How to Clean Food Chunks Out of the Trap in the Dishwasher

Most automatic dishwashers for consumer use are equipped with a filter screen or trap to catch food chunks and other particles before the waste can get into the drain pump and clog the appliance or the household pipes. The trap can be removed for cleaning as necessary. Dishwasher manufacturers typically recommend cleaning the trap at least once a week, but you may need to perform more frequent maintenance if water backs up in the appliance.

Scrub brush
Garbage can

Instructions

- 1
  Finish washing dishes in the appliance if it is in mid-cycle.
- 2
  Open and lower the door to pull out the bottom rack. Locate the trap in the bottom of the appliance. The part is typically round or shaped like a kidney, with perforated holes.
- 3
  Twist a round trap counterclockwise and lift. Oval or kidney-shaped traps pull straight up by the tab sticking up from the edge. Remove the trap carefully to avoid spilling food chunks inside the appliance.
- 4
  Empty the trap into a garbage can.
- 5
  Scrub the trap with a nylon brush under tap water in the sink until the part is clean.
- 6
  Reinsert the trap and twist or press to lock it back in place.

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