Still Noticing Unpleasant Odors?
If your dishwasher still smells bad after completing the first three steps above, it could be caused by food particles or mildew hiding the rubber seal around the door. Wipe down the seal thoroughly with a damp microfiber cloth, making sure to get into the folds where gunk liked to hide.
In the future, leaving your dishwasher door partially ajar after unloading clean dishes can help give it a chance to dry out between uses, which will help prevent odor issues down the road. Repeat the cleaning method outlined above once a month or so to keep your dishwasher clean and working effectively.
Cleaning Your Dishwasher’s Sprayer Arms
If your dishwasher is clean and draining properly, but your dishes aren’t coming out clean, the holes in the sprayer arms may be blocked with bits of food or hard water buildup. Depending on your dishwasher and how it’s set up, you may be able to clean them yourself.
Step 1 – Shut Off The Water And Power
Start by shutting off the water supply and power to your dishwasher. The water valve will likely be under your kitchen sink, and the power outlet or switch may be under there as well.
If you aren’t able to shut the power off, don’t try to clean the spray arms and filter assembly.
Step 2 – Remove And Wash The Spray Arms
Pull the bottom rack out of the dishwasher, then remove the spray arms. (They can usually be unscrewed by hand, but you may need a screwdriver.)
Fill one side of your sink with warm water, then add a bit of dish soap and a cup or so of white vinegar. Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to clean the holes along the spray arms — if they’re clogged with stubborn gunk, try unfolding a paper clip and using it to clear the blockage.
Step 3 – Clean The Filter
If you already have your dishwasher disconnected from water and power and the sprayer arms removed, that’s a great time to check the state of the filter that sits over the drain. Your dishwasher filter can collect residue and grime too, so it’s a good idea to remove and clean the filter every once in a while.
For specific instructions on how to remove your dishwasher’s filter, refer to the user manual (or look it up online, if you can’t find the paper copy). A little soapy water should be all you need to clean it!
After cleaning the filter, be sure to replace it properly (along with any parts you may have had to disconnect to get to it). Replace the sprayer arms and bottom rack, then turn the dishwasher’s water and power back on.
Other Dishwasher Cleaning Products
Wondering why I recommend using vinegar and baking soda to clean dishwashers, rather than commercial cleaners you’ve may have seen at the store? Cost is one reason, and convenience is another!
Vinegar and baking soda are not only markedly cheaper than any store-bought dishwasher cleaner, but you’re more likely to already have them on hand too. They’re also cheaper than Tang drink mix, which some people use to clean their dishwashers due to its citric acid content.
Speaking of which, my homemade dishwasher detergent contains citric acid too, in addition to baking soda, washing soda, borax, and salt, all of which do a great job of cleaning dishes and softening hard water. I also have a recipe for homemade dishwasher soap (not detergent) featuring vinegar, Dawn, and oxygen bleach that can help keep your dishwasher clean, too. (It also makes a great substitute for your usual detergent, should you ever find yourself without it!
