Okay, so if your dishwasher is starting to smell weird or not cleaning like it used to — don’t worry, I’ve been there too. I followed this easy 6-step routine, and it made a huge difference. Here’s exactly what I did:
Step 1: Empty Everything Out
First things first — take out all the dishes, racks, and utensil holders. You want to get into all those hidden spots.
Step 2: Clean the Filter
Check the bottom of your dishwasher for the filter. Mine was gross. Just twist it out, rinse it under warm water, and scrub it with a soft brush. If it’s filthy, let it soak in soapy water for a few minutes.
Step 3: Check the Spray Arms
I had no idea these could get clogged, but they totally do. Look for little food bits or buildup in the holes. I used a toothpick to clear them out. It makes a big difference!
Step 4: Wipe Down the Inside
Grab a damp cloth with a little dish soap and wipe everything down — the walls, door, and rubber seals. I was shocked at how much gunk was hiding in the corners.
Step 5: Run a Vinegar Cycle
Fill a cup with white vinegar and set it on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle with nothing else in the dishwasher. This helps break down grease and gets rid of any funky smells.
Step 6: Run a Baking Soda Cycle
Last step — sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom. Run a short hot cycle. This left my dishwasher smelling super fresh and looking much cleaner.
Final Thoughts:
Honestly, I wish I had started doing this sooner. It’s super easy, costs basically nothing, and keeps your dishwasher running like new. I try to do this deep clean about once a month now — takes maybe 30 minutes total.
