A dishwasher is one of the most convenient kitchen appliances, but to keep it running efficiently, regular cleaning is essential and how to clean a dishwasher is a good question. Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up inside, leading to unpleasant odors, cloudy dishes, and even reduced performance. A dirty dishwasher may also develop mold or bacteria, which can spread to your dishes and compromise hygiene.
Cleaning your dishwasher regularly helps maintain its cleaning power, extends its lifespan, and prevents costly repairs. Many people assume that because a dishwasher cleans dishes, it stays clean on its own. However, trapped food debris, mineral deposits from hard water, and leftover detergent residue can accumulate in key areas such as the filter, spray arms, and door seals. If left unaddressed, this buildup can cause blockages, unpleasant smells, and even leave spots on dishes.
A proper dishwasher cleaning routine includes removing debris, deep cleaning with natural or commercial cleaners, and maintaining its key components. Using household ingredients like white vinegar and baking soda can help break down grease and eliminate odors without the use of harsh chemicals. Regular maintenance, such as checking the filter and ensuring the spray arms are clear, ensures your dishwasher continues to run smoothly.
By following a simple cleaning schedule, you can keep your dishwasher in top condition, ensuring cleaner dishes, improved efficiency, and a longer-lasting appliance. Whether you clean it weekly, monthly, or seasonally, routine maintenance is the key to a sparkling, odor-free dishwasher that performs at its best. In the following steps, we will go over how to properly clean a dishwasher, ensuring it stays in optimal working condition for years to come.
How to Clean a Dishwasher Step by Step?
Regularly cleaning your dishwasher ensures it runs efficiently, eliminates odors, and prevents buildup of grease, food debris, and hard water stains. Follow these simple steps to keep your dishwasher in top condition:
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher
- Make sure the dishwasher is completely empty before starting the cleaning process.
- Remove any leftover food particles from the bottom.
Step 2: Clean the Filter
- Locate the filter (usually at the bottom of the dishwasher).
- Remove it and rinse under warm water, using a soft brush or sponge to scrub away debris.
- If there’s grease buildup, soak the filter in warm soapy water for 10 minutes, then rinse and replace.
Step 3: Clean the Spray Arms
- Check the spray arms for clogs in the holes where water sprays out.
- Use a toothpick or small brush to remove food particles.
- Wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any grease or grime.
Step 4: Run a Vinegar Cycle
- Place one cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl or measuring cup on the top rack.
- Run a hot water cycle (without detergent) to break down grease, remove odors, and clean the interior.
Step 5: Run a Baking Soda Cycle
- Sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Run a short hot cycle to eliminate stains, deodorize, and remove any remaining residue.
Step 6: Wipe Down the Door and Seals
- Use a damp cloth with warm soapy water to wipe the inside and outside of the door.
- Pay special attention to the rubber seals, as grime can build up here.
Step 7: Maintain Regularly
- Clean the filter weekly to prevent food buildup.
- Run a vinegar rinse once a month to keep it fresh.
- Regularly check for clogs in the drain and spray arms.
By following these steps, your dishwasher will stay fresh, odor-free, and run efficiently, ensuring spotless dishes every time!
How to Clean a Dishwasher Filter?
The dishwasher filter is responsible for trapping food particles and preventing clogs in the drain. Over time, it can become clogged with grease, food debris, and soap scum, reducing your dishwasher’s efficiency. Cleaning the filter regularly ensures your dishes come out spotless and prevents unpleasant odors. Follow these simple steps to clean your dishwasher filter properly:
Step 1: Locate the Filter
- Open the dishwasher and remove the bottom rack to access the filter.
- The filter is usually located at the bottom center of the dishwasher, beneath the spray arms.
Step 2: Remove the Filter
- Most dishwashers have a twist-lock filter—turn it counterclockwise and gently lift it out.
- If your dishwasher has a secondary filter, remove it as well.
Step 3: Rinse the Filter Under Warm Water
- Hold the filter under warm running water to wash away loose debris.
- Use a soft sponge or brush (like an old toothbrush) to scrub off any stuck-on food particles or grease.
