How to Clean Kitchenaid Dishwasher Filter the Right Way

Last week, my friend called me in frustration because her KitchenAid dishwasher started leaving tiny food bits on dishes. She thought it was broken, but the real issue was just a dirty filter. It’s a simple fix that many people overlook. If you’ve noticed cloudy glasses or a funky smell, this guide is exactly what you need. In this article, we’ll go through it step-by-step in the simplest way possible.

Turn off the dishwasher and remove the bottom rack carefully.
Locate the filter at the bottom and twist it counterclockwise to unlock.
Take out the filter assembly and rinse it under warm running water.
Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub off stuck debris.
Soak the filter in mild soapy water for 10–15 minutes if greasy.
Reinstall the filter by twisting clockwise until it locks securely.

Find and Remove the Dishwasher Filter

Start by opening your KitchenAid dishwasher and sliding out the bottom rack completely. Many people forget this simple move and struggle to reach the filter properly. The filter sits right under the spray arm at the bottom. It usually has a round, mesh-like cover that twists off easily. It may look clean at first glance, but trust me, hidden food particles often sit beneath.

Now, twist the filter counterclockwise and gently pull it out. You might hear a soft click when it unlocks. Sometimes it feels stuck due to grime or soap buildup, but a little wiggle will free it. Be careful not to force it, though—these filters are delicate and can crack if twisted too hard. Have a towel ready because you might find a little water pooled around it.

Once the filter is out, take a quick look inside the filter housing. You’ll likely see bits of pasta, rice, or even tiny bones stuck around there. It’s pretty common, especially after big family dinners. Use a damp cloth or a paper towel to wipe away loose debris. Doing this makes cleaning easier later and prevents that musty odor from coming back.

Before moving to the next step, place the filter on the counter or in a small bowl. You don’t want it rolling around and getting scratched. Small care like this helps it last longer. And honestly, once you’ve removed it once, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner—it’s really that simple.

• Remove bottom rack carefully
• Twist and pull out the filter
• Wipe debris from housing
• Keep the filter aside safely

Rinse Away Loose Debris

Now that your filter is out, it’s time to rinse off the easy stuff. Hold it under warm running water in the sink. You’ll see food bits wash away quickly. If there’s any dry or stuck residue, gently rub it with your fingers. The goal here isn’t deep cleaning yet—just to loosen the visible gunk and grease.

Sometimes the filter holes get clogged with small seeds or coffee grounds. If that happens, use a soft toothbrush or even a toothpick to clear them out. Don’t use sharp metal tools—they can puncture the mesh. Warm water alone works wonders for loosening grime, especially if you’ve been running the dishwasher daily.

If the filter feels greasy, add a tiny drop of dish soap directly on it while rinsing. Swirl it around and rinse again. This helps remove the slippery layer of fat or detergent film. Take your time—cleaning it thoroughly now will make the next step much easier.

Once it looks cleaner, give it a quick shake to remove excess water. You’ll notice how much better it already looks. Little things like this keep your dishwasher running smoother and smelling fresher. Who doesn’t like clean dishes that sparkle, right?

• Rinse under warm water
• Use soft brush for clogs
• Add mild soap if greasy
• Shake off excess water

Deep Clean With Soap and Warm Water

After rinsing, fill a bowl or sink with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Drop the filter in and let it soak for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps break down stubborn grease and any old detergent residue. You might even see tiny bubbles forming—that’s the soap doing its job.

While it soaks, gently swirl the filter now and then. You’ll notice the water getting cloudy—that’s a good sign. It means all the hidden dirt and grease are coming off. If you have a second filter (some models do), soak both together. It saves time and ensures both are equally clean.

After soaking, take your soft brush or an old toothbrush and start scrubbing lightly. Focus on the mesh and edges where food tends to stick. You don’t need to scrub too hard—a gentle touch does the trick. Rinse it once more under clean water to wash away any soap residue.

When you finish, hold it up to the light. You should be able to see through the mesh clearly. That’s when you know it’s properly clean. It feels great to see that shine again, doesn’t it? It’s like giving your dishwasher a mini spa day.

• Soak in warm soapy water
• Scrub mesh lightly
• Rinse with clean water
• Check for clear mesh visibility

Clean the Filter Housing

Now that your filter is spotless, don’t skip the housing area where it sits. That’s often where grime hides. Use a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel to wipe the bottom of the dishwasher. If you notice sticky buildup or odor, mix a bit of vinegar with warm water and use that to wipe. The smell disappears instantly.

Sometimes bits of food cling under the spray arm too. Spin the arm gently to ensure nothing blocks its rotation. If you see debris there, just wipe it off with a damp cloth. A clean housing means better water circulation and cleaner dishes.

It’s also smart to check for small calcium or soap deposits. If you spot any, sprinkle a bit of baking soda and scrub gently. This small step prevents clogs and helps your dishwasher drain more efficiently. It’s like clearing a mini highway for water flow.

Once everything looks neat, dry the area with a towel. Keeping it dry avoids mold buildup. Now your dishwasher not only smells fresher but also runs more quietly. It’s amazing how much difference a little cleaning can make.

