Dishwasher Filter Replacement: When and How to Swap It Out

Know which filter type your dishwasher has

Dishwashers use one of two filter systems: a manual (cleanable) filter or a self-cleaning filter. Manual filters are common on many built-in and countertop models. They consist of a fine mesh screen and a coarse filter that trap food particles, and you must clean or replace them periodically. Self-cleaning filters, often found on higher-end machines, grind food particles and flush them down the drain, so they require little maintenance. ENERGY STAR notes that improved water filtration is one of the innovations in newer certified dishwashers, which points to the importance of keeping the filter system working well.

To identify your filter type, open the dishwasher and look at the bottom of the tub. A manual filter is usually a cylindrical assembly near the spray arm that you can twist and lift out. A self-cleaning system may have a flat mesh screen or no visible filter at all. Check the owner's manual for your model: it will state whether the filter is cleanable, replaceable, or self-cleaning. If you are shopping for a new dishwasher and want to minimize maintenance, compare the filter systems of different models in our guides to best built-in dishwashers and best countertop dishwashers.

• Manual filter: a mesh or screen assembly you remove and clean or replace.
• Self-cleaning filter: a grinder or centrifugal system that flushes food waste away automatically.
• Hybrid filter: some models combine a manual coarse filter with a self-cleaning fine filter.

Signs that the filter needs replacement

A damaged or clogged filter will show clear symptoms. If dishes come out with food residue, the dishwasher drains slowly, or the tub has a persistent odor, the filter may be blocked or worn. A cracked or warped filter cannot seal properly, which lets food particles recirculate onto dishes. In those cases, cleaning alone may not solve the problem, and you should replace the part.

A filter that is only dirty can often be cleaned by rinsing it under running water and scrubbing with a soft brush. Our guide to dishwasher filter cleaning explains the cleaning process in detail. But if the mesh is torn, the frame is cracked, or the filter no longer snaps or twists into place, replacement is the right call. Some manufacturers recommend a regular replacement schedule, but the exact interval depends on the model and how often you run the dishwasher.

Find the correct replacement filter

The replacement filter must match the exact model of your dishwasher. Look for the model number on the nameplate, usually on the door edge, the side of the tub, or the base of the unit. Write it down before searching for parts. The manufacturer's website is the most reliable place to find the original part, and many brands offer a support or accessories page where you can enter the model number.

If you are replacing the filter on a machine from a major brand, the part number is often printed on the filter itself. Check both the old filter and the owner's manual for a part number. A replacement part that does not match the dimensional fit of the original may not seat correctly, which can allow food debris to bypass the filter. For guidance on which dishwashers are worth maintaining, see our reviews of best Bosch dishwashers and best Fisher & Paykel dishwashers.

Step-by-step removal of the old filter

Before removing the filter, unplug the dishwasher or switch off the breaker. Water may remain in the sump at the bottom of the tub, so keep a towel or shallow pan nearby. Here is the typical removal process for a manual filter:

Start by removing the bottom rack to access the filter area. Locate the filter assembly at the bottom center of the tub. Turn the filter counterclockwise until it unlocks, then lift it straight up. Some models have a two-part filter: a larger outer cylinder and a smaller inner mesh. Remove both parts if they come out separately. For models with a flat screen, you may need to unscrew a retaining ring or pull the screen up by a tab.

Inspect the old filter before discarding it. You may find a part number molded into the plastic. If the filter is only lightly soiled, you can consider cleaning it instead of replacing, but if you are replacing, dispose of it. Do not run the dishwasher without a filter: unfiltered water can carry food particles into the pump and spray arms, which can lead to clogs and poor cleaning performance.

• Disconnect power to the dishwasher.
• Remove the bottom rack and any debris from the bottom of the tub.
• Twist the filter assembly counterclockwise to unlock it.
• Lift out the filter and any removable inner screen.
• Note the part number if present.

Reassembly and reinstallation tips

Installing the new filter is the reverse of removal. Align the tabs on the new filter with the slots in the sump, then press down and turn clockwise until it locks. If the filter has a separate inner screen, install that first, then the outer cylinder. Make sure the filter is fully seated: a loose filter can rattle during the cycle or let debris pass through.

After reinstalling the filter, run a short rinse cycle with the machine empty before washing dishes. This flushes any loose debris and verifies that the filter stays in place. Check for leaks around the filter area during the cycle. If the filter keeps popping out or does not seal, the part may not be the correct one for your model, or the sump may be damaged.

Regular maintenance will extend the life of the new filter. Scrape food off dishes before loading, as ENERGY STAR recommends, to reduce the debris load on the filter. Also clean the spray arms periodically; our guide to dishwasher spray arm cleaning covers that process.

Clean the filter instead of replacing it when possible

Before buying a replacement, try a thorough cleaning if the filter is not physically damaged. A clogged filter often looks dirty but is still functional. Rinse it under warm water to remove loose food particles. Soak it in a solution of warm water and dishwasher detergent for a short time if the mesh is greasy, then scrub with a soft brush. Our guide to self-cleaning filter vs manual filter explains the trade-offs between these systems.

If your dishwasher has a self-cleaning filter and you notice food particles on dishes, the problem is usually not the filter itself but a clog in the spray arms, drain pump, or drain hose. Check those components before assuming the filter needs replacement. A filter that is part of a multi-part assembly may be replaced one piece at a time; see our comparison of one-piece filter vs multi-part filter dishwashers for more detail.

Prevent future filter problems

The best way to avoid frequent filter replacement is to keep the filter clean and reduce the amount of food that reaches it. Scrape plates into the trash before loading, but do not pre-rinse: ENERGY STAR notes that rinsing dishes before loading increases water and energy use. Let the dishwasher do the cleaning. Run full loads, since dishwashers use about the same energy and water regardless of load size.

In areas with hard water, mineral scale can build up on the filter mesh and reduce water flow. Periodically cleaning the filter and using a dishwasher cleaner can help. If your machine is old and the filter is no longer available from the manufacturer, you may need to decide between a universal replacement or a new dishwasher. Our guide on dishwasher repair vs replace decision helps with that choice. For an upgrade, see the latest options in our comparisons of budget-friendly dishwashers and value picks.

What to do about your dishwasher filter

Questions

How often should I replace the dishwasher filter?

If you clean the filter regularly, it can last for many years. Replace it when the mesh is torn, the frame is cracked, or it no longer fits snugly. Some manufacturers suggest a yearly replacement, but a cleaned filter often works fine.

Can I use a universal dishwasher filter?

A universal filter may fit but it is risky. The filter must match the dimensions and locking mechanism of your sump. An ill-fitting filter will not seal properly and may let food debris into the pump. Always prefer the manufacturer's part.

Why does my dishwasher need a filter at all?

The filter traps food particles so they do not recirculate onto dishes or clog the spray arms and pump. ENERGY STAR lists improved water filtration as a key innovation in efficient dishwashers. Without a filter, the wash water would be dirty and the machine could jam.

My dishwasher has a self-cleaning filter. Do I ever need to replace it?

Self-cleaning filters are designed to last the life of the machine, but they can jam if large hard objects like bones or pits enter. If cleaning performance declines, check the spray arms and drain pump first. Replace the filter only if it is physically damaged.