How to Clean Your Dishwasher?

Your dishwasher, the unsung hero of kitchen cleanliness, deserves a little TLC now and then. While it may seem counterintuitive to clean a machine built for cleaning, regular maintenance ensures it continues to run smoothly and efficiently. Whether it’s a quick monthly refresh or a more thorough annual cleanse, knowing how to clean your dishwasher is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Let’s dive into easy and fast methods to keep your dishwasher sparkling and odor-free.

Frequency of Cleaning

Routine maintenance of your dishwasher is a breeze, requiring just a few household staples: distilled white vinegar and baking soda. For a deeper clean, consider dedicating some extra time once or twice a year. Additionally, don’t overlook the exterior—wipe it down weekly to remove dirt and grime.

Step-by-Step Dishwasher Cleaning Guide

• Weekly Strainer Inspection:
  • Pull out the bottom rack and inspect the drain’s strainer for any debris.
  • Remove food particles and gently scrub away stubborn residue using a soft-bristle brush dipped in vinegar.
  • Replace the bottom rack once finished.
• Door and Control Buttons Wipe-down:
  • Clean the exterior of the dishwasher door with mild dish soap and a microfiber cloth or sponge.
  • Pay special attention to buttons or dials, using an old toothbrush dipped in water and dish soap to remove buildup.
• Vinegar Cycle:
  • Place a dishwasher-safe container filled with 1 cup of distilled white vinegar on the top rack.
  • Run a regular wash cycle, omitting the drying cycle to conserve energy.
• Baking Soda Rinse:
  • After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the dishwasher’s interior floor.
  • Run a short hot water rinse cycle, skipping the drying cycle.
  • Leave the dishwasher door open to air dry.
• Monthly Filter Cleaning:
  • Remove the bottom rack and access the filter located on the dishwasher’s interior floor.
  • Follow instructions to remove, soak, scrub, rinse, and replace the filter.
• Monthly Spray Arm Maintenance:
  • Remove both upper and lower racks for better access to the water spray arms.
  • Use a flexible wire to clear debris from the small holes in the spray arms.
• Monthly Rubber Seal Care:
  • Wipe down the rubber seals around the interior opening and door edges with a sponge dipped in white vinegar.
• Additional Parts Scrub:
  • Use an old toothbrush to clean the utensil holder and detergent dispenser of any buildup.
• Optional Deep Clean:
  • Consider using a dishwasher cleaner formulated for deeper cleansing, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Stainless Steel Care Tips

For stainless steel dishwasher doors, maintain their shine with either a stainless steel cleaning product or a gentle solution of mild dish soap and water. Always wipe in the direction of the grain for optimal results.

Avoiding Bleach

Bleach is not recommended for dishwasher cleaning, especially for models with stainless steel interiors. To safeguard your appliance, steer clear of bleach and opt for vinegar and baking soda-based solutions instead.

With these simple yet effective cleaning methods, your dishwasher will continue to tackle dirty dishes with ease, leaving your kitchen sparkling clean and odor-free. Give your hardworking appliance the care it deserves, and it will reward you with years of reliable service.