10/20/2026
Most dishwasher filters are easy to clean, and doing it regularly helps prevent odors, gritty dishes, and poor drainage.
1. Remove the bottom rack. Pull it completely out so you can reach the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Find the filter. It’s usually underneath the lower spray arm and looks like a round or cylindrical screen that twists out.
3. Remove it. Turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise, usually about ¼ turn, and lift it out. Some models also have a flat screen underneath that can be removed.
4. Rinse with warm water. Run the filter under the faucet to wash away food particles and grease.
5. Gently scrub it. Use a soft toothbrush or soft-bristled brush with a little dish soap. Avoid wire brushes or abrasive pads because they can damage the fine filter screen.
6. Clean the filter well. Before reinstalling it, wipe out any food or debris sitting in the opening where the filter goes.
7. Reinstall and lock it. Put the flat filter back first if your dishwasher has one, then insert the cylindrical filter and turn it clockwise until it locks. Don’t run the dishwasher with the filter loose or missing.
For a dishwasher that gets regular use, checking the filter about once a month is a good habit. If you rinse dishes heavily before loading, it may need cleaning less often. If you scrape but don't rinse, check it more frequently.
