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Dishwasher Filter Cleaning Guide

easyHome Repair30 min

Keep your dishwasher running efficiently with this straightforward cleaning guide designed for homeowners. You will learn how to properly remove and scrub the filter using simple household materials to prevent clogs and odors. This quick process ensures your dishes stay spotless and your appliance lasts longer.

Safety Warnings

  • Ensure the dishwasher is turned off and unplugged, or shut off the circuit at the breaker before working with the interior to avoid electrical shock from the heating element.

Tools Needed

Phillips #2 — Cross-head driver for tightening and loosening screws
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stiff-bristled brush — Brush for scrubbing debris and buildup from surfaces
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Materials

dishwashing liquid — liquid(1 squirt)
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white vinegar — distilled(1 cup)
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Steps

1
Prepare the machine by removing the dishwasher's lower rack. Locate the cylindrical filter, which is typically found at the bottom of the tub next to the base of the lower spray arm or in the back corner.
Lower Rack Cylindrical Filter Spray Arm Slide Out Remove the lower rack to access the cylindrical filter at the tub floor.
2
Remove the filter by rotating it a quarter turn counterclockwise and pulling it out. If your model has a round, disc-shaped filter below the cylindrical one, lift that out as well. Be gentle to avoid damaging the filter screen.
Cylindrical filter Disc filter Tub floor Twist & lift Rotate the filter counterclockwise then pull it upward to remove.
3
Fill a sink or bowl with warm water and a squirt of dishwashing liquid. Soak the filter in this soapy water for approximately 15 minutes to loosen soap scum and caked-on grease.
4
Scrub any stubborn food particles or detergent residue using a stiff-bristled brush or an old toothbrush. Rinse the filter thoroughly under hot water until all debris and soap are gone.
5
Clean the filter housing area. Use a damp paper towel, sponge, or rag to wipe away any debris or food particles in and around the filter hole before reinstallation.
6
Reinstall the filter by placing it back into the hole and turning it clockwise a quarter turn until it locks securely into place. Pull up on it slightly to ensure it does not float out during a cycle.
Cylindrical filter Filter housing Turn clockwise Locking knob Insert filter and rotate clockwise to lock securely in place.
7
Perform a maintenance test by running a hot water cycle with nothing in the machine except a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with one cup of white vinegar to remove mineral deposits and remaining grease.
8
Establish a maintenance schedule: clean the manual filter every 1 to 2 months (or once a month for best results) and perform a deep cleaning of the entire dishwasher every three months.

Pro Tips

  • Scrape food off dirty dishes before loading to extend the time between filter cleanings.
  • Run the hot water at your kitchen sink for about 30 seconds before starting a cycle to ensure the dishwasher uses hot water from the start.

When to Call a Professional

If the dishwasher still drains slowly or leaves food residue after cleaning the filter, consult an appliance repair technician.

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