How to Clean the Filter on a Maytag Dishwasher (Easy Clean)

I used to think my dishes were clean because the machine ran. Then I found a mystery film on my favorite glasses and realized the truth. My dishwasher was just pushing dirty water around. The culprit? A clogged, grimy filter I had ignored for months. It happens to the best of us, but I am going to show you how to fix it in minutes.

You need to pull the bottom rack out, twist the filter assembly at the base to unlock it, and lift the whole unit out. Rinse it under hot water, scrub it with a soft brush to remove stuck food, and place it back in until it clicks. Do this regularly to keep your dishes actually clean.

Why the Maytag Dishwasher Filter Needs Care

Most people forget the filter exists until the machine stops working right. I learned that lesson the hard way when my plates came out covered in tiny bits of gunk.

Food Trap Location

The filter sits right at the bottom of the tub. It catches everything your plates leave behind before the water recirculates. Over time, grease and crumbs build up into a thick paste. If you notice a bad smell or find little white specks on your bowls, the filter is likely the reason. It is a simple part but it works hard every single cycle.

Filter Mesh Condition

Look closely at the mesh screen on the outside of the cylinder. This is where most of the fine debris gets stuck. If the screen looks dark or feels slimy, it cannot let water pass through effectively. This forces the pump to work overtime, which shortens the lifespan of your appliance. A clear screen keeps the water flowing where it belongs.

Water Drainage Speed

Watch how fast the water leaves the bottom of the tub after a cycle. If it pools around the base for a long time, your filter is completely blocked. Slow drainage is the primary sign that the system is choked with debris. When water cannot exit, it keeps circulating old grease onto your clean plates. That is the opposite of what you want.

Grease Buildup Signs

Grease is the silent enemy of any dishwasher. It cools down and clings to the plastic frame of the filter. You might feel a waxy texture when you touch the mesh. This oil traps other food particles, creating a solid wall that water cannot penetrate. If you skip cleaning, this grease can harden into a nasty layer that smells like rotting food.

Odor Issues

A sour smell from the kitchen is often the first hint that you have a dirty dishwasher filter. Bacteria love to hide in the damp, food-filled mess trapped at the bottom. If you notice a funky scent every time you open the door, do not just use more soap. Take the filter out and wash it. The smell will vanish almost immediately after.

Part Wear Indicators

Sometimes the plastic edges of the filter get brittle or cracked. If you handle the part and see chips or tears in the mesh, you need a replacement. A broken filter lets large chunks of food bypass the safety barrier and enter the pump. This can cause clogged pump motor issues that are expensive to fix. Check the condition during your monthly clean.

Actually, let me back up a second. Make sure the machine is completely off and cool before you stick your hands in there. You do not want to burn your fingers on a hot heating element. Take these steps:

• Remove the bottom rack.
• Find the circular filter.
• Twist the center cap.
• Lift the assembly out.
• Scrub with a soft brush.
• Lock it back in place.

The Simple Way to Clean Your Maytag Dishwasher Filter

Cleaning the filter is not a chore that should take all afternoon. Once you find the rhythm, it feels like a normal part of the kitchen routine that saves you time later.

Unlock the Assembly

Open your dishwasher and pull the bottom rack out all the way. Look for the circular tower at the bottom center. You will see a small locking mechanism that keeps the unit attached to the floor of the machine. Rotate this counter-clockwise to release the grip. It should turn with a firm, steady motion. If it is stuck, apply light pressure.

Once the lock releases, the whole cylinder should pull straight up. If it feels stuck, do not force it. You might have some hardened food debris holding the seal in place. Wiggle it side to side gently to loosen the suction. If it refuses to move, check for any large items blocking the base. Remove them before you pull again.

Keep in mind that the base of the machine has a heating element nearby. Be careful not to bump it while you lift the filter out. The metal is thin and can bend if you hit it with force. Take your time during this step. Once you remove the part, you will see exactly how much gunk was hiding there.

Rinse the Mesh

Take the filter to your kitchen sink and turn on the hot water. The heat helps break down any solidified grease that is stuck in the fine mesh screen. Hold the filter under a strong stream. You want the water to push through the mesh from the inside out to force the debris off. Keep turning it around as you work.

