Make sure you do it frequently if your dishwasher has a filter that needs to be manually cleaned. The article will give you how to clean a dishwasher filter.
You are supposed to prepare tools and materials first. Then follow the steps:
- Pull Out Bottom Rack
- Find and Remove Dishwasher Filter
- Wash by Hand
- Return to Dishwasher
Please read on for more detailed information.
What is a Dishwasher Filter?
A dishwasher filter keeps the drain from clogging and stops small, sloppy food particles from adhering to your freshly washed dishes. And yes, just like the filters in your car or your home furnace, your dishwasher has a filter, which means it requires regular maintenance checks. Regular cleaning of the dishwasher filter is crucial to ensuring that it continues to function effectively for many years to come.
How to Clean a Dishwasher Filter?
Your dishwasher’s filter is located at the bottom of the appliance. It is typically circular and is frequently located in the back corner of your dishwasher or close to the base of the bottom spray arm.
What You Need
- Small soft brush (like a toothbrush)
- Dish soap
Step 1: Pull Out Bottom Rack
Your dishwasher’s lower rack should be moved out. Remove the screen from the dishwasher’s bottom if there is one if there is.
Step 2: Find and Remove Dishwasher Filter
Locating the dishwasher filter is the first step. The filter typically resembles a cylinder with a thin mesh surrounding it on all sides. The dishwasher filter is easy to remove. The filter can be unlocked by simply twisting (arrows may be present to help you know which way to turn), then you can gently raise and remove it. A separate flat filter may occasionally need to be taken out as well.
Step 3: Wash by Hand
In your kitchen sink, hand-wash the dishwasher filter. A quick spray from your kitchen faucet may be all that’s required if it’s fairly clean. If it’s particularly gross or caked with food debris, soak it in warm, soapy water. To get rid of any buildup and food particles, gently scrub the filter’s interior and exterior with a soft brush. Take care not to harm delicate dishwasher filters by using wire brushes or rough scrubbing. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the filter with water.
Nobody would be critical of you if you assumed that a dishwasher uses a sizable amount of water for each load. After all, one of the largest appliances in your home is usually this one. You may have wondered how much water does a dishwasher use.
Step 4: Return to Dishwasher
Put the dishwasher filter back in its spot and lock it with a twist. Make sure the screen is securely fastened if it needs to be replaced. If you don’t, you run the risk of it lifting up and being struck by the rotating dishwasher spray arm during a cycle.
Is My Dishwasher Filter Manual Or Self-Cleaning?
You can decide whether or not to manually clean the filter by knowing how old your dishwasher is. The good news is that there are only two types of dishwasher filters to worry about: self-cleaning older models (pre-2010) and manual-cleaning newer models (2010 and newer).
To avoid manual labor, you might be hoping that your dishwasher is an older model. Self-cleaning is a feature on the older model, but it’s not as useful as you might think. As many older dishwashers have a grinding mechanism that pulverizes food bits, the self-cleaning process makes them loud and noisy. You most likely have a newer model of dishwasher if it operates relatively quietly. (Consult your dishwasher’s owner’s manual if you are unsure of its age.)
Despite the fact that manual cleaning is necessary for newer models, the process doesn’t take too long or be too challenging.
Suggested reading: How long do dishwashers last? This guide will tell you how to prolong the life of your dishwasher and keep it in good working condition.
How Often to Clean a Dishwasher Filter?
The best way to refresh a self-cleaning filter is to give your dishwasher a thorough cleaning with distilled white vinegar and baking soda at least once a month or use a commercial dishwasher cleaner. Manual-clean filters need to be cleaned at least once per month. If the clean dishes feel gritty or have bits of food left on them after washing, or the dishwasher has a really unpleasant odor, you should clean the filter more often.
It only takes a few minutes to clean the filter, and you probably already have the materials on hand. To avoid having to wash the dishes again, it is well worth the time and energy to clean it.
Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher Filter Clean Longer
- Scrape away excess food from the dishes before you load them into the dishwasher.
- Run a cleaning cycle once a month when the dishwasher is empty to help remove any greasy accumulation on the interior and the filter. Put two cups of distilled white vinegarin an open container on the top rack. Complete the cleaning by running a standard hot water wash cycle.
- Make a note in your calendar to remind yourself to clean the dishwasher filter every month.
Read about How to Install a Dishwasher?
More Dishwasher Cleaning Tips
Take a moment to clean the inside of your dishwasher while it is empty. Your dishwasher’s interior edges, corners, and hinges almost certainly have food splatters that need to be cleaned off. Check the cabinets next to the dishwasher as well. Clean up any gunk with a cloth after using the same soft brush to gently scrub away any stuck-on messes.
Your dishwasher will occasionally require a thorough deep cleaning.
Cleaning your dishwasher filter may be unpleasant the first time, but after a few subsequent cleanings, you’ll realize it’s not a big deal. Your dishes will be spotless, and regular maintenance will keep your dishwasher in good working order for years to come.
