Your Dishwasher Has A Filter—Here’s How To Clean It
Here’s a secret most people don’t learn until their dishwasher starts smelling… off. It has a filter. Yep, that hardworking machine that seems to do everything for you actually has one little part that needs some attention from time to time. The filter is what keeps food gunk and debris from getting sprayed back on your dishes. Cleaning it takes just a few minutes, but it can make your dishwasher work (and smell) like new again.
Why It Matters
Your dishwasher filter traps tiny bits of food and grease that were on your dirty dishes. Over time, that stuff builds up into a layer of sludge in the filter that can cause cloudy glasses, grimy dishes, or strange odors. If you’ve ever opened your dishwasher after a cycle and thought, “These don’t look clean,” a dirty filter might be the reason. A quick clean once a month keeps your dishes sparkling and your machine running smoothly.
Finding The Filter
Most modern dishwashers have the filter at the bottom, under the bottom rack. You’ll usually spot it in the center or off to one side. It’s a small round or rectangular piece you can twist or lift out. If you’re not sure, check your dishwasher manual or look up the model online. It’s one of those hidden-in-plain-sight things you probably wouldn’t notice until someone points it out.
Getting It Out Safely
Before you remove the filter, make sure the dishwasher is empty and turned off. Twist it gently, but don’t force it out. Most filters unlock with a quick turn. Once it’s free, lift it out carefully. You might be surprised (and a little grossed out) by what’s stuck there. That’s normal. Think of it like cleaning the lint trap in your dryer: if it looks gross, it means it’s doing its job.
Cleaning The Filter
Rinse the filter under warm running water. Use a soft toothbrush or sponge to gently scrub away any stuck-on bits. If there’s greasy buildup, a drop of dish soap can help loosen it up. Don’t use anything sharp because it can damage the mesh. When the filter looks clear again, rinse thoroughly. You’ll know you’re done when it feels clean to the touch, not slick or grimy. The whole process takes maybe three minutes at most.
While You’re At It
Since you’re already down there, give the area in your dishwasher around the filter a quick wipe. Then, check for bits of food or buildup inside the basin. If your dishwasher’s been smelling musty, sprinkle a little baking soda around the bottom and run a short rinse cycle. It freshens things up nicely. These small steps keep your dishwasher feeling fresh between deep cleans, and ensures that your dishes are actually getting cleaned.
Putting It Back
Once your filter is clean, slide it back into place and twist until it locks securely. Make sure it sits flat, because if it’s not seated properly, water flow can be affected. The filter should click or stop naturally when it’s in the right position. That’s it. No tools, no hassle. Just a bit of maintenance that makes a big difference.
How Often To Clean It
If you run your dishwasher daily, you should make a habit of cleaning the filter once a month. For lighter use, every two or three months is fine. The best rule of thumb? If your dishwasher starts smelling or your dishes come out less clean, it’s time to check the filter. Once you’ve done it once or twice, it becomes second nature, like wiping down the stove after cooking.
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Cleaning your dishwasher filter isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of those small chores that makes a big difference. You’ll notice cleaner dishes, fewer smells, and a machine that just works better overall. It’s easy to overlook the dishwasher filter because it’s out of sight, but once you start keeping up with it, it becomes one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” chores. Your future self, and your sparkling glasses, will thank you.
Bliss Donahue-Power
