How to Clean Maytag Dishwasher Filter Like a Pro at Home

Last month, my Maytag dishwasher started leaving tiny food bits on the dishes. I thought it was broken, but it was just a dirty filter. It’s something we often forget, right? The filter quietly collects grease and debris until it clogs up. Cleaning it is easier than you think, and it can make your dishwasher work like new again. In this article, I’ll show you exactly how to clean Maytag dishwasher filter in simple, easy steps.

Remove the bottom rack and locate the filter area.
Turn the filter counterclockwise to unlock it.
Lift and take out both the upper and lower filters.
Rinse them under warm running water with mild dish soap.
Use a soft brush to scrub away grease or residue.
Reinsert both filters securely and lock them in place.

Locate the Filter Under the Bottom Rack

When your dishwasher isn’t cleaning well, the first thing to check is the filter under the bottom rack. It’s often hiding near the spray arm at the base. Pull out the bottom rack gently, just like you would when loading dishes. You’ll see a round mesh or cylindrical filter sitting snugly in the middle.

It might look small, but this little part catches everything from rice grains to soggy pasta. Many people forget it exists, and that’s why their dishwasher starts smelling or leaving grime behind. If it looks grimy or has visible gunk stuck on it, that’s your cue—it needs cleaning. Don’t wait until it’s fully clogged.

Sometimes the filter area can be greasy or slimy, especially if you wash a lot of oily pans. It’s fine—that’s normal buildup. Just keep a small towel nearby to wipe up excess water as you work. Remember, doing this once a month can prevent most problems before they start.

Before you touch the filter, make sure your dishwasher is turned off and cool. It’s safer and easier to handle. This simple step keeps you from getting splashed by hot water or accidentally turning the machine on mid-clean.

• Pull out bottom rack slowly
• Find round or mesh filter near spray arm
• Check for grease or trapped food
• Make sure dishwasher is off before handling

Unlock and Remove the Filter Safely

Once you’ve found the filter, it’s time to take it out carefully. Most Maytag dishwashers have a twist-lock design. That means you turn the filter counterclockwise to release it. It shouldn’t take much force—just a gentle twist and lift. If it feels stuck, don’t force it. Try turning it slightly back and forth until it loosens.

After removing the upper part, you’ll likely see another fine mesh screen underneath. That’s the lower filter. It slides right out once the top one is removed. These two filters work together—one catches bigger bits, the other catches the fine stuff. Removing both gives you a thorough clean.

I remember once I only cleaned the top filter, thinking it was enough. But the lower one was packed with grease, and the dishes still came out dirty. That’s when I learned both need cleaning every time. It takes an extra minute but makes a huge difference.

Put both filters on a towel or sink rack so they don’t roll away. You can even take a quick photo before removing them—just in case you forget how they fit back later. That small trick has saved me more than once.

• Twist filter counterclockwise to unlock
• Remove both upper and lower filters
• Handle gently to avoid damage
• Place on towel or rack for cleaning

Rinse Filters Under Warm Water

Now that you’ve removed the filters, it’s time to rinse them under warm running water. This helps loosen any stuck-on food or grease. Hold the filter under the tap and rotate it slowly, so water flows through all the tiny holes. You’ll see debris washing away in seconds. It’s oddly satisfying.

If you see sticky residue or dried food, add a bit of mild dish soap. Don’t use harsh chemicals—they can damage the mesh. A drop of regular dish soap is enough. Work it in gently using your fingers or a soft sponge. If you see stubborn spots, soak the filters in warm water for five to ten minutes.

Sometimes grease collects in hard-to-reach corners. A soft toothbrush can help scrub those spots without tearing the mesh. I usually keep an old brush just for this purpose. It makes the job quick and easy. Plus, you don’t need any fancy tools—everything’s already in your kitchen.

Once you’re done, rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Shake off the water and let them air dry for a minute. You can also pat them dry with a towel if you’re in a hurry. Just make sure they’re clean and clear before reinstalling.

• Use warm water and mild soap
• Scrub with soft brush or sponge
• Soak for stubborn residue
• Rinse and dry completely

Clean the Filter Housing Area

Now, don’t forget where the filter sits—the housing area also collects debris. Take a quick look at the base of your dishwasher where the filter goes. You might see bits of pasta, seeds, or soap scum. Use a paper towel or soft cloth to wipe it all away.

Sometimes grease can stick along the edges. Dampen your cloth with a bit of warm water and dish soap. Wipe gently in circular motions until it looks shiny again. Avoid using sharp tools or anything metal, as it could scratch the surface or damage the spray arm nearby.

If you notice a musty smell, sprinkle a pinch of baking soda and let it sit for a few minutes. Then wipe clean with a damp cloth. This neutralizes odors and keeps your dishwasher smelling fresh longer. It’s a little trick I use every month.

