How to Clean a Dishwasher

Posted December 15th, 2021

Since dishwashers get to high heat and are continually being filled with soap and cleaning, it may seem that they are cleaning themselves each time they run. Unfortunately, that is not the case.

Every time you run your dishwasher, more food particles are put into it. Over time, this can build up and lead to costly repairs down the road if you do not thoroughly clean your dishwasher. Regular cleaning is also essential to having clean dishes.

Much like cleaning other appliances in your house, cleaning your dishwasher can be often overlooked or forgotten. The good news is that cleaning a dishwasher is a remarkably simple task that takes very little time and there are a few things that you can do to help your dishwasher's performance.

Steps to Take Between Cleanings

There are several steps that you can take to help ensure your dishwasher is running optimally. If your home uses hard water, run a water softener, and refill the salt as often as needed. This will keep your dishwasher free of mineral buildup.

The biggest reasons for a stinky dishwasher are bits of food that are leftover or mold or mildew that can build up over time. To avoid having a smelly dishwasher, follow these tips:

● Always rinse dishes well before loading the dishwasher.

● Remove any bits of food leftover after the load runs.

● After each load is complete, pop the dishwasher door open. This will allow moisture to escape and prevent mildew from building up.

How Should I Clean My Dishwasher?

Some regular cleaning is important to keep your dishwasher running optimally. Deep cleaning can be done less often. Here are our recommendations.

After Every Wash - Dishwashers need some level of upkeep after each load that runs. After the completion of the load, always check for bits of food that may be left near the drain or on the bottom of the dishwasher and remove anything that you can.

As food or fingerprints build up on the door of your dishwasher, clean that as well. A cloth, soap, and water are best to use for this.

On a Weekly Basis - Clean your dishwasher filter and gasket weekly. Follow these steps from TheSpruce.com to clean your filter.

On a Monthly Basis – Clean the inside of your dishwasher thoroughly on a monthly basis. Below is a detailed process to clean your dishwasher’s interior and gasket.

Cleaning Your Dishwasher’s Interior with Vinegar

Vinegar will loosen any soap scum, grease, and any leftover food particles and wash them down the drain. To clean the inside of your dishwasher with a cup of white vinegar, follow these steps.

1. Start with an empty dishwasher.

2. Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl or coffee mug two-thirds of the way full of white vinegar.

3. Place the vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher in the center.

4. Simply run the dishwasher on a normal cycle with hot water.

How to Clean Your Dishwasher Gasket

Oftentimes, buildup will happen near the dishwasher drain. Because of this, the gasket needs to be cleaned regularly. Follow your dishwasher manual’s instructions on how to remove the gasket from your model. To clean the gasket on your dishwasher, follow these steps:

1. Remove the gasket from the dishwasher.

2. Take a small brush and scrub away any built up on the gasket.

3. Use warm water a dish soap to clean the gasket. *Note: Bleach can damage stainless steel parts of your dishwasher. Gentle dish soap is ideal.

4. Wipe it clean with a washcloth.

Work your dishwasher into your regular cleaning schedule. Keeping your dishwasher clean can save you money on costly repairs down the road and help your dishwasher last longer.

Looking to Purchase a New Dishwasher?

If you are looking to purchase a new dishwasher, shop at Queen City Audio Video & Appliance. We ensure that you will receive the best customer service in the area. Shop our selection of dishwashers online today or stop in to your local store to browse in person and speak with one of our team members.