Welcome to our ultimate guide on how to clean dishwasher! We all rely on this trusty appliance to tackle the daily stack of dirty dishes, but have you ever stopped to think about just how much grime and buildup can accumulate inside? Over time, food particles, soap scum, and mineral deposits can not only affect the performance of your dishwasher but also leave your dishes looking less than sparkling clean.
But fear not! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through step-by-step on how to clean dishwasher that will leave it gleaming and odour-free. So grab your rubber gloves, and let’s dive in!
How Often to Clean Your Dishwasher?
How often should you clean your dishwasher? It’s a question that many of us may not consider, but regular maintenance is key to keeping this essential kitchen appliance running smoothly. Ideally, you should aim to clean your dishwasher once every month or two, depending on how frequently you use it.
Why is regular cleaning necessary? Well, think about all the food particles and grease that get washed away during each cycle. Over time, these can build up inside the dishwasher and impact its performance. Not only can this lead to less effective cleaning results, but it can also cause unpleasant odours to linger.
The good news is that giving your dishwasher a thorough cleanse doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With just a little effort and some simple steps we’re about to share with you, you’ll keep your machine in tip-top shape for years to come! So, let’s jump right into our step-by-step guide on how to clean your dishwasher effectively.
Understanding Why Dishwashers Get Dirty and How It Affects Their Performance
Dishwashers are a workhorse in the kitchen, tirelessly cleaning our dishes day after day. But have you ever wondered why they start to get dirty over time? Well, there are a few reasons behind this. First of all, food particles and residue can accumulate on the interior walls and racks of the dishwasher, leading to unpleasant odours and even clogs in the drain filter. Additionally, hard water minerals can build up on surfaces, causing lime scale deposits that not only look unsightly but also affect your dishwasher’s efficiency.
A dirty dishwasher can greatly impact its performance. When food debris builds up inside your dishwasher, it can interfere with proper drainage and circulation during the wash cycle. This means that your dishes may not be getting as clean as they should be. Moreover, mineral deposits from hard water can lead to reduced water flow through spray arms and jets, resulting in uneven distribution of water throughout the dishwasher. This can leave some dishes untouched by detergent or poorly rinsed.
Regularly cleaning your dishwasher is essential for maintaining its performance and prolonging its lifespan. By removing food particles and buildup from both visible areas like racks and utensil holders as well as hidden parts such as the drain filter, you ensure the optimal functioning of your appliance. Not only will this result in sparkling clean dishes every time, but it will also help prevent potential breakdowns caused by clogged filters or worn-out components.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Dishwasher
Maintaining a clean dishwasher is essential for its optimal performance and to ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean every time. By following these simple steps, you can easily keep your dishwasher in top shape.
Gather Necessary Supplies
When it comes to cleaning your dishwasher, having the right supplies on hand is essential. You don’t want to get halfway through the process only to realise you’re missing something crucial. So, before you dive in, take a few moments to gather everything you’ll need.
First and foremost, grab some rubber gloves. This will not only protect your hands from any harsh chemicals but also provide a better grip when tackling those tough stains. Next, find a soft sponge or cloth that won’t scratch the surface of your dishwasher.
For cleaning solutions, opt for white vinegar and baking soda. These two household staples work wonders at removing grime and eliminating odours. And finally, don’t forget about an old toothbrush or small scrub brush for those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.
With all these supplies at the ready, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle even the dirtiest dishwasher with ease!
Clean the Exterior of the Dishwasher
The exterior of your dishwasher may not seem like it needs cleaning, but over time, dirt and grime can build up. To keep your dishwasher looking sparkling clean, follow these simple steps.
First, gather the necessary supplies. You’ll need a mild dish soap or vinegar solution, a soft cloth or sponge, and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can damage the finish of your dishwasher.
Next, dampen the cloth or sponge with the soapy solution and gently wipe down the exterior of the dishwasher. Any places that are especially filthy or soiled should receive close attention. Don’t forget to clean around buttons and controls as well.
Once you’ve cleaned all visible surfaces, use a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. This will help prevent water spots from forming on the exterior of your dishwasher. With just a little bit of effort, you can have an exterior that looks as good as new!
Remove and Clean the Dishwasher Racks and Utensil Holders
To ensure your dishwasher is functioning at its best, it’s important to regularly remove and clean the dishwasher racks and utensil holders. Over time, these components can accumulate food particles, grime, and even mould or mildew if left unattended.
Start by pulling out the racks from the dishwasher. Inspect them for any visible debris or stuck-on food. Use a soft brush or sponge dipped in warm, soapy water to scrub away any residue. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach corners and crevices where buildup often occurs.
Next, focus on cleaning the utensil holders. These can easily become clogged with leftover food particles. Remove them from their designated slots and rinse under running water to remove loose debris. If necessary, use a small brush or toothbrush to gently scrub away stubborn stains.
Once both the racks and utensil holders are cleaned thoroughly, allow them to air dry completely before placing them back into the dishwasher. This step is crucial as wet components may lead to bacterial growth or unpleasant odours within your appliance.
By taking these simple steps on how to clean dishwasher racks and utensil holders regularly, you’ll not only maintain better hygiene but also improve overall performance for sparkling clean dishes every time!
