How to remove something stuck in washing machine
Start by checking the pump filter – small objects often find their way there. If the drum is making a scraping noise, check for a bra underwire poking through a drum hole. For coins or keys causing scraping, check the sump hose before considering stripping the machine down. Always unplug the machine before any investigation.
If something has been left in a pocket and found its way inside the washing machine – between the inner and outer drum – it may need to be removed before the machine is used again. This guide covers how to approach the problem, from the simplest checks through to more involved access methods.
Before Starting – Assess What Is Stuck
Not everything that finds its way into the drum needs to be immediately removed. Consider what the object is and what it could do:
- Something flimsy – unlikely to cause damage to the drum. The worst outcome is it eventually reaches the pump filter and causes a blockage. This is inconvenient but relatively easy to fix via the pump filter.
- Something substantial – coins, keys, or other hard metal objects can punch a hole through a plastic outer drum or crack it. These should be removed before the machine is used again.
- No noise heard – if the machine is running without any scraping or knocking, check the pump filter first. Many objects find their way there without causing drum damage.
If a scraping noise is present when the drum turns, confirm the noise is coming from the drum and not a motor fault by removing the drive belt temporarily and turning the drum by hand.
Ensure all water has drained before disconnecting any hoses.
Bra Underwires
The most common object to cause a persistent scraping noise when the drum turns is a bra underwire. Underwires are less likely to punch through a plastic drum than solid metal objects, but they can cause leaks by working into the front plate seal, and commonly get stuck in the sump hose and pump filter – where they snag fabric fibres until a blockage forms.
How to Find a Bra Underwire
Open the door and inspect all the holes in the inner drum very carefully by eye and by feel. A millimetre of the wire end may be just visible protruding through one of the holes – it can be extremely hard to spot on a normal look. If found, it can sometimes be pulled back through the hole with a pair of pliers.
If it has made its way to the pump filter, it can usually be retrieved by removing the pump filter.
Accessing the Sump Hose
If the obstruction cannot be found by inspecting the drum holes or pump filter, the next step is to access the sump hose – the black concertina hose that runs from the bottom of the outer tub to the water pump. Objects often end up here or just above it.
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Remove the back panel of the machine. On machines with a small inspection plate rather than a full back panel, lay the machine on its front to access the sump hose from underneath.
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Place a bath towel under the area – there is always some water remaining in the sump hose.
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Disconnect the sump hose at the tub end and pull it away from the outer tub.
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Look carefully inside the hose and feel through the hole in the bottom of the tub. An underwire may be here, possibly trapped near or under the heating element.
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If nothing is found, tip the machine back and forth gently – the object may slide to the hole where it can be reached.
Removing a Drum Paddle to Access the Outer Tub
Washing machines usually have three plastic drum paddles (lifters). On some models, one or more of these can be removed to gain access to the bottom of the outer tub.
Look for a hole on the top of the paddle that is slightly larger than the others. Inserting a small screwdriver into this hole and pressing down should release a tab, allowing the paddle to slide back and off. This method is common on Hotpoint and Indesit machines, though not all models allow paddle removal.
Make sure the metal tab is clipped back into place. A paddle that comes loose mid-wash will cause serious damage. If a paddle breaks or cannot be refitted, the machine cannot be used until it is replaced. Check availability: washing machine drum paddle (lifter) replacements.
Access via the Dispenser Hose or Heating Element
If the obstruction appears to be trapped in the middle of the drum area, there are two further access options – though both are more involved:
- Dispenser hose opening – the hole where the dispenser hose connects to the outer drum (where water and detergent enters from the soap drawer) may allow access to an obstruction with a flexible tool or wire.
- Removing the heating element – sometimes an underwire becomes mangled and trapped on or around the heater. Removing the element can allow access. This is only recommended as a last resort, as the heater must be correctly relocated under its retaining bracket when refitted – an incorrectly fitted heater can be dislodged during spin, causing a flood. See: how to remove a washing machine heater.
If Nothing Works – Sealed Outer Tubs
If none of the above methods locate the obstruction, the only remaining option is to strip the machine down. Unfortunately, an increasing number of washing machines – particularly budget models – are manufactured with sealed outer tubs that cannot be split open for internal access. On these machines, removing a trapped object or carrying out internal repairs becomes impossible without specialist equipment. This is a significant design limitation worth considering when buying a new machine.
Need professional help?
Frequently Asked Questions
Something is stuck in my washing machine drum – what should I do first?
