How to Clean a Kitchenaid Dishwasher Filter

Locate your dishwasher's filter. It is typically on the floor of the dishwasher. Pull out the bottom rack and look along the bottom of the dishwasher until you find it.

Use a paper towel or sponge to remove any residue or debris that has accumulated on the outside of the filter once you locate it. On some dishwashers, the filter area does not detach or open, so your hand cleaning will stop here. On other models, you can unscrew the filter housing to access the inside and clean any debris from the filter area. Simply wash out the filter using soap and water, then reassemble once cleaning is complete.

Further clean the filter area by pouring a quart of white vinegar into the bottom of the empty dishwasher. Turn to a wash cycle and allow the dishwasher to run with the vinegar cleaning the mechanisms, including the filter.

To deep-clean your dishwasher and the filter periodically, mix the following ingredients together in a bowl, then pour into the bottom of the dishwasher: 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup baking soda and 1 cup bleach. Let the mixture sit in the bottom of the empty dishwasher overnight. The next morning run a wash cycle, letting the bleach mixture clean and disinfect the dishwasher thoroughly.