I know you are questioning why anybody would clean their dishwasher. Isn’t the dishwasher clean itself every time it washes the dishes anyway? The answer is no, it doesn’t.

If you want to make sure your dishwasher function correctly and extends its lifespan, you need to keep the dishwasher clean as an essential task.

Because over time, dishwashers can accumulate food debris, mineral deposits, and other types of buildup that can lead to clogs and odors. This might even damage the machine.

I will help you learn how to keep your dishwasher clean, and the reasons why cleaning your dishwasher is so important.

This guide will answer all of your questions and explain how to clean dishwasher parts, filters, and other spots you have yet to think about!

In this blog post, you will learn:

Why do we need to clean dishwashers?
What will you need to clean your dishwasher?
How to clean the dishwasher with natural ingredients?
How to clean a dishwasher door?
How to clean a dishwasher tub?
How to clean dishwasher parts?
How to clean the dishwasher filter?
How often should you clean your dishwasher?
FAQs

how clean dishwasher — image by the Spruce

Why do we need to clean dishwashers?

Dishwashers are essential for our kitchen in today’s world! I know how much time it saves you every day. So the most significant reason we need to clean dishwashers is to maintain their effectiveness.

They are designed to clean and sanitize dishes, utensils, and other kitchenware efficiently.

However, dishwashers can accumulate debris, grease, and grime over time, which can lead to problems. You don’t want the food debris clogging the dishwasher’s spray arms and preventing them from distributing water properly.

Mineral buildup can also accumulate in the dishwasher’s pipes and valves, reducing the machine’s water pressure.

The other reason that can be very challenging is the odor. Food particles and grease can become trapped in the dishwasher’s filter and create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

What will you need to clean your dishwasher?

Before you begin cleaning your dishwasher here are the things you need;

Soft cloth
Small toothbrush
Paper towel
Sponge
Clean Dry cloth
Warm water
Baking Soda
Rubbing Alcohol
Rust Removing Laundry Detergent
Lemon Juice
Dish Soap

How to clean the dishwasher with natural ingredients?

You can clean your dishwasher with natural ingredients effectively and in an eco-friendly way to get rid of dirt and grime. Dishwasher cleaning requires many steps and parts.

These are: cleaning the dishwasher door, dishwasher tub, dishwasher racks, and filter. Lastly, you will run a hot cycle and finish up.

How to clean a dishwasher door?

Here is step by step cleaning your dishwasher door guide:

Step 1

Start with emptying your dishwasher and remove all dishes, utensils, and racks from the dishwasher.

Clean dishwasher door! Let’s start with the dishwasher exterior. You can keep your dishwasher exterior fingerprint free by using a homemade dishwasher cleaner.

You will only need to mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 quart of water. Avoiding harsh cleaners will prevent scratching the dishwasher’s finish.

When the door is clean, wipe it with a soft dry cloth. If there are some stubborn fingerprints, you can wipe the door with a bit of rubbing alcohol on a soft, dry cloth.

Step 2

It is time to focus on the interior part of the dishwasher door. Prepare hot, soapy water and dip a small toothbrush into it. Gently scrub the area, and make sure you also scrub the grooves of the rubber seal.

You can wipe the residue using a sponge and hot soapy water. Lastly, wipe the interior dishwasher door with a clean, wet sponge.

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How to clean a dishwasher tub?

It is so important to keep your dishwasher tub clean because it is where all the cleaning action takes place. Keeping the dishwasher tub clean, you will make sure that your dishes come out sparkling.

Remove any debris from the base of the dishwasher using a handful of paper towels. Most of the debris is usually around the drain.

Look for food particles, small utensils, or any other objects that may have fallen into the drain.

After removing all the debris from the dishwasher, place the dishwasher cleaner in the detergent dispenser or at the bottom of the dishwasher.

You will run a hot cycle choosing the hottest water possible to disinfect while it is being cleaned.

You can also sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the tub and run a cycle with the hottest water possible.

When the cycle is done, wipe the inside of the dishwasher with a dry cloth.

How to clean dishwasher parts?

Let’s keep up the good work! Take out the utensil holder and the racks. If there is any debris, wipe them away. Wash the utensil holder and racks with warm soapy water. Use a toothbrush to get into any tight spaces, then rinse with warm water.

Next are the spray arms! The spray arms distribute water throughout the dishwasher during the wash cycle. Over time, food particles and hard water deposits can clog the spray arms, reducing their effectiveness.

Use a toothbrush or small brush to remove any debris or buildup, then rinse with warm water and reattach to the dishwasher.

You can also clean the control panel where you select the dishwasher’s settings. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the control panel, being careful not to get any water or cleaning solution into the control panel’s electronics.

How to clean the dishwasher filter?

