres to the inside of the catcher.
- Dome style – A domed strainer that lets water flow while trapping lint in a chamber.
The catcher gets removed and cleaned out periodically. Just take note that lint can still get past the catcher and build up further down the pipe, so you’ll still need to clean the drain line periodically.
3. Use a drain cleaner monthly
To help wash away any lint inside the drain line, use an enzyme drain cleaner or foaming cleaner monthly. These products will dissolve any built up lint so it can wash away without clogging.
4. Avoid overloading the washer
Washing smaller loads will allow for better water flow and prevent lint from getting packed tightly into the drain line. Only fill the drum about 2/3 full to leave room for the fabrics to move and rinse properly.
5. Wash lint producers separately
Try washing lint-producing items like towels and fleece fabrics separate from your regular loads. That way any shed lint doesn’t get deposited on your other laundry items. You can then target any lint that does get dislodged with additional cleaning.
How to Remove Existing Lint in the Drain
If you’re already dealing with a clogged drain from lint buildup, here are some ways to remove it:
Use a wire snake
A wire drain snake can break up mild lint clogs. Feed the snake down the drain pipe and twist it back and forth. This will scrape off any lint stuck to the walls. Run hot water afterwards to flush the loose lint out.
Disassemble the drain pipe
For more severe clogs, you may need to take apart the drain line. Place a bucket under the pipe to catch water. Then loosen the clamps holding pipe sections together using pliers. Remove each section and clean away lint using paper towels or a wet/dry vacuum. You can also try flushing the pipes with water from a hose to dislodge lint.
Use a shop vacuum
A wet/dry shop vacuum can suck out lint from the drain outlet or removed drain sections. Just be sure to empty the vacuum immediately after so lint doesn’t get blown back out the exhaust.
Flush with boiling water
Boiling water can help melt and wash away compacted lint. Allow a large pot of water to come to a full rolling boil on the stove. Then carefully pour it down the drain. Wait 10-15 minutes and then flush with more hot water to carry away dissolved lint.
Use a commercial drain cleaner
Look for a drain cleaner made specifically for sink and laundry drains. These are stronger formulas that can break down years of built up lint, soap scum, and grime clogging pipes. Let the cleaner sit for 15-30 minutes before running hot water.
When to Call a Plumber
If you try these DIY methods without success, the drain may require professional help. A plumber has powerful tools to clear even the toughest clogs. They can use high pressure water jets, drain augers, and commercial grade drain cleaners. If there is severe buildup or damage in the drain line, they may need to replace some sections of pipe.
Signs you may need professional drain cleaning include:
- Standing water in the washer that won’t drain at all, even after trying to plunge the drain.
- Lint continuing to build up rapidly even after cleaning the drain thoroughly.
- Multiple clogs that reoccur after short periods of time.
- A completely blocked pipe that cannot be cleared with a standard drain snake.
- Damaged or cracked drain lines.
Continuing to use a severely clogged washer can lead to flooded laundry rooms and costly repairs. When DIY efforts fail, call in a professional right away to get your drain fully cleared.
Prevent Future Lint Buildup
Once your drain is cleared, take action to prevent lint from quickly accumulating again:
- Use a lint catcher – Installing a mesh or magnetic lint catcher provides an easy way to keep future lint under control.
- Wash lint producers separately – Avoid washing towels, fleece, and cottons with everyday loads.
- Clean the drain monthly – Use an enzyme cleaner to wash built up gunk away before major clogs form.
- Avoid overloading the washer – Only fill the drum 2/3 full to allow fabrics to move and rinse cleanly.
Staying vigilant about lint will help ensure free flowing drains and smooth operating wash cycles for years to come.
Conclusion
Lint buildup is a common but preventable laundry issue. By incorporating simple habits like cleaning the filter, using a lint catcher, washing loads properly, and using monthly drain cleaners, you can keep lint under control. Remove existing buildup through methods like snaking, disassembling pipes, or flushing with boiling water. Call in professional help if DIY efforts cannot clear severe clogs. Implementing preventive steps will help keep your washer’s drain line clear and keep lint from going down the drain.