Why does your dishwasher smell off, or your dishes come out greasy? It might not be the soap—it’s probably your filter. If you’ve never learned how to clean Samsung dishwasher filter correctly, you’re not alone. That tiny trap at the bottom collects food, grease, and grime until it starts pushing the mess right back onto your dishes. Yikes. But don’t worry—cleaning it is easier than you think.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to do, when to do it, and why it matters. Let’s rescue your dishwasher before it turns into a funky-smelling dish trap. In the video below, we’ll walk you through the entire process. Scroll down for detailed step-by-step instructions.

Why a Clean Filter Is So Important

Your Samsung dishwasher filter is like the liver of the appliance—it traps all the unwanted stuff so your dishes come out clean and hygienic. Every time you run a cycle, food particles, grease, and residue travel to the bottom. The filter captures this waste and prevents it from redepositing on your dishes or clogging up the drain system.

However, over time, the filter becomes clogged. If it isn’t cleaned often, it can cause big problems.

What Happens When It’s Clogged?

• Bad Smells: Food stuck in the filter breaks down, allowing bacteria and mold to grow, which causes a sour or musty smell.
• Poor Drainage: A blocked filter can restrict water flow, leading to puddles of dirty water at the bottom of your machine.
• Higher Energy Bills: When your dishwasher isn’t cleaning effectively, you end up running extra cycles, wasting water and electricity.

How Often Should You Clean the Filter?

Samsung recommends:

• Light use (1–2 times/week): Clean every 2–3 months
• Moderate use (3–5 times/week): Clean monthly
• Heavy use (daily): Clean every 2 weeks

Regularly cleaning your dishwasher filter helps it last longer, ensures your dishes are thoroughly clean, and keeps the machine running smoothly. Spending a little time now can help avoid costly repairs later.

Types of Samsung Dishwasher Filters

Samsung dishwashers have two main types of filters: ones that can be removed and ones that cannot. Knowing the type of your model is essential for cleaning it properly.

1. Fine Mesh Filter

• Available in new Samsung models
• Made of stainless steel or strong plastic netting.  
• Made to catch tiny bits.  
• Typically removable with a twist-lock mechanism

2. Microfilter & Coarse Filter Combo

• Microfilter: traps finer particles
• Coarse filter: catches larger debris (e.g., bones, seeds)
• These may come as layered assemblies or be removable as a whole unit

Which Models Have Removable Filters?

Most newer models (post-2018) feature removable filters, such as:

• Samsung DW80R9950UG
• Samsung DW80K7050UG
• Samsung StormWash™ models

Older or budget-friendly units might have non-removable filters. These are designed to self-clean using high-pressure water jets, but still require periodic inspection and manual rinsing around the filter area.

How to Identify Your Filter Type

1. Check the bottom center of the interior — under the lower spray arm.
2. Look for a twist cap — this usually indicates a removable filter.
3. Refer to the model number, which can be found on the inside of the door panel.
4. Refer to your manual or search for your model number on Samsung’s support website.

Once you know the type of filter you have, cleaning it will be much easier, and you won’t accidentally damage the unit.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy tools to clean your dishwasher filter. Just gather a few household items to make the job fast and effective:

Essentials

• Warm Water: Use for rinsing and soaking the filter parts.
• White Vinegar: Natural degreaser and deodorizer. Great for removing limescale and food buildup.
• Baking Soda: Helps remove dirt and eliminate foul odors.
• Dish Soap: Cuts grease and food particles effectively.
• Soft Brush or Toothbrush: Use to scrub without damaging mesh or plastic parts.
• Microfiber Cloth or Towel: To dry the filter before reassembling it.
• Rubber Gloves: Keep your hands clean and protect against sharp debris.

Optional Tools

• Toothpick or Safety Pin: For removing debris from tight crevices.
• Screwdriver: Only needed for older models with secured filter assemblies.

Have everything ready before you start, so the process goes smoothly. And remember: don’t force anything. Dishwasher parts are more delicate than they look!

How to Clean Samsung Dishwasher Filter: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Turn Off & Empty Dishwasher

First things first: safety and access are non-negotiable.

• Power down: Either switch off the dishwasher on your control panel or cut power via the breaker.
• Shut off the water supply (under the sink) to reduce the risk of leaks.
• Empty it: No dishes, no detergent. Just clean a space to work.

Step 2: Remove Lower Rack

Slide the bottom rack out completely—this gives you unimpeded access to the filter zone. Pro tip: Make room nearby to set it aside safely.

Step 3: Locate & Detach Filter

Filters are typically located at the bottom center or just behind the spray arm. Samsung models often have a twist-and-lift mechanism:

1. Grasp the filter handle.
2. Turn counterclockwise to unlock.
3. Pull straight up to remove fine mesh and cylindrical components.

On layered filter systems, you’ll also see a flat coarse filter—lift that too.

Step 4: Rinse the Filter Components

Immediately rinse each piece under warm running water. Use your fingers to dislodge debris, then place them in a bowl for soaking.

Step 5: Soak with Cleaning Solution (DIY Mix: Vinegar + Baking Soda)

Create a solution using:

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tsp baking soda (optional for tough grime)
• Let the parts sit for 15–30 minutes to allow the grease and mineral buildup to dissolve.

Step 6: Scrub Gently

After soaking:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub all filter surfaces.
• For stubborn bits, use a toothpick in mesh holes.
• Avoid harsh tools, such as wire brushes, as they can damage the mesh.

