The dishwasher is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, tackling tough food residue and ensuring your kitchen runs smoothly. Dishwashers are often overlooked during kitchen cleanup, but as leftover grease, soap scum, and food particles accumulate, your dishwasher may develop unpleasant odors, cloudy glassware, and reduced performance.
The good news? With the right approach and environmentally responsible ingredients, you can keep your dishwasher fresh, sanitized, and operating at its best. Follow this step-by-step guide for a natural, thorough clean. And if the rest of your kitchen needs attention, check out our Ultimate Kitchen Cleaning Guide.
Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Cleaning
If your dishwasher isn't working as it should, it might be due for a refresh. When grime builds up in your dishwasher, a deep clean boosts its cleaning performance and extends its lifespan.
Here are signs that your dishwasher needs extra TLC:
Lingering odors coming from inside the machine
Residue or grit on dishes after a cycle
Cloudy glassware or water spots
Visible mold or mildew around seals and edges
Standing water at the bottom of the tub
Slow drainage or unusual noises during operation
How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Dishwasher?
Regular maintenance keeps your dishwasher running efficiently. Your dishwasher cleaning routine should include light daily upkeep in addition to weekly and monthly tasks:
Daily: After each cycle, check the filter for large food scraps and wipe away any residue on the door or seals.
Weekly: Take a few minutes to clean the filter, spray arms, and door seals to prevent grime and bacteria from setting in.
Monthly: Perform a thorough deep clean using natural solutions found in your home, such as vinegar and baking soda, to break down grease, remove mineral deposits, and keep your dishwasher smelling fresh.
Factors such as hard water, frequent use, and heavily soiled dishes may cause buildup to accumulate more quickly and require more frequent cleaning.
Pro Tip: Keep things simple by cleaning other kitchen appliances and fixtures, such as stainless steel sinks and garbage disposals, at the same time.
Dishwasher Cleaning Supplies
You don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive specialty products to get your dishwasher sparkling clean. With a few environmentally responsible supplies likely found in your kitchen cupboards, you can safely tackle grease, odors, and buildup and leave your appliances sparkling. Gather these household items for a chemical-free, natural dishwasher deep clean:
Distilled white vinegar
Baking soda
Dish soap (unscented)
Microfiber cloths or soft sponges
Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
Toothpick or pin
Warm water
Optional: Lemon essential oil for fresh scent (avoid or consult your vet if you have pets)
How to Clean a Dishwasher: Step-by-Step
Follow this step-by-step dishwasher cleaning guide to keep your appliance running smoothly and smelling fresh.
Step 1: Clean the Dishwasher Filter
The filter traps food particles, preventing them from sticking to your dishes. If it's dirty, your dishes may come out with food stuck to them. To clean the filter:
Pull out the bottom rack to access the filter.
Locate and remove the filter at the base of the dishwasher. Some models require you to twist the sprayer arm off before you can access the filter and lift it out.
Rinse the filter under warm water using a soft brush to remove grease and debris.
If needed, soak the filter in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of dish soap for 10 minutes.
Rinse well and replace the filter, followed by the sprayer arm if necessary.
Pro tip: Check for food buildup in the drain area before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Wipe Down the Door and Seals
Gunk builds up along the edges of the dishwasher door and its rubber gaskets, leading to mold and odors. Follow these steps:
Dip a microfiber cloth in a bowl of warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
Wipe the door interior and exterior, and rubber gaskets carefully.
For stubborn spots, scrub the gaskets gently with a baking soda paste made from two tablespoons of baking soda and a small amount of water.
Dry with a clean cloth.
Step 3: Clean the Spray Arms
Spray arms shoot water through small holes. If these holes become clogged, the spray arm can't evenly distribute water to clean your dishes. Remove grime and blockages with these steps:
Remove the spray arms if your model allows. Check your owner's manual for model-specific guidance.
Rinse under warm water. Use a toothpick or pin to gently remove food or minerals from blocked holes.
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth.
Replace spray arms securely.
Step 4: Run a Vinegar Wash Cycle
A vinegar wash cycle breaks down grease, soap scum, and mineral deposits in your dishwasher.
Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with two cups of white vinegar.
Place the bowl on the top rack, and leave the rest of the dishwasher empty.
Optional: Add 3-5 drops of lemon essential oil to the vinegar to leave behind a fresh, welcoming scent. (Avoid essential oils or check with your vet first if you have pets)
Run a hot water cycle without detergent.
Step 5: Rinse With Baking Soda
Baking soda neutralizes odors and removes lingering grime, leaving your dishwasher fresh and clean. Sprinkle one cup of baking soda across the bottom of the tub. Run a short hot water cycle without detergent or dishes.
Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher Cleaner, Longer
Regular upkeep helps your dishwasher work better and keeps heavy buildup from becoming a major chore to remove. Try these tips to avoid tough scrubbing later:
Avoid pre-cleaning: Scrape food off plates before loading, but avoid pre-rinsing in the sink. Modern dishwashers use sensors to detect soiling levels and often work best with some residue.
Run hot water: Running hot water in your sink primes the dishwasher cycle so it begins with hot water instead of cold, making the wash more efficient and often shortening the cycle.
Leave the door open: Leave the door slightly ajar to promote airflow and prevent moisture and odors.
Load responsibly: Avoid overloading to allow water to circulate properly. Load larger dishes on the bottom rack and smaller dishes on the top rack.
When to Call a Professional
If your dishwasher smells, won't drain, or shows signs of mold or rust, call in the experts. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, part of the Authority Brands family, can help with repairs, drainage issues, and other appliance-related support. Visit Benjamin Franklin Plumbing to find a licensed technician near you.
Let The Cleaning Authority Help
A clean dishwasher is a great start, but a spotless kitchen takes more time and energy than most people can spare. Let The Cleaning Authority handle the dirty work for you. Our professional house cleaners use environmentally responsible products and methods for a high-quality clean that's safer for you and your family.
Call us at (888) 658-0659 or request a free estimate today to schedule one-time or regular cleaning services.