Hot water, steam and recently heated components can make immediate cleaning unsafe. Follow the exact model's stopping, cooling and isolation instructions first.
Understanding this situation
An accessible filter is an owner-maintenance part only under the stated conditions. A programme interruption can leave water or heat that differs from an ordinary completed cycle.
A useful next step
Use the manual's procedure and avoid sharp debris. Do not open components simply because a filter icon appears or the door can be moved. If the machine cannot reach a safe state, obtain suitable advice before attempting maintenance.
Manuals and supporting guidance
Model-specific instructions take priority. These references support the practical principles discussed here; they do not diagnose your appliance.