A dishwasher is designed to clean, but over time, food particles, grease, soap scum, and hard water deposits can build up inside, leading to bad odors, cloudy glassware, and inefficient performance. To keep it running smoothly and smelling fresh, it’s important to clean your dishwasher regularly. Here’s how to do it:
1. Empty the Dishwasher
Start with an empty dishwasher. Remove all dishes, utensils, and racks (if removable) so you can access all areas easily. This will allow for a more thorough cleaning.
2. Clean the Drain and Filter
At the bottom of the dishwasher, you’ll find a drain and filter system. Remove the bottom rack and locate the filter (usually under a twist-off cap). Take it out and wash it with warm, soapy water to remove trapped food particles and grease. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub away debris.
Next, inspect the drain area. Wipe away any visible gunk or clogs that may prevent proper drainage. A clogged drain can lead to odors and poor cleaning performance.
3. Wipe Down the Interior
Using a damp cloth or sponge with a mild dish soap, wipe down the interior walls, door edges, rubber gasket, and spray arms. Pay special attention to corners and crevices where grime tends to build up. If the spray arms have holes clogged with debris, use a toothpick or small brush to clear them.
4. Run a Vinegar Wash
Place a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack. Run a full cycle on the hottest water setting. The vinegar helps dissolve grease, remove odors, and break down hard water deposits.
5. Run a Baking Soda Rinse
After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle one cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot water cycle. This helps neutralize any remaining odors and brightens the interior. Avoid using vinegar and baking soda together in the same cycle, as they cancel each other out.
6. Clean the Exterior
Don’t forget the outside! Wipe down the dishwasher’s door and handle using a damp cloth and mild detergent. If your dishwasher has a stainless steel finish, use a stainless-steel cleaner or a vinegar-water mix to eliminate fingerprints and smudges.
7. Optional: Use a Dishwasher Cleaner
For deeper cleans, especially if there’s mold, mildew, or persistent odor, consider using a commercial dishwasher cleaner like Affresh or Finish. Follow the instructions on the label—typically, it involves placing the cleaner in the detergent dispenser and running a hot cycle.
How Often Should You Clean It?
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Filter and drain: Once a month
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Interior deep clean: Every 1–2 months
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Exterior wipe-down: Weekly
Final Tips:
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Always scrape off large food bits before loading dishes.
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Leave the dishwasher door slightly open after cycles to prevent mildew.
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Run hot water in the sink before starting a cycle to ensure the dishwasher fills with hot water.
By taking a few minutes each month to clean your dishwasher, you can extend its life, improve performance, and keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
