What's all this gunk in my dishwasher, and how do I fix it?

Question

When I wash dishes in the dishwasher, they come out covered in tiny food particles or something. =/ Usually the dishes on the top shelf, but sometimes the bottom, too. Like, there'll be pools of water in all the glasses, with gross junk floating in them all. U_U Or if I wait a while to unload the dishes, all the particles will be dried on. It's annoying! I have to wash them all again when I take them out.
Now, I have had other dishwashers that leave behind little particles and junk on the dishes, but this is just way in excess of that.
So, what do I need to do?? Is there a filter that needs changing, or some part of it that needs cleaning out??
Thanks so much!!

Answer 1

Yes, empty the filter - it should be at the top of where the water drains out.

You can also buy cleaners for Dishwashers (like those made by Finish) that will clear any debris in the pipes and stop the icky smells :)

Answer 2

you answered your own question your filter or filters need to be cleaned on the bottom of the dishwasher inside where the water drains out is where your filter is at you might have a screen/cover over it they should be cleaned on a regular basis

Answer 3

yes the filter is a mess and you need to rinse your dishes before you put them in the dishwasher, and glasses should be upside down so there is no water in them when done. id say you need to call an appliance repair man.

Answer 4

First before operating the d/w --- run the hot water in the sink -- when it"s hot,turn it off,and turn on the d/w. Consider changing your detergent. Water temp. should be a min. of 120F. Load up your d/w properly. You may also have some worn out parts in the food trap area(impeller wheel)sorta like a paddle wheel that pumps out the water--made out of hard rubber--just might be worn smooth so little "paddle" is left to pump water.