Your dishwasher cleans your dishes, but over time, food bits, grease, and soap can build up inside. This can make it less effective and might even cause damage. Cleaning it regularly helps it last longer and keeps your dishes spotless.
How Often to Clean the Dishwasher
Clean your dishwasher at least once a month to prevent buildup and keep it working well. If you notice bad smells or dirt inside, clean it more often.
Materials to Avoid When Cleaning the Dishwasher
Check your manual to see if any cleaning products should be avoided. In general, don’t use harsh cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool, as they can damage the inside of your dishwasher. Avoid bleach too, since it can harm rubber seals and plastic parts. Use dishwasher-safe cleaners or gentle alternatives instead.
Materials Needed
Have these supplies ready before you clean your dishwasher.
- Warm water
- Distilled white vinegar
- Baking soda
- Dish soap
- Ammonia
- Soft-bristle brush
- Bowl
- Large container
- Toothpick
- Microfiber cloths
How to Clean Your Dishwasher
Follow these steps to keep your dishwasher clean and working well.
Clean the Filter
- First, take out the dishwasher filter.
- Rinse the filter under running water to remove any stuck food.
- Mix equal amounts of hot water and white vinegar in a bowl.
- Soak the filter for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Scrub the filter gently with a soft brush, then rinse with warm water.
Clean the Gasket
Don’t use strong or acidic cleaners on the dishwasher gasket, as they can damage the rubber.
- Mix baking soda and water in a small bowl to make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the dishwasher gasket and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Scrub the gasket gently with a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt.
- Wipe off the paste with a damp cloth, then dry it.
Clean the Racks
Food and grease can also build up on your dishwasher racks.
- Fill a large container with hot water and soap.
- Take out the dishwasher racks and soak them in the container.
- Scrub the racks with a sponge or brush to remove tough stains.
- Rinse the racks with warm water, dry them, and put them back in the dishwasher.
Clean the Sprayer Arms
Food can get stuck in the dishwasher’s sprayer arms, so clean them during a deep clean.
- Take out the sprayer arms and check for clogs or debris.
- Use a toothpick or small brush to remove food from the spray holes.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a large container.
- Soak the sprayer arms in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Rinse the sprayer arms with clean water and put them back in the dishwasher.
Clean the Walls
When cleaning the dishwasher walls, focus on the corners and edges where residue builds up.
- Soak a microfiber cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe the dishwasher walls.
- For tough stains, mix baking soda and water into a paste.
- Spread the paste on the stains and leave it for 10 minutes.
- Gently scrub the paste with a microfiber cloth.
- Rinse the walls with clean water and dry them with a towel.
Clean the Drain
Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain to break up grease and food residue.
- Take out the bottom rack and check the drain for food or debris.
- Wipe away visible debris with a damp cloth or sponge.
- For a deeper clean, pour baking soda into the drain, then add vinegar.
- Leave the solution for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
- Put the bottom rack back after cleaning the drain.
Clean the Door
Finally, wipe the dishwasher door. Avoid harsh cleaners or rough materials that may scratch it.
- Soak a microfiber cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe the dishwasher door.
- For tough stains, mix baking soda and water into a paste.
- Spread the paste on the stains and leave it for 10 minutes.
- Gently scrub the paste with a microfiber cloth.
- Rinse the door with clean water and dry them with a towel.
How to Remove Mildew From Your Dishwasher
To get rid of mildew inside or on the gasket,
- Mix 1 gallon of water with 1/2 cup of ammonia.
- Wearing rubber gloves, dip a microfiber cloth in the solution.
- Wipe away mildew from affected areas.
- Run a rinse cycle to wash away any leftover cleaner.
How to Remove Odors From Your Dishwasher
If your dishwasher smells bad, deep clean it first. If the odor remains, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a hot water cycle to absorb and remove the smell.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher With Vinegar
For a fast and simple clean, try this method.
- Place a dishwasher-safe container filled with vinegar on the top rack.
- Run a hot water cycle without detergent, using the hottest setting.
- After the cycle ends, wipe off any stuck debris with a soft cloth.
How to Maintain Your Dishwasher
Keep your dishwasher clean between deep cleans with these simple tips.
- Don’t overload the dishwasher so water can flow properly.
- Regularly clean the filter and sprayer arms to prevent buildup and odors.
- Run a hot water cycle often to remove grease and sanitize the inside.
- Leave the dishwasher door slightly open after each cycle to let moisture escape and prevent mold.