How To Clean and Maintain A Dishwasher

It's typical to think that if the dishes are clean, shouldn't the dishwasher be clean, too? Needless to say, debris, soap and deposits do build up over time, which can not only reduce the performance of the dishwasher, but can also cause unpleasant odors. Fortunately, dishwashers don't need cleaning very often and it's fairly easy to do.

For normal use, there are a few things to consider when you are using your dishwasher on a day to day bases. Load your dishwasher properly, stacking items facing downward and inwards. Be sure all the spinning arms can spin freely. Check the small holes in the spinning arms for debris. If you find debris in the holes, use a thin wire or nail and unplug the holes.

Take into account the dishwasher soap you use. Dishwasher soap comes in either a liquid, gel, tablets or powder form. If your owner's manually doesn't specify, look for ratings and reviews on different soaps. Be sure to not overfill the soap dispenser. It's be tter to use less soap than too much.

Next, run the garbage disposal before starting the dishwasher. The dishwasher drains into the same pipe as your sink, so that drain must be clear. Then run hot water in your kitchen sink before starting the cleaning cycle. This will make sure the water is hot when the dishwasher first fills with water and you'll get cleaner dishes.
Once or twice a month, add some white vinegar to the bottom of the dishwasher before starting the cleaning cycle. The vinegar will help to wash away the greasy grime, sanitizes, and helps remove the musty odor.

After each wash it is a good idea to leave the dishwasher door cracked open to allow air flow inside. This will help with preventing mold and mildew from forming.

How to Clean Your Dishwasher And Remove Odor

1. Using a small brush (old toothbrushes work well) dipped in hot soapy water, go around the door of the dishwasher taking care to get into the grooves and crevices of the rubber seal. Be sure to wipe out any debris that is on the bottom of the dishwasher.

2. Pull the bottom rack out and examine the drain area. Wipe around it to be sure there are no hard chunks that can plug the drain, cause damage to the pump or scratch dishes. You'd be surprised at what dishwasher repairmen find - bones, crab shells, chips of glas s, and even small pieces of gravel!

3. Using a clean wet sponge or dishrag, wipe the cleaning solution from the gasket and the door.

4. Sometimes it is necessary to remove the grate grill around the drain at the bottom of the dishwasher. Check first if you notice soap buildup or debris in the grills. This is where wastewater goes and if it is not draining properly, this will cause mildew and odors.

5. Baking soda is also effective at freshening and brightening your dishwasher. Just sprinkle a cupful around the bottom of the tub and run it through a short but complete cycle using the hottest water. Baking soda is also helpful in removing stains.

A little maintenance and cleaning of your dishwasher each month will keep you dishes sparkling and your dishwasher performing like it was brand new.