The bottom filter is the one maintenance item that makes the biggest difference, and it’s the one most people don’t know exists — most modern dishwashers need it cleaned by hand; it doesn’t self-clean.
What to do, and how often
- Remove and rinse the bottom filter every 2–4 weeks
- Run a dishwasher-cleaner cycle monthly if you have hard water or notice film on dishes
- Wipe down the door gasket where grime and residue collect
- Scrape large food debris off dishes before loading — you don’t need to fully pre-rinse, but large scraps clog the filter fastest
What not to do yourself
- Don’t ignore standing water at the bottom after a cycle — that’s a drain issue worth checking (see our dishwasher problems article) rather than something to live with
- Don’t bypass the door latch switch to run it “propped open” — that’s a safety interlock
When it’s time for a repair visit, not maintenance
If the filter’s clean and it’s still leaving dishes dirty, not draining, or not filling, that’s worth a look — see our dishwasher problems article.