How to Clean a Dishwasher Filter & When

Cleaning your dishwasher filter regularly keeps dishes spotless, prevents odors, and extends the machine’s life. This guide shows you how to locate, remove, and clean the filter, plus how to tell when it needs attention. You’ll need only basic household tools and about 15 minutes.

What You’ll Need

• Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works)
• Sponge or cloth
• Mild dish soap
• White vinegar (optional, for stubborn buildup)
• Baking soda (optional, for odors)
• Bucket or bowl (to hold removed parts)
• Gloves (optional, if sensitive to grime)

Step-by-Step

1. Turn off the dishwasher. Unplug it or switch off the circuit breaker to ensure safety while you work near the water inlet and electrical components.
2. Remove the bottom rack. Slide it out completely to access the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub.
3. Locate the filter. Look for a cylindrical or flat mesh screen near the back or center of the bottom. In most models, it sits under the spray arm. If you don’t see it, check your user manual—some filters are hidden behind a small cover.
4. Remove the filter assembly. Twist the filter counterclockwise (like a jar lid) or lift it straight up, depending on the design. It may consist of two parts: an outer coarse filter and an inner fine mesh. Set them aside in the bucket.
5. Rinse under running water. Hold the filter under warm tap water to remove loose food particles. Do not use a dishwasher detergent at this stage—it can foam and leave residue.
6. Scrub with a soft brush. Dip the brush in a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Gently scrub both sides of the mesh and the plastic housing. Pay extra attention to the fine mesh where grease and film collect.
7. Tackle stubborn buildup. If you see hard water scale or greasy film, soak the filter in a bowl of white vinegar for 15–20 minutes, then scrub again. For persistent odors, sprinkle baking soda on the wet filter and scrub before rinsing.
8. Rinse thoroughly. Make sure all soap, vinegar, and debris are gone. Shake off excess water.
9. Clean the filter housing. Wipe the recessed area in the dishwasher where the filter sits. Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove any grime that has accumulated there.
10. Reinstall the filter. Align the tabs or arrows on the filter with the slots in the housing. Press down and twist clockwise until it locks firmly. It should sit flush and not wobble.
11. Replace the bottom rack and restore power. Slide the rack back in, plug the dishwasher in or flip the breaker, and run a short rinse cycle (no dishes) to flush out any remaining residue.

Common Mistakes

• Using harsh chemicals like bleach or oven cleaner on the filter—these can damage the mesh and leave toxic residues.
• Scrubbing with steel wool or abrasive pads that tear the fine mesh.
• Reinstalling while wet and loose—if the filter isn’t locked in place, food particles can bypass it and clog the pump.
• Forgetting the housing—cleaning the filter but leaving the recess dirty means debris will immediately recontaminate the filter.
• Running a cycle with the filter removed—this can pull food into the pump and cause expensive damage.
• Skipping the rinse cycle after cleaning—soap residue can cause suds in the next wash.

Tips

• Check the filter monthly if you run the dishwasher daily; every 3–6 months for lighter use.
• Scrape dishes before loading to reduce the amount of food that reaches the filter.
• Run the hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher so the first fill is already hot—this helps dissolve grease.
• Use a dishwasher cleaner (citric acid-based) monthly to keep the whole interior fresh, but still clean the filter manually.
• Take a photo of the filter assembly before removing it—this helps you remember how to reinstall it correctly.

Troubleshooting

• Filter won’t come out. It may be stuck from mineral deposits. Run a short hot water cycle (no dishes) to loosen grime, then try again. Never pry with a screwdriver—you could crack the plastic.
• Dishwasher still smells after cleaning. The drain hose or sump may have buildup. Run a cycle with a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack, then sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run another short cycle.
• Dishes still have food particles. Check that the spray arms are not clogged. Remove them and rinse out debris with a thin wire or toothpick.
• Water pools at the bottom after a cycle. The filter may not be seated correctly. Remove and reinstall, ensuring it clicks into place.
• Filter seems damaged. If the mesh is torn or the plastic is cracked, you’ll need a replacement part. Contact the manufacturer or a parts supplier with your model number.
• You can’t find the filter at all. Some older or budget models don’t have a removable filter—they have a self-cleaning grinder instead. Check your manual; if there’s no filter, skip this task and just clean the bottom of the tub periodically.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?

For average use (once a day), clean it monthly. If you run fewer loads, every 2–3 months is fine. If you notice food on dishes or a musty smell, clean it sooner.

Can I clean the filter in the dishwasher itself?

No—the filter is designed to catch debris, so running it through a cycle won’t remove the trapped food. You must clean it manually.

Do all dishwashers have a filter?

Most modern dishwashers have a removable filter. Some older models use a self-cleaning grinder that doesn’t require manual cleaning. Check your manual.

What happens if I never clean the filter?

Food particles and grease accumulate, leading to poor cleaning results, bad odors, and eventually clogged drain pumps or spray arms. This can cause costly repairs.

Can I use bleach to sanitize the filter?

No—bleach can corrode the metal components and damage the plastic. Use mild soap and vinegar instead.

Is it normal for the filter to have some small holes?

Yes, the fine mesh has tiny perforations that let water through but trap food. If the holes become enlarged or the mesh tears, replace the filter.

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