How to Drain a Washing Machine to Prevent Mildew and Clogs

While it's not often necessary, there are times when you might need to drain your washing machine. "Washing machines are designed that way so no water is left inside after the cycle is finished, but sometimes you need to do it," explains Megan Doser, owner and CEO at Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric.

There are five common reasons why you might need to drain your washing machine, according to Doser: a clogged drain hose that blocks water flow, a kinked hose, a jammed pump filter, a broken drain pump, or to prepare the machine for storage when not in use. 

If one of the above situations applies to you, learn how to drain your washing machine below, as well as preventative measures to keep your appliance running smoothly.

How to Locate the Drain Hose and Pump Filter

Finding the drain hose shouldn’t be too tricky, according to John Akhoian, founder of Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air. “If you’re unsure, check your machine’s user manual and confirm where it is located on your specific model before you start disconnecting things,” says Akhoian. “If you no longer have the manual, look it up online. These days, most major manufacturers have their user manuals available on their websites.”

A Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Washing Machine

Draining your washing machine should clear away lint, detergent, small debris, and lingering residue that can clog the pump or hoses over time or cause odors, notes appliance repair expert Brooke Stafford.

Here are Stafford's steps to successfully drain your washing machine: 

1. Unplug Your Appliance: This should be done before any maintenance as a safety precaution.
2. Locate the Drain Hose and Pump Filter: This may be at either the front or back of the machine. Follow Akhoian's advice above for locating yours. 
3. Prepare to Catch Water: There’s always going to be some leftover water when the drain hose is pulled out or the filter cap is removed, so grab a shallow tray or towels to place under the panel to soak up the water before you begin draining.
4. Begin Draining: Pull the drain hose out, remove the cap, and let the water flow into the tray or on the towels. If your model doesn’t have a hose, you can open the pump filter slowly to let the water out gradually.
5. Unscrew the Filter Cap: When there is no more water draining out of the machine, unscrew the filter cap completely and remove any lint, coins, or small debris caught inside the filter. 
6. Rinse the Filter: Use hot water to rinse the filter, then leave it to dry before replacing it tightly.
7. Finish Up: With the filter screwed back in, reattach the hose and close the panel before plugging the washer back in.

How to Prevent Future Maintenance Problems

The most efficient way to drain a washing machine is to prevent having to do so in the first place! To prevent washing machine clogs or leaks, follow the tips below from our experts.

• Double-Check Pockets: “Small items like loose change or hairpins can damage and block the pump,” says Stafford. You also want to avoid excessive pet hair and lint.
• Ensure There's a Direct Drainage Line: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked, crushed, or bent against the wall.
• Don't Overload on Detergent: “Too much can cause buildup and even mold,” warns Stafford. “This is also why it’s beneficial to clean the filter every four to six weeks to prevent blockages and odor.”
• Leave the Door Open: When the machine isn’t in use—and especially after a wash cycle—Stafford recommends leaving the door open to allow the interior to dry out. This will prevent any mildew from accumulating in the machine. 
• Run a Maintenance Wash: Running a monthly hot maintenance wash is a great way to flush residue. “This can be done with a machine washing cleaner solution or white vinegar and baking soda,” Stafford says. Check your manual for information on specific maintenance cycles.
• Don't Ignore Warning Signs: “Don’t ignore signs that your washing machine is leaking, such as water pooling under the machine,” Stafford says. “Always check and tighten what you can safely access, but if you suspect the issue involves internal pumps or electrical parts, call a professional for support.”

When to Call a Professional

If you're draining your machine to troubleshoot a bigger issue, the last step is always determining the cause and addressing it. If not, the water will continue to build up, and you’ll have to repeat the draining process again and again, Doser warns. 

"If you run a short drain cycle after you fix the problem and the machine drains properly, nothing more is needed," she says. "If water is still sitting in the drum after checking the drain hose and cleaning the pump filter, the problem is either a faulty drain pump, an electrical issue, or a clog in the house plumbing—and at that point, it’s time to call a professional."