Use Pantyhose to Catch Washing Machine Lint

Mina
Bronze Feedback Medal for All Time! 146 Feedbacks

August 25, 20150 found this helpful

I laughed when I read about using pantyhose as a lint catch. I did that once but I guess I cut it too long because it ended up plugging the sink drain hole & I contended with water all over the floor. If you're going to use pantyhose, I suggest that you keep the length to no more than 4 inches because it will stretch when it's soaking wet.

As an alternative to pantyhose, I make nylon window screen socks. I posted about this a few years ago. If you type "laundry machine filter" into the Search box, you'll come to the instructions about how to make these screen socks. I still use them.

Judy
Gold Post Medal for All Time! 677 Posts

August 25, 20150 found this helpful

I read the post. Very clever. I don't think my pantyhose is 4 inches, but I have never had a problem with it clogging the drain. I clean out the lint after every use, so it never gets that heavy. I also replace it often.

kesposit

September 25, 20190 found this helpful

I find that the knee high nylon eventually stretches longer and then plugs the drain hole when the water is draining and the water doesn't drain down the sink. Any suggestions.

mr.z

January 5, 20220 found this helpful

"nylon eventually stretches longer - and plugs the drain hole... . Any suggestions."

Yes. You need to create a Hickenbottom inlet for your sink drain. Find a piece of plastic pipe (~12" - 14" long) that will fit snugly into your drain.

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Drill random holes ~5/16" diameter along the length of the pipe. Position the pipe with holes in it vertically into your drain. The pipe will create a much larger surface area to drain the water, which the stocking cannot cover.

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mr.z

January 5, 20220 found this helpful

Nylon stocking / pantyhose works great as a lint filter for a washing machine. However, to prevent pantyhose from clogging drain, create a non-plugging inlet for your sink drain.

1. 1. Find plastic pipe about 12-14" long that will fit snugly into your drain (i.e. - drain slip-joint pipe).
2. 2. Drill 5/16" dia. holes randomly along & around the pipe.
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3. 3. Insert pipe vertically into sink drain.
4. 4. Stocking will not be able to plug vertical stand pipe. ;)

Search "Hickenbottom inlet" for a visual description.