You will see the color of the mesh change as the water washes away the grime. If you still see dark patches, use a bit of mild soap. I use a tiny drop of dish liquid and my fingers to gently rub the surface. Do not use a steel wool pad because it will ruin the plastic. Scrubbing too hard creates tiny holes in the mesh.

If the water starts running clear, you are almost finished. Sometimes, large seeds or bits of plastic get lodged in the folds. Use a toothpick to pick these out. Avoid using sharp knives because they can slice through the delicate filter material. A simple rinse usually handles most of the buildup if you keep up with the schedule.

Scrub the Housing

While the filter is out, look into the hole where it lived. You will often find a layer of slime or standing water in the bottom of the filter housing. This area collects all the stuff that did not make it into the basket. Take a damp rag or a small sponge and wipe this area clean. It should be smooth and dry.

Check the drain opening for any hidden bones, bits of glass, or plastic wrappers. These things often fall into the machine and get stuck right at the intake. Removing them now prevents a dishwasher pump failure later on. It only takes ten seconds to check, but it saves you the frustration of a machine that refuses to drain water.

Finally, dry the housing with a clean towel before you put the filter back. Replacing a clean filter into a dirty, slimy housing just moves the problem around. Everything should look clean and smell fresh before you assemble it again. Once you finish this step, the machine is ready to run a normal cycle. Everything is ready for a test.

• Twist the filter assembly.
• Lift the unit upward.
• Use hot running water.
• Scrub with soft brush.
• Clear the drain area.
• Click the lock shut.

Regular cleaning makes a massive difference in how your dishes look. I usually do this task once a month, which is enough to keep things running. If you have a large family, you might need to check it every two weeks to avoid hard water mineral buildup.

Why is My Dishwasher Not Draining Properly?

When water sits at the bottom, the machine cannot finish the cycle. This happens because the drain hose or the filter is blocked. I usually check the filter first because it is the easiest spot to fix. If the filter is clean, the issue is often in the drain hose itself.

Sometimes the hose gets kinked behind the machine. I pulled my dishwasher out once and found the hose was pinched against the wall. That simple bend prevented the water from moving. It took me five minutes to move the unit and unkink the hose, which solved the draining problem immediately. Always check the simple things before you call a professional.

Another reason for poor drainage is a bad air gap or a blocked sink drain. If your dishwasher shares a drain with the sink, make sure the sink is clear. A clogged garbage disposal can cause water to back up into the dishwasher. That is a common headache that has nothing to do with the machine itself.

Check the dishwasher drain hose for clogs if the filter is perfectly clean. You can disconnect the hose under the sink to see if debris is trapped inside. It is a messy job, so keep a bucket and plenty of towels nearby. Clear the blockage, reconnect the hose, and run a test cycle to ensure the water flows out.

• Check the filter mesh first.
• Inspect the drain hose for kinks.
• Ensure the sink drain is clear.
• Look for debris in the pump.
• Test the drain with a cycle.
• Call a plumber if issues persist.

Can I Use Vinegar to Clean the Filter?

Vinegar is a great tool for the kitchen, but use it carefully with your appliances. I find that a small amount of vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits. I sometimes run a cycle with a cup of vinegar in a bowl on the top rack. It helps keep the interior smelling fresh and clean.

However, do not soak your rubber seals in pure vinegar for too long. Over time, the acid can cause the rubber parts to dry out or crack. I prefer using a soft brush and warm, soapy water for the filter itself. It is safer for the plastic and mesh material than soaking it in harsh cleaners.

If you have hard water, vinegar is helpful for the mineral crust that builds up on the heating element. Just be sure to rinse everything thoroughly after the cycle. You do not want the smell of vinegar sticking around when you wash your glasses. It is a balancing act, but a little goes a long way.

Never mix vinegar with bleach. I know people who have tried this to get a deep clean, but it creates dangerous fumes. Always stick to one cleaning agent at a time. If you use soap, rinse it out before trying a vinegar cycle. Keeping it simple is the best way to maintain your machine for the long haul.

• Use soap for mesh filters.
• Add vinegar for mineral crust.
• Avoid soaking rubber in acid.
• Never mix vinegar with bleach.
• Rinse the machine thoroughly.
• Keep the process simple.

