How to Clean Your Dishwasher & Keep It Free of Smells
*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you choose to make a purchase through a link I provide, and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Let’s be real, your dishwasher is supposed to clean things, not smell like a science experiment. But over time, food particles, soap scum, and trapped moisture can turn it into a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and odors!
If you've ever opened your dishwasher and thought, "Yup, that smells funky," this guide is for you.
Here’s how to deep clean your dishwasher, prevent build-up, and keep it sparkly fresh — with easy, effective steps you can do in a short period of time.
Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Matters
You might assume your dishwasher is self-cleaning (it does spray hot water all day, right?). But without regular maintenance, you’ll end up with:
Foul odors
Greasy buildup
Mold and mildew
Cloudy glassware
And yes, a less efficient machine
A dirty dishwasher isn’t just gross, it affects how well your dishes come out. Let’s fix that!
Step-by-Step: How to Deep Clean Your Dishwasher
1. Remove & Clean the Filter
First things first: check the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher.
This is where leftover food and debris collect, and if left unchecked, it can get nasty fast.
Twist to remove the filter (check your manual if needed)
Rinse under hot water
Scrub gently with a soft brush and dish soap
Replace it securely
Tip: Clean the filter weekly if you use your dishwasher daily!
2. Wipe Down the Interior
Using a microfiber cloth or scratch-free sponge and warm, soapy water:
Wipe the walls, spray arms, and bottom basin
Pay extra attention to corners and crevices, specifically the interior hinges of the front panel and just underneath where the front panel meets the bottom of the appliance, as that is a prime spot for food and debris to linger.
Check the rubber seals and door edges: these areas trap moisture and can grow mold if ignored.
If mold has grown, use this to eliminate the mold.
Optional: This brush reaches those hard-to-reach spots and gets in the crevices!
3. Deodorize with Vinegar
Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup on the top rack. Then run a hot water cycle (no detergent, no dishes). This helps to:
Break down grease and grime
Neutralize odors
Remove soap scum
4. Use a Cleaning Tablet Bi-Weekly
Pop in a dishwasher cleaning tablet and run a hot cycle. These tablets help to:
Deep clean the internal spray arms, pump, hose, and valve
Eliminate lingering smells
Get rid of limescale and mineral buildup
How to Prevent Smells, Mold & Mildew in Your Dishwasher
Leave the door cracked open after each cycle to air out excess moisture
Run hot cycles regularly to avoid buildup of grease and soap
Scrape your dishes before loading
Use a rinse aid to reduce spotting and keep internal parts clean
Keep the filter clean. Seriously, this alone is a game-changer
In short, a clean dishwasher = cleaner dishes, a fresher kitchen, and a longer-lasting appliance. Plus, it’s a really simple thing to clean and keep on top of!
Ready to clean the rest of your house? These are my cleaning product recommendations for your home, the best floor cleaner, the best mold removers, and the best vacuums.
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