How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher: Eliminating Residue and Odors

A dishwasher is an invaluable appliance in your kitchen. However, when not properly maintained, it can become smelly, turning your kitchen into an unpleasant space. In this blog, our appliance experts at Standard present a few simple steps you can follow to get rid of these unpleasant odors and ensure your dishwasher works efficiently, leaving your dishes clean and your kitchen smelling fresh. Let’s get started!

Why Does My Dishwasher Smell Bad?

Before cleaning your dishwashers, it is important to identify the cause of the unpleasant smell. Here are the most common causes:

• Food residue: Food particles that get caught in your dishwasher’s filter, gasket, and spray arms will lead to bacteria build-up and foul odors.
• Mold and mildew: Many dishwashers retain moisture, making it a perfect environment for mold and mildew. These microorganisms can thrive in hidden corners of your dishwasher.
• Hard water: Hard water can cause mineral deposits to build up in your appliance, resulting in an unpleasant odor and potentially affecting its performance.

Cleaning Your Dishwasher

Materials

To tackle the unpleasant smell coming from your dishwasher, gather the following supplies:

• Vinegar or commercial cleaner
• Damp cloth
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Dish soap
• Soft scrub brush

Cleaning Process: Step by Step

1. Empty your dishwasher: Make sure your dishwasher is clear. Remove any utensils and dishes.
2. Clean the filter: Find your dishwasher’s filter, typically located at the bottom. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional guidance. Take out the filter carefully and rinse it under warm water to eliminate any particles and debris. If necessary, use a soft scrub brush and dish soap.
3. Wipe down the interior: Use a damp cloth or soft scrub brush to clean the interior walls, door, and gaskets. If you notice any buildup, be sure to clean it thoroughly.
4. Run a cycle: Place a cup of vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle without any dishes to allow the vinegar to clean and deodorize your appliance. Alternatively, you can use a dishwasher cleaner. However, make sure to consult your dishwasher manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Sprinkle baking soda: After the cycle is complete, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of your dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle to remove the baking soda.
6. Final rinse (optional): Pour a cup of lemon juice into a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run a final hot water wash cycle to give your appliance a fresh citrus smell.

Preventative Care

To prevent any odors from returning, follow these maintenance tips:

• Regular cleaning: Make sure to clean your dishwasher once a month to prevent foul odors.
• Scrape dishes and utensils before loading: Any excess food residue should be removed before placing your utensils and dishes in the dishwasher.
• Avoid overloading: Overloading inhibits proper water circulation, resulting in poor cleaning performance.
• Regularly inspect the spray arms: It's important to check your dishwasher's spray arms. If you find that the holes are clogged, your dishwasher may not function effectively. Make sure to clean them according to the instructions provided in the owner's manual.

Can You Clean a Dishwasher with Bleach?

Read carefully. Bleach can be used for cleaning a dishwasher, however, there are important considerations. Never use bleach in an interior stainless steel dishwasher or with stainless steel components, as it can damage and pit the stainless steel finish. For stainless steel dishwashers, it's best to use white vinegar, which serves as a safe and natural alternative for most cleaning tasks.

Looking for a New Dishwasher?

A clean dishwasher is crucial for maintaining a hygienic kitchen and ensuring optimal cleaning performance. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the convenience of an odor-free and well-functioning appliance.

If you're considering replacing your dishwasher, we invite you to explore our selection at Standard! We offer a range of dishwashers for sale, including stainless steel dishwashers, custom panel dishwashers, and more options from renowned brands like Bosch, KitchenAid, Cove, and GE Profile.

For further assistance in choosing the right dishwasher for your needs, feel free to contact our appliance experts or visit one of our appliance store locations in Beaverton, Bend, or Portland, Oregon.

Related Readings:

• The Must-Have Dishwasher Features for Modern Living
• Should You Buy a KitchenAid Dishwasher?

How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Try to clean your dishwasher once a month to prevent buildup and odors.

Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
While bleach can effectively kill bacteria, it's not recommended for cleaning dishwashers as it can damage the appliance's components.

Is vinegar or baking soda better for cleaning my dishwasher?
Both vinegar and baking soda are effective cleaners for dishwashers, but they serve different purposes. Vinegar helps to break down grease and remove odors, while baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive to scrub away any buildup. Using them together can provide optimal results.

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
While white vinegar is typically recommended for cleaning, apple cider vinegar can also be effective in eliminating odors.

How much vinegar do I put in my dishwasher to clean it?
To clean your dishwasher with vinegar, fill a dishwasher-safe container with about one cup of white vinegar and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle without any dishes to allow the vinegar to clean and deodorize the dishwasher effectively.

How much baking soda should I use to clean my dishwasher?
To clean your dishwasher with baking soda, sprinkle approximately one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher after running a vinegar cycle. This will help absorb odors and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh.

Should I leave the dishwasher door open to air it out after a cycle?
Yes, it's recommended to leave the dishwasher door open after completing a cycle. Doing so allows the interior of the dishwasher to air out and helps moisture evaporate.