First assess what the object is. If it is flimsy and causing no noise or damage, checking the pump filter periodically may be all that is needed. If it is hard and causing a scraping noise, unplug the machine and check the drum holes carefully by eye and feel. Then check the sump hose before considering stripping the machine down.
How do I remove a bra underwire from a washing machine drum?
Open the door and inspect each drum hole carefully, including by feel. A tiny amount of the wire may be protruding through a hole and can be pulled out with pliers. If it cannot be found in the drum, check the pump filter – underwires commonly travel there and can usually be retrieved through the filter access point.
Can coins or keys write off a washing machine?
Yes – modern washing machines have plastic outer drums, and hard metal objects spinning at speed can punch a hole through the plastic or cause serious cracking. The inner drum, heating element, and front plates can also be damaged. If coins or keys are stuck in the drum area, the machine should not be used until they are removed.
68 Comments
Grouped into 53 comment threads.
0 replies If the washing machine has been rumbling and noisy on spin for a while then the bearings could have collapsed but if it's just happened all of a sudden something could be jammed in the drum. If the article doesn't help call an engineer.
0 replies I have Hoover Washer Dryer 1100 Soft wave. After the last wash being completed and took the clothes out, I tried to rotate the drum by hand and noticed it's very hard to do so. The drum rotates almost half rotation and stuck unless I apply a lot of force to rotate it. I removed the belt and the case is still the same. Do you think that's due to something is stuck between the two pieces of the drum or the bearings of the drum? If so, how to remove the materials trapped? Many thanks
I have Hoover Washer Dryer 1100 Soft wave. After the last wash being completed and took the clothes out, I tried to rotate the drum by hand and noticed it’s very hard to do so. The drum rotates almost half rotation and stuck unless I apply a lot of force to rotate it. I removed the belt and the case is still the same. Do you think that’s due to something is stuck between the two pieces of the drum or the bearings of the drum? If so, how to remove the materials trapped?
Many thanks
1 reply Hi.. so one of the pads from a sports bra seems to have somehow manage to end up between the inner and outer drum. I can actually see it at the bottom through the holes in the inner drum. Not sure the sump hose method would work here - any suggestions what else I can do (without having to take the washing machine apart?!) Tips greatly appreciated.. Thanks!
Hi.. so one of the pads from a sports bra seems to have somehow manage to end up between the inner and outer drum. I can actually see it at the bottom through the holes in the inner drum. Not sure the sump hose method would work here – any suggestions what else I can do (without having to take the washing machine apart?!) Tips greatly appreciated.. Thanks!
Likely replying to Sami
Hi Sami, everything I can think of is in my article. If it was me I’d remove the sump hose and try to hook it over to the hole using an old wire coat hanger. You could use someone with a torch and head in drum to guide you to it.
If it’s a soft pad it is likely to eventually get sucked into the pump filter where it can be easily retrieved. However, it will cause the washer to get stuck full of water which can be tricky to deal with but I have an article here – Washing machine stuck full of water
0 replies thank you! just saved me a bunch of stress, sweat, time and money. pesky underwires.
thank you! just saved me a bunch of stress, sweat, time and money. pesky underwires.
0 replies If you can't work it loose by pulling and turning the drum at the same time it may well need stripping down if it is even possible to strip it down as many modern washing machines have sealed tubs now.
If you can’t work it loose by pulling and turning the drum at the same time it may well need stripping down if it is even possible to strip it down as many modern washing machines have sealed tubs now.
0 replies Hi I have a small dog chain in my front loader, half is stuck under tub part, other half hanging out front, is there anything I can do? Thank you
Hi I have a small dog chain in my front loader, half is stuck under tub part, other half hanging out front, is there anything I can do? Thank you
0 replies Thank you so much for the clear instructions. Bra wire now removed and problem solved.
Thank you so much for the clear instructions. Bra wire now removed and problem solved.
1 reply We removed a bra wire from our electrolux front loader, it wasn't causing any issues, just lying in the drain line. So we removed the rubber drain thingy, took out the wire, put it back on, tightened it up, now it's LEAKING!!! What happened?! What did we do wrong?? Please help!!
We removed a bra wire from our electrolux front loader, it wasn’t causing any issues, just lying in the drain line. So we removed the rubber drain thingy, took out the wire, put it back on, tightened it up, now it’s LEAKING!!! What happened?! What did we do wrong??
Please help!!
Likely replying to Stumped
Hello stumped. I’m assuming you mean the pump filter. If you remove the pump filter to unblock or clean it but it leaks when you put it back the only thing you can do is remove it again and thoroughly clean around all the rubber and try refitting it. If it didn’t leak before but it does now then either something is interfering with the seal, or it’s not refitted properly.
