A manifold and filter assembly for use with a waste collection unit is provided. The manifold and filter assembly directs and filters medical waste flowing into the waste collection unit. The manifold and filter assembly comprises a manifold body defining a chamber and an outlet (19) for directing the medical waste into the waste collection unit. A manifold cap (46) is fitted to the manifold body to close the chamber. The manifold cap defines a plurality of inlets (48) for receiving the medical waste. A filter basket (20) having a bottom and a peripheral wall (30) defining a plurality of openings (42) is snap-locked to the manifold body. The filter basket (20) is positioned such that a fluid bypass (28) is formed between the filter basket (20) and the manifold body and between the filter basket (20) and the manifold cap (46). The fluid bypass (28) is in fluid communication with the outlet whereby the medical waste can flow over the peripheral wall (30) to the outlet (19) through the fluid bypass.