How Do You Clean A Dishwasher?

Your dishwasher works really hard to clean your dishes, but it needs some care to keep doing its job well. Cleaning it regularly helps get rid of bad smells, makes sure your dishes come out clean, and helps the dishwasher last longer.

In this guide, we’ll show you easy steps to clean your dishwasher, like scrubbing the filters and running a cleaning cycle. Ready to give your dishwasher a fresh start? Let’s get going!

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Basic cleaning tools (sponge, brush, microfiber cloth)
• Cleaning agents (dish soap, white vinegar, baking soda, citric acid)
• Optional tools (toothpick or small brush for tight spots)

How To Clean A Dishwasher: Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

To keep your dishwasher running well and make sure your dishes come out clean, follow these easy steps:

01. Empty the Dishwasher

• Take out all the dishes, utensils, and racks from the dishwasher. This makes it easier to clean everything inside.
• Look for any leftover food and remove it to stop any clogs.

2. Clean the Filter:

• Find the dishwasher filter, usually at the bottom of the machine. You might need to twist or lift it out.
• Rinse the filter under warm water to wash off any food bits. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away any stubborn stuff.
• Put the filter back in place once it’s clean.

3. Wipe Down the Interior

• Use a damp sponge or cloth to clean the inside walls of the dishwasher. This helps get rid of food particles and stains.
• For tough spots, mix a little dish soap with warm water and scrub with the sponge. You can use baking soda for extra cleaning power if needed.

4. Clean the Spray Arms

• The spray arms are what shoot water onto your dishes. If you can, remove them carefully.
• Rinse the spray arms under warm water and use a toothpick or small brush to clear out any clogs in the tiny holes.
• Put the spray arms back once they’re clean.

5. Run a Cleaning Cycle

• Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack of the empty dishwasher. Vinegar helps remove grease and odors.
• Run a hot water cycle to let the vinegar clean the inside.
• For extra freshness, sprinkle some baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run another hot water cycle.

6. Clean the Exterior

• Wipe down the outside of the dishwasher, including the door and control panel, with a mild cleaner or a damp cloth.
• Make sure to dry the surface to avoid streaks and to remove any fingerprints or grime.

By following these steps, your dishwasher will stay in great shape and continue to clean your dishes perfectly!

According to a Dishwasher cleaning expert at FAJ Technical Services LLC, “regular cleaning keeps your dishwasher smelling fresh and prevents bad odors. Moreover, it also prevents debris or food particles that may cause clogs.

How to Clean Dishwasher Naturally

You can easily clean a dishwasher using things you already have in your kitchen, like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice.

Just put a cup of baking soda at the bottom of the dishwasher. It will help get rid of bad smells and break down grease and stains.

For a deep clean and to remove any remaining smells, use vinegar and lemon juice inside the dishwasher.

How to Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar and Baking Soda

Here’s an easy way of cleaning dishwasher with vinegar and baking soda:

First, make sure there are no dishes or utensils inside. Next, take out and rinse the dishwasher filter to remove any food bits. Then, sprinkle about a cup of baking soda evenly over the bottom of the dishwasher. Close the door and run a hot water cycle to help get rid of stains and smells.

After that, pour a cup of vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and put it on the top rack. Run another hot water cycle to clean any leftover grime and freshen up the dishwasher. Finally, use a clean cloth to wipe down the inside, including the door seals and any small spaces.

And that’s it! Your dishwasher should now be clean and smelling fresh.

You Might Also Like: Tips on using and maintaining your dishwasher efficiently.

Common Issues and Solutions

Even with regular maintenance, you might encounter some issues with your dishwasher. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

1. Persistent Odors:

If your dishwasher still smells after cleaning, check the drain and filter for any remaining food particles. Running a cycle with baking soda and vinegar can help eliminate odors.

2. Poor Drainage:

If water isn’t draining properly, check for clogs in the drain and filter. Ensure the drain hose isn’t kinked or obstructed. Cleaning these areas should help improve drainage.

3. Mineral Deposits and Hard Water Stains:

Hard water can leave mineral deposits and stains on your dishwasher. Use a dishwasher cleaner with citric acid or run a cycle with a cup of vinegar to help dissolve these deposits. s

When to Call a Professional

Even if you clean and take care of your dishwasher regularly, sometimes you might need to call a professional.

If you hear strange noises, see water leaks, or if your dishwasher isn’t cleaning your dishes properly, it could be a bigger problem. Issues with the motor or other parts often need expert help.

If you’re unsure or the problem seems too complicated, it’s a good idea to contact a dishwasher repair professional who can fix the problem and make sure your dishwasher works well again.

FAQs

01- How do you maintain an air conditioner when not in use?

Use the fan mode on your thermostat before turning the AC on cool. Let it blow for 10 minutes so that the unit can get rid of any dust in the system. At the end of the season when you're about to switch your AC off again for the winter months, make sure to run it on fan-only for 60 minutes.

What is best considered for dishwasher practice?

To keep your dishwasher in top shape, regularly clean the filter and spray arms, and run it on a hot water cycle with a dishwasher-safe cleaner every month. Also, ensure that dishes are loaded correctly and not blocking the spray arms. Use the right amount of detergent, and avoid overloading the dishwasher to ensure proper water flow and cleaning.

Can I use vinegar to clean my dishwasher?

Yes, vinegar is a great option for cleaning your dishwasher. It helps to remove mineral deposits, grime, and odors. Just pour a cup of vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle to clean the interior. Make sure to combine this with baking soda for a more thorough clean.

Is this an eco-friendly method of cleaning the dishwasher?

Yes, using vinegar and baking soda is an eco-friendly method of cleaning your dishwasher. Both ingredients are natural and non-toxic, making them a good alternative to harsher chemical cleaners. They help to reduce waste and pollution while effectively cleaning your appliance.