Step 7: Dry Completely

Utilize a microfiber cloth to dry each piece thoroughly. Moisture left behind can cause odors or bacterial growth, so don’t skip this step.

Step 8: Reinsert & Run Test

• Realign the filter(s) and twist them clockwise until they are locked in place.
• Replace the rack.
• Turn power and water back on.
• Run a short hot-water cycle with no dishes to ensure the filter is seated correctly and check for leaks or noises.

Routine Monthly Cleaning vs Deep Cleaning

Routine Monthly Cleaning

A quick filter refresh:

• Wash and brush the filter every 30 days.
• To use a vinegar rinse, pour a cup of white vinegar into the bottom rack and run a hot cleaning cycle.
• Clean the spray arms and door seal with warm, soapy water.

Quarterly Deep Cleaning

Every 3–4 months, go deeper:

• Entirely remove and soak the filter parts in vinegar overnight.
• Also, remove the spray arms: twist off the caps, soak them, and then scrub each hole.
• Wipe interior walls, around the drain, gaskets, and edges with warm water and mild detergent.
• To finish, put ½ cup of baking soda in the bottom and run a quick hot wash.

Non‑Removable Filter Models

If your Samsung uses a “self-cleaning” filter:

• Remove spray arms and manually wipe around the filter area.
• Run monthly vinegar + deep-clean tablet cycles (e.g., Affresh, Dishwasher Magic)
• Check the drain holes and pump inlet; if accessible, vacuum debris or use a zip-tie to clear the channels.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Filter Clean Longer

1) Scrape Large Food Debris

Before loading dishes:

• Scrape plates into trash/compost.
• Rinsing larger bits for a few seconds saves you in the long run by reducing buildup.

2) Use High‑Quality Dishwasher Detergent

Premium detergents dissolve cleaner and prevent film formation. Cheap ones may leave residue that clogs filters and causes smells.

3) Run a Vinegar Rinse Every 30 Days

As discussed above, vinegar cycles are a low-maintenance option that effectively removes limescale and eliminates odors. This simple step reduces deep-clean frequency.

4) Avoid Overloading

Cramming affects dishwasher performance by blocking water jets. Proper loading ensures that food doesn’t redeposit on the filter, keeping it clearer for a more extended period. period

5) Add Periodic Cleaning Tablets

Every 3–6 months, run a cleaning tablet (Affresh, Glisten, Finish) on the hottest cycle — especially useful for non-removable filter units.

6) Weekly Wipe‑Down

Spend 5 minutes weekly to wipe door edges, gasket, and spray arm hubs. A simple soap-and-water wipe prevents buildup and extends the intervals between deep cleanings.

Signs Your Filter Needs Immediate Cleaning

i) Cloudy Glasses or Gritty Residue

A telltale sign—re-clean your filter if dishes appear dull or have specks.

ii) Water Pooling at the Bottom

Standing water indicates that drainage is blocked, almost always due to a clogged filter. Remove & clean it now.

iii) Bad Smells After Cycle

Even after emptying the tub, lingering odors signal decomposing food trapped in the filter. Immediate cleaning is recommended.

iv) Noisy Operation

Strange gurgling or humming sounds while it’s running may indicate that the pump is having trouble because something is blocking it. A quick cleaning of the filter can usually resolve this issue.

Common Problems & How to Fix Them

1) Filter Stuck & Won’t Come Out

Solution:

• Gently tap the surrounding area to loosen debris.
• Apply a few drops of cooking oil at the edge to lubricate.
• Use a firm grip and twist sharply.
• Non-removable? Use vinegar/deep-clean tablets instead.

2) Cracked or Broken Filter

If you spot damage to the filter mesh or plastic:

• Get a replacement from Samsung or a generic OEM-compatible part.
• Operating a dishwasher without a filter risks pump damage.

3) Food Still Stuck After Cleaning

• Clean the pump filter again, soaking it for an extended period.
• Transparent spray arms, too—clogged holes can re-deposit food.
• Check the drain pump inlet for large debris.

4) Drain Errors on Samsung Screen (e.g., LC code)

• LC indicates a drain or leak sensor alert.
• Remove the filter, clear the pump inlet, and then run a vinegar rinse.
• If errors persist, check hoses or call service.
• Reddit users often attributed LC to clogged impellers or O-ring misalignment, which could be fixed by careful reassembly.

FAQs from Reddit, Facebook & Samsung Forums

Don’t miss: How to Clean Dishwasher Filter Easily in 10 Minutes

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to clean your Samsung dishwasher filter the right way—without needing to call a pro or guessing your way through. Keeping the filter clean helps keep your dishes cleaner, eliminates unpleasant odors, and reduces the need for repeated washing. It only takes a few minutes, but it helps your Samsung dishwasher work better.  

Please put it on your monthly to-do list, and both your machine and nose will be grateful later. Have questions? Don’t worry—ask them below. If this was useful, share it with a friend who is having the same dishwasher problems. A clean filter makes a happy kitchen and a simple life.

Sources

https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10002330/

https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-clean-dishwasher-filter

https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/cleaning-kitchen/how-to-clean-dishwasher

https://www.homesandgardens.com/solved/kitchen-cleaning-mistakes

Reddit Discussions

r/appliancerepair – Samsung Filter Cleaning Tips

r/CleaningTips – Dishwasher Filter Maintenance

r/CleaningTips – Filter Won’t Come Out Discussion