A dishwasher offers one of life’s little conveniences by taking care of one of the most tedious tasks—cleaning the dishes. However, despite its purpose, the dishwasher itself can accumulate dirt, grime and odours over time if not properly maintained. If you want to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and working at its optimum performance, regular cleaning is a must. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to clean your dishwasher effectively, ensuring it continues to work efficiently for years to come.
Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Is Important
You might assume that since your dishwasher handles cleaning your dishes, it stays clean itself. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Food particles, grease, soap scum and mineral deposits can build up in the filters, spray arms, and door seals. Over time, these deposits can lead to unpleasant odours, unsightly stains and even impact the performance of the machine.
A clean dishwasher not only prevents these issues but also ensures that your dishes come out sparkling clean, free from any residue or lingering smells. Proper maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your dishwasher, saving you from costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Cleaning
There are a few tell-tale signs that indicate your dishwasher may need a good clean:
- Unpleasant odours – If you open your dishwasher and notice a foul smell, it’s likely due to built-up food particles or grease.
- Residue on dishes – If your dishes come out with bits of food or greasy film, your dishwasher may not be cleaning properly.
- Slow drainage – If water is pooling at the bottom of the machine, this could be a sign that the filter is clogged.
- Noisy operation – Excessive noise while the machine is running can be due to blocked spray arms.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to clean your dishwasher. Let’s break down the process into simple steps.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher
1. Empty the Dishwasher
Before starting the cleaning process, make sure the dishwasher is completely empty. Remove any leftover food particles from the bottom of the machine with a damp paper towel or sponge.
2. Clean the Filter
The filter is one of the most important components to clean regularly. Located at the bottom of the dishwasher, it catches food particles and debris that come off during the washing cycle. Over time, these particles can cause blockages and odours.
To clean the filter:
- Remove the bottom rack to access the filter.
- Twist and pull out the filter according to your dishwasher model’s instructions.
- Rinse the filter under warm water, scrubbing gently with a soft brush or sponge to remove any built-up grime.
- Once clean, replace the filter securely.
Regularly cleaning the filter, at least once a month, will help prevent blockages and improve the dishwasher’s performance.
3. Wipe Down the Door and Seals
The door and seals can often harbour grease, soap scum, and grime, which can cause unpleasant smells if left unchecked. Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the door, paying particular attention to the edges, hinges and the rubber seal around the door. These areas tend to collect debris and moisture, which can lead to mould and mildew.
For tougher spots, use a mild detergent or a solution of vinegar and water to break down any grease and grime.
4. Clean the Spray Arms
The spray arms are responsible for distributing water during the wash cycle, and if they become clogged with food particles or mineral deposits, they won’t function effectively.
To clean the spray arms:
- Remove the arms according to your dishwasher’s manual (this usually involves unscrewing them from their position).
- Use a toothpick or a small brush to clear any debris or blockages from the small holes in the arms.
- Rinse the arms thoroughly under warm water before reattaching them to the dishwasher.
5. Run a Cleaning Cycle
Once you’ve cleaned the filter, door, seals and spray arms, it’s time to run a cleaning cycle to give the dishwasher a deep clean. There are a few options for this step:
- Vinegar cycle: Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack of the empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle. The vinegar will help break down grease, remove odours and clear away grime.
- Baking soda cycle: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle. Baking soda is excellent for deodorising and removing stains.
Alternatively, you can use a commercial dishwasher cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Inspect and Clean the Drain
After the cleaning cycles, check the drain at the bottom of the dishwasher for any remaining debris. If there are any large particles, remove them manually. Keeping the drain clear will prevent clogs and ensure efficient water drainage during future cycles.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher?
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to clean your dishwasher at least once a month. However, depending on usage and water hardness, you may need to clean it more frequently. Regular maintenance not only helps with the machine’s efficiency but also ensures your dishes are consistently cleaned to a high standard.
Maintaining a clean dishwasher is essential for both the longevity of your appliance and the cleanliness of your dishes. With regular cleaning and a few simple maintenance tasks, you can prevent unpleasant odours, clogs and poor performance. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll ensure that your dishwasher remains in peak condition, giving you spotless dishes every time.
