How to Clean Your KitchenAid Dishwasher (2026 Guide)

To keep your KitchenAid dishwasher clean, you help it work better and last longer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, effective steps to clean your dishwasher, ensuring it works like new.

Step 1: Clean the Interior and Remove Debris

Over time, food particles, soap scum, and mineral deposits can build up inside your dishwasher. Here’s how to clean the interior:

1. Empty the Dishwasher: Make sure there are no dishes inside.
2. Inspect and Clean the Spray Arms: Remove the spray arms and rinse them under warm water. Use a small brush to dislodge any debris.
3. Clean the Filter: Your KitchenAid dishwasher has a removable filter that can trap food particles. Pull it out and rinse it under warm water. Use a soft brush to scrub away any buildup.
4. Wipe Down the Walls: Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm, soapy water to wipe down the inside walls of the dishwasher, including the door seals and edges.

Step 2: Run a Cleaning Cycle

Once the interior is free of debris, it’s time to run a cleaning cycle:

1. Place a Dishwasher Cleaner: Choose a dishwasher cleaner, like Affresh or Finish, and place it in the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Run a Hot Cycle: Select the hottest setting on your dishwasher and run it on an empty cycle. The cleaner will help break down grease, grime, and mineral deposits.

Step 3: Clean the Door and Exterior

The exterior of your dishwasher can also accumulate grime. Here’s how to clean it:

1. Wipe the Door Seal: Use a damp cloth to wipe around the rubber door seal. Make sure there are no leftover soap scum or food particles trapped in the grooves.
2. Clean the Exterior: Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe down the outer surfaces of your dishwasher. For stainless steel, use a cleaner made for stainless appliances. This helps avoid streaks.

Step 4: Prevent Future Buildup

To keep your dishwasher running efficiently:

1. Use the Right Detergent: Always use a high-quality detergent designed for dishwashers.
2. Rinse Dishes: Rinse off large food particles before loading dishes to reduce debris inside the dishwasher.
3. Run Hot Water: Now and then, run the hot water cycle with 1 cup of vinegar. This helps dissolve mineral deposits and keeps your dishwasher smelling fresh.

Common Questions

1. How often should I clean my KitchenAid dishwasher?

Clean your dishwasher every 1-2 months to ensure optimal performance.

2. Can I use vinegar to clean my dishwasher?

Yes, vinegar is an effective, natural cleaner. Just add a cup to the bottom and run a hot cycle.

3. My dishwasher smells bad, what should I do?

Check the filter for debris and clean it thoroughly. Running a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner can also help eliminate odors.

4. Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher not cleaning properly?

This could be due to clogged spray arms, a dirty filter, or a buildup of grease or mineral deposits. Clean all parts as described above to resolve the issue.

By following these simple steps, your KitchenAid dishwasher will stay clean, efficient, and ready to handle your dishes. Regular maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and improve its performance over time.