Dishwashers are powerful appliances that whisk away dirt and grime that builds up on your dishes and cookware. While it might seem odd to clean a machine that is filled with soapy water, deep cleaning the dishwasher is an essential task.
Before you clean a dishwasher, you’ll first want to check the owner’s manual. Depending on the make and model, you might need to avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach. Alternatively, you may need special tools to remove the filter and other movable parts.
Although you’ll always want to follow your owner’s manual’s recommendations, most dishwashers require similar types of cleaning. You can use these steps to keep your dishwasher odor-free and ready to make your dishes sparkle.
Start By Clearing the Filter
The filter in your dishwasher is designed to stop chunks of food from clogging the drain. But, this is also one of the biggest culprits for stinky dishwasher odors.
Some newer dishwashers have self-cleaning filters. Older models usually have manual filters that you can remove from the dishwasher to give them a good cleaning.
If the filter isn’t removable, then you’ll still need to remove food debris such as popcorn kernels for proper drainage.
Once you’ve removed the big pieces of debris, you can use a microfiber cloth to get the filter squeaky clean. Our cleaning staff uses colourized microfiber cleaning cloths for wiping down appliances to avoid cross-contamination with other parts of your kitchen.
Wash the Removable Parts
Many dishwashers have other removable parts that are easier to clean when you take them out of the appliance. The dishwasher racks typically are on rollers that allow them to come all the way out.
Your dishwasher may also have a utensil basket that could accumulate debris inside the mesh panels. After you take out the removable pieces, you can simply wash them in your sink to remove detergent residue and food particles.
If the panels have caked-on grime, then soaking them in vinegar for 20 minutes helps soften the residue. You can then rinse the parts with water and put them back in the dishwasher when you’re done.
Choose Your Preferred Cleaning Method
Professional cleaning crews should always ask about your preferences for using chemicals in your kitchen. For dishwashers, you’ll have several options to choose from to achieve a safe and comfortable cleaning.
Although you can use bleach to disinfect and clean some dishwasher models, it’s usually not recommended for appliances made with stainless steel. As always, remember to check your dishwasher manual before choosing your preferred cleaning strategy.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Using vinegar is one of the most natural ways to clean your dishwasher. The acidic nature of vinegar helps to break down soap residue and food particles. Baking soda helps to deodorize and further scrub away grime in the dishwasher.
To use vinegar and baking soda, you’ll follow a two-step process. First, you’ll need to place a glass bowl or measuring cup filled with vinegar on the lower rack of the dishwasher. Then, you’ll run the dishwasher through a normal cycle with the heat drying option off.
For the second step, you’ll sprinkle about one cup of baking soda on the floor of the dishwasher. You can then run a normal hot water cycle to finish cleaning the inside of the appliance.
Dishwasher Tablets
Sometimes, the buildup in a dishwasher is more than vinegar and baking soda can handle. This is especially common in areas with hard water that contributes to limescale buildup.
Dishwasher tablets are made using stronger detergents that are still safe for use in home appliances. You’ll want to follow the instructions that come with the tablets. Usually, this involves placing a tablet in the detergent tray.
Some tablets allow you to put them at the bottom of the dishwasher. Using two tablets may also be an option for dishwashers with significant buildup.
Some dishwasher cleaning agents allow you to wash dishes at the same time. When doing so, you’ll put regular dishwashing detergent in the tray and a cleaning table on the appliance floor.
Running a normal hot water cycle is usually the final step to clean with chemical detergents.
Scrub Around the Door and Gasket
This part of cleaning the dishwasher can be a bit tedious, but it’s important. If grime builds upon the gasket, then it won’t be able to maintain a proper seal. Cleaning the inside of the door and gasket prevents major water leaks.
You’ll need to use a firm but gentle touch as you scrub the door and gasket. Toothbrushes and other small cleaning tools can help you get into the tiny crevices that harbor grime.
Depending on what the owner’s manual recommends, you can use vinegar mixed with hot water to make this job easier. But, some manuals recommend using only water.
If you spot any mold or mildew, then you’ll want to address the issue right away. You might be able to use an all-purpose cleaner to remove the stains. Our professional cleaners can also recommend solutions for eliminating mold and mildew in your home appliances.
Wipe Down the Exterior
The final step of cleaning your dishwasher is the most rewarding. You can use glass cleaner or vinegar and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the outside of the door to leave it gleaming.
Do You Need Help With Deep Cleaning Your Home Appliances?
Most dishwashers need cleaning about once a month, but it’s common to overlook this essential housekeeping task. Arranging for professional cleaning services helps you know that the dishwasher is always ready to leave your dishes sparkling clean.
If the prospect of scrubbing your dishwasher down is overwhelming, then don’t worry. Our crews are here to help. We can perform dishwasher cleanings as a one-time service. Or we can bundle it with your ongoing cleaning services.
You can start saving time on cleaning by using our easy online scheduling service to book an appointment within 60 seconds. Once you do, our team will reach out to learn more about your dishwasher and any other housekeeping needs.
Giving your home appliances a professional cleaning is the best way to prolong their life spans. With our crew’s attention to detail, your dishwasher will always be gleaming and ready to handle one of the toughest chores in your house.
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