If your dishwasher smells bad or your dishes come out spotty, you probably need a quick cleaning. Cleaning your dishwasher takes less than 10 minutes and makes a big difference.
This guide shows you exactly how to clean your dishwasher step-by-step, fast.
Why You Should Clean Your Dishwasher Regularly
Cleaning your dishwasher keeps it running efficiently and extends its lifespan. Even though it’s a cleaning appliance, food particles, grease, soap scum, and hard water minerals build up over time.
- Dishwasher efficiency drops when filters, spray arms, or drain lines are clogged with grime.
- Unpleasant odours often come from leftover food debris trapped in the filter or gaskets.
- Hard water stains and film can make dishes appear dirty, even after a cycle.
Regular maintenance keeps your dishwasher smelling fresh, running quietly, and cleaning thoroughly.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher in Under 10 Minutes
Here’s exactly how to clean your dishwasher fast with things you probably already have at home.
1. Empty the Dishwasher
Remove all dishes and utensils before starting. This lets you access all interior parts and stops cross-contamination during cleaning.
2. Clean the Filter
The filter traps food debris. Locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher, under the bottom rack.
- Twist it out and rinse it under warm running water.
- Use a soft brush to remove grease or grime if necessary.
3. Unclog and Clean the Spray Arms
Spray arms spray water to clean your dishes, but clogs reduce pressure and coverage.
- Remove the arms (check your model’s instructions), and inspect the holes.
- Use a toothpick or soft wire to dislodge food particles or calcium build-up.
4. Wipe Down the Door, Gasket, and Walls
Grease and soap scum collect around the door edges and gasket seals.
- Use a microfiber cloth dipped in warm soapy water.
- Wipe all surfaces, especially the rubber seals and the bottom edge of the door.
5. Run a White Vinegar Wash
Vinegar dissolves grease, removes odours, and breaks down mineral buildup.
- Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with 1 cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
- Run a hot water cycle (no detergent, no dishes).
6. Deodorize with Baking Soda Rinse
Baking soda neutralizes odours and adds shine to the dishwasher interior.
- After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda across the bottom.
- Run a short hot water cycle to finish cleaning.
Monthly Deep Clean for Extra Performance
For a deeper clean, especially with older dishwashers or in homes with hard water, try this step once a month:
- Use a dishwasher cleaning tablet (follow the instructions on the packaging).
- Run on the hottest setting for a full cycle.
- This clears calcium buildup and helps maintain internal components.
Best Practices: Dishwasher Cleaning Maintenance Schedule
To keep your dishwasher in top shape, follow this quick dishwasher maintenance routine:
- Weekly: Clean the filter and wipe the door gasket with a damp cloth. This keeps gunk from building up.
- Monthly: Use vinegar and baking soda to keep things clean and remove bad smells.
- As Needed: Inspect and clean spray arms and dishwasher racks if dishes aren’t coming out clean.
Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher Clean Longer
A little prevention goes a long way. Here’s how to make your dishwasher stay cleaner between deep cleans:
- Scrape food off plates before loading. Pre-rinsing isn’t necessary, but removing large debris helps the filter.
- Run hot water at the sink before starting your dishwasher to ensure that hot water enters right away.
- Use the right detergent for your water hardness. Excess soap causes build-up.
FAQs
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Clean the filter weekly and run a vinegar/baking soda cycle once a month.
Can I use bleach in my dishwasher?
No. Avoid bleach, especially in dishwashers with stainless-steel interiors.
What causes a bad smell in the dishwasher?
Food trapped in the filter or seals often causes bad odours. Regular cleaning solves this.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Dishwasher Fresh & Efficient
Cleaning your dishwasher quickly helps it run better, smell fresh, and last longer. You don’t need fancy products—just vinegar, baking soda, and a few minutes a month.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on original research and advice from appliance experts. We follow best practices from trusted sources. This includes Consumer Reports and guidelines from manufacturers like Whirlpool and Bosch. All cleaning methods are safe and effective for regular residential dishwashers.
