How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher in 5 Easy Steps

A smelly dishwasher can quickly turn into an unpleasant experience in your kitchen. Left unchecked, odours can transfer to your dishes, making mealtime far less enjoyable. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dishwasher not only clean but also efficient in its performance.

Let’s explore how to clean a smelly dishwasher in five easy steps, and eliminate those unpleasant odours once and for all. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can keep your dishwasher fresh and enjoy an odour-free cleaning cycle with spotless dishes after every wash.

Step 1: Empty and Inspect the Dishwasher

The first step in tackling a stinky dishwasher is to start with an empty appliance. Take out all the dishes, utensils, and other items, so there’s nothing blocking your view of the interior. An empty dishwasher will help you to thoroughly inspect the areas where odours often originate.

Next, examine the inside of your dishwasher. Focus on the following parts and areas:

• the drain filter
• spray arm
• the drain hose

Food debris, grease, and other materials can easily accumulate in these spots, leading to unpleasant smells. Use a torch if needed to spot any hidden residue that may be causing the odour.

Once you’ve identified any debris, use a paper towel or cloth to carefully remove it. Pay special attention to the dishwasher drain filter, as this area tends to collect the most gunk.

Step 2: Clean the Filters

The dishwasher filter is a crucial component that stops food particles and debris from clogging the drain. If you don’t clean the filter though, it can eventually become a source of unpleasant odours itself. Here’s what you need to do.

1. Locate the filter, which you’ll typically find at the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to carefully remove the filter.
3. Rinse it under hot soapy water.
4. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any stubborn food particles or grease clinging to the filter. Be sure to thoroughly clean all crevices to avoid leaving any residue behind.
5. Rinse the now-cleaned filter in clean water to remove any traces of soap.
6. Fit it back securely in the dishwasher.

A clean filter not only helps kill unwanted odours; it also improves the overall efficiency of your dishwasher. It’ll leave you with cleaner dishes after every wash cycle.

Step 3: Run Empty Dishwasher Cycles with Vinegar

Vinegar is a powerful natural cleaner that can effectively get rid of dishwasher smells.

For this step, place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with distilled white vinegar on the top rack of your otherwise empty dishwasher. Vinegar works to break down grease, grime, and any lingering food particles that may be causing the bad dishwasher smell.

Once the vinegar is in place, run a hot water cycle. The heat, combined with the cleaning power of vinegar, will loosen any remaining debris and neutralise odours throughout the dishwasher. if possible, steer clear of using any other hot water appliances while you run this cycle. This simple step not only cleans but also deodorises, leaving your appliance fresh and ready for the next use.

The acidity of vinegar helps to sanitise the dishwasher, eliminating bacteria that may contribute to unpleasant smells. After the cycle is complete, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the freshness of your dishwasher. This will set the stage for the final steps of the cleaning process.

Step 4: Sprinkle Baking Soda and Run a Second Cycle

After running the vinegar cycle, the next step is to sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda across the bottom of your dishwasher.

Baking soda, or bicarbonate soda, is a natural deodoriser. It’s known for its ability to absorb odours and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh. The vinegar and baking soda double act is a great 1-2 combination and will neutralise any remaining smells.

Run a second short hot water cycle once you’ve sprinkled the baking soda in place. This secondary dishwasher cycle will help to dissolve the baking soda. It’ll allow it to work its way through the dishwasher, reaching areas that may still harbour odours.

At the end of this cycle, you’ll notice your dishwasher smells much fresher. This step is an excellent way to finish the cleaning process. It’ll thoroughly deodorise your dishwasher and leave it ready for daily use.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Interior and Exterior

The final step in cleaning your smelly dishwasher is to wipe down both the interior and exterior.

Once you’ve completed the cleaning cycles, open the dishwasher and use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the inside walls, racks, and door. Pay special attention to the dishwasher door seals and edges. These areas can trap grime and moisture that result in persistent odours.

Don’t forget to clean the utensil holders and the dishwasher’s controls. A thorough wipe-down removes any remaining debris or residue, leaving your dishwasher clean and free of any lingering smells.

Lastly, take a moment to wipe down the exterior of the dishwasher, including the control panel and handle. It’s also well worth leaving the door open to let your dishwasher air dry overnight.

The Benefits of a Clean, Odour-Free Dishwasher

Keeping your dishwasher clean brings a lot of perks that make your kitchen life easier and your appliance last longer:

• Better performance: A clean dishwasher works like a charm, making sure your dishes come out sparkling every time.
• Say Goodbye to Odours: Regular cleaning stops those nasty smells from building up, so your kitchen stays fresh and welcoming.
• Longer Lifespan: By taking care of your dishwasher, you’re helping it last longer and work better over time.
• Save on Energy: A clean, well-maintained dishwasher uses less energy, which can help lower your utility bills.
• Healthier Kitchen: Getting rid of food particles and bacteria in your dishwasher means a cleaner, healthier home for you and your family.

Regular cleaning not only keeps your dishwasher in top shape but also makes your kitchen a nicer place to be. If you’re thinking about a new appliance, consider dishwasher installation services to make sure everything’s done right from the start.

If the Stinky Dishwasher Persists

So what if, despite repeated efforts and more than a little elbow grease, the unwanted odours remain?

Should the stinky dishwasher problem persist, or you notice other issues like incomplete washing cycles or strange noises, the time might be right to consider a replacement. Lingering smells and seemingly endless faults generally suggest your appliance is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Before you buy a new dishwasher, you’ll need to think about the installation process. There’s a chance you’ll need a plumber to install your new dishwasher. Not only will they do it correctly and reduce the risk of potential issues in the future, but it may be a requirement of your warranty conditions too.

Get Rid of Dishwasher Smells with Ease

Keeping your dishwasher in top shape doesn’t have to be a hard slog. Regular maintenance and deep cleaning keep your dishwasher running efficiently. They also ensure your kitchen stays fresh and your dishes come out spotless every time.

By following these five simple steps, you’ll keep unpleasant odours at bay and make sure your dishwasher is always ready to tackle the next load. A little effort goes a long way, helping you maintain a clean, fresh kitchen while also extending the life of your appliance.

Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher in 5 Easy Steps”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See After Hours Plumbing’s Terms & Conditions here.