You probably know that most cleaning appliances have filters that need to be regularly cleaned/changed. Did you know that dishwashers are no exception to this? They also have a filter that needs to be routinely cleaned. Its job is to hold onto food particles and grease residue and prevent it from being redeposited onto the clean dishes. However, if you don’t clean this filter on time, it may get clogged. This may result in your dishes not coming out completely clean. If that is an issue you have been experiencing for a while, it is probably time to clean that filter of yours.
Keep reading to see how you can do that, as well as some other steps you can take in order to maintain your dishwasher in proper condition. Of course, you can always ask for help professional cleaners to help you with the cleaning.
Some dishwashers have a self-cleaning option. That will make things easier for you. In case you have such an appliance, you want to give your dishwasher a thorough cleaning at least once a month. You can use distilled white vinegar and baking soda or a commercial cleaner for that. If your dishwashing machine does not have the self-cleaning option, you will have to clean your filter manually. You should do that at least once a month as well. However, there are some signs you can look out for that will tell you it is time to clean the filter. Those would be food residue on the dishes even after washing or your dishwasher smelling bad. If you experience either or both of those, clean your filter immediately.
The cleaning of your dishwashing machine filter will only take a few minutes and is a great way to save time and avoid washing the dishes by hand once more.
Most older dishwashers have a self-cleaning filter that works similarly to a garbage disposal. However, that makes dishwashers extremely loud and is the reason why modern manufacturers turn to filters that require manual cleaning. Both types of filters are placed on the bottom of the dishwasher, under the spraying arm. In order to determine which type of filter you have, you can check the owner’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s website and check for more information and cleaning recommendations there.
You will need:
- sink/large bowl
- dishwashing, degreasing liquid
- dishcloth/sponge
- distilled white vinegar
- old toothbrush
- soft-bristled nylon brush
- Locate the filter – Most filters are located on the interior floor of the dishwasher. It is best to remove the bottom rack in order to locate the filter. Manual filters are usually round and twist-lock into place. You will probably see arrows, indicating which way to turn them in order to unlock them.Some filters have a secondary filter underneath them, and some don’t even lock into place. You will be able to easily remove them without any tools.
- Remove the filter – Follow the guideline arrows (you will probably need to turn the filter clockwise). After it clicks and is unlocked, pull it out gently. If there is a secondary filter, take it out as well.
- Prepare a cleaning solution – Fill a sink or a large bowl with hot water and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid inside. You want to use a detergent with degreasing agents. It will help remove any residue that may be stuck in your filter.
- Soak and scrub the filter – Submerge the filter in this solution and let it soak for a few minutes in order to loosen all stubborn dirt and debris. After that, use a sponge, an old toothbrush, or a soft-bristle nylon brush in order to scrub any trapped debris.
- Rinse well – Rinse the whole filter in hot water.
- Wipe down the filter housing – Dip a sponge or a dishcloth in the hot soapy solution and carefully wipe the place where the filter stays. Make sure you remove any leftover residue or grease that may be trapped in that area.
- Wipe down the rest of the bottom – Since you have reached that area, it may be the perfect time to wipe down the rest of the rack, the inside of the dishwasher, the sprayer, and its arms.
- Put the filter back into place – When you are done with the cleaning, insert the filter back into place. If there are two parts of it, make sure you insert both of them. Lock the filter into place by reversing the steps you took to remove it.
Extra tips:
- In order to prevent grease and debris buildup, scrape off excess food leftovers from the dishes before loading them in the dishwasher.
- Once a month run a rinse cycle when your dishwasher is empty. Place a cup full of white distilled vinegar on the top rack and run a regular hot water cycle in order to rinse the inside of the appliance.
- Make sure you add the monthly cleaning of your dishwasher to your regular cleaning schedule.