Three manufacturers publish steps for cleaning the filter in the bottom of the dishwasher. Find your brand below; the designs differ, so use the one that matches your machine. Whirlpool says to clean it about once a month, Bosch says every few months, and LG says to do it periodically.
Steps, by source
Whirlpool
Removes, rinses and reinstalls the two-part triple filter system (upper filter assembly and lower filter) in a Whirlpool dishwasher. Source: Whirlpool: Clean the dishwasher filters.
- Remove the filter by turning the Upper Filter Assembly ¼ turn counterclockwise and lifting it out.
- Grasp the Lower Filter in the circular opening, lift it slightly, and pull it forward to remove it.
- Rinse the filter under running water until most soils are removed.
- If you have hard-to-remove soils or calcium deposits from hard water, use a soft brush.
- Reinstall the filter and make sure it is locked into place: the Lower Filter securely in place and the Upper Filter Assembly locked.
- Check the Upper Filter Assembly: if it turns freely, it is not locked into place.
What the source lists: Soft brush (only if you have hard-to-remove soils or calcium deposits from hard water).
From the source. Do not use a wire brush, scouring pad, etc., as they may damage the filters.
From the source. To avoid damage to the dishwasher, do not operate your dishwasher without the filters properly installed.
How often, according to Whirlpool: As a general rule, clean your filter once a month, particularly with frequent use. If you have a large family or run the dishwasher daily, consider cleaning the filter every two weeks to prevent debris buildup.
Bosch
Removes the filter from the bottom of a Bosch dishwasher tub, washes its pieces and puts it back. Source: Bosch: Clean the dishwasher filter.
- Remove the bottom rack completely and set it aside.
- Find the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, rotate the filter knob to the left and lift it up to remove it.
- Wash the filter with warm, soapy water and a scrub brush.
- Remove the filter from the screen and clean the pieces individually.
- Dry the filter and place it securely back in the dishwasher.
What the source lists: Warm, soapy water; Scrub brush.
How often, according to Bosch: For optimum results, we recommend you clean your filter every few months.
LG
Removes the inner filter and stainless-steel mesh from an LG dishwasher, washes the inner filter and reinstalls the assembly. Source: LG: Clean the dishwasher filter.
- Fully open the dishwasher door and pull out the lower rack to reach the filter housing.
- Using the handle, turn the inner filter counter-clockwise to remove the inner filter and the stainless-steel mesh; they come out as one piece.
- Remove the inner filter from the stainless-steel mesh.
- Empty out all large debris from the inner filter and wash it under running water with a soft brush or sponge.
- Reassemble the filter and reinstall it by following the steps in reverse, making sure it is properly assembled and installed correctly.
What the source lists: Soft brush or sponge.
From the source. Do not use steel wool or abrasive brushes as it can damage the filter.
From the source. Improper assembly can lead to poor cleaning results.
From the source. This guide was created for all models, so the images or contents may be different from your product.
How often, according to LG: You should periodically clean your dishwasher filter to keep it operating at peak performance.
Questions
How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?
Whirlpool says as a general rule, clean your filter once a month, particularly with frequent use, and consider every two weeks if you have a large family or run the dishwasher daily. Bosch says to clean your filter every few months for optimum results. LG says to clean it periodically.
What should I not use to clean the filter?
Whirlpool says not to use a wire brush, scouring pad, etc., as they may damage the filters. LG says not to use steel wool or abrasive brushes.
Can I run the dishwasher without the filter?
Whirlpool says that, to avoid damage to the dishwasher, you should not operate it without the filters properly installed.
Models vary, check your manual. These steps come from the sources linked above and HouseHack doesn't verify them. Follow your appliance's manual and safety labels.
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