How To Clean A Dishwasher – A Simple & Easy Guide

Keeping your home clean can sometimes feel like a never-ending chore, can’t it? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the dusting, vacuuming, and tidying up. But one thing that often gets overlooked is how vital it is to clean the equipment and tools you use around the house.

Think about your dishwasher, for example. You count on it to keep your dishes looking spotless, so wouldn’t it make sense to give it a little TLC too? A quick clean can really help it work better and last longer.

And what about your kitchen gadgets? Those blender and food processor blades can get pretty gunky if you don’t clean them regularly. Taking the time to spruce up these items can make a world of difference in your daily cleaning routine.

Plus, it gives you that satisfying feeling of a fresh start! So, next time you’re tackling the cleaning list, don’t forget to show some love to the equipment that helps keep your home in tip-top shape. It might just make your cleaning tasks feel a bit lighter and more enjoyable!

In this article, we will discuss easy and simple ways to keep your dishwasher clean –

Easy Steps To Clean Your Dishwasher

Consistently maintaining the interior of your dishwasher is a simple method to avoid unpleasant odors and the accumulation of detergent, minerals, and grime that can hinder its cleaning efficiency.

Utilizing either a dishwasher cleaning tablet or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, perform the steps outlined below every month to ensure your dishwasher and your family’s dishes remain brightly clean.

The 2 Best Methods To Clean Your Dishwasher –

• Baking Soda & Vinegar
• Dishwasher Cleaners

How To Clean Your Dishwasher With Vinegar & Baking Soda

Your dishwasher puts in a lot of effort daily, handling dirty dishes, cups, and cutlery; however, over time, food residues, soap residue, and mineral deposits can lead to unpleasant odors and diminished cleaning effectiveness. Fortunately, you can restore its shine using only white vinegar and baking soda. Here’s the process!

What You’ll Need:

1 cup of white vinegar

½ cup of baking soda

A clean sponge or cloth

A toothbrush (optional, for scrubbing crevices)

Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher & Clear The Filter

Start with an empty dishwasher to ensure an effective cleaning process.

Begin by carefully removing all dishes, utensils, and any removable racks. If the racks are detachable, take them out, as this will provide better access to corners and surfaces that need cleaning. This thorough removal allows the cleaning ingredients to reach every nook and cranny, maximizing effectiveness.

Remove any food particles or debris, such as glass, popcorn kernels, or small bits of paper, from the dishwasher’s filter at the bottom. If possible, detach and clean the filter to eliminate any clogs or blockages. Remember that some filters may be non-removable, refer to your Use & Care guide for detailed instructions.

Step 2: Wipe Away Visible Debris

Next, focus on checking the drain area and filter located at the bottom of your dishwasher. Inspect this area and remove any bits of food, grime, or residue that may have collected over time.

Using a damp sponge or an old toothbrush, gently scrub around the edges and the seal of the door. Pay special attention to these areas, as they often trap debris and can lead to unpleasant odors if left unattended. This preparatory step is crucial as it helps to prevent clogging in your machine and keeps it running efficiently.

Step 3: Run a Vinegar Wash

To start the cleaning process, pour 1 cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl or measuring cup. Position this container on the top rack of the dishwasher. Then, initiate a hot water cycle while ensuring that no detergent is used during this wash.

Operate a regular cycle without the heat dry feature to clean the interior of your dishwasher. Avoid using detergent.

The vinegar acts as a natural cleanser, helping dissolve any stubborn grease, sanitizes surfaces, and effectively removes musty odors, leaving your dishwasher smelling significantly fresher and cleaner. This method is not only efficient but also an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals. You can also use vinegar to clean your washing machine.

Step 4: Sprinkle Baking Soda & Run Again

Once the vinegar cycle concludes, take the next step by sprinkling ½ cup of baking soda evenly across the bottom of the dishwasher. Following this, run a short hot water cycle, this time without any vinegar.

The baking soda serves a dual purpose; it acts as a gentle scrubber that will help to lift any remaining stains while also functioning as a deodorizer that neutralizes lingering odors. This step is essential for leaving your dishwasher in pristine condition and ensuring that it is free from any unwanted smells.

Step 5: Wipe It Dry & Admire the Shine

After the final cycle, open the dishwasher door to allow the interior to air dry for several minutes. This step is important to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth.

