How to Clean a Dishwasher to Reduce Smells and Dirt
Cleaning your dishwasher might seem unnecessary, but keeping it free of food particles and grime ensures your dishes come out sparkling every time. Many people don’t realize their dishwasher needs regular cleaning to stay efficient.
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By following a few simple steps, you can keep your dishwasher in top condition and avoid unpleasant odors and build-up.
Imagine opening your dishwasher to load the dishes, and it’s full of leftover food bits and smells. Not very appealing, right? Taking a few minutes to clean your dishwasher regularly can make a huge difference. It can prevent clogs, extend the life of the machine, and ensure your dishes are truly clean.
From removing food particles from the filter to wiping down the edges and using natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda, there are easy ways to maintain your dishwasher. Small routine tasks can help prevent bigger problems later.
Want to learn the best tips and tricks? you’re in the right place. Grab a sponge, and let’s make your dishwasher shine!
Routine Cleaning and Maintenance
Keep your dishwasher in top condition by regularly cleaning and performing maintenance tasks. This ensures spotless dishes and prevents unpleasant odors.
Clearing Food Particles and Debris
Food particles and debris often accumulate in the dishwasher filter and at the bottom of the tub. Start by removing the bottom rack and locating the filter. Take out the filter and wash it under hot water to remove any food residue. You can use a small, soft brush to scrub away any stubborn debris.
Check the drain for any trapped particles, as they can cause unpleasant odors and hinder performance. Cleaning the drain regularly ensures that dirty water exits the appliance properly, leaving your dishes cleaner.
Wiping down the door edges and seals with a damp cloth also removes grime and residue that may have built up over time.
Washing the Racks and Interior
Keeping the racks and interior of your dishwasher clean improves its lifespan and efficiency, so we have it included in our cleaning steps. Remove the top and bottom racks and scrub them with warm water and mild detergent. Check if there are any trapped food particles or buildup that may have accumulated.
For the interior, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle. This dissolves grime and removes any unpleasant odors. To add freshness, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run another hot water cycle.
Finally, wipe down the interior walls, paying special attention to stainless steel surfaces, to remove any remaining residue or grime. This routine will keep your dishwasher looking and smelling clean.
Deep Cleaning Methods
Deep cleaning your dishwasher can tackle stubborn stains and odors while the exterior stays in top shape. Here’s how to address tough stains and odors and how to polish and protect the exterior.
Addressing Tough Stains and Odors
Begin by pulling out the racks and inspecting them. Clean any visible gunk or large food particles by hand or with a sponge or brush. Remove the filter from the bottom of the dishwasher and clean it thoroughly in the sink.
Fill a dishwasher-safe cup with white vinegar and place it in the top rack. Run a hot water cycle to let the vinegar break down grease, mineral deposits, and odors. White vinegar is effective for eliminating odors and sanitizing surfaces, as noted in its many uses.
For stubborn smells, place baking soda on the bottom. Leave it overnight and run another hot water cycle. This neutralizes persistent odors and leaves the inside smelling fresh.
Hard water can cause mineral buildup; using a dishwasher cleaning tablet like Affresh can also be effective.
Polishing and Protecting the Exterior
The exterior of your dishwasher, especially if it’s stainless steel, can show fingerprints and smudges. To keep it looking new, use a stainless steel cleaner applied with a soft microfiber cloth. Wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain for a polished look.
You can also clean the control panel and buttons with a damp cloth. Don’t use harsh chemicals which can damage the surface. For daily maintenance, a quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps the exterior sparkling.
If you notice mineral deposits, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda and water. This paste can be used to gently scrub away residues without scratching the dishwasher’s surface, helping maintain its appearance and prolong its lifespan.
