Finding coins, socks, or other items stuck in your washing machine? Don’t panic. Most foreign objects can be safely removed with basic tools and a little patience. This guide shows you exactly how to locate and extract items from every part of your washer.
Where do items usually get stuck? Most foreign objects end up in the drain pump filter, trapped between the drum and outer tub, or caught in the door seal/gasket.
What’s the fastest way to remove an object? Check the drain pump filter first (bottom front of most front-loaders). This catches 70% of foreign objects and takes just 5 minutes to access.
Do I need to call a repair technician? Not usually. Most foreign objects can be removed using basic household tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and towels. Only items lodged deep inside the drum mechanism typically require professional help.
Can foreign objects damage my washing machine? Yes. Coins, bras with underwires, and small metal objects can damage the drum, pump, or drain system if left inside. Remove them as soon as you hear unusual noises.
Common items that get stuck:
- Coins and keys
- Bra underwires
- Socks and small clothing items
- Buttons and bobby pins
- Tissue paper and receipts
- Small toys and Lego pieces
Detailed Step-by-Step Removal Guide
Step 1: Identify Where the Object Is Located
Before you start disassembling anything, try to pinpoint where the item is stuck:
Listen for noises: Clunking or scraping sounds during the spin cycle usually mean something is between the inner drum and outer tub.
Check visible areas first: Look inside the drum, around the door seal, and in the detergent dispenser.
Rotate the drum manually: Unplug the machine and slowly turn the drum by hand. If it’s stiff or you hear rattling, there’s likely something lodged inside.
Step 2: Check the Drain Pump Filter (Start Here!)
The drain pump filter is the most common place for foreign objects to end up. This is your first stop.
For front-loading washers:
- Locate the small access panel at the bottom front of the machine (usually bottom right)
- Place towels on the floor to catch water spillage
- Open the panel by pulling or unscrewing it
- Place a shallow container under the filter
- Slowly turn the filter cap counterclockwise
- Let water drain out completely
- Remove the filter and check for objects
- Clear any debris, rinse the filter, and screw it back in place
For top-loading washers:
Most top-loaders don’t have an easily accessible filter. You’ll need to access the pump from the bottom or back of the machine (see Step 5).
Step 3: Inspect the Door Seal/Gasket
The rubber door seal on front-loaders is a notorious trap for small items.
- Open the washing machine door fully
- Pull back the rubber seal carefully
- Run your fingers around the entire circumference of the seal
- Check both the outer fold and inner fold
- Remove any items, lint, or debris you find
- Wipe the seal clean with a damp cloth
Pro tip: Small items like coins often hide in the bottom fold of the seal where water pools.
Step 4: Access Items Between the Drum and Tub
If the object is making noise but isn’t in the filter or seal, it’s likely fallen between the inner drum and outer tub.
The drum hole method (easiest):
- Unplug the washing machine
- Remove all clothing and look inside the drum
- Locate the holes in the drum (where water drains through)
- Slowly rotate the drum by hand until you see or hear the object near a hole
- Use long-nose pliers, a bent wire hanger, or a flexible grabber tool to fish out the item through the drum hole
- Keep rotating and trying different holes until you retrieve the object
The heating element method (for front-loaders):
Many front-loaders allow you to remove the heating element to access the space between drums:
- Unplug the machine and turn off water supply
- Pull the machine away from the wall
- Remove the back or front panel (usually 4-6 screws)
- Locate the heating element at the bottom of the outer tub
- Disconnect the electrical wires (take a photo first)
- Unscrew the heating element retaining nut
- Carefully pull out the heating element
- Reach into the opening and retrieve the foreign object
- Reinstall the heating element, reconnect wires, and replace the panel
Step 5: Check the Drain Pump Directly
If you’ve checked everywhere else, the object might be in the pump itself.
- Unplug the machine and turn off water
- Tip the machine back slightly or lay it on its side (have someone help)
- Access the pump from underneath (may need to remove a bottom panel)
- Place towels underneath to catch water
- Locate the drain pump (usually has hoses attached)
- Remove the hose clamp and detach the drain hose
- Check inside the pump housing for objects
- Remove any debris
- Reattach everything securely
Step 6: The Agitator Trick (Top-Loaders Only)
For top-loading machines, small items sometimes slip under the agitator.
- Unplug the machine
- Remove the fabric softener dispenser if your agitator has one
- Look for a bolt or cap at the top center of the agitator
- Remove the bolt (usually requires a socket wrench)
- Pull the agitator straight up (may need some force)
- Check underneath for trapped items
- Replace the agitator and secure it
Prevention Tips: Keep Foreign Objects Out
Empty all pockets: Check every pocket before loading clothes. This is the number one cause of foreign objects in washers.
Use mesh laundry bags: Put small items, delicates, and anything with straps in mesh bags.
Zip up zippers and fasten hooks: Bra hooks and zipper pulls can break off and cause damage.
Button all buttons: Loose buttons can pop off during washing.
Shake out clothing: Give each item a quick shake before loading to dislodge loose items.
Check the drum before starting: Make it a habit to peek inside the drum before adding clothes.
Install a lint trap: Some washers allow you to add an external lint trap to the drain hose.
When to Call a Professional
While most foreign objects can be removed at home, some situations require expert help:
- You hear grinding noises but can’t locate the object after checking all accessible areas
- The drum won’t rotate at all
- You’ve removed panels but can’t identify parts safely
- Water is leaking after you’ve reassembled everything
- The object is visible but completely wedged in place
- You’re uncomfortable working with electrical components
Average repair cost: Professional removal of foreign objects typically costs $100-$200, much less than replacing a damaged pump or drum.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if something is stuck in my washing machine? Listen for unusual rattling, clunking, or grinding noises during the wash or spin cycle. You might also notice poor drainage, the drum not spinning properly, or error codes on digital displays.
Can a sock really damage my washing machine? While a sock alone won’t usually cause damage, it can block the drain pump and prevent proper drainage. Wet socks can also get wrapped around the pump impeller, burning out the motor.
What’s the weird smell in my washing machine? If you smell burning rubber or plastic, a foreign object may be rubbing against moving parts. Musty smells usually indicate mold in the seal or drum, not foreign objects.
My washing machine is making a scraping sound, what is it? This is typically a coin, underwire, or metal button caught between the inner drum and outer tub. Stop using the machine immediately and locate the object before it damages the drum or pump.
How often should I check the drain filter? Check and clean your drain filter every 1-3 months, even if nothing is stuck. Regular maintenance prevents blockages and keeps your machine running efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Removing foreign objects from your washing machine is usually a straightforward DIY task that can save you the cost of a service call. Start with the easiest access points (drain filter and door seal) before moving to more complex procedures. Remember to always unplug your machine before attempting any repairs, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re unsure about any step.
Keep your washing machine running smoothly by making pocket-checking a pre-wash ritual, and you’ll avoid most foreign object problems altogether. A few seconds of prevention is worth hours of retrieval effort.
Have you successfully removed a foreign object from your washing machine? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!