If your dishwasher smells funky, leaves your dishes feeling gritty, or just isn’t cleaning like it used to — it’s probably not broken. You may need to clean the filter. Here’s the thing: most people don’t even acknowledge that dishwashers have filters that need to be cleaned every day. But when that filter gets clogged with grease, old food, and gunk, it can cause all sorts of problems — from poor drainage to foul odours and cloudy dishes.

The good news?

You can fix this yourself. No tools, no technician, and no more dirty dishes. This guide will tell you exactly how to clean dishwasher filter in easy steps. You’ll learn what signs to look for, how often to clean it, what tools to use, and how to keep your machine running like new — all in less than 10 minutes. Ready to stop rinsing plates twice and start getting spotless dishes again?

Let’s get to it.

Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Filter Matters

Think of your dishwasher filter like a kitchen drain strainer — it catches the gunk, food waste, and oil so your dishes come out clean. Over time, this build-up becomes a central problem.

Here’s what occurs when the filter is dirty:

• Water can’t circulate appropriately
• Dishes don’t rinse well
• A foul odour lingers in your machine
• Water may pool at the bottom
• The dishwasher runs louder and wears down faster

And if neglected long enough, it could even damage your pump, resulting in too pricey repairs.

How Do I Know If My Dishwasher Filter Needs Cleaning?

Sometimes the signs are subtle. Other times, it’s in your face. Here’s how to know your filter’s overdue for a scrub:

• Dishes come out with bits of food
• You notice water is not draining fully
• There’s a sour or musty smell after every wash
• Your glasses are cloudy or filmy
• You hear your dishwasher making odd, grinding noises

If any of those sound familiar — yup, time to clean that filter.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Good news: You don’t need fancy tools or specialised products. You probably already have everything on hand.

Gather these:

• Dish soap (any gentle kind will do)
• Warm water
• An old toothbrush or a soft brush
• Microfiber cloth or paper towels
• Rubber gloves (optional if you’re squeamish about gunk)
• If you wish, you can utilise a bowl or another container for soaking the filter.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Dishwasher Filter Like a Pro

Here’s the fun part — and yes, it’s easier than you think.

Step 1: Turn Off Your Dishwasher

Before doing anything, make sure your dishwasher is off and cool. Never clean the filter while it’s hot from a recent cycle — you might burn yourself, or stir up hot, greasy water.

Step 2: Slide Out the Bottom Rack to Get Started

Slide out the lower rack completely and set it aside. This gives you full access to the bottom of the tub, where the filter lives.

Step 3: Locate the Filter

Most modern dishwashers have two filters:

• A round top filter that you can take off by turning it to the left.  
• A flat lower filter lifts straight up.

Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure, but in most machines, the filters are dead centre at the base.

Step 4: Remove the Filters Gently

Now, twist the cylindrical filter counterclockwise and pull it out. Lift the flat filter carefully — don’t yank it. If it’s stuck, wiggle gently or soak it with warm water for a few minutes.

Tip: If it feels like it won’t move, don’t force it. Sometimes food buildup acts like glue. Let it sit with hot water and try again in a few minutes.

Step 5: Rinse and Scrub Both Filters

Hold the filters under warm running water. You’ll likely see food bits, grease, and even slime (yup, biofilm is real). Use the toothbrush and dish soap to scrub all surfaces.

Focus on:

• The mesh screen
• The outer edges
• Any crevices or folds

If the filter smells bad, soak it in a vinegar-water mix (1:1 ratio) for 15 minutes before scrubbing.

Step 6: Clean the Filter Housing Area

With the filter out, grab a paper towel or cloth and wipe around the opening where the filter was. You might find:

• Bits of food
• Broken glass or plastic
• Moldy grime

This is also a good time to wipe the inside door edges and bottom corners — they tend to hide gunk.

Step 7: Reinstall the Filters in the Right Order

Once everything’s clean and dry, place the flat filter back first. Then insert the cylindrical one and twist it clockwise to lock it in.

Check that both filters sit snug — if they’re loose, they won’t work correctly.

Bonus: Clean Your Spray Arms While You’re At It

Since you’re down there already, clean the spray arms, too. They can get clogged with food or hard water buildup.

Here’s how:

• Remove the spray arms (most lift off easily)
• Rinse them under warm water
• Use a toothpick or a pin to clean out the spray holes
• If needed, soak them in vinegar to remove mineral deposits
• Let dry and reattach

This helps water pressure, and ultimately, how clean your dishes get.

Natural Cleaning Method (No Chemicals)

Not a fan of commercial cleaners? No problem. Here’s a natural method I’ve used that works wonders:

Vinegar + Baking Soda Soak:

1. Mix 1 cup white vinegar + 2 tsp baking soda in warm water
2. Soak your filters for 20 minutes
3. Scrub with a soft brush
4. Rinse thoroughly and air dry

Bonus: This removes smells and kills mildew — all without bleach or harsh sprays.

Prevent Filter Clogs with These Simple Habits

Let’s face it: cleaning the filter is easy. Avoiding the need to clean it so often? Even better.

Follow these tips:

• Scrape — don’t rinse — food off plates before loading
• Run hot water in the sink before starting your dishwasher
• Use rinse aid to reduce film and hard water spots
• Do a monthly vinegar wash (1 cup on the top rack, run hot cycle)
• Clean your filter every 3–4 weeks if you run daily loads

What Happens If You Ignore It?