Once the area looks clean, run a quick rinse cycle without dishes. It helps flush out leftover grime and clears the drain path. This one small habit keeps your dishwasher running smoother and lasting longer.

• Wipe inside housing gently
• Use baking soda for odor
• Avoid sharp tools or scrapers
• Run empty rinse cycle for freshness

Reinstall and Secure the Filter

After cleaning, it’s time to put everything back. Start by placing the lower filter first—it should fit snugly at the bottom. Then position the upper filter on top and twist it clockwise until it locks into place. You’ll feel a gentle click or stop when it’s secure.

Make sure it’s flat and tight. If it’s not locked properly, debris can slip underneath, causing drainage issues later. I once reinstalled mine slightly crooked, and it made a loud humming sound during the cycle. A quick adjustment fixed it instantly.

Double-check that both filters are seated correctly before sliding the bottom rack back in. It’s easy to miss, especially when you’re in a hurry. If the filter isn’t aligned, water flow can be restricted, affecting cleaning performance.

Once everything looks good, close the dishwasher and give yourself a small pat on the back. You just saved yourself a service call! Doing this regularly keeps your machine performing at its best.

• Place lower filter first, then upper
• Twist until locked
• Check for snug, flat fit
• Ensure proper alignment before running

Maintain a Clean Filter Routine

Keeping your Maytag dishwasher filter clean is more about habit than skill. If you cook daily, clean it every two weeks. For lighter use, once a month is enough. Just make it part of your kitchen routine—like wiping the counter or cleaning the sink.

You’ll notice your dishes coming out spotless again, and there’ll be no weird smells. A clean filter also helps reduce noise during wash cycles. It’s amazing how such a small task can make a big difference in how your dishwasher performs.

I like to set a reminder on my phone labeled “Clean Dishwasher Filter.” It takes less than ten minutes but saves hours of frustration later. Once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature.

Over time, this small maintenance keeps your dishwasher running efficiently and extends its life. A little consistency goes a long way when it comes to home appliances.

• Clean every 2–4 weeks
• Set reminders for regular care
• Keep filters dry after cleaning
• Enjoy quieter, cleaner cycles

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Maytag dishwasher filter isn’t complicated—it’s just a simple habit that makes a big difference. Once you do it a few times, it feels effortless. Your dishes will shine, your kitchen will smell fresher, and your dishwasher will thank you with quieter, smoother performance every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it okay to use vinegar to clean the dishwasher filter?

Yes, you can safely use vinegar to clean the filter. Mix equal parts of warm water and white vinegar, then soak the filter for 10–15 minutes. Vinegar naturally cuts through grease and helps remove odor without harsh chemicals. However, don’t soak metal parts for too long. After soaking, rinse thoroughly with clean water. It’s a simple, eco-friendly way to keep your Maytag filter fresh.

Can I run the dishwasher without the filter?

No, it’s not recommended. The filter protects the pump and spray arms from food particles. Running the dishwasher without it can lead to clogs, reduced cleaning, and even damage. Always reinstall the filter securely after cleaning. Think of it like running a car without an air filter—it might work for a while, but it’ll cause trouble down the road.

Do I need tools to remove the Maytag filter?

Not at all. The filter is designed to be removed by hand. You just twist and lift—it’s that simple. Some people try to use pliers, but that can damage the filter’s lock tabs. If it feels stuck, gently wiggle it instead. Maytag made it user-friendly so anyone can clean it easily without special tools.

Is it normal for the filter to look greasy?

Yes, totally normal. Grease and soap buildup happen over time, especially if you wash oily pans often. Just soak the filter in warm soapy water and scrub lightly with a soft brush. It’ll come clean quickly. Regular cleaning keeps the grease from turning into a sticky layer that traps more debris.

Can I use baking soda instead of soap to clean it?

Absolutely. Baking soda is great for scrubbing off light residue and neutralizing odors. Sprinkle some on the filter, then scrub gently with a damp sponge or toothbrush. It’s gentle yet effective, and it won’t scratch the mesh. I often use baking soda when I’m out of dish soap—it works just as well.

Do I need to clean both filters every time?

Yes, always clean both. The upper and lower filters work together—one catches large debris, and the other traps fine particles. If you only clean one, leftover gunk from the other can circulate back during the wash cycle. It only takes an extra minute to clean both, and it keeps your dishwasher performing perfectly.

Is it okay to put the filter in the dishwasher to clean it?

No, don’t do that. The high heat and pressure could damage the delicate mesh or warp the plastic. Always wash it by hand with warm water and mild soap. It’s safer and extends the filter’s life. Plus, cleaning by hand lets you check for cracks or damage right away.

Can I clean the filter too often?

Not really. Cleaning it regularly only helps your dishwasher run better. If you cook a lot or run daily loads, cleaning every two weeks is ideal. For smaller households, once a month is plenty. There’s no such thing as “too clean” when it comes to filters—it just means your dishwasher stays efficient and odor-free.