Dishwasher Cleaning Methods

Dishwashers, much like other home appliances, need proper cleaning. Although the dishwasher is a tough appliance, there are signs that it may need a little care. These include unrinsed dishes, interrupted cleaning cycles, foul odor, and more. The best way to maximize the use of the dishwasher is to clean it once a month.

This article shares the best methods of cleaning a dishwasher. Apply each method separately or do a deep dishwasher cleaning session by following all methods.

Clean the drain

A clogged dishwasher drain can cause severe damage to the pump and dishes, as just about anything can get stuck there. Some of the items found by the repairmen include bones, crab shells, and even gravel pieces.

It may sound complicated, but cleaning the drain of a dishwasher is straightforward. Simply remove the bottom dish rack and look for the drain. Then, remove whatever food remnants you find there. The dishwasher won’t smell as a result, and this step will increase its draining and cleaning efficiency.

Rinse the filter

The filter is the second dishwasher part that should be cleaned regularly. Remove excess remains, submerge the filter in lukewarm, soapy water for a few minutes, then rinse.

Use vinegar

Vinegar is a universal cleaning liquid. To clean the dishwasher with vinegar, place a container filled with one to two cups of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar on the top rack. Run the dishwasher for a full cycle with hot water. Most grease and nasty odors will be gone. Plus, the appliance will be sanitized.

Note: Remember to use a dishwasher-safe container for the vinegar. Also, make sure to remove any dishes you may have left in the dishwasher.

Use baking soda

Baking soda is almost as effective a cleaning agent as vinegar. It helps to deodorize the appliance and remove stains. To clean a dishwasher with baking soda, insert a full cup of it to the bottom of the tub and run a short hot water cycle. Once it’s finished, open the dishwasher door for a few hours and let it dry.

Hide discolorations

Discolorations typically appear from the minerals in hard water. If there are any discolorations in the dishwasher that vinegar and baking soda couldn’t remove, try a detergent additive you have at hand. Running the dishwasher through a short cycle with the detergent additive can bring back the look and the smell of a new machine. 

Final steps

Use a toothbrush to remove leftover stains and replace the filter if necessary.

Easy dishwasher cleaning methods

Taking care of a dishwasher is not a complicated task. Most of the time, cleaning out the drain and using vinegar and baking soda gets the job done. However, if you need further dishwasher maintenance help, it’s best to contact a kitchen appliance repair center.

Freedom Appliance of Tampa Bay has 13 years experience in professional repair and installation of all laundry and kitchen appliances and dryer duct cleaning. Call 813-302-7672 today!