The filter is at the bottom of your dishwasher, under the lower spray arm

Samsung dishwashers have a removable filter assembly that sits on the floor of the tub, directly beneath where the lower spray arm rotates. It looks like a cylindrical cage with a fine mesh screen wrapped around it. To see it, open your dishwasher door, pull out the lower rack completely, and look at the center bottom of the tub. You'll see a circular or oval opening with the filter sitting inside — it's usually made of plastic with a handle or knob on top that you can grip to lift it out.

The filter traps food particles, grease, and debris so they don't recirculate onto your dishes during the wash cycle. Over time, it collects buildup that can reduce water flow and cleaning power. Most Samsung models use the same basic design, though the exact shape and size vary slightly depending on your model year and capacity.

Key Takeaways

  • The filter sits at the bottom center of the tub under the lower spray arm and lifts straight up to remove.
  • You should rinse the filter under running water after every few loads to prevent food buildup and clogs.
  • A clogged filter is the most common reason a Samsung dishwasher leaves food residue on dishes or drains slowly.
  • Never run your dishwasher without the filter in place, as debris will damage the pump and spray arms.

How to remove and rinse the filter

Pull out the lower rack all the way and set it aside. Locate the filter at the bottom center of the tub — it will have a handle or knob on top. Grip the handle firmly and lift straight up. The filter should come free in one piece; if it feels stuck, wiggle it gently side to side while pulling.

Once removed, hold the filter under warm running water and rinse away loose food and debris. Use your fingers or a soft brush to gently scrub the mesh screen on all sides. For stubborn buildup, soak the filter in warm water with a little dish soap for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub again. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear and no food particles remain. Do not use a hard brush or scrub pad, as you can tear the fine mesh screen.

After rinsing, inspect the filter for any tears or damage. If the mesh is torn or the plastic frame is cracked, the filter needs to be replaced — a damaged filter will allow debris to reach the pump. If the filter looks intact, slide it back into the opening at the bottom of the tub and push down until it sits flush. You should hear or feel a slight click when it seats properly.

When to clean the filter and warning signs of a clog

Clean the filter every two to four weeks if you run your dishwasher regularly, or after every few loads if you wash heavily soiled dishes. If you notice food particles left on your dishes after a cycle, cloudy spots on glassware, or water draining slowly from the tub, the filter is likely clogged and needs cleaning right away.

A blocked filter forces water to back up in the tub, which reduces cleaning power and can cause the dishwasher to drain poorly or leave standing water at the bottom. If you clean the filter and the problem persists, the spray arms or drain line may also be blocked — those are separate issues that require checking those components.

Replacing a damaged or worn filter

If the mesh screen is torn, the plastic frame is cracked, or the filter no longer sits flush in its opening, you need a replacement. Samsung sells genuine replacement filters for most models, and they are also available from appliance parts retailers. To order the correct filter, look up your dishwasher's model number on the back wall inside the tub or on the side of the door frame, then search for that model number plus "filter" online.

Replacement filters typically cost between $20 and $50 depending on your model. Installation is straightforward — just lift out the old filter and slide the new one into place. Some Samsung models also have a secondary fine filter or ultra-fine filter above the main filter; check your owner's manual to see if your model has one and whether it also needs regular cleaning or replacement.

What happens if you run the dishwasher without a filter

Never operate your Samsung dishwasher without the filter in place. Without it, food particles and debris flow directly into the pump and spray arm openings, where they can jam the moving parts or cause the pump to fail. A damaged pump is expensive to repair and often requires a service call from a technician.

If you accidentally remove the filter and run a cycle, stop the dishwasher when ready if you notice unusual noises, reduced water pressure, or water leaking from the bottom. Turn off the power and check the filter opening and pump area for debris. If you see food particles stuck in the pump or spray arm holes, you may need professional help to clear them safely.

Finding your model number and owner's manual

Your Samsung dishwasher's model number is printed on a label inside the tub, usually on the back wall or on the inside edge of the door frame. It starts with letters like "DW" or "DMT" followed by numbers. Write this number down or take a photo — you'll need it if you order a replacement filter or look up specific maintenance steps for your model.

Samsung's website has owner's manuals for most models available as free PDF downloads. Search "Samsung [your model number] manual" to find the PDF, which includes diagrams showing exactly where the filter sits and how to remove it. The manual also lists any other filters or strainers in your model and how often they should be cleaned.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The filter should only be hand-washed under running water. Putting it through a dishwasher cycle can damage the mesh screen or warp the plastic frame. Rinse it by hand with warm water and a soft brush, and soak it in soapy water if needed.

Why is my filter stuck and won't come out?

Hard water deposits or dried food can cement the filter in place. Try wiggling it gently side to side while pulling up, or soak the area with warm water for a few minutes to soften the buildup. If it still won't budge, do not force it — contact Samsung support or a technician to avoid breaking the filter or the opening.

Is there a filter I need to clean besides the main one at the bottom?

Some Samsung models have a secondary fine filter or ultra-fine filter above the main filter. Check your owner's manual to see if your model has one. If it does, it usually needs to be rinsed or replaced at the same time as the main filter.

How do I know if my filter needs to be replaced instead of just cleaned?

If the mesh screen has visible tears, holes, or thin spots, or if the plastic frame is cracked or warped, the filter should be replaced. A damaged filter will not trap debris properly and can allow food particles to reach the pump.

What should I do if water is pooling at the bottom of the tub after I clean the filter?

After cleaning the filter, check that it is seated properly — it should sit flush and may click into place. If water still pools, the drain line or pump intake may be blocked separately. Check the spray arms for debris and make sure the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher is not kinked or clogged.