Unclog and Clean the Drain Filter
When it comes to keeping your dishwasher in tip-top shape, one important step is unclogging and cleaning the drain filter. Over time, food particles and debris can accumulate in this filter, leading to poor drainage and potentially causing unpleasant odours. So, how do you go about tackling this task?
Locate the drain filter on the bottom of your dishwasher. It’s usually found near the back or at the centre. Carefully remove any large debris that may be blocking it using a soft brush or toothbrush. Then, give it a thorough rinse under warm water to remove any remaining residue.
Next, check for any stubborn clogs that may require additional attention. Use a small tool like a toothpick or pipe cleaner to gently dislodge anything stuck in the filter holes or around the edges. Be careful not to damage the dishwasher filter while doing so.
Once everything is clean and clear, replace the drain filter back into its original position securely. This simple maintenance task will help ensure proper water flow during each cycle and keep your dishwasher running efficiently for years to come!
Sanitise the Interior of the Dishwasher
To ensure a truly sparkling clean dishwasher, it’s crucial to sanitise the interior regularly. This step helps eliminate any lingering bacteria or germs that may be hiding in hard-to-reach corners. Plus, it keeps your dishes hygienic and free from any potential contaminants.
Start by running an empty cycle the dishwasher with hot water and vinegar. Fill a cup with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of your dishwasher. Then, run a normal cycle on high heat without any detergent or dishes inside. The acidic properties of vinegar work wonders in killing off bacteria while removing mineral deposits from the interior.
Next, sprinkle baking soda along the bottom of the dishwasher tub. Baking soda is not only a natural deodoriser but also helps remove tough stains and residue left behind by food particles. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before wiping down all surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge soaked in warm soapy water.
Don’t forget to clean the spray arms thoroughly. Use a toothpick or small brush to dislodge any debris stuck in the spray arm holes, ensuring optimal water flow during each wash cycle.
By following these simple steps to sanitise your dishwasher’s interior regularly, you’ll enjoy cleaner dishes and peace of mind, knowing that your appliance is free from harmful bacteria!
How Do You Get Rid of Smells in the Dishwasher?
In this article, we have discussed the importance of regularly cleaning your dishwasher and provided you with a step-by-step guide on how to achieve a sparkling clean. However, even after following all these steps, you might still encounter one pesky issue – unpleasant smells in your dishwasher.
Nobody wants their dishes to come out smelling less than fresh. So, let’s explore some effective ways to get rid of those odours and ensure your dishwasher remains smelling clean.
One simple solution is to use vinegar. Fill a cup or bowl with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of an empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle and let the vinegar work its magic by breaking down any lingering food particles or mineral deposits that may be causing the odour.
Another option is using baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your dishwasher before running a short wash cycle without any dishes inside. The baking soda will absorb any unpleasant smells, leaving your appliance smelling fresh again.
You can also try using lemon juice for natural freshness. Squeeze some lemon juice onto a sponge or cloth and wipe down the interior surfaces of your dishwasher, including the racks and utensil holders. Lemon has natural antibacterial properties that help eliminate odours while giving off a pleasantly citrusy scent.
Maintaining good cleaning habits can go a long way in preventing odours from developing in your dishwasher. Always scrape off excess food from dishes before loading them into the machine, rinse items thoroughly to remove any remaining residue, and ensure proper ventilation by keeping the door slightly open when not in use.
By incorporating these tips into your regular maintenance routine for your dishwasher, you’ll be able to say goodbye to unwanted smells and hello to consistently fresh results every time you run it!
Conclusion
Keeping your dishwasher clean is essential for maintaining its performance and ensuring sparkling clean dishes every time. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this how to clean dishwasher article, you can easily keep your dishwasher in top shape.
Regularly cleaning the exterior, racks, utensil holders, drain filter, and interior of your dishwasher will not only improve its efficiency but also prolong its lifespan. Don’t forget to sanitise your dishwasher regularly by using vinegar and baking soda to eliminate bacteria and odours.
In addition to following these steps, incorporating good cleaning habits into your routine can help prevent odours from developing in the first place. With a little effort and these simple tips and tricks, you’ll have a sparkling clean dishwasher that will continue to serve you well for years to come!
FAQ
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Ideally, you should aim to clean your dishwasher once every month or two, depending on how frequently you use it. Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain optimal performance and prevent unpleasant odours.
Why is regular cleaning necessary for dishwashers?
Regular cleaning is essential because food particles, grease, and mineral deposits can accumulate inside the dishwasher over time, affecting its performance. This buildup can lead to less effective cleaning results and lingering odours.
How does a dirty dishwasher affect its performance?
A dirty dishwasher can interfere with proper drainage, circulation during the wash cycle, and detergent distribution. This can result in dishes not being cleaned thoroughly or rinsed properly, impacting the overall efficiency of the appliance.
What supplies do I need to clean my dishwasher effectively?
To clean your dishwasher effectively, you will need rubber gloves, a soft sponge or cloth, white vinegar, baking soda, an old toothbrush or small scrub brush, and mild dish soap. These supplies will help you tackle dirt and grime in various parts of your dishwasher.
How can I get rid of smells in my dishwasher?
To eliminate odours in your dishwasher, you can use white vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice. Running a hot water cycle with vinegar, sprinkling baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher, or wiping surfaces with lemon juice can help remove odours and keep your appliance smelling fresh.