Cleaning the dishwasher filter is an essential part of maintaining your dishwasher’s performance. A clogged filter can cause your dishwasher to work less efficiently and leave your dishes dirty.

First, you will locate the filter. The filter is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher. It is generally circular in shape and has a handle or knob that you can turn to remove it.

To remove the filter, turn the handle or knob counterclockwise. You may need to lift it up gently to remove it.

Hold the filter under running water and use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to remove any debris. Make sure you rinse both sides of the filter thoroughly.

Fill a sink or large bowl with hot water and add a few drops of dish soap. Place the filter in the soapy water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.

After soaking the filter, use the toothbrush to scrub any remaining debris from the filter. Make sure you clean both sides of the filter thoroughly.

Rinse the filter under running water to remove any soap residue. Shake off any excess water and let the filter air dry completely before replacing it in the dishwasher.

How often should you clean your dishwasher?

You want to prevent the build-up of food debris, soap scum, and other grime in your dishwasher to last a long time. Keeping your dishwasher clean will also solve other problems that you haven’t thought of, such as mold growth or odor. But how often should you clean your dishwasher? Here is the answer!

I recommend you clean your dishwasher at least once a month. However, if you use your dishwasher frequently or notice any signs of build-up, such as unpleasant odors or residue on your dishes, you may need to clean it more often.

This will also depend on your usage and water hardness. Hard water can cause more build-up and mineral deposits, which may require more frequent cleaning.

Additionally, leaving the dishwasher open to air dry after each cycle can help prevent moisture buildup and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

FAQs

How to remove rust from dishwasher?

Why does rust develop in dishwashers in the first place? It is usually due to the presence of iron in the water, especially if you have hard water.

First, we will make a rust remover solution. You can simply mix together equal parts of lemon juice and baking soda to form a paste in a bowl.

Apply the solution to the rust spots using a sponge. Make sure to apply the solution evenly and cover the entire rusted area.

You will allow the solution to sit on the rust spots for about 30 minutes to an hour. This will give it enough time to break down the rust.

After you let the solution sit for some time, scrub the rusted area using the toothbrush or sponge. Avoid scrubbing it too hard because this can scratch the surface of the dishwasher.

The final step is rinsing and drying. Rinse the area with clean water to remove any rust remover solution. Then you can dry the area thoroughly with a clean cloth.

If some rust spots remain, you can repeat the process until they are completely removed.

You can also choose to use Rust removing detergent for this process. Find laundry products that remove rust stains from clothing or appliances.

You can easily pour the recommended amount of rust removing detergent into the bottom of the dishwasher. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate amount to use.

How to remove mineral build-up in a dishwasher?

Usually, mineral build-up in a dishwasher can occur due to hard water, which leaves behind mineral deposits on the surfaces inside the dishwasher. You can easily remove mineral deposits with the ingredients you always have at home.

The first one is a paste by mixing baking soda and water. You can apply this paste to the mineral build-up areas and leave it for a few minutes. This will allow the mineral deposits to lift.

You can scrub it away with a sponge and rinse the interior with water to remove any remaining paste.

The second is only lemon juice. You can squeeze the juice of one lemon into a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup and place it on top of the dishwasher.

Run a hot water cycle on the dishwasher without any dishes inside.

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What is the best way to clean and deodorize a dishwasher?

You can keep your dishwasher clean and fresh smelling if you follow these dishwasher cleaning steps. It is so important to remove any debris or leftover food particles from the dishwasher.

Make sure you wipe or brush any debris from the dishwasher racks, spray arms, and interior.

You can wipe down the interior of the dishwasher using a mixture of warm water and dish soap and run a hot water cycle to loosen any stubborn debris regularly.

Removing the filter and cleaning it thoroughly with warm water and dish soap also make a big difference.

Lastly, by sprinkling some baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and letting it sit for a few hours, or overnight you can deodorize your dishwasher naturally.

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help eliminate any unpleasant odors.

Is dishwasher cleaner really necessary?

Over time, food debris, soap scum, and hard water minerals can build up in your dishwasher, causing odors, reduced performance, and even damage to your dishwasher.

But you can keep your dishwasher clean and working using only natural ingredients! If you regularly clean your dishwasher, you may not need to use a dishwasher cleaner as often.

However, if you notice build-ups or odors in your dishwasher, using a cleaner can help remove these issues faster.

What is the black stuff in my dishwasher?

Have you noticed some black stuff in your dishwasher? These are most likely mold or mildew. Dishwashers create a warm and moist environment that is perfect for mold and mildew to grow.

If your dishwasher has a rubber seal around the door or in other areas, it can trap moisture and food particles, leading to mold growth.

