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Ever wondered why your Frigidaire dishwasher isn’t cleaning like it used to?

If your dishes come out dirty or cloudy, there’s a good chance your filter is clogged. Cleaning it isn’t hard, and it can make a huge difference. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to clean Frigidaire dishwasher filter quickly, safely, and without any tools.

What is a Frigidaire Dishwasher Filter?

A Frigidaire dishwasher filter is a small but essential part inside your dishwasher. Its main job is to catch food bits, grease, and debris from your dirty dishes during each wash cycle. Without it, all that leftover food would float around and stick back onto your clean dishes — not a fun experience.

You’ll find the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, typically located directly under the lower spray arm. Most Frigidaire dishwashers have two parts:

• A round, fine-mesh filter that catches small particles
• A flat, coarse filter that holds bigger chunks of food

Together, these filters help in:

• Keeping the water clean while your dishes are being washed
• Protecting the pump so it doesn’t get clogged or damaged
• Improving wash performance so your dishes come out sparkling

If the filter becomes too clogged, your dishwasher won’t work as efficiently. That’s why it’s essential to clean it regularly — and the good news is, it only takes a few minutes to do so.

How to Clean Frigidaire Dishwasher Filter – Easy Steps

If your dishes are coming out dirty or your dishwasher is sensing something strange, your filter needs a thorough cleaning. Don’t worry — it’s incredible, easy, and only takes a few minutes. Just heed these steps, and your dishwasher will be back to doing its job like new.

Step 1

1. Turn Off the Power

Before proceeding, ensure the dishwasher is turned off.

• If it plugs into the wall, unplug it.
• If it’s wired into the wall, flip the breaker switch.

It’s always more suitable to be secure before touching anything inside.

Step 2

2. Take Out the Bottom Rack

Slide out the bottom dish rack and set it aside. You’ll see the filter down at the bottom of the tub — that’s what we’re going to clean.

Step 3

3. Find the Filter

Look at the center of the dishwasher floor. Most Frigidaire dishwashers have a round, twist-out filter right there.

It might also have a flat mesh piece around it — that’s part of the filter system, too.

Step 4

4. Twist and Remove the Filter

• Hold the round filter and twist it counterclockwise (to the left).
• Once it’s loose, pull it up and out.
• If there’s a flat filter around it, lift that out too.

Don’t force it — it should come out easily with a gentle twist.

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Step 5

5. Rinse It Clean

Take the filter to your sink.

• Rinse it under warm water.
• Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub off any debris.
• A little dish soap helps if it’s greasy.

Avoid using steel wool or anything rough — you don’t want to tear the mesh.

Step 6

6. Wipe the Area Inside the Dishwasher

Before putting the filter back, grab a damp cloth and wipe out the area where the filter sits.

Check for leftover food bits and wipe those out too. This helps stop smells and keeps things clean.

Step 7

7. Put the Filter Back In

• If you removed a flat filter, place it back first.
• Then insert the round filter and twist it clockwise (to the right) until it locks into place.

Ensure it’s snug — if it’s loose, it won’t work correctly.

Step 8:

8. Optional: Run a Vinegar Rinse

Want to give your dishwasher a little extra love?

• Pour a cup of white vinegar into a bowl.
• Set the bowl on the top rack.
• Run a hot wash with nothing else inside.

This will freshen up your dishwasher and eliminate any lingering smells or buildup.

That’s It!

Now you know how to clean your Frigidaire dishwasher filter the easy way. Do this every few weeks to keep things running smoothly. It’s a small job that makes a big difference — your dishes will come out cleaner, your dishwasher will last longer, and you’ll avoid nasty smells down the road.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping regular cleanings leads to clogging and poor wash results
• Forcing the filter out or in can damage the locking tabs
• Using harsh scrubbers scratches the filter and reduces its effectiveness
• Not checking the sump area — food may still sit below the filter

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to clean the Frigidaire dishwasher filter, you’ll achieve better cleaning results, eliminate funky smells, and maintain a longer-lasting appliance. It only takes 10 minutes, but the payoff is enormous. Set a reminder to check your dishwasher filter regularly — your dishwasher and clean dishes will be better off for it.

Frequently Asked Questions