1 reply Im an older woman living on my own & I'm missing a sock but there is no scratching or noise from the drum & it turns perfectly works perfectly well so my question is would my sock have passed right through the machine into the drain outside
Im an older woman living on my own & I’m missing a sock but there is no scratching or noise from the drum & it turns perfectly works perfectly well so my question is would my sock have passed right through the machine into the drain outside
Likely replying to Debbie
Hello Debbie. It would be rare for a sock to cause any noise. A sock can’t make it through the pump but pump filters are designed to catch obstructions so check your pump filter. If it isn’t there it must be somewhere inside the machine (assuming it IS in the machine and not somewhere else of course) and there’s not much you can do except either try to track it down using my article above (for front loaders) or get an engineer, or wait to see if it moves into the pump filter. If a sock gets into the pump filter though it will usually stop the washing machine from pumping the water out.
0 replies 4 inch finish nail!...located, pulled out, sprung hole sufficiently convinced back into place...THANK YOU for guidance, encouragement, & cautions.
4 inch finish nail!…located, pulled out, sprung hole sufficiently convinced back into place…THANK YOU for guidance, encouragement, & cautions.
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0 replies Thank you for your instructions. Have managed to remove a stray inner sole via the sump hose, had to tip the machine backwards and forwards a few times and then hey presto there it was. Thanks again :)
Thank you for your instructions. Have managed to remove a stray inner sole via the sump hose, had to tip the machine backwards and forwards a few times and then hey presto there it was. Thanks again :)
0 replies Felt round inner drum for wire poking out -now removed- many thanks for your advise. would have cost £'s from AEG
Felt round inner drum for wire poking out -now removed- many thanks for your advise.
would have cost £’s from AEG
1 reply Hi I have a Hotpoint BHWD149 which has been operating perfectly fine until my daughter noticed a wire missing from her bra upon wash cycle finish . First it clanged on spin then grated now nothing .. I've removed the lifters checked the pump filter and no offending item. Should I leave it or try investigating further ? Help
Hi I have a Hotpoint BHWD149 which has been operating perfectly fine until my daughter noticed a wire missing from her bra upon wash cycle finish . First it clanged on spin then grated now nothing .. I’ve removed the lifters checked the pump filter and no offending item. Should I leave it or try investigating further ? Help
Likely replying to sharon
Hello Sharon. You should at least check to see if it has made its way into the pump filter as described in the article above. After that, if all symptoms have stopped it might be better to just see how it goes. Sooner or later it could cause problems so it is better out than in but at the same time it can be very troublesome and could cause more problems trying to find it. It is possible for them to jam or fall somewhere out of harms way and not cause any more trouble but it is also possible for them to break in half, and snag on laundry causing tears if it lies underneath the revolving drum or if it goes into the pump filter or sump hose it can start snagging linked and bits of cotton from the wash which could eventually build up into enough to cause a blockage.
0 replies Have removed the offending item.........it was a bra wire.
Have removed the offending item………it was a bra wire.
0 replies Don't forget there are other methods of removing an object which can be successful as described in my article but unless really keen to delve inside it may be better to get a professional yes.
Don’t forget there are other methods of removing an object which can be successful as described in my article but unless really keen to delve inside it may be better to get a professional yes.
1 reply It can be difficult to work out how to get the drum paddles out, or even if they are designed to come off. They are not designed for customers to take off so the knowledge is usually only given to engineers. All I can say is that some will come off, and some won't. If they are designed to come off they usually use the same trick, and that is that one of the holes is often larger than the others, and if you insert a small screwdriver in there you can sometimes press down on clip and slide the drum paddle off. As you rightly point out, if you aren't careful you could break one so do be careful. If it has drum paddles that are not replaceable and one breaks you may well have just written off your machine because many modern washing machines have completely sealed tubs and you cannot strip them down to repair anything inside. Another tip is to check to see if a new drum paddle is available for your model. If it is, then clearly it is designed to come off. However, this doesn't guarantee that they can be removed from inside the drum. It is technically possible for some to be designed to be only removed with the drum taken out of the machine. If you check on the new washing machine drum lifter
It can be difficult to work out how to get the drum paddles out, or even if they are designed to come off. They are not designed for customers to take off so the knowledge is usually only given to engineers. All I can say is that some will come off, and some won’t. If they are designed to come off they usually use the same trick, and that is that one of the holes is often larger than the others, and if you insert a small screwdriver in there you can sometimes press down on clip and slide the drum paddle off. As you rightly point out, if you aren’t careful you could break one so do be careful. If it has drum paddles that are not replaceable and one breaks you may well have just written off your machine because many modern washing machines have completely sealed tubs and you cannot strip them down to repair anything inside.
