If you’ve noticed your dishes coming out of the dishwasher a little grimy—or worse, still wearing last night’s spaghetti—your dishwasher may not be the problem. The real culprit could be a dirty filter.
Knowing how to clean a Maytag dishwasher filter is one of those simple home maintenance tasks that makes a world of difference. Skip it, and you’re practically inviting food particles to hang around like uninvited dinner guests.
Here’s a step-by-step guide from our Burnaby dishwasher repair experts to help you clean your dishwasher filter like a pro.
Why Knowing How to Clean Your Maytag Dishwasher Filter Matters
Every time you run your dishwasher, food debris and grease cycle right along with your dishes. Your filter’s job is to trap all that gunk before it gets re-deposited onto your glassware. But over time, it gets clogged—and a clogged filter means:
- Cloudy dishes and funky smells
- Longer wash cycles
- A struggling appliance that’s burning more energy than it should
Learning how to clean a Maytag dishwasher filter keeps your unit running smoothly and your dishes sparkling clean.
What You’ll Need:
- A soft-bristle brush (an old toothbrush works great)
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- A towel or paper towels
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Maytag Dishwasher Filter
Step 1: Open the Dishwasher and Remove the Bottom Rack
Pull the bottom rack out completely so you can access the filter. It’s usually located at the bottom center of the dishwasher.
Step 2: Remove the Filters
There are two parts: an upper cylindrical filter and a lower flat filter.
- Twist the upper filter counterclockwise and lift it out.
- Then lift out the lower filter carefully—it may have some grime, so don’t be shy with those gloves if you’d prefer.
Step 3: Rinse the Filters Under Warm Water
Rinse both filters under running water to remove loose debris.
- For the greasy or stuck-on bits, use a bit of dish soap and gently scrub with your brush.
- Avoid using wire brushes or anything abrasive. These filters are tough, but they’re not invincible.
Step 4: Inspect the Area Under the Filter
Take a quick look where the filter sits—wipe out any visible debris or gunk with a paper towel. This helps keep buildup to a minimum.
Step 5: Reinstall the Filters
- Place the lower filter back first, making sure it’s aligned properly.
- Insert the upper filter and twist it clockwise until it locks into place. Don’t force it—just make sure it’s snug.
Step 6: Run a Rinse Cycle
Just to flush out any residual debris, run a short rinse cycle. You’re done!
FAQs: Your Dishwasher Filter Questions Answered
1.) How often should I clean my Maytag dishwasher filter?
Every Month Is Ideal.
If you use your dishwasher daily, give the filter a monthly cleaning. If you’re more of a once-a-week dishwasher user, you can stretch it to every few months. Just don’t wait until your dishes start to smell fishy.
2.) What happens if I never clean the filter?
Expect Smelly, Dirty Dishes—and a Shorter Appliance Life.
Neglecting your filter can lead to:
- Reduced cleaning performance
- Drainage problems
- Unpleasant odors
- Potential damage to your dishwasher pump
3.) Can I use vinegar or bleach to clean the filter?
Stick to Soap and Water.
Vinegar is fine for deodorizing the interior of the dishwasher, but for the filter itself, a good scrub with dish soap and warm water is all you need. Avoid bleach—it can damage plastic parts and seals.
4.) How do I know if the filter is installed correctly?
It Should Lock Snugly Into Place.
If the upper filter isn’t locked in properly, it can pop out during a wash cycle. Just give it a gentle twist clockwise until you feel it click into place.
Expert Tip: Keep It Fresh Between Cleanings
To keep your dishwasher running at peak performance, try this: Once a month, run an empty cycle with a bowl of white vinegar on the top rack. This helps break down buildup and deodorizes the interior.
Cleaning your Maytag dishwasher filter might not be glamorous, but it’s the kind of small task that pays off big time. Your dishwasher will run better, your dishes will look like new, and you’ll avoid those costly repair calls.
When you need dishwasher repair, the trusted technicians at Priority Appliance Service in Burnaby are always ready to step in with expert help.