Once aired out, take a clean, dry cloth and wipe down the sides, door, and edges of the dishwasher. By doing this, you’ll eliminate any remaining moisture and showcase the sparkling clean surfaces.

Your dishwasher should now not only look spotless but also smell wonderfully fresh and operate more efficiently than before — all achieved without the use of harsh chemicals!

How often should you clean your dishwasher? Maintaining your dishwasher requires a tiered approach to ensure it runs efficiently and remains hygienic. Daily, or after every load, you should quickly check for and remove visible food scraps to prevent rot and odors from developing. Weekly, it is important to wipe down the door seal (gasket), as food and detergent gunk can accumulate there and eventually cause leaks. Moving to monthly maintenance, you should clean the manual filter and run a deep-clean cycle to remove “scrud”, a waxy buildup of detergent and minerals, as well as hard water scale. Finally, every six months, you should perform a more thorough inspection by clearing out the tiny holes in the spray arms and checking the drain hose for obstructions to ensure water can actually reach and clean your dishes effectively.

Can you put vinegar and baking soda in the dishwasher at the same time? It’s not advisable to put vinegar and baking soda in the dishwasher at the same time. When combined, they neutralize each other due to a chemical reaction, producing carbon dioxide and water, which reduces their cleaning effectiveness. To achieve optimal results, use them separately: first, run a cycle with vinegar to tackle grease and odors; then, follow up with a baking soda cycle to freshen and remove stains. This method ensures you benefit from the cleaning properties of each ingredient without diminishing their effectiveness through simultaneous use.

How often should I clean my dishwasher with vinegar? You should clean your dishwasher with vinegar once a month for optimal maintenance. This regular cleaning helps remove grease, food particles, and odors, keeping your dishwasher in good working condition. To do this, place a cup of vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. This process not only cleans the interior but also helps maintain the appliance’s efficiency. If you notice any buildup or odors between cleanings, you can do it more frequently as needed.

What is the best thing to clean a dishwasher with? The best way to clean a dishwasher is to use white vinegar and baking soda. Start by placing a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack and running a hot water cycle. This helps dissolve grease and remove odors. After that, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom and run a short, hot cycle. This combination effectively cleans and freshens the interior. Additionally, you can use commercial dishwasher cleaners designed specifically for deep cleaning if you prefer a ready-made solution.

How To Clean Your Dishwasher Using A Dishwasher Cleaner

Although your dishwasher is designed for cleaning, it requires some attention from time to time! Grease, limescale, and food particles can accumulate within, resulting in cloudy glassware, bad smells, and decreased efficiency.

Utilizing a dishwasher cleaner is one of the simplest methods to maintain its freshness and optimal function. Here’s what you need to do!

A dishwasher cleaner (liquid, tablet, or powder)

A clean, empty dishwasher

A clean sponge or cloth

Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher

Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s essential to ensure that your dishwasher is empty.

This means removing all dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and racks filled with items. If anything is left inside, it can obstruct the cleaner from reaching the areas that require treatment. An empty dishwasher will allow the cleaner to work effectively on the buildup and grime that accumulates within the machine, ensuring a thorough clean.

Step 2: Check & Clean the Filter

Next, focus on the filter that is usually found at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove it carefully and rinse it under warm, soapy water. This step is crucial as the filter often traps food particles and debris, which can hinder the cleaning process.

Additionally, be sure to wipe around the drain area and the rubber seal of the door using a cloth or an old toothbrush. This will not only improve the effectiveness of the next steps but will also prevent any blockages that could lead to odors or poor performance in your dishwasher.

Step 3: Add the Dishwasher Cleaner

After the filter has been cleaned, it’s time to use your chosen dishwasher cleaner. Make sure to follow the specific instructions provided on your cleaner’s packaging for the best outcomes.

• For liquid cleaners: Simply remove any sticker or cap from the bottle and place it upside down in the designated utensil rack or on the top rack of your dishwasher.
• For tablet or powder cleaners: You can either place the cleaner directly into the detergent compartment or sprinkle it at the bottom of the dishwasher.

This ensures that the cleaner is properly distributed throughout the wash cycle.

