How to Clean Your Kenmore Dishwasher Filter — Step-by-Step Guide

A clogged dishwasher filter is the number one cause of poor cleaning performance in Kenmore dishwashers. Most Kenmore dishwashers manufactured after 2010 use a manual-clean filter system rather than the self-cleaning grinder found in older models. If your dishes are coming out with food particles or a gritty residue, cleaning the filter is your first step.

How Often Should You Clean the Kenmore Dishwasher Filter?

Kenmore recommends cleaning the filter monthly under normal use. If you frequently wash heavily soiled dishes or run the dishwasher daily, clean it every two weeks. Signs the filter needs cleaning include: food debris on dishes after washing, standing water in the tub after a cycle, or a musty odor from the dishwasher.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Your Kenmore Dishwasher Filter

1. Remove the lower rack. Pull out the lower dish rack completely and set it aside.
2. Locate the filter assembly. The filter is at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. Most Kenmore models have a cylindrical filter surrounded by a flat mesh filter screen.
3. Remove the cylindrical filter. Twist counterclockwise (usually a quarter turn) and lift out.
4. Remove the flat mesh filter. Lift it straight up and out of the tub.
5. Rinse both under warm water. Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly) to gently scrub away food particles and grease. Do not use abrasive scrubbers.
6. Soak if needed. For heavy grease buildup, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing.
7. Inspect for damage. Check the filter mesh for tears or holes. A damaged filter needs replacement.
8. Reinstall. Place the flat mesh filter back in position, then insert the cylindrical filter and twist clockwise to lock.
9. Run a hot cycle. Run an empty hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to flush out any remaining residue.

Preventing Filter Buildup

Scrape (don’t rinse) dishes before loading. Large food particles are the main cause of filter clogs. Avoid washing items with heavy oil, grease, or paper labels that can shed and clog the filter.

When to Call a Professional

If your Kenmore dishwasher still performs poorly after cleaning the filter, the issue may be with the spray arms, wash pump, or water temperature. Schedule a professional diagnosis with our certified Kenmore technicians to get to the root of the problem.