Remove and rinse the filter every month

The filter in your Samsung dishwasher traps food particles and debris so they don't recirculate onto your dishes. Over time, it clogs and reduces water flow, leaving dishes spotted or cloudy. Cleaning it takes about five minutes and requires no tools — just your hands and running water.

Most Samsung models have the filter located at the bottom of the tub, under the lower spray arm. You'll see a cylindrical or basket-shaped piece made of plastic mesh. Pull it straight up and out. If it's stuck, twist it slightly counterclockwise first, then lift.

Rinse the filter under hot running water, rubbing the mesh with your fingers to dislodge trapped food. For stubborn buildup, soak it in hot water for 10 minutes, then scrub gently with an old toothbrush. Do not use a dishwasher or washing machine to clean the filter itself — hand washing only.

Key Takeaways

  • The filter sits at the bottom center of the tub under the lower spray arm and lifts straight out with a gentle upward pull.
  • Rinse the filter under hot water every month, rubbing the mesh with your fingers to remove trapped food particles.
  • For heavy buildup, soak the filter in hot water for 10 minutes and scrub with a soft toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly.
  • Always replace the filter in the same position and orientation before running the dishwasher again.

Check the filter housing for debris

While the filter is out, look into the opening where it sits. Food particles sometimes settle in the housing itself, especially if the filter hasn't been cleaned in a while. Use your finger or a damp cloth to wipe the inside walls and the bottom of the housing.

If you see standing water in the housing, that's a sign the drain is blocked. Check the drain hole at the very bottom — it's usually a small opening about the size of a pencil eraser. Clear any visible debris with your finger or a straightened paperclip. Do not force anything into the drain; if water still pools after cleaning, the drain line may need professional attention.

Reinstall the filter correctly

Before you put the filter back, make sure it's completely dry or at least dripping-wet, not soaking. Slide it back into the housing in the same orientation it came out — most filters have a handle or lip that faces upward. Push down firmly until you hear or feel a click, or until the filter sits flush with the tub bottom.

If your Samsung model has a secondary fine filter (a smaller mesh piece that sits on top of or beside the main filter), clean and reinstall that one too. Check your owner's manual if you're unsure whether your model has one — not all do.

When to clean the filter more often

If you run your dishwasher daily or load it heavily with pots, pans, and cookware, clean the filter every two weeks instead of monthly. The same goes if you notice water draining slowly or dishes coming out with visible spots and film.

If you rinse dishes before loading them, you can stretch cleaning to every six weeks. However, rinsing isn't necessary — modern Samsung dishwashers are designed to handle food debris, and rinsing actually wastes water and energy.

Signs the filter needs when ready attention

If water pools at the bottom of the tub after a cycle, the filter is likely clogged. If dishes come out cloudy or spotted even after a normal wash, the filter may be so blocked that water isn't circulating properly. If you smell a sour or musty odor from the dishwasher, food trapped in the filter is decomposing — clean it right away and run an empty hot cycle with vinegar to freshen the tub.

A clogged filter also makes the dishwasher work harder, which can shorten its lifespan and increase energy use. Cleaning it monthly is the cheapest maintenance you can do.

Cleaning the spray arms while you're at it

While the filter is out, check the lower spray arm for clogs. It's the rotating piece that sits just above where the filter was. Lift it straight up and out — it usually comes free without twisting. Rinse it under hot water and use a toothpick or straightened paperclip to clear the small holes around its perimeter where water sprays out.

The upper spray arm is harder to access and usually doesn't need cleaning as often, but if you notice uneven drying or spotting on the top rack, remove it the same way and clean it too. Reinstall both arms by sliding them back down onto their posts until they sit snugly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the Samsung dishwasher filter?

Clean it once a month for normal use. If you run the dishwasher daily or load it heavily, clean it every two weeks. If you rinse dishes first, every six weeks is usually enough. The best habit is to check it monthly and clean it whenever you see visible food buildup or water pooling at the bottom of the tub.

Can I put the filter in the dishwasher to clean it?

No. The high heat and water pressure of a dishwasher cycle can damage the plastic mesh and warp the filter. Always hand wash it under running water with your fingers or a soft toothbrush. Soaking in hot water is fine, but never machine wash.

What if the filter won't come out?

Try twisting it slightly counterclockwise before pulling up. If it's still stuck, soak the entire bottom of the dishwasher with hot water for 15 minutes to soften any dried food, then try again. Pull straight up with steady pressure — don't yank. If it remains stuck, stop and consult your owner's manual or contact Samsung support.

Is a cloudy film on dishes a sign the filter is dirty?

Yes, usually. A clogged filter reduces water circulation, leaving mineral deposits and food residue on dishes. Clean the filter first. If cloudiness continues, run an empty hot cycle with white vinegar in the bottom to dissolve mineral buildup, then clean the filter again. If the problem persists, the spray arms may also be clogged.

Do I need to replace the filter, or just clean it?

Samsung filters are designed to be cleaned and reused indefinitely. You don't replace them unless the plastic cracks, warps, or the mesh tears. Proper monthly cleaning keeps the same filter working for the life of the dishwasher. If the filter is visibly damaged, order a replacement from Samsung or a parts retailer.