Your dishwasher works hard, but it needs care, too! Regular cleaning ensures your appliance continues to run efficiently, leaving your dishes clean and sanitized as a result. Want to know the best way to do this? Follow this easy guide to keep your dishwasher fresh and free from buildup.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher?
Experts recommend giving it a thorough clean at least once a month, especially if it’s used frequently. Regular cleaning ensures that food particles, grease, and mineral buildup don’t clog up filters or spray arms, leading to poor cleaning results or a stinky dishwasher.
A little maintenance each month keeps your dishwasher running like new and ensures your dishes come out sparkling every time.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher
Cleaning your dishwasher is easier than you think! We’re giving you two great options for tackling grease, limescale, and odors: a natural solution with white vinegar or a store-bought dishwasher cleaner. Both work wonders, so it’s up to you to decide which one fits your needs. Whichever option you choose, the process is simple and will leave your dishwasher sparkling clean!
Step 1: Clear Out Any Leftover Food
Even with a self-cleaning dishwasher, small bits of food can still get stuck in corners or on the bottom. Start by clearing out any food debris from the interior:
- Remove any large pieces of food stuck in the racks, spray arms, or filter area.
- Use a paper towel or sponge to wipe away visible debris.
- Check the door seals and clean away any gunk that might be collecting there.
Step 2: Give the Filter a Good Clean
Many dishwashers have a filter at the bottom that catches food particles. Over time, this can get clogged, reducing your dishwasher’s effectiveness. Here’s how to clean it:
- Locate the filter under the bottom rack (most dishwashers have a twist-off filter)
- Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water.
- Use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to scrub away any stuck-on debris.
- Reinstall the filter properly before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Add White Vinegar or Dishwasher Cleaner
Now that your dishwasher is clear of food debris and the filter is clean, it’s time to tackle the buildup of grease and limescale. Depending on what you have at home, you can choose either vinegar or a commercial cleaner:
- For vinegar: Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack.
- For a commercial cleaner: Follow the instructions on the package to place the cleaner inside the machine.
Both options help break down grease, remove limescale, and eliminate odors.
Step 4: Run a Normal Cycle
Once you’ve added vinegar or the cleaner, it’s time to run a cleaning cycle. Here’s what to do:
- Select a normal wash cycle with hot water.
- If you’re using vinegar: After the cycle ends, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Run a shorter hot water cycle to help deodorize and brighten the interior.
This two-step process is great for removing tough odors and stains.
Freshen Up Your Home With ProTouch Cleaners
Keeping your dishwasher clean is just one part of maintaining a spotless home. For a deeper, more thorough clean throughout your home, our team at ProTouch Cleaners is here to help. From kitchens to living rooms and beyond, we make sure every corner is pristine.
Ready for a sparkling clean? Book with us today!
