Clogged spray arms and infrequent dishwasher filter cleaning can lead to poor performance and costly repairs.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$0 - $20
Introduction
Restore your dishwasher's cleaning power with these straightforward instructions on how to clean a dishwasher filter and spray arm.
I can’t even imagine what my life would be like without my trusty dishwasher. The amount of time I’ve saved by not having to manually clean and dry every dirty dish is beyond comprehension. That’s all the motivation I need to stay on top of maintenance tasks like cleaning and checking the dishwasher door seal, the filter and the spray arms.
What Is a Dishwasher Filter?
A dishwasher filter plays a crucial role by trapping and holding onto any leftover food particles, debris, or other remnants that might remain after a cleaning cycle. However, as time passes, these particles can accumulate and obstruct the filter, making it more difficult for the dishwasher to perform effectively.
What Is a Dishwasher Spray Arm?
The dishwasher arm distributes water onto the dishes during the washing cycle. If the arm becomes clogged, it’s safe to say that the dishes won’t be thoroughly cleaned. Luckily, cleaning these two vital components doesn’t take much time at all, yet it can make a significant difference in performance.
In spite of the fact that this project isn’t difficult, it is quite gross, so I recommend wearing rubber dishwashing gloves or disposable gloves when completing it.
Tools Required
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- Sponge
- Toothbrush
Materials Required
- Dish soap
- Toothpicks
- White vinegar
Watch How To Clean a Dishwasher Filter and Spray Arm
Project step-by-step (11)
Step 1
How To Clean a Dishwasher Filter
Remove the lower rack in the dishwasher
To access the filter, slide out the lower rack of your dishwasher. The top rack can remain in place unless it is in the way. The exact position of the filter can be found in your dishwasher’s manual. You can easily find the model’s information online if you don’t have the manual.
Step 2
Remove the bottom spray arm
There are various methods for removing spray arms, and each dishwasher may take a different approach. In my particular dishwasher, the spray arm is removed by twisting and pulling it.
Step 3
Remove the filter screen
The dishwasher filter on this dishwasher is located beneath the screen. To access it, pull out the screen and twist off the filter.
Step 4
Clean the dishwasher filter
Run hot water in the sink and rinse out the mesh filter. If the filter appears excessively dirty and grimy, take a sponge and some dish soap to scrub it gently, and then rinse thoroughly. Do not use wire brushes or scrubby pads, which may damage the filter. To remove stubborn dirt and grime, scrub the filter with a toothbrush soaked in white vinegar.
Step 5
Put the filter back into place
To secure the filter, lock it back onto the screen and then proceed to lock the screen into its proper position. Don’t forget to reconnect the spray arm to the dishwasher.
Step 6
How To Clean Dishwasher Spray Arms
Remove the lower rack in the dishwasher
Begin by removing the bottom dishwasher rack and setting it aside. This will provide you with easy access to the lower spray arm.
Step 7
Remove dishwasher spray arms
To remove the spray arms, gently pull and twist them out of their sockets. The removal method may vary depending on the specific dishwasher brand and model.
Step 8
Clean dishwasher spray arms
Use a toothpick or paperclip to remove debris from the spray arms’ openings.
Step 9
Scrub spray arm and rinse
Scrub the spray arms with a sponge and dish soap to remove any buildup. Then, rinse them with warm water and dry them off with a fresh towel.
Step 10
Reattach the spray arms
Gently push the spray arms back into their original position and carefully slide the lower rack back into the dishwasher.
Step 11
FAQ
What is a self-cleaning dishwasher filter?
Older dishwashers (made before 2010) tend to have self-cleaning filters. These filters were typically equipped with noisy grinders, so manufacturers switched to quieter filters (without grinders) requiring manual cleaning.
To find out what kind of filter you have, look at the bottom of the dishwasher under the spray arms. Self-cleaning filters sport a circular plastic grid or series of holes that cover the filter. Filters that need to be manually cleaned are round and look somewhat like the filters on popular water pitchers.
How often do I need to clean the dishwasher filter?
If you frequently use your dishwasher, it is recommended that you clean the filter monthly. However, if you reside in an area with hard water and notice mineral buildup, it may be necessary to clean the filter more often. If you only use it a few times a week and rinse or wash items before you load your dishwasher, you only need to clean your filter once or twice yearly.
Can a dirty filter cause the dishwasher to not drain?
When food particles build up in the filter, it can cause issues with the water draining properly. So, if you’re finding that your dishwasher isn’t draining like it should, the filter is a good first place to check.
