How to Clean a Dishwasher Filter

Why Cleaning the Dishwasher Filter Matters

The dishwasher filter catches food particles, grease, and debris during the wash cycle to prevent them from recirculating onto your dishes. Over time, a clogged filter reduces water flow, causes dishes to come out dirty or with a gritty residue, and can produce unpleasant odors. Cleaning the filter is one of the most impactful dishwasher maintenance tasks — and one of the most commonly neglected.

Most modern dishwashers have a manual-clean filter that requires regular cleaning. Older models had self-cleaning filters with a grinder mechanism — noisier but maintenance-free. If your dishwasher is quiet and relatively new, it almost certainly has a manual-clean filter.

How Often to Clean the Dishwasher Filter

Light use (1–2 people, 3–4 cycles per week): Clean monthly
Moderate use (3–4 people, daily cycles): Clean every 2–3 weeks
Heavy use (5+ people, multiple cycles per day): Clean weekly
If you notice odors or dishes coming out dirty: Clean immediately

Where Is the Dishwasher Filter?

The filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, typically in the center or toward the back, beneath the lower spray arm. It usually consists of two parts:

Upper filter (cylindrical): A mesh cylinder that catches larger food particles
Lower filter (flat): A fine mesh plate that catches smaller particles and grease

Consult your dishwasher's manual if you're unsure of the filter location — most manufacturers also have instructional videos on their websites.

How to Clean the Dishwasher Filter: Step by Step

What You'll Need

Soft brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly)
Dish soap
Warm water
Paper towels or a clean cloth

Step 1: Remove the Lower Rack

Pull out the lower dish rack completely to access the bottom of the dishwasher tub.

Step 2: Locate and Remove the Filter

Find the cylindrical upper filter. Twist it counterclockwise (usually a quarter turn) and lift it out. Then lift out the flat lower filter beneath it. Some models have a single combined filter — check your manual.

Step 3: Rinse Under Running Water

Hold both filter components under warm running water to rinse away loose debris. Don't use hot water — it can warp the filter mesh.

Step 4: Scrub with a Soft Brush

Apply a small amount of dish soap to the soft brush and gently scrub both filter components — the mesh cylinder and the flat plate. Pay attention to the mesh openings where grease and food particles accumulate. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage the fine mesh.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse both components thoroughly under warm running water until all soap and debris are removed. Hold them up to the light to confirm the mesh openings are clear.

Step 6: Reinstall the Filter

Place the flat lower filter back in position first, then insert the cylindrical upper filter and twist clockwise until it locks in place. Confirm it's seated securely — a loose filter allows debris to bypass it and damage the pump.

Step 7: Clean the Filter Housing

While the filter is out, wipe the filter housing area at the bottom of the tub with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated debris or grease.

Monthly Deep Clean: The Full Dishwasher Cleaning Routine

Filter cleaning is the most important maintenance task, but a complete monthly cleaning routine keeps the dishwasher performing at its best:

Clean the filter (as above)
Wipe the door gasket — use a damp cloth to clean the rubber seal around the door; mold and mildew accumulate here
Clean the spray arms — remove the spray arms (usually twist off) and use a toothpick to clear any clogged spray holes
Run a cleaning cycle — place a dishwasher cleaning tablet or a cup of white vinegar in the bottom of the empty dishwasher and run a hot cycle to remove grease and mineral deposits from the interior
Wipe down the interior — after the cleaning cycle, wipe the interior walls and door with a damp cloth

Signs Your Filter Needs Cleaning Now

Dishes coming out with food particles or gritty residue
Unpleasant odor from the dishwasher
Standing water at the bottom of the tub after a cycle
Dishes not getting clean despite correct loading and detergent use

Final Thoughts

Cleaning the dishwasher filter takes less than 5 minutes and should be done monthly for most households. It's the single most effective maintenance task for keeping your dishwasher cleaning properly and extending its lifespan. If your dishes have been coming out dirty or your dishwasher has developed an odor, a clogged filter is the most likely cause — and cleaning it will usually resolve the problem immediately.

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