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Quick answer
Not every dishwasher filter comes apart the same way. Many Whirlpool models use a two-part filter (upper and lower). Bosch's manual shows three parts: a coarse filter, a fine filter and a micro filter. Some Whirlpool models have a maintenance-free system with only a cup to empty. Your owner's manual says which you have.
For the rest of the machine (Whirlpool brand):
affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, 6 tabletsThe main types
| Type | What it looks like | What you do (maker) |
|---|---|---|
| Two-part removable (Whirlpool) | Upper filter assembly plus a lower filter | Quarter turn counterclockwise, lift out, rinse, lock back in |
| Three-part (Bosch) | Coarse filter, fine filter and micro filter | Turn coarse filter counterclockwise, pull down the micro filter, press the catches to separate, rinse each |
| Maintenance-free (some Whirlpool) | Foreign object cup at the front, below the lower rack | No regular filter cleaning; empty the cup if it fills |
Bosch's three-part filter
Bosch's manual says to check the filters for residue after each wash. To clean them, rotate the spray arm out of the way, turn the coarse filter counterclockwise and lift out the filter system without letting anything fall into the sump. Pull down the micro filter, press the locking catches together to lift out the coarse filter, and rinse each part, including the rim between the coarse and fine filters. When you reassemble, make sure the catches click.
Maintenance-free systems
Whirlpool says its maintenance-free filter system doesn't need regular cleaning. A foreign object cup protects the pump. If it fills, press the center tab, pull the cup up, empty it and push it back in until it locks.
Clean Filter light
Some Whirlpool models have a Clean Filter indicator. Whirlpool says to clean and replace the filter, hold the Clean Filter button for 3 seconds, then open and close the door.
Damaged filter?
Whirlpool's filter guide says to replace a filter that is damaged or worn. Its product help says not to run the dishwasher with the filters loose or missing.
Model first. Filters are model-specific. Find your model number before buying a replacement part.
How we work: filter descriptions come from Whirlpool's product help pages and Bosch's SHX78CC5UC manual. We don't test dishwashers ourselves. Sources are listed below.
Questions people ask
Do all dishwashers have a filter to clean?
No. Whirlpool says its maintenance-free filter system doesn't need regular cleaning; you only empty the foreign object cup if it fills.
How do I reset the Clean Filter light?
On Whirlpool models with it: clean and replace the filter, hold the Clean Filter button for 3 seconds, then open and close the door.
How many parts does a Bosch dishwasher filter have?
Bosch's manual shows three: a coarse filter, a fine filter and a micro filter.
Sources
Last checked Oct 23, 2026. Steps come from Whirlpool's product help pages and Bosch's support pages and manual. Turn off power at the breaker before working on a dishwasher that won't drain.
