Washing machine drain clogged? Here’s how to fix it
4 September 2025
A clogged washing machine drain is hard to miss. Water stays behind in the drum or the drain overflows during a cycle. It’s annoying and can even cause leaks or water damage. The good news: you can usually solve it yourself with a few simple steps.
Common causes of a clogged washing machine drain
Most washing machine drains clog because of a buildup of detergent, lint and dirt. Hair and limescale stick to the pipes, making it harder for water to flow away. Sometimes a coin or button sneaks in and causes a blockage. Incorrect use of the drain hose can also be the problem. If the hose is pushed too far into the drain or gets kinked, the water flow is blocked. Using too much detergent makes things worse, as foam and soap residue quickly build up inside the pipe.
So how do you clear the drain again? Below are 6 practical tips.
Tip 1: Check the drain hose and its position
Start with the hose. Make sure it’s not kinked and still firmly attached. A blocked hose stops water from draining properly. Hang the hose straight and secure it in place. Never insert it more than 15 centimetres (about 6 inches) into the standpipe. This prevents overflow.
Tip 2: Flush the drain with hot water
One of the simplest fixes is hot water. Boil a kettle and carefully pour the water into the drain, preferably with a funnel to avoid splashing. Do this in small amounts of half to one litre at a time. The hot water dissolves soap residue and flushes away loose dirt. Repeat if the water still drains slowly.
Tip 3: Use baking soda and vinegar for stubborn dirt
Still clogged? Try baking soda and vinegar. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of baking soda into the drain, then slowly pour in a glass of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and loosen grease and grime. Leave it for about 15 minutes, then flush again with boiling water. It’s an inexpensive and eco-friendly way to clean your drain.
Tip 4: Clean the filter
Sometimes the clog isn’t in the pipe but in the machine itself. The filter collects lint, hair and small objects. Place a towel or tray under the filter cover, unscrew it and remove the dirt. Rinse the filter under the tap and screw it back in place.
Tip 5: Try a drain snake for persistent blockages
If the steps above don’t work, use a drain snake. Carefully feed it into the pipe while turning it. If you feel resistance, twist gently to loosen the dirt. Pull it back out and flush the drain with hot water again. Don’t push too hard, to avoid damaging the pipe.
Tip 6: Chemical cleaners only as a last resort
There are chemical drain cleaners that dissolve clogs. Use them only if nothing else works. They are harsh and may damage your pipes. Always follow the instructions and avoid using them too often.
What if the drain is still clogged?
If nothing works, the blockage is probably deeper in the system. At that point, it’s best to call a plumber. This way you avoid damaging your pipes and get the problem solved at its source.
How to prevent a clogged washing machine drain
Prevention is easier than fixing a blockage. Keep these habits in mind:
- Never use more detergent than recommended. Excess foam leaves residue behind.
- Clean the filter every few weeks to stop lint and dirt from building up.
- Run a hot wash cycle once a month without laundry. The heat rinses away soap residue and bacteria.
- Check the drain hose regularly for kinks or wear and replace it if needed.
No more worries about a clogged drain? Rent a Homie washing machine
Does your washing machine drain keep clogging or do you often deal with repairs? It might be time to consider another solution. With Homie, you can rent a washing machine without large upfront costs. Maintenance and repairs are included, so you’ll never face unexpected bills. That way you always have a reliable machine at home.