Another tip is to check to see if a new drum paddle is available for your model. If it is, then clearly it is designed to come off. However, this doesn’t guarantee that they can be removed from inside the drum. It is technically possible for some to be designed to be only removed with the drum taken out of the machine. If you check on the new washing machine drum lifter
0 replies We have something stuck in our AEG L75480WD. Do you know if I can take off one of the paddles to fish out the offending item? I don't want to force it off and find you've got to take the whole thing apart to reinstall it. Thanks!
We have something stuck in our AEG L75480WD. Do you know if I can take off one of the paddles to fish out the offending item? I don’t want to force it off and find you’ve got to take the whole thing apart to reinstall it.
Thanks!
0 replies Coins can cause horrible noises on spin and cause a lot of damage, they tend to get thrown around and the noise can come and go. If they fall into the sump hose and get into the pump they can make a grinding noise when it empties the water.
Coins can cause horrible noises on spin and cause a lot of damage, they tend to get thrown around and the noise can come and go. If they fall into the sump hose and get into the pump they can make a grinding noise when it empties the water.
0 replies My washing machine makes a loud noise when trying to start then the lid lock goes on then off and the machine locks! We have tried replacing the motor and a few other parts! I noticed a coin stuck at the bottom of the washer but then it disappeared! Do you think this could be the problem? If so is it a major repair? My washing machine is only 5 years old!
My washing machine makes a loud noise when trying to start then the lid lock goes on then off and the machine locks! We have tried replacing the motor and a few other parts! I noticed a coin stuck at the bottom of the washer but then it disappeared! Do you think this could be the problem? If so is it a major repair? My washing machine is only 5 years old!
0 replies Thanks so much, didn't know where to start until I read this, a two inch screw removed via filter and a fully operational washing machine now.
Thanks so much, didn’t know where to start until I read this, a two inch screw removed via filter and a fully operational washing machine now.
0 replies thanks lots - really helpful Zanussi ZWD 1271W Shower cap got stuck between inner and outer drum, it had caught in the "sump" (the black rubber outlet at the bottom that goes to the filter i think). Followed your instructions... specifically Disconnect water and power; took top off with just 2 screws at back (KEEP SEPARATE THEY ARE DIFFERENT); unclipped the white section that houses the electric wire access, it detaches from the back so you don't have to disconnect the wire); Removed back (TAKE THE SIDE SCREWS OUT FIRST AND KEEP SEPARATE THEY ARE DIFFERENT... there is a little white plastic plug over the side screws which are easy to remove); there is a screw into the mother housing at the top as well KEEP SEPARATE AS DIFFERENT; there are 2 black rubber sumps attached with screw clips; the back one has very little access so i would try the front one first, just with the large part not the smaller part; Removed the swim cap; reattached the black rubber sump (!) BUT be careful you really have to push it well and get your fingers around the front of it and force it upwards, i felt it suddenly 'pop' into place; then retighten the screw clip around it so that absolutely secure; then replaced the back starting with the back screws, finally last was motor screw and then the side screws (be careful to keep the electric section clear when replacing); reclined the electric section into place; then replaced the top (you PLACE IT ON TOP ABOUT 1-2cm behind where it goes and gently slide it forward the last bit, it is very smooth and easy, then screw it into place). all done I ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANYONE TRYING THIS THEMSELVES AND CANT BE SURE WHAT I DID WAS RIGHT - BUT IT WORKED FOR ME AND THE MACHINE RUNS JUST FINE WITH NO LEAKS.
thanks lots – really helpful
Zanussi ZWD 1271W
Shower cap got stuck between inner and outer drum, it had caught in the “sump” (the black rubber outlet at the bottom that goes to the filter i think).
