How do I know if my dishwasher filter is self-cleaning?

Author: Gracie Schowalter  |  Last update: Saturday, February 21, 2026

These are usually noisier because they have grinders to get rid of food, but don't need as much attention. You can check if your dishwasher has one by looking at the bottom of the dishwasher. If there is a plastic grid or holes at the base covering the filter, you probably have a self-cleaning filter.

How do I know when my dishwasher filter needs cleaning?

Your dishwasher's filter keeps uneaten pieces of food. and leftover residue from circling around the machine. If you see a drop in your dishwasher's cleaning. performance, it might be an indication that the filter is blocked. You might also be able to see. and smell grime on your dishes. Depending on how frequently.

How do you run a self clean cycle on a dishwasher?

Run a cleaning cycle

Simply leave your dishwasher empty, place a half cup of white vinegar at the bottom rack, and run the cycle. If your dishwasher does not have a self-cleaning cycle, then simply select a normal one.

How to clean a self-cleaning filter dishwasher?

To clean, run water over your dishwasher filter to remove most soils. As you wash the dishwasher filter, you may need to use a soft brush and dish soap on calcium deposits and other hard-to-remove food debris.

What happens if you don't clean your dishwasher filter?

The filter not only helps make it possible to skip prerinsing your dishes, but it also filters the water and catches food particles as the machine washes. It prevents major clogs that can cause leaks or break the pump, too. Without a periodic inspection and rinse, food can build up and cause a blockage.

Dishwasher not cleaning properly? Try these tips

What does self clean mean on a dishwasher?

Self Clean: Cleans the dishwasher's tub. Run this cycle without dishes. Caution: Always run the Self Clean cycle with the dishwasher empty. Never use it as a wash cycle to clean dishes.

Can I run my dishwasher without the filter to clean it?

Maintenance of your filters regularly will sustain peak cleaning performance. We suggest you clean both your upper and lower filters and rinse under running water at least once a month. IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to dishwasher, do not operate your dishwasher without filters properly installed.

Do all dishwashers have removable filters?

All dishwashers have a filter, however not all of them require regular maintenance. The location, type and instructions about how to keep the dishwasher clean may vary depending on the make and model of the appliance. Be sure to consult your product manual before removing and cleaning the filter.

Does a 10 year old dishwasher have a filter?

If your dishwasher is over 10 years old, it probably has something called a self-cleaning filter.

How to clean a non-removable dishwasher filter?

Rinse the filter under running water to remove any food or debris (see below). To get rid of any stuck gunk, use a sponge or scrub brush with warm soapy water—or even a bottle brush or toothbrush if your filter has parts that are hard to get to.

Can you put vinegar and baking soda in the dishwasher at the same time?

If you simultaneously put baking soda and vinegar in the dishwasher, the chemical reaction between the two ingredients can create a giant, bubbly mess. It's best to run a short cycle with vinegar and run a second, separate, short cycle with baking soda.

Should water sit in bottom of dishwasher filter?

It is normal for there to be a small amount of standing water in the dishwasher filter area (about half way up to the top of the filter area). You may notice this water when you remove your dishwasher filters for regular cleaning. The water is there to keep the seals in that area from drying up.

Why aren't my dishes getting clean in the dishwasher?

Improper loading, a clogged or blocked spray arm or a clogged filter may cause your dishwasher to perform poorly. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes on the bottom rack, check for these issues and consult your owner's manual. Consult a professional for repairs if you're still having issues.

How often should I clean my dishwasher with vinegar?

“It's a simple 10-minute task that should be done approximately every four weeks if used regularly.” In the following guide from AD, learn how to clean a dishwasher with white vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap. Not only will your machine look brand-new, but it will also run more efficiently than ever.

How to tell if a dishwasher has a filter?

You'll probably find your dishwasher filter on the bottom of the tub – either under the lower spray arm or around the base in a back corner. You'll need to remove the lower dish rack to access it. Once you do, you'll find either a plastic grid or a cylindrical tube that looks a bit like a water pitcher filter.

Are dishwasher cleaning tablets worth it?

"While dishwasher tablets and pods tend to be more expensive, they invariably outperform powder in our dishwasher detergent tests," says Matthew. "The top 10 products in our dishwasher detergent review are all either tablets or pods. And the lowest-ranked products are all powders, sheets and gels."

What happens if you don't clean the filter in your dishwasher?

If you don't clean the filter, you're basically letting food residue sit inside it to decompose. Once that starts to happen, you'll be met with the smell of decaying food every time you open the dishwasher.

Do dishwashers have a self-clean cycle?

Yes, some dishwashers come with a self-cleaning cycle, just like ovens do. For example, the DW80R9950UG Samsung dishwasher, and other Samsung models with its WaterWall technology, feature a self-clean cycle. Miele dishwashers come with an advanced self clean technology.

What cycle do you use for cascade dishwasher cleaner?

Running the dishwasher in an empty wash cycle with just one single-dose pac gives you a clean machine!

How do you clean a dishwasher with no removable filter?

No removable filter? No problem. You can still clean your dishwasher—you just need to use dishwasher cleaning tablets.

How do I make my dishwasher self clean?

Pour 2 cups (500 mL) of white vinegar into a glass measuring cup or other dishwasher-safe container and place upright in the lower rack. Run a normal cycle with the heat dry option turned off to clean the inside of your dishwasher. Do not use detergent.

How do you use self clean mode?

  1. Step 1: Remove Loose Items and Quickly Wipe Down the Inside. Remove any loose items to prevent damage: oven racks, the broiler pan, all cookware, foil and any plastic on the range cooktop. ...
  2. Step 2: Run the Self-Clean Cycle. ...
  3. Step 3: Wait for the Cycle to Complete and Oven to Cool. ...
  4. Step 4: Wipe Out the Oven Cavity.

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