Step 4: Run a Hot Cycle

Now, run your dishwasher on its hottest and longest cycle, which is usually labeled as “Intensive,” “Heavy Duty,” or “Sanitize.”

This step is essential as the heat will activate the cleaning components of the cleaner, allowing it to effectively break down grease, limescale, detergent residue, and any bacteria that may cause unpleasant odors. Running a hot cycle also assists in sanitizing the dishwasher interior, making it a more hygienic environment for your dishes.

Step 5: Wipe & Dry

Once the wash cycle is complete, open the door to let the interior dry out. Air drying is beneficial as it helps prevent any moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew. Use a soft cloth to carefully wipe down the sides, racks, and seals of the dishwasher.

This final touch not only enhances the appearance of your dishwasher but also contributes to its overall maintenance and longevity. Regularly performing this cleaning regimen can help keep your dishwasher running efficiently and smelling fresh.

How To Clean A Dishwasher Filter

Cleaning a dishwasher filter is one of those essential household chores that many people find daunting at first. However, once you tackle it the first time, you’ll discover it only consumes about five minutes of your day.

If you’ve been noticing that your dishes come out of the dishwasher with a gritty film or if your machine emits unpleasant odors reminiscent of a swamp, there’s a high likelihood that a clogged filter is at fault. To help you maintain your dishwasher in tip-top shape, here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to efficiently cleaning the filter without creating a mess.

Locate the Filter
Most modern dishwashers produced in the last 10 to 15 years are equipped with a manual-clean filter.

• Start by opening the dishwasher and completely removing the bottom rack to give yourself space to work.
• Look down at the floor of the machine; you will typically find a plastic cylindrical component, located near the base of the spray arm—this is the filter assembly you need to access.

Remove the Filter

• To detach the filter, simply twist it and lift it out. Most filters will release with a straightforward quarter-turn counter-clockwise motion.
• The assembly usually consists of a circular “fine” filter that catches smaller particles and a flat “mesh” screen that serves a similar purpose. Gently lift both components out of the dishwasher.
• While the filter is out, take a moment to inspect the sump (the hole where the filter sits). Use a flashlight if necessary, and carefully remove any debris you find, whether it’s a stray cherry pit, a piece of broken glass, or an errant twist tie.

*Note – Depending on the company, the filter may be located in different places. Refer to the manual for instructions on finding the filter.

The Cleaning Process

Pro Tip: Avoid using abrasive tools or wire brushes for cleaning, as the mesh components are delicate and can be easily punctured.

• Rinse the Filter: Start by rinsing the filter under hot running water. This step allows you to wash away larger food particles and residue that may be stuck to the surfaces.
• Soak for Tough Buildup: If the filter appears greasy or has noticeable white calcium buildup, fill a bowl with warm water and add a squirt of Dawn dish soap. Submerge the filter in this solution and let it soak for about 10 minutes.
• Scrub Gently: After soaking, take an old toothbrush or a soft sponge and gently scrub the mesh screen. For any holes clogged with lime scale, applying a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice can aid in breaking down the buildup effectively.
• Final Rinse: Once you’ve finished scrubbing, do another thorough rinse to ensure all soap suds and debris are gone before you put the filter back in place.

Reinstall (The Most Important Part)

• Begin by placing the flat mesh screen back into its original position, ensuring it’s seated correctly.
• Next, insert the cylindrical filter and twist it clockwise until you hear a click or feel it lock into place.

Warning: The filter must be correctly locked; if it isn’t secured properly, it may float during a wash cycle. This floating can allow debris to bypass the pump, potentially leading to damage to the motor over time.

By following these detailed steps, you can keep your dishwasher operating efficiently and ensure that your dishes come out sparkling clean every time. Remember, regular maintenance of your dishwasher filter can help prevent unpleasant odors and subpar cleaning results.