Followed your instructions… specifically
Disconnect water and power; took top off with just 2 screws at back (KEEP SEPARATE THEY ARE DIFFERENT); unclipped the white section that houses the electric wire access, it detaches from the back so you don’t have to disconnect the wire);
Removed back (TAKE THE SIDE SCREWS OUT FIRST AND KEEP SEPARATE THEY ARE DIFFERENT… there is a little white plastic plug over the side screws which are easy to remove); there is a screw into the mother housing at the top as well KEEP SEPARATE AS DIFFERENT; there are 2 black rubber sumps attached with screw clips; the back one has very little access so i would try the front one first, just with the large part not the smaller part;
Removed the swim cap; reattached the black rubber sump (!) BUT be careful you really have to push it well and get your fingers around the front of it and force it upwards, i felt it suddenly ‘pop’ into place; then retighten the screw clip around it so that absolutely secure; then replaced the back starting with the back screws, finally last was motor screw and then the side screws (be careful to keep the electric section clear when replacing); reclined the electric section into place; then replaced the top (you PLACE IT ON TOP ABOUT 1-2cm behind where it goes and gently slide it forward the last bit, it is very smooth and easy, then screw it into place).
all done
I ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANYONE TRYING THIS THEMSELVES AND CANT BE SURE WHAT I DID WAS RIGHT – BUT IT WORKED FOR ME AND THE MACHINE RUNS JUST FINE WITH NO LEAKS.
1 reply i also hear a clicking noise when i turn the drum from side to side. It is a front loader. I cant remember if i usually hear this noise or not. It is a pretty sharp metallic click like a coin. Is there a normal metallic clicking sound when rocking the drum from side to side or do i have a coin in there somewhere? advice is greatly appreciated as these machines do not come cheap.
i also hear a clicking noise when i turn the drum from side to side. It is a front loader. I cant remember if i usually hear this noise or not. It is a pretty sharp metallic click like a coin. Is there a normal metallic clicking sound when rocking the drum from side to side or do i have a coin in there somewhere? advice is greatly appreciated as these machines do not come cheap.
Likely replying to keith
Hello Keith. There shouldn’t be any clicking noise. You need to remove the drive belt to make sure the clicking noise isn’t coming from the motor because when you turn the drum you’re turning both the drum and the motor. Clicking noises are more often bra wires. A coin would normally drop to the bottom and not cause noise when simply turning the drum but may cause horrendous noise on spin (unless by any chance it is trapped in an unusual place where the drum is catching on it). A coin would also normally put dents in the drum which should be visible.
1 reply Hi! I was just wondering whether a key can be stuck in a washing machine without notice for a few months and then stop it from completely draining in the end? I just found a key which I have never seen clock up the system and is confusing me a bit...
Hi! I was just wondering whether a key can be stuck in a washing machine without notice for a few months and then stop it from completely draining in the end? I just found a key which I have never seen clock up the system and is confusing me a bit…
Likely replying to Jazz
Hello jazz. Yes it’s possible fallen obstruction to get inside the machine and not cause any noise or problems until later. Something like a key could get wedged underneath the heating element, or simply go inside the sump hose and cause no symptoms at all. Later on it could shift somewhere, maybe after a particularly vigourous shake about with a heavy load, and relocate elsewhere where it could cause noise or block the pump, or it could slowly attract strands of linen and build up a blockage.
0 replies Thanks for the reply! I shall give it a go! x
Thanks for the reply! I shall give it a go! x
0 replies Oh dear, sounds very messy. The only way to get access to inside the drum without taking it out is through the small hole at the bottom where the sump hose attaches or if one of the drum paddles can be removed. However, unless it's clear they can be removed I wouldn't mess trying to take a drum paddle out because if it breaks you could be in trouble if they don't supply them as replacements. The sump hose method is described in my article above but it will only allow very restricted access to the area around it and unless something is jammed around the hole in the bottom of the tub you won't be able to see much. It's worth taking off the sump hose and checking though in case a clump is stuck inside the sump hose and check the pump filter too. After that the only thing you can do is repeated rinse and spin cycles with no laundry inside and regular checks of the pump filter. They must eventually run out.
Oh dear, sounds very messy. The only way to get access to inside the drum without taking it out is through the small hole at the bottom where the sump hose attaches or if one of the drum paddles can be removed. However, unless it’s clear they can be removed I wouldn’t mess trying to take a drum paddle out because if it breaks you could be in trouble if they don’t supply them as replacements.
The sump hose method is described in my article above but it will only allow very restricted access to the area around it and unless something is jammed around the hole in the bottom of the tub you won’t be able to see much. It’s worth taking off the sump hose and checking though in case a clump is stuck inside the sump hose and check the pump filter too.
After that the only thing you can do is repeated rinse and spin cycles with no laundry inside and regular checks of the pump filter. They must eventually run out.
