Why would you need to clean your dishwasher? Isn’t it responsible for doing all the cleaning? A fun fact is that your dishwasher has a very messy job and it can accumulate grease and soap build-up faster than you might think. You need a clean dishwasher that runs efficiently in order to get clean dishes, so check out our easy tips.

 

How to Clean a Dishwasher

 

Inside

Remove the racks and utensil trays from your dishwasher. Add 2 cups of vinegar to the bottom of the machine. Let the vinegar sit in the bottom for about 20 minutes then set the cycle to low wash. When the cycle is finished, replace the racks and utensil holder.

 

The Spinning Arms

Wipe down arms with a warm water and soap mixture. Clear out debris that may have built up in the holes using a toothpick or another small instrument.

 

The Utensil Holder

Wipe down the utensil holder with a mild soap, warm water, and a toothbrush. Scrub down the entire holder and between spaces. Rinse with warm water, dry, and replace.

 

The Racks

Using a mild soap or a cleaner of your choice, wipe down the racks with a sponge or rag. Rinse the racks. Dry and replace. A clean dishwasher must include the scrubbing or cleaning of every part.

 

How to Clean a Dishwasher with Mold

Scrub down the doors and walls of the dishwasher. Add 1 cup of bleach to the bottom of the machine and run a full cycle.

Caution: Do not use bleach if the inside of your dishwasher is stainless steel.

 

Products

Cleaning products you can use on your dishwasher include bleach, vinegar, soapy water, or a mild cleaner of your choice.

Caution: never use bleach and vinegar together.

What about rinse aid? Rinse aids are used to help dishes dry faster and prevent lingering water from leaving water stains on your dishes. They contain surfactants, chemicals that lessen the surface tension of water. These chemicals make it harder for water to stay in droplet form, so instead the water forms thinner sheets that easily roll off your dishes. If you feel the need for rinse aid, refill your dishwasher’s supply once a month.

 

Cleaning Buttons and Panel

Make sure you have a clean dishwasher inside and out! Use a spray bottle filled with a vinegar and water mixture, a citrus cleaner, or the cleaner of your choice. Spray the buttons, handle and panel with the mixture. Wipe with the grain using a microfiber cloth.

 

Now You Have a Clean Dishwasher!

A dishwasher is a large expensive appliance, and you should want to keep such a serious investment clean and pretty. Use these tips to make sure your best kitchen-helper stays spotless and runs smoothly. Clean your machine every couple of months for the best results. You can also call your local house cleaning service to do the job for you.