Do you know, how to clean a dishwasher? Why dishwasher cleaning is important? Keeping your dishwasher clean is key to making it work well. Over time, food and soap can build up, causing bad smells and making it less effective. This can also cause problems with the machine. But by cleaning it often, you can help it last longer, work better, and keep your dishes super clean.
Why Regular Dishwasher Cleaning is Important
People often think, quality dishwasher doesn’t need cleaning because it cleans dishes. But food and grease build up inside, causing blockages and bad smells. Hard water also leaves deposits, making the dishwasher work less well.
A neglected dishwasher can grow bacteria and mold, which can end up on your dishes. By cleaning your dishwasher every few weeks, you keep it sanitary and make sure it works well.
Step 1:
Gather the necessary materials before cleaning the dishwasher.
Before you start cleaning your dishwasher, make sure to gather all the supplies you need. Having everything ready will make the job easier and quicker. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Warm water: You will use these supplies to clean the dishwasher. They help with soaking parts and wiping surfaces during the cleaning process.
- Dish soap: Mild dish soap helps break down grease and grime on different parts of the dishwasher.
- Distilled white vinegar: Vinegar is a strong natural cleaner. It helps remove mineral deposits, dissolve grease, and get rid of odors.
- Baking soda: Baking soda is a gentle scrubber. It helps clean stains and freshen up the dishwasher.
- Toothpick: A toothpick helps clean tiny spots and holes where debris gets stuck in the spray arms.
- Toothbrush: A soft toothbrush helps clean hard-to-reach areas, including filters and seals.
- Microfiber cloth: A microfiber cloth is perfect for wiping surfaces. It is gentle and won’t scratch the dishwasher’s inside.
- Rubber gloves: Protect your hands from harsh cleaning agents and hot water by wearing rubber gloves.
Important Note:
While some people may consider using bleach to clean their dishwasher, it is generally not recommended, especially for stainless steel dishwashers. Bleach can damage the dishwasher’s finish and potentially leave harmful residues. Instead, stick to milder, natural cleaning agents like vinegar and baking soda.
Step 2:
Remove the Filter, Utensil Holders, and Dishwasher Racks.
Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to start cleaning by removing the filter, utensil holders, and dishwasher racks. First, remove the filter, utensil holders, and racks. These parts collect food and grease, so clean them well.
- Removing the Filter: The filter is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher. You can twist it off, but some models need a screwdriver. Food and grease buildup is common. If not cleaned, it can cause bad smells and make your dishwasher less efficient.
- Cleaning the Filter: Fill the sink with warm water and add a cup of white vinegar. Soak the filter for 30 minutes to loosen dirt. Gently scrub with a toothbrush, focusing on the mesh and edges. Use a toothpick for any leftover food, then rinse under running water.
- Cleaning the Utensil Holders and Racks: Utensil holders and racks can collect food bits, especially in the corners. Take them out and soak them in the same vinegar solution as the filter. Scrub with a toothbrush and rinse under running water.
- Inspecting the Racks: While cleaning the racks, check for any damage. The coating on dishwasher racks can chip over time, exposing the metal. If not repaired, this can lead to rust and stain your dishes. If you notice any damage, use a dishwasher rack repair kit to seal the metal and prevent rust.
- Cleaning the Wheels: The wheels on your dishwasher racks can collect dirt and grime. If you want remove them, clean them with a toothbrush and soapy water. If you can’t remove them, use a damp cloth to wipe them thoroughly.
After cleaning all these parts, set them aside to air dry. Then, move on to cleaning the inside of the dishwasher.
Step 3:
Clear Out All Debris from the Dishwasher Interior.
With the racks, utensil holders, and filter out, you can see inside the dishwasher well. Look for any leftover debris or food particles that might still be there.
- Wiping Down the Interior: Start by wiping the walls and corners of the dishwasher with a microfiber cloth dipped in warm, soapy water. Focus on places where food collects, like corners and door seals. For tough spots, use a soft toothbrush.
- Cleaning the Spray Arms: The spray arms help clean dishes but can get blocked by food and minerals. Check your manual to see if you can remove them. If so, clean the holes with a toothpick or brush. If not, use a toothpick to clear the holes while the arms are in place.
- Inspecting the Door Seal: The door seal can get dirty over time. Use a wet cloth or toothbrush to clean it. If you find cracks, replace the seal to avoid leaks.