0 replies hmmm..... well I have stupidly put a front door mat in the machine... which has now filled it with the tiny bristles :( I've done loads of empty washes, and have taken lots and lots of bristles out which are then left in the bottom of the drum, but there is a whole clump of them under the drum which are just feeding into every wash I do. The tumble drier spins a lot of them out of the clothes, but they're certainly still there. Lesson one, I will never, ever do that again. Is there was way to get under the drum? I am not overly handy, but cannot stand putting these things out of my clothes any longer! It's a Becko WM5100k if thats any help? Thank you in advance!
hmmm….. well I have stupidly put a front door mat in the machine… which has now filled it with the tiny bristles :( I’ve done loads of empty washes, and have taken lots and lots of bristles out which are then left in the bottom of the drum, but there is a whole clump of them under the drum which are just feeding into every wash I do. The tumble drier spins a lot of them out of the clothes, but they’re certainly still there. Lesson one, I will never, ever do that again. Is there was way to get under the drum? I am not overly handy, but cannot stand putting these things out of my clothes any longer! It’s a Becko WM5100k if thats any help?
Thank you in advance!
1 reply brilliant...wife thought she had broke the washer....found the offending wire...wife didnt even notice she was lopsided haha
1 reply I dropped a small rag in between the two tubs while cleaning. I am scared to use the washer I tried a rinse and it worked. Do u think it will block the draining of washes?
I dropped a small rag in between the two tubs while cleaning. I am scared to use the washer I tried a rinse and it worked. Do u think it will block the draining of washes?
Likely replying to Tag
Hello Tag, it’s likely to sooner or later. It could get caught on the heating element or somewhere, but even then eventually it would rot into small bits which would break away and end up in the pump though that could take a long time and you might not even have the machine by then. You could leave it and deal with it if it stops full of water in the future, or you could try to find it using the advice in my article.
0 replies Good work Brian and thanks for sharing. Removing the heating element can be tricky but you were probably lucky the machine was so new so the rubber on the element seal wasn't too distorted or gone hard. Bra under-wires love to get snagged on the heating element.
Good work Brian and thanks for sharing. Removing the heating element can be tricky but you were probably lucky the machine was so new so the rubber on the element seal wasn’t too distorted or gone hard. Bra under-wires love to get snagged on the heating element.
0 replies I just removed a bra underwire from between the drum and outer tub by removing the heating element. This was on a Beko 714422. The tub is a plastic sealed one piece item and the sump hose is located at the front of the tub whilst the scraping noise seemed to be coming from the back of the drum, so I didn't bother trying the sump hose route and also the screw on the jubilee clip securing the hose wasn't accessible from the back panel so removing the sump hose would have meant possibly taking the whole front of the machine off. The paddles inside the drum didn't seem to be removable at all either. I thought I was screwed but then I noticed the oval plate securing the element into the tub and thought it was worth a go as the scraping noise when turning the drum by hand seemed to be coming from around the same place. So I disconnected the wires to the element (after making sure the machine was unplugged of course), undid the 10mm nut and carefully withdrew the element and rubber bung and sat there in the trough where the element lives was a slightly rusty bra underwire which I hooked out with a screwdriver. The machine is only 2 months old but I didn't want to call Beko as I'm sure the warranty wouldn't have covered bra underwire sabotage and I probably would have ended up with a substantial bill for call out and repair! So, popping the heating element out is definitely worth a go!
I just removed a bra underwire from between the drum and outer tub by removing the heating element. This was on a Beko 714422. The tub is a plastic sealed one piece item and the sump hose is located at the front of the tub whilst the scraping noise seemed to be coming from the back of the drum, so I didn’t bother trying the sump hose route and also the screw on the jubilee clip securing the hose wasn’t accessible from the back panel so removing the sump hose would have meant possibly taking the whole front of the machine off. The paddles inside the drum didn’t seem to be removable at all either.
I thought I was screwed but then I noticed the oval plate securing the element into the tub and thought it was worth a go as the scraping noise when turning the drum by hand seemed to be coming from around the same place. So I disconnected the wires to the element (after making sure the machine was unplugged of course), undid the 10mm nut and carefully withdrew the element and rubber bung and sat there in the trough where the element lives was a slightly rusty bra underwire which I hooked out with a screwdriver. The machine is only 2 months old but I didn’t want to call Beko as I’m sure the warranty wouldn’t have covered bra underwire sabotage and I probably would have ended up with a substantial bill for call out and repair! So, popping the heating element out is definitely worth a go!
0 replies A big thank you for your advice. A loud scraping noise was coming from between the drums. On first inspection I could not see anything. I took your advice and looked more closely using a torch and feeling all the holes. Lo and behold, a tiny piece of a bra wire was poking through. It had a plastic end and this stopped it going all the way through. It was flush with the hole but as I rotated the drum it emerged slightly and just enough for me to grip. Once again, thank you very much.
