Do All Dishwashers Have Filters? What You Should Know

Last Updated: 01/30/2026

作者：赵俊杰，高级技术专家和Alex Park，产品专家

If your dishes are coming out gritty, cloudy, or still dirty, you’re probably wondering: do all dishwashers have filters, and does mine need to be cleaned?

The short answer is yes: every dishwasher has some type of filter, but not all filters work the same way. Some need regular cleaning, while others handle debris automatically.

In this article, we’ll explain the different types of dishwasher filters, how to tell which one your model uses, and when it needs to be cleaned or replaced. With tips from FOTILE, you can fix cleaning issues, prevent odors, and keep your dishwasher running the way it should.

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Different Types of Dishwasher Filters

Dishwashers use filters to catch food particles and keep debris from circulating back onto clean dishes. The type of filter your dishwasher has determines how much maintenance it needs:

Manual-Clean Filters

Manual-clean filters trap food debris and need to be removed and rinsed regularly. When cleaned consistently, they can improve washing performance and prevent odors.

Self-Cleaning Filters

Self-cleaning filters break down food particles during the wash cycle and flush them out through the drain. These filters require less hands-on cleaning, but may be slightly louder during operation.

How to Tell Which Filter Your Dishwasher Has

You can usually tell which type of filter your dishwasher has by looking inside the bottom of the tub. Most filters are easy to spot once you remove the lower rack:

Manual-clean filters: Typically, a cylindrical or flat mesh filter that twists or lifts out near the bottom of the dishwasher
Self-cleaning filters: Often hidden beneath a cover and paired with a small grinder, with no removable mesh filter visible

If you’re unsure, check your dishwasher’s manual or model number to confirm which filter type your unit uses.

How to Clean Your Manual Filter, Step by Step

Cleaning your dishwasher filter usually takes less than five minutes and can significantly improve cleaning results. Here’s how to do it:

Turn off the dishwasher and let it cool completely.
Remove the lower rack to access the bottom of the tub.
Twist or lift out the filter according to your model’s design.
Rinse the filter under warm water to remove food debris.
Use a soft brush to gently remove stuck-on residue.
Reinstall the filter securely before running the next cycle.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher Filter?

Dishwasher Use	Pre-rinse?	Recommended Cleaning Frequency
1–3 loads/week	是	Once/year
4–7 loads/week	没有	每月
8–14 loads/week	没有	Every 2 weeks

When It’s Time to Replace Your Filter

Over time, even a well-maintained filter can wear out and stop working as well as it should. You may need to replace your dishwasher filter if…

The filter is cracked, warped, or damaged
You notice persistent odors after cleaning
Dishes continue to come out dirty or gritty
The filter no longer fits securely in place
Cleaning no longer improves performance

Your Most Common Questions About Dishwasher Filters

Do some dishwashers have filters that don’t need to be cleaned?

Yes, some dishwashers use self-cleaning filters that break down food particles and flush them out during the wash cycle. While they need less attention, occasional checks can help you catch buildup early.

What happens if I don’t clean my dishwasher filter?

A dirty filter can lead to poor cleaning, lingering odors, and drainage issues. Over time, buildup can also cause the dishwasher to work harder than necessary.

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