We’ve all skipped filter cleaning “just this once.” But here’s the truth: the longer you wait, the worse it gets.

What could go wrong?

• A stinky dishwasher that makes your kitchen smell
• Standing water in the tub
• Dishes that look clean but smell dirty
• Costly repair bills when pumps clog or burn out

Cleaning a filter takes 10 minutes. Replacing a motor? That’ll cost you $200+.

How Do I Know If My Dishwasher Has a Self-Cleaning Filter?

Not all dishwashers have removable filters. Some models — especially newer ones — use a self-cleaning or “grinding” system. These filters don’t need to be taken out and scrubbed… but they still need attention.

Here’s how to tell:

• Check inside: If there’s no twist-out or flat mesh filter at the bottom, it may be self-cleaning.
• Look for the sound: Self-cleaning systems make a soft grinding noise during cycles (that’s the food being broken up).
• Consult the manual: Look for the words “manual filter” or “self-cleaning” in your user guide.

Even self-cleaning systems benefit from regular upkeep. Grease, mineral deposits, and old food can still affect performance. So don’t skip the monthly vinegar rinse and spray arm check — it makes a difference.

How to Order a Replacement Dishwasher Filter

Sometimes, cleaning just isn’t enough. If your filter is cracked, bent, or warped, it’s time for a new one.

Here’s how to find the right replacement:

1. Locate the model number of your dishwasher (usually on the door edge or inside frame).
2. Go to:
   • Maytag’s official parts store
   • Amazon
   • AppliancePartsPros
3. Search for: “[Brand] dishwasher filter + [Model Number]”
4. Double-check compatibility before ordering.

Installing a new filter is usually just plug-and-play. Twist it in place like the original, and you’re good to go.

Dishwasher Maintenance Tips

Here’s a simple tip you can follow to keep your dishwasher running smoothly for years:

• Clean the filter (2–4 weeks)
• Run a vinegar cycle (monthly)
• Wipe the door gasket and corners (monthly)
• Inspect and clean spray arms (every 1–2 months)
• Use rinse aid to prevent film (always)
• Scrape large food pieces off plates
• Check for rust on racks and seal damage

Stick this list on your fridge or inside a cabinet — your future self will thank you.

How to Sanitise a Dishwasher Filter Naturally

If your dishwasher still smells off, it may need a deeper clean. Here’s a natural sanitising method that works wonders without chemicals:

You’ll need:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• A bowl or sink of warm water

Instructions:

1. Mix vinegar and baking soda into warm water.
2. Soak your filter for 20 minutes.
3. Use a soft brush to remove loosened gunk.
4. Rinse with clean water.
5. Let air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.

This removes odour-causing bacteria, mould, and leftover grime. It’s gentle, safe for the filter, and eco-friendly.

Common Mistakes to Bypass When Cleaning Your Filter

Let’s quickly go over what not to do. These mistakes can cause damage or worse — make things stinkier.

• Using bleach, which is harsh and corrosive on plastic parts
• Scrubbing with metal brushes — they can tear the mesh
• Reinstalling the filter upside-down — your dishwasher won’t drain right
• Forgetting to clean the filter housing, debris collects there, too
• Running the dishwasher without reinstalling the filter can ruin the pump

Play it safe. Use gentle tools and double-check the filter locks back in place.

Best Products for Cleaning a Dishwasher Filter

Want the most effective cleaning without damaging your appliance? Try these:

• Soft toothbrush or baby bottle brush (non-abrasive scrubbing)
• White vinegar (odour control and descaler)
• Dish soap (grease and grime remover)
• Baking soda (gentle, natural abrasive)
• Microfiber cloth (for housing area wipe-down)
• Rinse aid (prevents film and water spots)

Avoid: bleach, wire scrubbers, or harsh “industrial” products unless labelled safe for dishwashers.

Should You Clean It Yourself or Call a Technician?

Here’s the deal: most of the time, you can (and should) do it yourself.

You only need to call a professional if:

• The filter is stuck or damaged beyond cleaning
• Water is leaking under your dishwasher
• Error codes appear after cleaning
• Spray arms won’t spin or sound odd
• Your dishwasher won’t start or drain after maintenance

Otherwise? Roll up your sleeves and get in there. You’ll save money — and feel oddly satisfied afterwards.

Don’t miss: How to Clean Maytag Dishwasher Filter (In Under 10 Minutes)

Top 5 FAQs About Dishwasher Filter Cleaning

The Bottom Line

Learning how to clean your dishwasher filter is one of those tiny tasks that make a huge difference. You don’t need special tools, fancy cleaners, or a service call — just a few minutes, warm water, and a little attention. If your dishwasher has been acting up, smelling off, or leaving behind grime, this is your fix.

You’ll spend less time re-washing dishes, save money on repairs, and get that fresh, clean feel every time you open the door. So don’t wait for things to get worse. Please take 10 minutes today to clean your dishwasher filter and give your kitchen the reset it deserves. Your dishes will sparkle — and the smell will be gone.

Source References:

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-the-dishwasher-1900465?

https://producthelp.maytag.com/Dishwashers/Product_Info/Dishwasher_Cleaning_and_Care/How_to_Clean_the_Dishwasher_Filters?

https://www.southernliving.com/home/organization/how-to-clean-your-dishwasher?

https://producthelp.maytag.com/Dishwashers/Dishwasher/Other/Cleaning_and_Odor/Cleaning_and_Maintenance/Cleaning_the_Filter/Cleaning_the_Filter_-_Dishwasher?