A big thank you for your advice. A loud scraping noise was coming from between the drums. On first inspection I could not see anything. I took your advice and looked more closely using a torch and feeling all the holes. Lo and behold, a tiny piece of a bra wire was poking through. It had a plastic end and this stopped it going all the way through. It was flush with the hole but as I rotated the drum it emerged slightly and just enough for me to grip. Once again, thank you very much.
0 replies This was brilliant - thank you! Underwire successfully removed by relatively newly single mum of 2. In three months I have repaired my oven and now washing machine thanks to google and sites like these. My father is suitably impressed :-)
This was brilliant – thank you! Underwire successfully removed by relatively newly single mum of 2. In three months I have repaired my oven and now washing machine thanks to google and sites like these.
My father is suitably impressed :-)
0 replies Excellent instructions! Offending bra wire removed - thanks!
Excellent instructions! Offending bra wire removed – thanks!
0 replies No Leanne, just think how much thumping about they do on spin with a full load. Just don't turn it upside down :)
No Leanne, just think how much thumping about they do on spin with a full load. Just don’t turn it upside down :)
0 replies We have a whirlpool cabrio (just a few months old), I don't understand how my daughter's necklace got caught between the drums but it did. We took off back panel and removed hose but cannot locate necklace. My husband is afraid if we shake the machine around too much it will mess with the drums and make the machine off balance. Is that probable?
We have a whirlpool cabrio (just a few months old), I don’t understand how my daughter’s necklace got caught between the drums but it did. We took off back panel and removed hose but cannot locate necklace. My husband is afraid if we shake the machine around too much it will mess with the drums and make the machine off balance. Is that probable?
1 reply Interesting, recently daughter 1 was set to order new machine because existing Indesit was exhibiting some of the above symptoms. After a couple of hours messing about I discovered, via the inlet port, a wood screw jammed between inner & outer drums. Impossible to budge despite using every plier & wrench known to mankind ! On the verge of giving up I gave the drum one last vicious turn, a loud crunch ensued & the screw fell out destination unknown. Machine still noise-free & functioning. So ...... When yesterday daughter 2 reported similar with Electrolux, I approached problem with mild optimism, foolish me. This machine is designed for maximum inaccessibility, however managed to open up inlet/outlet ports, nothing visible. Tried to remove drum paddle from inside drum, no success. Is it likely that the paddle is secured beneath by screw accessed via outlet port? Any suggestions gratefully received
Interesting, recently daughter 1 was set to order new machine because existing Indesit was exhibiting some of the above symptoms. After a couple of hours messing about I discovered, via the inlet port, a wood screw jammed between inner & outer drums. Impossible to budge despite using every plier & wrench known to mankind ! On the verge of giving up I gave the drum one last vicious turn, a loud crunch ensued & the screw fell out destination unknown. Machine still noise-free & functioning.
So …… When yesterday daughter 2 reported similar with Electrolux, I approached problem with mild optimism, foolish me. This machine is designed for maximum inaccessibility, however managed to open up inlet/outlet ports, nothing visible. Tried to remove drum paddle from inside drum, no success. Is it likely that the paddle is secured beneath by screw accessed via outlet port? Any suggestions gratefully received
Likely replying to Dave
Hello Dave: Yes some are screwed in from the other side of the drum and could only be accessed with the drum stripped but many washers now have sealed outer drums so you can’t even take the drum out. Only suggestion is to see if anything is accessible from underneath by removing the sump hose and looking up through the bottom of the outer drum. Also, have a look on Spares4Appliances to see if you can see a picture of a new spare part for that model. Sometimes photos of the new part can indicate how they fit.
0 replies Eddie: It could be, sometimes the drum can catch on the back of the door seal too. To investigate this I'd disconnect the washer from the mains, take off the drive belt and make sure it's not touching the drum pulley at the back and turn the drum by hand to see if the problem is still there and to see if I can work out what it's catching on. Check the drum isn't catching on the door seal too.
Eddie: It could be, sometimes the drum can catch on the back of the door seal too. To investigate this I’d disconnect the washer from the mains, take off the drive belt and make sure it’s not touching the drum pulley at the back and turn the drum by hand to see if the problem is still there and to see if I can work out what it’s catching on. Check the drum isn’t catching on the door seal too.
0 replies The inner drum on my Hoover machine seems to be sticking although it still turn, the machine is struggling. The noise is a squeeking like it's jamming against rubber, do you think this could be something that is stuck in between?
The inner drum on my Hoover machine seems to be sticking although it still turn, the machine is struggling. The noise is a squeeking like it’s jamming against rubber, do you think this could be something that is stuck in between?