If you have allergies or respiratory issues, mold and mildew can cause health risks. It is essential to regularly clean and disinfect your dishwasher to prevent mold growth.

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What kills black mold in dishwasher?

You can use a mixture of bleach and water to kill black mold in your dishwasher. But it is important to note that bleach can be harsh on certain materials, so it’s recommended to check your dishwasher’s manual for any specific cleaning instructions or restrictions.

Remove any visible mold from the dishwasher using a toothbrush or sponge.
Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water.
Pour the solution into the bottom of the dishwasher.
Run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle possible.
Once the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and let it air out for at least 30 minutes.
Wipe down the interior of the dishwasher with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining mold.

Why does gunk build up in my dishwasher?

Gunk builds up in your dishwasher for many reasons. It is recommended to scrape and rinse your dishes before loading them, use the appropriate amount of detergent, regularly clean the dishwasher, and periodically check and clean the drainage system.

The reasons for gunk can be:

Food debris can accumulate and mix with the water forming a sludgy residue.

Hard water can cause mineral deposits to build up on the interior of the dishwasher, creating a scale that can trap dirt and debris.

Soap scum is also a reason if you use too much detergent. It can form a sticky residue that clings to the dishwasher’s interior surfaces.

The dishwasher’s drainage system can become clogged with food debris, soap scum, and other foreign objects, preventing the dishwasher from draining properly and leading to a build-up of gunk.

Over time, if you don’t clean your dishwasher regularly, gunk can build up, and it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

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Why is it important to leave the dishwasher open to air dry overnight?

After a cycle, the dishwasher’s interior can be damp and warm, creating an ideal environment for organisms to thrive.

If the dishwasher remains closed, moisture can become trapped, leading to mold and mildew build-up.

Allowing the dishwasher to air dry overnight helps to remove any remaining moisture and prevents the growth of mold and mildew.

It also helps to prevent any unpleasant odors that can occur when the dishwasher is not properly dried.

Also, if you want to reduce energy consumption, leaving the dishwasher open to air dry overnight allows the dishes to dry naturally rather than using the dishwasher’s heated drying cycle.

Will white vinegar damage my dishwasher?

White vinegar can be used as a natural and effective cleaner for your dishwasher. However, it can dry out the dishwasher’s rubber parts and cause them to crack and leak over time.

This might lead to your kitchen turning into a pool and cost a lot for the repair.

If you choose to use vinegar, you should dilute the vinegar before using it to clean your dishwasher.

Straight vinegar can be too harsh and may damage some of the plastic components inside your dishwasher.

Does Cascade Platinum clean the dishwasher?

Cascade is not specifically formulated to target specific parts of the dishwasher, like the filter or the spray arms. But it is designed to clean and shine dishes, as well as remove tough stains and build-up from the dishwasher itself.

So If you want to give a general interior cleaning to your dishwasher, Cascade Platinum can help to clean your dishwasher as it cleans your dishes.

What happens if you don’t clean your dishwasher?

Cleaning your dishwasher regularly prevents any issues that can lead to costly repairs or even the need to replace your dishwasher.

If you don’t clean your dishwasher, you might experience odors, stained dishes, reduced performance, clogs and leaks, mold, and mildew growth in your dishwasher.

Overall, neglecting to clean your dishwasher can lead to a host of problems that can impact both the performance and lifespan of your appliance.

Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent these issues and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.

How do you clean a dishwasher with no removable filter?

If your dishwasher has no removable filter, cleaning it can be a bit more challenging. But you can still clean it with natural ingredients thoroughly.

Make sure you clean out any leftover food debris in your dishwasher using a sponge.

It is always important to check for any visible build-up. If there is, you can scrub them away using a toothbrush.

Sprinkle baking soda all over the bottom of the dishwasher and pour hot water over the baking soda. Then let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

You can scrub away any build-up using a toothbrush.

Lastly, run a cycle on the hottest setting possible.

Final Thoughts!

You have learned every detail about cleaning your dishwasher! It is so important to keep our dishwasher clean and running smoothly so that we can ensure it functions properly and lasts for a long time.

It is also essential for maintaining the hygiene and cleanliness of your dishes.

There are many natural ingredients that can be used to clean your dishwashers, such as baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils, which are effective and safe for the environment.

Remember to focus on different parts when you are cleaning your dishwasher. The most significant parts are the tub, door, and filter. All the gunk, build up, and debris should be removed.

With regular dishwasher cleaning, you will be avoiding rust, mineral build up, and mold growth problems.

Another great tip to remember is to leave your dishwasher open to air dry overnight after each cycle to prevent moisture build-up and foul odors.

Washing dishes might be such a daunting task, but cleaning your dishwasher is not!

Follow these steps you learned to keep your dishwasher in great condition and ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean every time.