Keeping your dishwasher clean is essential for maintaining its performance and ensuring your dishes come out spotless every time. Over time, food particles, grease, and mineral deposits can build up inside the appliance, leading to unpleasant odors, reduced efficiency, and even clogs. Regular cleaning not only extends the life of your dishwasher but also keeps it running smoothly.
Fortunately, cleaning a dishwasher is a simple process that doesn’t require much effort. With a few household items and a bit of time, you can have your dishwasher sparkling clean and functioning like new. Follow these steps to keep your dishwasher in top condition.
1. How To Clean a Dishwasher | Step-by-Step
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need a few basic items to clean your dishwasher effectively:
- Warm, soapy water
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A clean sponge or microfiber cloth
- A soft brush or old toothbrush
- A toothpick or small piece of wire (for cleaning spray arm holes)
Step 2: Empty the Dishwasher
Start by removing all dishes, utensils, and racks from the dishwasher. Having an empty dishwasher allows you to reach all areas and clean thoroughly.
Step 3: Clean the Filter
Locate the filter: Most dishwashers have a removable filter located at the bottom of the appliance. Check your user manual if you’re unsure where it is.
Remove and rinse: Take out the filter and rinse it under warm water to remove food debris and grease. For stubborn grime, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes.
Scrub gently: Use a soft brush or toothbrush to clean the filter mesh and remove any trapped particles.
Reinstall the filter: Once it’s clean and dry, put the filter back in place.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior
Clean the door: Use a damp sponge or microfiber cloth with warm, soapy water to wipe down the inside of the door, paying close attention to the edges and gasket (rubber seal). These areas often trap grease and grime.
Scrub the walls: Wipe down the walls of the dishwasher to remove any residue or buildup.
Inspect the detergent dispenser: Check the detergent dispenser for leftover soap or gunk and clean it with a damp cloth.
Step 5: Clean the Spray Arms
Remove the spray arms: If your dishwasher’s spray arms are removable, take them out to clean them more effectively.
Inspect the holes: Use a toothpick or a small piece of wire to clear out any food particles or mineral deposits clogging the spray holes.
Rinse thoroughly: Run the spray arms under warm water to flush out any debris. Reattach them once they’re clean.
Step 6: Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar
Place a cup of vinegar: Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher.
Run a hot cycle: Run the dishwasher on the hottest setting. The vinegar helps dissolve grease, remove odors, and break down hard water deposits.
Step 7: Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda: After the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle about a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher.
Run a short cycle: Run a short, hot water cycle. The baking soda will freshen up the interior, remove lingering odors, and leave the dishwasher sparkling clean.
Step 8: Check the Drain
Inspect for clogs: Look at the dishwasher drain (located at the bottom of the machine) to ensure there are no clogs or trapped food particles.
Clean the drain: If necessary, remove debris using a paper towel or a soft brush.
2. Additional Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dishwasher
Rinse dishes lightly before loading: Scrape off large food particles before loading dishes to prevent the filter from clogging.
Use a dishwasher cleaner occasionally: Store-bought dishwasher cleaners can help remove tough mineral deposits and grease.
Run the hot water: Before starting a cycle, let your sink’s hot water run for a few seconds. This helps the dishwasher start with hot water, improving cleaning performance.
Keep the door slightly open: After running a cycle, leave the door open for a few minutes to allow moisture to escape and prevent mildew buildup.
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overloading the dishwasher: Overloading prevents water from circulating properly, leading to poorly cleaned dishes and trapped food particles.
Skipping regular cleanings: Even if the dishwasher seems clean, regular maintenance prevents problems before they start.
Using too much detergent: Excess soap can leave residue on dishes and inside the machine, leading to buildup over time.
Cleaning your dishwasher is a simple yet essential task that ensures it continues running efficiently and keeps your dishes spotless. By following these easy steps and performing regular maintenance, you’ll prevent buildup, eliminate odors, and extend the life of your appliance. A clean dishwasher doesn’t just perform better—it also saves you time, energy, and money in the long run. Make cleaning your dishwasher part of your monthly routine for optimal results!
