2001 Ford Escort Rough Idle Problem

Stop by the auto parts store and buy an aerosol can of MAF cleaner. It's usually around $7 or $8/can and you need to be sure you buy the stuff specifically formulated for cleaning the MAF. Don't use carb cleaner, brake cleaner, etc...

In order to clean it properly, remove the MAF housing (unplug the connector) and using short bursts spray the MAF filament 10-15 times with the MAF cleaner. Allow it to dry for a while, hook it back up, and see if the problem is fixed.