How to Replace a Dishwasher Filter

Step 1: Make sure the filter is the likely problem

1. Pull out the lower rack and look at the bottom of the tub where the filter sits.
2. Check for a filter that is torn, warped, split, missing mesh, or no longer locking in place.
3. Look for symptoms that fit a bad filter, like food grit left on dishes, recurring debris in the tub, or poor draining caused by heavy buildup around the sump.
4. Confirm your replacement filter matches the old one in shape, diameter, height, and locking style before you start.

If it works: You have a matching replacement filter and the old filter is clearly damaged, badly clogged, or not seating correctly.

If it doesn’t: If the filter looks intact and locks normally, try cleaning it first and check the drain path for a clog before replacing parts.

Step 2: Set up the dishwasher and clear the work area

1. Turn off the dishwasher at the control panel and open the door fully.
2. Slide out the lower rack and set it aside if it lifts out easily.
3. Use towels or a sponge to soak up standing water around the filter area.
4. Put on gloves before reaching into the bottom of the tub.

Step 3: Remove the old dishwasher filter

1. Grip the filter cap or handle and turn it in the unlock direction if your filter uses a twist lock.
2. Lift the filter straight up once it releases.
3. If there is a flat screen or secondary filter piece, lift that out too and note how it sits before removing it.
4. Keep the old filter nearby so you can compare it to the new one.

Step 4: Clean the filter seat and sump opening

1. Pick out loose food, labels, glass, or other debris from the filter opening by hand while wearing gloves.
2. Use a sponge, towel, or small cup to remove dirty water so you can see the seat clearly.
3. Scrub the filter seat and nearby surfaces with a soft brush to remove slime and packed residue.
4. Wipe the area clean so the new filter can sit flat and seal properly.

Step 5: Install the new dishwasher filter

1. Set any flat screen or lower filter piece back in first if your dishwasher uses one.
2. Lower the new filter into the opening in the same orientation as the old one.
3. Press down gently and turn it to the lock position if it is a twist-lock style.
4. Check that the filter sits flush, does not rock, and cannot be lifted out without unlocking it.

If it doesn’t: If the filter will not sit flat or lock, remove it and compare it again to the old filter for size, tab position, and depth.

Step 6: Reassemble and test the repair in real use

1. Reinstall the lower rack.
2. Run a short wash or rinse cycle with the dishwasher empty.
3. Listen for normal wash sounds and check that water is circulating and draining without unusual grinding from debris around the sump.
4. At the end of the cycle, open the door and inspect the bottom of the tub for leftover water or loose debris.

If it works: The dishwasher completes the cycle, drains normally, and the new filter stays in place.

If it doesn’t: If the dishwasher still leaves standing water, heavy debris, or dirty dishes, the problem may also involve the drain path, spray arms, or pump area.