A washing machine that won't drain almost always has something in the drain filter or a kinked hose — both safe to check yourself with the machine unplugged.
Likely causes, ranked
- Blocked drain filter Most likely — Coins, hair clips and fluff collect at the filter at the bottom-front of the machine. This is the first check on every brand.
- Kinked or blocked drain hose Likely — The hose behind the machine can be crushed by a pushed-back machine or blocked at the standpipe.
- Failed drain pump Less likely — If the filter and hose are clear and the pump makes no sound or only hums, the pump has likely failed.
- Blocked standpipe or sink trap Less likely — If the kitchen sink also drains slowly, the shared waste pipe is the problem, not the machine.
First checks
- Unplug the machine from the wall.
- Open the filter flap at the bottom-front; lay towels and a shallow tray down.
- Unscrew the filter cap slowly and let the water out.
- Remove debris, rinse the filter, and screw it back firmly.
- Run a Drain/Spin programme and listen for the pump.
Safety
Unplug before any check. Water will come out — keep towels and a tray ready. Never open panels beyond the filter flap.
Call a professional when…
Call a professional if the drum still holds water after a clean filter and clear hose, or if you see water inside the machine's base tray (leak detection).