How to clean a dishwasher effectively and maintain its hygiene is a question many homeowners ponder. In this article, we will provide you with 10 easy and hygienic tips to keep your dishwasher sparkling clean and odor-free.

From simple household ingredients to specific cleaning techniques, we will guide you through the process step by step.

1. Empty the Dishwasher

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When it comes to the question of how to clean dishwasher, emptying it is the first and most important step in answering that question because it allows for a thorough inspection of the interior. By removing all the clean dishes, utensils, and other items, one can identify any lingering food particles, stains, or residue that may have been missed during the previous wash cycle, making this a crucial step as it ensures that the dishwasher is free from any potential contaminants that could affect the cleanliness of future loads.

Plus, emptying the dishwasher allows for a clear workspace, making it easier to access and clean the different components of the appliance, such as the racks, filters, and spray arms. Ultimately, emptying the dishwasher sets the foundation for a comprehensive and effective cleaning process, and brings ease and accessibility towards all the steps that follow.

2. Inspect the Drain

The next step in answering how to clean dishwasher machine is to inspect the drain because over time, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the drain, leading to clogs and unpleasant odors. By inspecting the drain, one can identify any blockages or buildup that may hinder the dishwasher's performance which allows for a more effective cleaning process as the water can freely flow through the drain and remove all the dirt and grime.

Overall, a clean drain promotes better drainage and prevents water from pooling in the bottom of the dishwasher, which can not only lead to mold and bacteria growth, but also inadvertently cause the dishwasher to become dirty, and even smell bad. Therefore, inspecting the drain is essential to ensure a hygienic and efficient cleaning of the dishwasher, as well as being a thorough next-step after emptying it.

3. Clean the Filter

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Cleaning the filter is crucial when it comes to how to clean your dishwasher as well as maintaining its efficiency and longevity because the filter is responsible for trapping food particles and debris, preventing them from clogging the drain and circulating back onto your dishes. Over time, these particles can accumulate, leading to a foul odor and potentially damaging the dishwasher's components.

Regularly cleaning the filter ensures that water can flow freely, allowing for a thorough cleaning cycle and preventing the growth of bacteria, and moreover, a clean filter improves the dishwasher's performance, resulting in cleaner and spotless dishes. Neglecting to clean the filter can lead to poor cleaning results, increased energy consumption, and costly repairs making it is essential to include filter cleaning as a part of your regular dishwasher maintenance routine.

4. Wipe Down Interior

Wiping down the interior of a dishwasher may seem like a mundane and unimportant tip in how to clean dishwasher inside, often overlooked in the cleaning routine, but it is an underrated but necessary tip to ensure a clean and efficient dishwasher. Over time, food particles, soap residue, and mineral deposits can accumulate on the interior surfaces, leading to unpleasant odors, reduced cleaning performance, and even clogged drainage.

Regularly wiping down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge helps remove these build-ups, preventing them from affecting the dishwasher's functionality while also helping to maintain a hygienic environment, avoiding the growth of mold and bacteria. While it may not be the most exciting chore, this simple act of wiping down the interior can prolong the dishwasher's lifespan, improve its efficiency, and ensure sparkling clean dishes every time.

5. Clean Seals and Gaskets

Cleaning the seals and gaskets of a dishwasher is the next essential step in maintaining its efficiency and preventing potential issues because over time, dirt, grime, and food particles can accumulate in these areas, leading to a buildup of bacteria and mold. This can cause unpleasant odors, affect the dishwasher's performance, and even contaminate the dishes being cleaned.

Cleaning the seals and gaskets regularly ensures that they remain free from debris and maintain a proper seal, preventing any leaks or water damage and also helps in prolonging the lifespan of the dishwasher and reducing the need for repairs. By taking the time to clean these areas, one can ensure a clean and hygienic dishwasher that consistently delivers sparkling clean dishes, while also keeping any future problems, which can turn more expensive, at bay.

6. Run a Vinegar Cycle

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Running a vinegar cycle in your dishwasher is a simple and hygienic method to keep it clean and odor-free. Start by ensuring that your dishwasher is empty, pour one cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe container, such as a bowl or a glass, and place it on the top rack, then, run a regular cycle with hot water.

The vinegar will help remove any built-up residue, grease, and limescale, while also eliminating unpleasant odors, and the acidity of vinegar will act as a natural disinfectant, killing bacteria and germs that might be present in your dishwasher. Additionally, vinegar is a safe and eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals, making it a hygienic option for cleaning your dishwasher and by regularly running a vinegar cycle, you can maintain a clean and efficient dishwasher that ensures sparkling clean dishes every time.

7. Baking Soda Freshener

Baking soda freshener is a fantastic tip when cleaning a dishwasher due to its remarkable cleaning and deodorizing properties as this versatile household ingredient effectively eliminates unpleasant odors that often linger in the dishwasher. By placing a small amount of baking soda in the dishwasher's detergent compartment and running a regular cycle, it helps to neutralize and remove food particles, grease, and grime that accumulate over time.

Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, scrubbing away stains and residue without causing any damage to the dishwasher's interior and, it also helps to maintain a fresh and clean scent within the dishwasher, ensuring that dishes come out smelling pleasant. This cost-effective and natural solution makes baking soda freshener an excellent choice for enhancing the cleanliness and hygiene of your dishwasher.

8. Clean Spray Arms

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Cleaning the spray arms in a Whirlpool dishwasher is crucial for maintaining its optimal performance and ensuring sparkling clean dishes because over time, food particles, mineral deposits, and other debris can accumulate in the spray arms, leading to clogs and reduced water flow. This can result in inefficient cleaning and leave residue on dishes and so only by regularly cleaning the spray arms, you can prevent these issues and extend the lifespan of your dishwasher.

To clean the spray arms, remove them from the dishwasher and rinse them under running water to remove any visible debris then use a toothpick or small brush to dislodge any stubborn particles. Soaking the spray arms in a vinegar solution can also help dissolve mineral deposits and regular maintenance of the spray arms will keep your Whirlpool dishwasher running smoothly and ensure spotless dishes every time.

9. Descale with Citric Acid

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Descaling with citric acid is an excellent solution for how to clean dishwasher that smells because citric acid, a natural and safe substance found in citrus fruits, acts as a powerful cleaning agent that effectively eliminates limescale buildup and removes foul smells. The acidic nature of citric acid helps dissolve mineral deposits and hard water stains that accumulate over time, causing the dishwasher to emit an unpleasant odor.

By running a cycle with citric acid, it breaks down these deposits, leaving the dishwasher clean and odor-free, and furthermore, citric acid is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, making it a safe option for cleaning kitchen appliances. Its affordable price and availability also make it a convenient solution for maintaining a fresh and clean-smelling dishwasher.

10. Clean the Door Exterior

Cleaning the door exterior is the final step in how to clean dishwasher mold because it ensures a thorough cleaning process as the door exterior is often overlooked, but it can accumulate dirt, grime, and even mold over time. By cleaning the door exterior, you not only improve the overall appearance of the dishwasher but also prevent further mold growth.

Mold spores can easily spread from the door exterior to other parts of the dishwasher, leading to recurring mold issues and additionally, a dirty door exterior can harbor bacteria and odors, which can affect the cleanliness of your dishes. Therefore, cleaning the door exterior is essential to maintain a hygienic and mold-free dishwasher.