• Wipe housing with damp cloth
• Use vinegar for odor removal
• Check spray arm movement
• Dry area before reinstalling filter

Reinstall the Filter Properly

After everything’s clean and dry, it’s time to put the filter back in. Place it back into its slot and twist it clockwise until you feel it lock. Don’t skip this lock—it’s what keeps it from moving during cycles. A loose filter can cause noise or even water leakage.

Before putting back the bottom rack, spin the spray arm once more. It should move freely without touching the filter. This ensures the filter is seated correctly. Sometimes people forget this and wonder why their dishwasher sounds strange later.

Once the filter feels snug, slide the bottom rack back in gently. Close the door and run a quick rinse cycle with no dishes inside. This final step flushes out any leftover debris and tests your cleaning job. You might notice your dishwasher sounds smoother already.

Doing this once a month can keep your machine in top shape. It’s a small habit that saves you from expensive repairs later. Plus, it only takes a few minutes when you know the right way to do it.

• Lock filter in place
• Test spray arm movement
• Run empty rinse cycle
• Repeat cleaning monthly

Maintain Regular Cleaning Habits

Keeping your KitchenAid dishwasher filter clean isn’t a one-time task—it’s part of regular care. Make it a habit every few weeks, especially if you cook often. The more you use your dishwasher, the faster debris builds up. But with a little routine, it’s no big deal.

Try setting a reminder on your phone or mark it on your calendar. Doing it consistently keeps odors away and prevents cloudy dishes. You’ll also notice the machine runs more quietly because nothing’s blocking the pump.

Another great tip is to scrape off leftover food before loading dishes. It doesn’t mean pre-washing, just removing big chunks. This small step reduces the amount of debris caught in the filter. Also, avoid overloading your dishwasher—it needs space for water to flow freely.

Lastly, run a cleaning cycle with vinegar once a month. It clears out soap buildup and keeps everything smelling fresh. Simple habits like these can make your KitchenAid dishwasher last for years without trouble.

• Clean every few weeks
• Scrape off food before loading
• Avoid overloading dishes
• Run vinegar rinse monthly

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your KitchenAid dishwasher filter is easier than most people think. Once you do it the first time, it becomes a quick and satisfying routine. Your dishes come out cleaner, and your dishwasher runs more efficiently. A few minutes of care can prevent costly repairs and bad smells. Keep it clean, and it’ll keep working beautifully for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it necessary to clean the KitchenAid dishwasher filter regularly?

Yes, cleaning the KitchenAid dishwasher filter regularly is essential. Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum build up inside the filter, blocking water flow. This can cause cloudy dishes, unpleasant smells, or even drainage issues. Cleaning it once a month ensures your dishwasher works efficiently and lasts longer. Plus, it only takes a few minutes, and you’ll instantly notice the difference in cleaning performance.

Can I use vinegar to clean the KitchenAid dishwasher filter?

Yes, you can safely use vinegar to clean your KitchenAid dishwasher filter. Mix equal parts warm water and white vinegar, then soak the filter for 10–15 minutes. Vinegar helps dissolve grease and remove odor naturally. Just rinse it well afterward to avoid any lingering smell. It’s a simple, chemical-free way to keep your dishwasher fresh and sparkling clean every time.

Is it okay to run the dishwasher without cleaning the filter?

Not really. Running your dishwasher without cleaning the filter can lead to poor performance over time. Food particles can block the water jets and make your dishes come out dirty or streaked. It can also cause odors or even damage the motor. Taking a few minutes to clean the filter saves you from costly repairs and keeps your dishes spotless.

Can I put the filter in the washing machine or dishwasher?

No, you shouldn’t clean the dishwasher filter inside another machine. The high heat and strong jets can damage the mesh or plastic frame. Always clean it by hand using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. It’s safer, quicker, and ensures your filter stays in good shape for much longer.

Is it difficult to remove the KitchenAid dishwasher filter?

Not at all. Most KitchenAid filters twist out easily by turning them counterclockwise. The first time might feel tight because of grime, but a gentle twist and wiggle will free it. Once you’ve done it once, you’ll find it simple and quick to repeat in the future. No tools are needed, just your hands and a little care.

Can a dirty filter cause bad smells in the dishwasher?

Yes, absolutely. When food bits get trapped in the filter, they start to decay over time, creating unpleasant odors. Cleaning the filter removes those trapped particles and keeps your dishwasher smelling clean. If the smell persists, wipe the inside with vinegar water or run a vinegar rinse cycle for extra freshness.

Do I need to replace the KitchenAid dishwasher filter?

Most filters don’t need frequent replacement. However, if yours looks damaged, cracked, or the mesh is torn, it’s best to replace it. Damaged filters can allow debris to reach the pump and cause mechanical issues. Check it every few months, and if it looks worn, a new one is a simple and inexpensive fix.

Can I prevent clogs in the filter?

Yes, preventing clogs is simple. Always scrape off large food chunks before loading dishes, and avoid overloading the racks. Also, rinse the filter weekly to remove any buildup early. Using a vinegar rinse once a month helps keep grease and minerals from sticking. These small steps keep your dishwasher filter clean and efficient longer.