- Cleaning the Drain: The drain removes dirty water and can get clogged. Remove any visible debris by hand. Then, pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar into the drain, let it sit for 15 minutes, and rinse with hot water.
- Checking the Dispenser: The detergent and rinse aid dispensers can build up residue. Clean around them with a damp cloth or toothbrush to ensure they work well.
- Inspecting the Heating Element: Check the metal coil at the bottom for buildup or damage. Wipe any deposits with a damp cloth, and be sure to unplug the dishwasher before cleaning.
After cleaning the inside of the dishwasher, you can give it a deeper clean with vinegar and baking soda.
Step 4:
Deep Clean the Dishwasher with Vinegar and Baking Soda.
Now that you’ve cleaned the inside of the dishwasher, you can give it a deeper clean to remove any odors, and stains. Use vinegar and baking soda for this step. They are natural and work well to freshen up your dishwasher.
- Running a Vinegar Cycle: Put a bowl with one cup of vinegar on the bottom rack of the empty dishwasher. Vinegar helps clean grease, food bits, and hard water Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle. The vinegar will clean the inside and get rid of smells.
- Running a Baking Soda Cycle: After the vinegar cycle, take out the bowl and sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom. Baking soda helps clean stains and makes the dishwasher smell fresh. Then, run a short hot water cycle. This will spread the baking soda around and clean the dishwasher.
Step 5:
Clean the Outer Dishwasher Door
- After cleaning the inside, focus on the outside of your dishwasher. Exterior doors can wear fingerprints and water stains. Make sure to wipe it regularly to keep it clean and shiny.
- First, get a cleaner made for your dishwasher’s exterior. If your dishwasher is stainless steel, use a cleaner meant for that. Avoid all-purpose cleaners because might leave streaks or scratch the surface.
- If you prefer a DIY approach, no problem! You can easily make a homemade cleaner using just a few simple ingredients. Just mix together some dish soap, water, and white vinegar. This mixture is safe to use on all dishwasher surfaces and works great.
- To clean the door, first dip a microfiber cloth in soapy water and wring it out so it’s damp. Gently wipe the door following the grain to prevent streaks. After you’re done, rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the door again to remove any soap residue.
- Also, don’t forget to wipe the control panel and handles. They can collect dirt and fingerprints, so keep them clean, too. When you’re done, your dishwasher will look bright and clean both inside and out!
What Is the Best Way to Clean and Deodorize a Dishwasher?
The deep cleaning will help your dishwasher stay in good shape. If it starts to smell bad, try wiping the inside with vanilla essence and a cloth. This will make it smell nice and keep it fresh because vanilla essence has antibacterial properties.
How Do You Keep Your Dishwasher Clean?
Besides regular deep cleaning, there’s an easy step to keep your dishwasher in great shape. If your dishwasher has a self-cleaning sanitize cycle, run it every few weeks. This cycle runs hotter and longer than a regular wash and kills 99.9% of bacteria and leftover food. Using this feature regularly helps keep your dishwasher clean and sanitary with minimal effort.
FAQ
- What materials do I need to clean dishwasher?
You’ll need white vinegar, baking soda, a soft brush, and a microfiber cloth. You can also use a commercial dishwasher cleaner if preferred.
- How do I clean the dishwasher filter?
To clean the dishwasher filter, Remove the filter from the bottom of the dishwasher, rinse it with warm water, and gently scrub off any food residue or dirt using a soft brush. Once clean, place the filter back in its original position.
- What parts of the dishwasher should I clean regularly?
Regularly clean the filter, spray arms, door seals, and dishwasher detergent dispenser. These parts tend to accumulate food debris, grease, and residue.
- How can I prevent bad smells in my dishwasher?
To avoid bad smells, clean the filter often, run a cycle with vinegar or baking soda, and Keep the door slightly open for air circulation.
- Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
Bleach should only be used in dishwashers that don’t have stainless steel interiors . Avoid mixing bleach with other cleaners like vinegar.
- Can I clean my dishwasher with lemon juice?
Yes, lemon juice can be used to clean and deodorize the dishwasher naturally. Place a cup of lemon juice in the top rack and run a hot water cycle for a fresh, clean scent.
Conclusion
In summary, keeping your dishwasher clean helps it work better and keeps your dishes spotless. Regularly remove debris, scrub the filter, and use vinegar and baking soda. Also, clean the outer door and use the sanitize cycle if your dishwasher has one. These easy steps will keep your dishwasher running well and your kitchen smooth.