HOW-TO GUIDES
How to unblock a washing machine waste pipe
Updated 06/26
By: Content Team
Reviewed: Kim Staples
Washing machine not draining properly? Noticing strange smells? Or maybe you've even spotted water backing up into the waste pipe? Sounds like your machine's waste pipe is blocked.
Fast Facts
You can unblock a washing machine waste pipe using drain cleaner, a drain snake, or even white vinegar and baking soda
Handling plumbing can be tricky - it's best to hire a plumber or a washing machine repair service to get it fixed safely and properly
Always switch your washing machine off at the mains first before attempting repairs
When your washing machine stops working, it’s hard not to panic... especially if the laundry is piling up. But blockages are quite common - and the good news is that they're often easy to fix.
To unblock your washing machine waste pipe, follow the steps below. Or, even better, contact a washing machine repair service to get it done safely and properly. Your machine will be back up and running in no time.
And if you notice other issues - such as leaking water, damaged pipework, electrical faults, or just repeated drainage problems - hire an appliance repairperson ASAP instead of attempting a fix yourself.
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How to unblock a washing machine waste pipe with drain cleaner
Using drain cleaner is a great way to clear blockages, although chemicals should always be used with caution. Ensure your children and pets have no access to the drain cleaner at any time.
Always switch off your washing machine and unplug it from the mains before you attempt any repairs.
To learn how to unblock a washing machine waste pipe with drain cleaner, use the below steps:
Switch off the machine and unplug it from the mains
Locate the waste pipe by separating it from the hot and cold pipes (These pipes will usually be colour coded, red for hot and blue for cold, so finding the waste pipe should be simple)
Disconnect the pipe and if it isn’t completely blocked, try using hot water to flush out any blockages
When disconnecting the waste pipe, be ready to catch any excess water that flows out.
If this doesn’t work, you will need to use a drain cleaner that is approved for use with washing machine pipes
Carefully pour the drain cleaner into the pipe and ensure you use the instructions given on the packaging
You will usually need to wait for the drain cleaner to work and may need to add hot water during this time
Finally, once the cleaner has done its magic, you will need to flush the drain with water and reattach the pipe
If it didn't work and you're still noticing issues, it's time to call in a plumber to get it fixed properly.
Whether it's home improvements or repairs, at Checkatrade, we're here to help. From finding checked tradespeople to costing up projects and gathering ideas, we've got you covered.
Can you use drain unblocker in a washing machine?
No - chemical drain unblockers are not formulated for washing machines. If you pour it straight into your machine, it can cause damage.
Instead, only use drain cleaner in the waste pipe, following the steps above.
You can also use a dedicated washing machine cleaner solution for the machine itself, which can help keep it clean and in good condition.
How to unblock a washing machine outlet pipe manually
If you prefer a hands-on approach to clearing outlet pipe blockages, it’s possible to do so manually.
Your best option is to use a drain snake, although in a pinch you can use a coat hanger (be very careful if using this method as this may damage the pipe if you are too rough).
Choose a snake that measures 50 - 75 feet (15 - 23 metres) long.
Switch off the machine and unplug it from the mains
Detach the outlet pipe from your machine and catch any water that was sitting in the pipe
Put on rubber gloves and begin inserting your snake into the outlet pipe
Keep pushing the snake into the pipe, wiggling and rotating it if you reach any blockages
You will likely need to turn the snake quite a few times to clear a blockage so keep going
Continue clearing further blockages and debris with your snake until you reach the end of its length
Remove the snake from the pipe and flush with hot water to catch any leftover debris
Lastly, reattach the outlet pipe
Using a drain snake isn't for the weak, however. If you're not confident, it's better to hire a plumber or drain clearance service to get it done safely - without damaging your pipes.
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How to unblock a washing machine drain hose with baking soda and vinegar
If you don’t have the time to go shopping, there is a way to clear hose blockages using household items. As long as you have baking soda and vinegar you are ready to learn how to unblock a washing machine drain hose.
Use these steps to return your washing machine to its former function:
Switch off the machine and unplug it from the mains
Detach the drain hose from the back of your washing machine
Use a funnel to pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe
Next, empty a baster full of vinegar into the drain hose
If the blockage is not completely gone, repeat the above process
Once you have cleared any debris from the hose, pour hot water in to flush everything out
How to clean a washing machine drain hose
Over time, things like detergent residue, lint, and sludge can build up inside drain hoses - which can lead to blockages.
Cleaning out machine's drain hose every few months can help clear out all that sludge and residue, and prevents it from getting clogged.
Switch off the machine and unplug it from the mains
Locate and disconnect the hose. You may need a pair of pliers depending on the model
Flush the hose out with hot water. If you can do so outside with a garden hose, even better
Remove sludge buildup by pouring drain cleaner or white vinegar and baking soda into it
Reconnect the hose to the machine, and test it out to check that it works
Still having washing machine issues?
Hopefully, the above guides on how to unblock a washing machine hose helped to fix your washing machine problem.
But if you are still having issues, it may be a good idea to hire a plumber or appliance repair engineer. They will be able to quickly diagnose and repair your washing machine, so you can get back to normal ASAP.
Just use Checkatrade to find the right plumber for the job. Enter your postcode to start searching for repair engineers who work in your area, post a job and let them come to you, or download the Checkatrade app.
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How much does washing machine repair cost?
The cost of a washing machine repair will depend on the issue, but generally, you can expect to pay anything from around £80 for new motor brushes up to an average of £325 for a new motor.
For more information, please see our washing machine repair cost guide.
Washing machine repair costs in the UK (2026 prices)
In this guide, we'll look at average washing machine repair costs for several common problems to help you decide whether to repair or replace it.
FAQs
Yes, you absolutely can cap or blank off a washing machine waste pipe. You can purchase a dedicated blanking cap or plumbing plug designed for washing machines, in fact.
Yes - as long as it's set up correctly, it's totally fine for a washing machine and dishwasher to share a waste pipe. However, it's important to use the right connections to make sure waste doesn't back up into either machine - contact a trusted plumber if you're unsure.
This usually means the drainage system on your washing machine can't handle the volume or speed of water being pumped out. And that in turn usually means a blockage or a plumbing vent issue. Get in touch with a local plumber or washing machine engineer to get it repaired.
Yes you can. Longer washing machine waste pipe extensions are available from most hardware stores and are easy to install.
Yes, it's easy and straightforward to replace a washing machine's waste pipe using basic tools and DIY skills.
There are a few ways to clean a washing machine that can clear out a smelly waste pipe too.
Special washing machine cleaning solutions are perfect for the job, and available from most supermarkets.
Another reason your washing machine may be having trouble draining is if the drain hose becomes twisted or kinked. Sometimes this happens when the washing machine is moved over time. Luckily, you can often fix this issue by removing any kinks and straightening the hose.
However, if the hose is damaged and won’t stay straight, you may need to buy a replacement.
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