How Often Should I Clean the Filter?

I started by cleaning mine every three months, but my dishes were still showing spots. I moved to a monthly schedule and noticed a big change. If you cook at home every night, you might need to check it every two weeks. It really depends on how much food you leave on your plates.

The best way to tell is to look. If you see visible debris on the mesh, it is time for a wash. Don’t wait for the machine to smell or stop draining. A quick look every time you fill the dishwasher is a good habit. You will get to know how your specific machine performs after a few weeks.

Some people think the dishwasher cleans itself. It does help, but the filter is a manual part that needs your help. Think of it like the lint trap in your dryer. You wouldn’t skip cleaning that, so don’t skip the dishwasher filter either. It keeps your machine efficient and your plates sparkling.

If you have a large family, you are likely running the machine every day. That means the filter catches a lot more food than a machine used twice a week. Adjust your schedule based on your actual use, not just what the manual says. Your eyes will tell you exactly what you need to know.

• Check the filter every month.
• Clean if food is visible.
• Adjust based on your usage.
• Don’t wait for bad smells.
• Inspect during loading time.
• Watch for slow water drainage.

What Happens If I Ignore the Filter?

Ignoring the filter is a recipe for a repair bill. I once saw a friend ignore hers for a year, and the pump eventually burned out. The buildup was so thick that the motor had to work ten times harder to move the water. That is a mistake that costs hundreds of dollars to fix.

Beyond the cost, you are just washing your dishes in dirty water. That film on your glasses? It is a mix of soap scum, old grease, and tiny bits of yesterday’s dinner. Even if the dishes look clean, they aren’t truly sanitized. It is a gross thought, but it is the reality of a neglected dishwasher.

Your machine will also start to make weird, grinding noises. This usually means the pump is struggling or small food particles are getting into parts where they don’t belong. If you hear a change in the sound of your machine, check the filter immediately. It is often the first sign that something is blocking the flow.

It is much cheaper to spend five minutes washing a filter than it is to replace a pump. Treat your appliances with a little care, and they will return the favor for years. My current dishwasher is seven years old, and it still works like new. A clean filter is the biggest reason why.

• Avoid expensive pump repairs.
• Stop washing with dirty water.
• Prevent nasty kitchen smells.
• Keep the pump motor quiet.
• Extend the life of parts.
• Save money on service calls.

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about keeping your dishwasher in good shape. It is a small task that really pays off in the long run. Nobody likes a smelly dishwasher or cloudy glasses, so spend a few minutes this weekend to check your filter. You will be surprised by how much better your dishes turn out afterward. If you have any trouble, just take it slow and steady. You can do this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Hard to Clean a Maytag Filter?

No, it is not hard at all. Most models require you to just twist and lift the filter assembly. If you can load a dishwasher, you can definitely handle this quick maintenance task.

Can I Put the Filter in the Dishwasher?

Some people do, but I advise against it. The heat of a full cycle can warp the plastic or damage the fine mesh. A quick rinse at the sink is much safer.

Are All Maytag Filters the Same?

Most modern Maytag models use a similar twist-lock cylinder design. However, always check your specific manual to be sure. Some older or very specific models might have a different setup.

Do I Need Soap to Clean the Filter?

You only need soap if the filter feels greasy or slimy. Usually, hot running water is enough to remove most food particles. Use a mild soap if you see heavy buildup.

Does a Dirty Filter Affect Dish Cleanliness?

Yes, absolutely. A clogged filter prevents water from flowing properly, which means the machine just recycles dirty, greasy water over your dishes. This leaves a film on your glasses.

Should I Replace the Filter Every Year?

You do not need to replace it unless it is broken. If the mesh is torn or the plastic is cracked, replace it immediately to protect the pump from large debris.

Will My Dishwasher Smell If the Filter is Clean?

It might, but it is less likely. If the smell persists after cleaning, check the bottom of the tub for trapped food or verify that your drain hose is not clogged.

How Often Does a Dishwasher Filter Actually Need Cleaning?

I suggest checking it once a month. If you cook often or have a large family, you should check it every two weeks to keep everything running at peak performance.