How To Clean A Dishwasher In 5 Easy Steps

Although your dishwasher might help you day after day to keep your dishes clean, it isn’t immune to getting dirty itself. Over time, food particles and grime can accumulate, which sooner or later affects how well it cleans your dishes.

Ready to bring back your dishwasher’s shine? Here's a simple (but effective) guide that involves items you can find in your pantry—none of those harsh chemicals!

Step 1. Empty your dishwasher

All racks, utensil holders, and any other items inside need to be out of your dishwasher so they don't get in the way. Soak the racks and holders in warm, soapy water in the sink and give them a good scrub. Then, just leave them to dry while you clean your appliance.

Step 2. Clean the filter

A clean filter is crucial for your dishwasher to work properly. Besides blockages and leaks, it can also result in a broken water pump. A clogged filter is also the main culprit when foul smells appear. Here's how to clean it:

1. Locate the filter (usually a small circular part) at the bottom of the dishwasher. Twist and lift it out. If you're unsure where it is or how to remove it, check your appliance's manual.
2. Some dishwashers have a mesh filter too. If yours has it, remove it to clean it as well.
3. Clear out any leftover food particles from the cavity where the filter sat.
4. Wash both filters in the sink with warm, soapy water. Use a soft toothbrush to clean both filters.
5. Reinstall the filters properly.

Note: Skip this step if your dishwasher has a self-cleaning filter.

Step 3. Pretreat the dishwasher

A little pre-cleaning before the main act will help you loosen the grime and gunk so the results are much better!

Use a slightly dampened cloth with warm, soapy water to wipe down the walls, focusing on stuck-on food. Don't worry if you can't remove every stain; the goal is just to soften them.

Water jet holes also need attention to prevent clogging. Use a toothpick or paperclip to clear them out.

Note: Gunk on the door's rubber seal can cause leaks. Clean it with soapy water and a soft toothbrush if needed.

Step 4. Run a vinegar cycle

Vinegar is your perfect ally against any chalky white spots inside your dishwasher. Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with two cups of vinegar, place it on the bottom rack, and run a hot water cycle.

When the cycle finishes, you'll notice fewer white spots and less grease. Vinegar also helps eliminate bad odors.

Note: Don't worry about vinegar damaging your dishwasher. It's safe as long as you don't pour it into the detergent compartment.

Step 5. Finish with baking soda

After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the dishwasher floor and run a short hot water cycle. Baking soda will remove any remaining stains and gunk. Finally, run a drying cycle before putting the racks and holders back in place.

Note: If your dishwasher doesn't have a drying cycle, dry the interior with a clean cloth. Pay special attention to small gaps to prevent mold growth.

Keep your home sparkling with Harmony Clean!

Just like your dishwasher, your home needs cleaning every now and then to keep it spotless. Harmony Clean provides recurring cleaning services that you can schedule weekly, every two weeks, or monthly—if you're not happy with the results, we'll make it right!

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