Step 4: Soak the Filter (If Needed)
- For stubborn buildup, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for about 10–15 minutes.
- Add a little baking soda or vinegar for extra cleaning power.
Step 5: Clean the Filter Housing
- While the filter is soaking, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the area where the filter sits.
- Check for any leftover food debris or grease inside the filter compartment.
Step 6: Reinstall the Filter
- Once clean and dry, place the filter back into position.
- Twist it clockwise to lock it in place securely.
Step 7: Maintain Regularly
- Clean the filter once a month to prevent clogs and odors.
- If you use your dishwasher daily, check the filter every two weeks for buildup.
By keeping your dishwasher filter clean, you’ll ensure your appliance runs smoothly, your dishes come out sparkling, and bad odors are kept at bay!
How to Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar?
Cleaning your dishwasher with vinegar is an easy and effective way to remove grease, odors, and hard water buildup. White vinegar works as a natural disinfectant that breaks down mineral deposits and soap scum, helping your dishwasher stay fresh and efficient. Follow these simple steps to clean your dishwasher with vinegar:
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher
- Remove all dishes, utensils, and racks to allow vinegar to reach every corner of the dishwasher.
- Wipe away any visible food particles or debris from the bottom.
Step 2: Place Vinegar in the Dishwasher
- Pour one cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl or measuring cup.
- Place the bowl on the top rack—this ensures the vinegar is evenly distributed as it runs through the cycle.
Step 3: Run a Hot Water Cycle
- Select the hottest water setting on your dishwasher.
- Start a normal or heavy-duty cycle to allow the vinegar to break down grime, grease, and odors.
- Do not add detergent or other cleaning agents during this cycle.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior
- After the cycle is complete, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the interior walls, spray arms, and door seals.
- Focus on any spots where grime or soap residue may still be present.
Step 5: Deodorize with Baking Soda (Optional)
- For extra freshness, sprinkle one cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Run a short hot water cycle to remove lingering odors and brighten the interior.
Step 6: Maintain Regularly
- Clean your dishwasher with vinegar once a month to prevent buildup and keep it smelling fresh.
By following these steps, your dishwasher will remain clean, odor-free, and run efficiently, ensuring spotless dishes every time!
How to Clean your Dishwasher with Alexa’s Cleaning Services?
Keeping your dishwasher clean is essential for ensuring spotless dishes, preventing odors, and maintaining the efficiency of your appliance. At Alexa’s Cleaning Services, we specialize in professional dishwasher cleaning to remove grease, food buildup, and hard water stains, ensuring your dishwasher operates at peak performance. Here’s why you should trust us for the job:
1. Expert Cleaning for Maximum Efficiency
Over time, dishwashers accumulate soap scum, food particles, and mineral deposits that can lead to poor performance. Our trained professionals use safe and effective cleaning solutions, including eco-friendly vinegar treatments and deep scrubbing techniques, to restore your dishwasher’s efficiency.
2. Eliminate Odors and Bacteria
A dirty dishwasher can become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria, causing unpleasant smells. Alexa’s Cleaning Services thoroughly sanitizes your appliance, ensuring it stays fresh and hygienic.
3. Protect Your Dishwasher and Extend Its Lifespan
Regular maintenance prevents clogs, damage, and costly repairs. Our deep-cleaning process helps protect the internal components, spray arms, filters, and drain, ensuring your dishwasher runs smoothly for years.
4. Convenient and Hassle-Free Service
Why spend time scrubbing your dishwasher when our team can do it for you? We provide fast, reliable, and affordable cleaning services, allowing you to focus on what matters most while we handle the dirty work.
5. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
At Alexa’s Cleaning Services, we stand by our quality of work. Our goal is to leave your dishwasher sparkling clean and odor-free, ensuring your satisfaction with every service.
Schedule Your Dishwasher Cleaning Today!
Give your dishwasher the deep clean it deserves! Contact Alexa’s Cleaning Services today to book an appointment and enjoy a fresher, more efficient appliance.