0 replies Bra wires: the major cause of washing machine headaches... why don't they just make them with notches near the ends so that they could be wedged in by overstitching between the notches ==l=l===============l=l== ... far too simple I spose!!
Bra wires: the major cause of washing machine headaches… why don’t they just make them with notches near the ends so that they could be wedged in by overstitching between the notches ==l=l===============l=l== … far too simple I spose!!
0 replies Thank you for the great feedback June and Zac.
Thank you for the great feedback June and Zac.
0 replies Hi, Thanks a lot for your post. With the info you have provided I managed to get a bra wire out of our front loader whirlpool:) Much appriceated...
Hi,
Thanks a lot for your post. With the info you have provided I managed to get a bra wire out of our front loader whirlpool:)
Much appriceated…
0 replies Fantastic advice. Got wire out in seconds. Thanks
Fantastic advice. Got wire out in seconds. Thanks
1 reply I was on the verge of calling out an engineer, then I read this article 1/2 hr later job done. I was expecting to find under-wire from wife's bra so I could blame her. Unfortunately I found a small allen key... Thanks for the advice Andy. Nice easy to follow guide.
I was on the verge of calling out an engineer, then I read this article 1/2 hr later job done.
I was expecting to find under-wire from wife’s bra so I could blame her. Unfortunately I found a small allen key…
Thanks for the advice Andy. Nice easy to follow guide.
1 reply I just dropped a paper towel in between and I'm too scared to wash thinking that a fire will spark. Can I continue washing with it in there? What will happen?
I just dropped a paper towel in between and I’m too scared to wash thinking that a fire will spark.
Can I continue washing with it in there? What will happen?
0 replies Taking one of the lifters out has just worked a charm on my hotpoint. They just pull forward and up. Bra wire removed, wife tutted at and a quiet washer again. Thanks for the advice, much appreciated.
Taking one of the lifters out has just worked a charm on my hotpoint. They just pull forward and up. Bra wire removed, wife tutted at and a quiet washer again. Thanks for the advice, much appreciated.
3 replies I have a loud clicking noise coming from the base of the drum when you turn it by hand. Could this be a bra wire or similar that is stuck between the inner and outer drum? If it is one of the sealed drums (how can you tell?) is there any way to get to it? Thanks
I have a loud clicking noise coming from the base of the drum when you turn it by hand. Could this be a bra wire or similar that is stuck between the inner and outer drum? If it is one of the sealed drums (how can you tell?) is there any way to get to it?
Thanks
Likely replying to chris
Hi Chris, if the tub is sealed there will be no screws or bolts holding the two halves together. This article has all the advice about how to try to retrieve and obstruction without stripping it down anyway though. You need to take off the drive belt in order to ensure the noise is coming from the drum and not the motor.
0 replies Definitely Colin. If so, hopefully the instructions in this article may help you get it into the sump hose so you can retrieve it.
Definitely Colin. If so, hopefully the instructions in this article may help you get it into the sump hose so you can retrieve it.
0 replies Is it possible that a wedding ring could end up between the inner and outer drum? We've noticed a noise coming from our drum on the very same day that I misplaced my wedding ring!
Is it possible that a wedding ring could end up between the inner and outer drum? We’ve noticed a noise coming from our drum on the very same day that I misplaced my wedding ring!
0 replies I have this very problem. Got wire out through holes in drum small piece broken off the end. Still scraping sound, scared to use machine again, don't know if I am capable of getting machine out of gap. Will consult daughters and see what happens!!
I have this very problem. Got wire out through holes in drum small piece broken off the end. Still scraping sound, scared to use machine again, don’t know if I am capable of getting machine out of gap. Will consult daughters and see what happens!!
0 replies Ha ha - the smaller bra wires are harder to get out ;)
Ha ha – the smaller bra wires are harder to get out ;)
0 replies Thanks for the clear description. Got bra wire out through the sump hole following your guidance. Also will now downgrade from 40 DD girlfriend to 32A ;-)
Thanks for the clear description. Got bra wire out through the sump hole following your guidance.
Also will now downgrade from 40 DD girlfriend to 32A ;-)
0 replies Nice one :)
Nice one :)
0 replies thanks ,my washer working fine now after reading this and removing bra wire from drum
thanks ,my washer working fine now after reading this and removing bra wire from drum
If the washing machine has been rumbling and noisy on spin for a while then the bearings could have collapsed but if it’s just happened all of a sudden something could be jammed in the drum. If the article doesn’t help call an engineer.