How to Clean a Dishwasher in 7 Easy Steps

If you want crystal clear dishes, sparkling knives, forks and glasses, and a kitchen that smells fresh 24/7, a clean dishwasher is a must.

Knowing how to clean a dishwasher properly doesn’t just make it look and smell great; it also helps it work better and last longer. Keeping your dishwasher cleaner helps to prevent that gradual build-up of food particles, soap scum, and grease that results in dirty dishes, a smelly dishwasher, and reduced performance.

By sticking to a regular dishwasher cleaning schedule and using common kitchen pantry ingredients like baking soda and white vinegar, as well as hot soapy water, you can make a big difference to the performance of your appliance. You can also avoid the problem of needing to replace your dishwasher earlier than necessary. Here is how to clean your dishwasher in 7 simple easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher

To clean your dishwasher you need an empty dishwasher, so that’s the best place to begin.

The first step is to remove the following:

• Dishes
• Glasses
• Utensils
• Dishwasher racks
• Utensil holders (if possible)

This provides you with open access to all areas of the dishwasher. It allows you to clean every nook and cranny without missing any hidden areas where food particles and grease may be hiding. Check the bottom of the machine for any other debris, particularly around the spray arms and dishwasher filter.

As you remove debris and clean your dishwasher, you’ll stop blockages from occurring and improve your dishwasher’s performance. An empty dishwasher is the first step to spotless dishes every time!

Step 2: Clean the Dishwasher Filter

The role of your dishwasher filter is to trap food particles and stop them from clogging the spray arms or drain.

Grease and debris can gradually build up in your dishwasher, reducing its performance and resulting in highly unpleasant smells. To clean your dishwasher filter, the first step is to take it out. Most filters twist or pop out easily. Rinse it under warm (not hot) running water to remove loose debris. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away stubborn grime.

It’s also important that you avoid using harsh dishwasher cleaner chemicals that could damage the filter. A clean dishwasher filter means an effective and efficient dishwasher, so it’s vital to treat it well.

Step 3: Deep Clean the Interior Walls and Spray Arms

Deep cleaning of the interior walls and spray arm of your dishwasher is key to keeping it running efficiently and getting spotless dishes.

Start by wiping down the interior walls with a damp cloth or soft microfiber cloth dipped in soapy water. Pay particular attention to the corners where grease and soap scum likes to hide. Then check the spray arms for blockages caused by food particles or other debris. Use a toothpick or small brush to gently remove any obstructions.

The spray arms need to be clean so water can flow freely. It’ll help your dishwasher to work properly and get a thorough clean every time.

Step 4: Clean the Dishwasher Door and Seal

The dishwasher door seal is a known hotspot for grime, grease and other debris that can affect the performance and functionality of your appliance.

Start by wiping the door’s surface with a soft, damp cloth to remove any streaks or grease. For the rubber seals around the door, use an old toothbrush dipped in hot soapy water to scrub away build-up in the grooves where dirt and food particles like to hide.

Pay particular attention to the detergent dispenser and make sure it’s free of soap scum and residue. Steer clear of harsh chemicals and finish the clean with a dry cloth to get the door spotless.

Step 5: Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar

The next step in how to clean a dishwasher is to run a cleaning cycle with vinegar. It’s an easy and effective way to remove grease, dish soap scum and odours from your dishwasher.

If you’ve not yet already put the dishwasher racks back in, now’s the time to do so. Place a dishwasher-safe container filled with white vinegar on the top rack of the empty dishwasher. The vinegar acts as a natural cleaner; one that breaks down build-up and disinfects the interior. Run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle to get the most cleaning power. The steam and vinegar will leave the interior looking spotless and smelling fresh.

Don’t add any detergent or other cleaning products during this cycle. Using vinegar regularly will keep your dishwasher clean and your dishes sparkling.

Step 6: Follow with a Baking Soda Rinse

A baking soda rinse is the perfect follow-up to your vinegar cycle. It’s also the penultimate step towards getting your dishwasher thoroughly fresh and deodorised.

Simply sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of your empty dishwasher. Baking soda is great for neutralising odours, as well as removing stubborn stains and soap scum. Run a short cycle with hot water to let the baking soda do its magic. This will leave your dishwasher smelling clean and looking bright.

Baking soda is a safe-to-use and gentle yet powerful cleaner, so it’s a must-have in your dishwasher cleaning routine.

Step 7: Wipe Down the Dishwasher’s Exterior

Finally, the dishwasher exterior. It’s the first thing people see, so it needs attention too.

Start by wiping it down with a microfiber cloth or soft cloth with warm soapy water and focus on any smudges or fingerprints. If your dishwasher has a stainless steel finish, use a gentle stainless steel-friendly cleaning product to avoid streaks or damage. Pay particular attention to the control panel and handle as these areas can get grimy over time.

Don’t use harsh chemicals that could scratch or dull the surface. Finish with a dry cloth to get the exterior sparkling.

When to Call a Licensed Plumber

While most dishwasher cleaning tasks are certainly DIY-friendly, some issues may require the expertise of a licensed plumber. If you notice problems that regular cleaning doesn’t fix, it’s time to call in a professional to consider dishwasher installation. Here are common signs you need help:

• Water pooling at the bottom of your dishwasher suggests a drainage issue.
• Leaks around the dishwasher door or under the appliance.
• Unusual noises during operation point to a plumbing connection problem.
• Funky odours that hang around even after cleaning cycles.
• Low water pressure on the spray arms and cleaning performance.

Since replacing your dishwasher can often be more cost-effective than constant repairs, a plumber will be your go-to in this instance.

Keep Your Dishwasher Sparkling and Running

A clean dishwasher means spotless dishes and a fresh kitchen. Follow these 7 easy “how to clean a dishwasher” steps to remove food particles, grease and dish soap scum. It’s the easiest way to get your appliance working at its best.

Regular maintenance with natural cleaners like white vinegar and baking soda will prevent build-up and extend the life of your machine. Don’t forget to check the filter, wipe down the door and run a hot water cycle for a deep clean. With a little effort, you’ll have a reliable dishwasher that will keep your dishes sparkling and your kitchen running smoothly.

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