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If the dishwasher is in working condition, start and run a complete cycle with nothing inside. Let it drain and sit overnight before removing the hoses. In theory, it should effectively drain. You may find residual water in the hoses, but you can plug them. If the dishwasher breaks down midcycle it can sometimes be full of water. You’ll need to manually remove the water with a plastic cup before removing the dishwasher.

To clean an old dishwasher without a filter, start by removing the bottom rack to access the drain area. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior, paying special attention to the corners and crevices where food particles and debris can build up. Pour a cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack, then run a hot water cycle to help break down grease and grime. After the cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle to deodorize and further clean the interior. 

Only if the dishwasher isn’t made of stainless steel. The corrosive chemicals in bleach will stain stainless steel and can also cause further damage. To stay on the safe side, stick with an extra cycle of vinegar to banish any lingering odors.

No, you do not need a garbage disposal to have a dishwasher. A dishwasher will work without one, and while it's rare to see a home with a dishwasher that doesn't have a disposal, it is possible. The two appliances pair well and are often installed together because a disposal simplifies meal cleanup.

However, your dishwasher should not be used as a replacement for a garbage disposal. Subjecting it to continuous food leftovers can lead to major clogs. If you choose not to install a garbage disposal, you should thoroughly rinse your plates or scrape excess food into the trash or a compost pile before loading them into the dishwasher to prevent plumbing issues.