Best Natural & Plant-Based Dishwasher Cleaners In 2026

Brand	Type	Key Ingredients	Free From	Notable Features
Ecover Dishwasher Cleaner	Liquid	Plant-based surfactants, citric acid	Chlorine, phosphates	Biodegradable formula, recyclable bottle
Seventh Generation Dishwasher Cleaner	Gel	Botanical extracts, lactic acid	Synthetic fragrances, dyes	EPA Safer Choice Certified
Ecozone Dishwasher Cleaner	Tablet	Natural enzymes, oxygen-based bleach	Harsh chemicals, phosphates	Fights limescale, vegan-friendly
ATTITUDE Dishwasher Cleaner	Powder	Plant-derived ingredients, citric acid	Parabens, formaldehyde	Hypoallergenic and cruelty-free
Blueland Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets	Tablet	Natural minerals, bio-based cleaners	Plastic, artificial fragrances	Zero-waste refills, dissolvable packaging

Dos & Don’ts When It Comes To Cleaning Your Dishwasher

✅ Clean Your Dishwasher Once A Month

Using a dishwasher cleaner once a month is crucial to maintaining optimal performance and hygiene within your appliance. Regularly cleaning your dishwasher helps remove any built-up grime, grease, and mineral deposits that can affect its efficiency and longevity.

Opt for a cleaner specifically designed for dishwashers, as these products are formulated to tackle common dishwashing residues effectively.

✅ Follow Manufacturers’ Guidelines

Always follow your manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, as different dishwasher models may have unique cleaning requirements. This ensures you’re using the correct products and methods without voiding the warranty or causing damage to your appliance. Refer to the user manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific guidelines tailored to your model.

Always use dishwasher-safe detergent or tablets — never regular dish soap, which can cause over-sudsing and leaks.

✅ Leave The Dishwasher Door Open After Each Wash

For extra freshness, consider leaving the dishwasher door slightly open after each wash. This practice allows moisture to escape and air to circulate, helping to prevent moisture buildup inside the appliance. Regularly maintaining both the cleaning schedule and the ventilation will keep your dishwasher running smoothly and smelling fresh.

Excess moisture can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and mildew, so this small adjustment can significantly enhance the cleanliness and freshness of your dishwasher.

❌ Don’t Mix Vinegar And Baking Soda in the Same Cycle:

Don’t mix vinegar and baking soda in the same washing machine cycle. When combined, these two substances react chemically and neutralize each other, rendering both ineffective in cleaning.

It’s essential to use them separately for optimal results. For example, you can start by running a hot cycle with vinegar. This method not only helps in removing odors and limescale buildup from your washing machine but also ensures clothes come out fresher.

After this initial cycle with vinegar, you can follow it up with a cycle that includes baking soda to further enhance the cleaning process. Baking soda is great for deodorizing and softening clothes, making it an excellent second step after vinegar has done its work. Just remember to ensure that there is no overlap between the two to maximize their cleaning powers.

❌ Never Use Regular Dish Soap

Don’t use regular dish soap when operating your dishwasher. Regular dish soap is designed for hand washing and produces an abundance of suds when mixed with water, which can lead to excessive foam.

This excess foam can overflow from the dishwasher, potentially causing leaks and water damage to your kitchen and surrounding areas. Instead, always opt for dishwasher detergent specifically formulated for use in dishwashers.

These detergents are designed to create minimal suds while effectively breaking down food particles, grease, and stains on your dishes. Using the correct detergent not only ensures proper cleaning but also maintains the functionality and longevity of your dishwasher.

❌ Don’t Forget To Clean The Drain Area

Don’t forget to clean the drain area regularly. Food particles and debris can accumulate in this space over time, leading to unpleasant odors and potential drainage problems. It’s important to inspect the drain area frequently to ensure that it’s free from any obstructions or build-up.

By keeping this area clean and well-maintained, you can prevent issues such as clogs and bad smells from developing in your kitchen or bathroom. Remember to use appropriate cleaning tools and disinfectants to thoroughly clean the drain area, and consider implementing a routine cleaning schedule to make it a regular part of your maintenance tasks.

How To Keep Your Dishwasher Filters Clean

A clean filter in your dishwasher is essential for maintaining optimal performance and ensuring sparkling results after every wash. Here are some detailed points regarding the benefits of a clean filter:

Sparkling dishes every wash: A clean filter helps to prevent food particles and debris from circulating back onto your dishes. This means that each wash will effectively clean your plates, glasses, and utensils, leaving them spotless and ready for use.

No unpleasant odors: Over time, food particles can accumulate in the dishwasher filter, leading to unwanted odors. Regularly cleaning the filter eliminates these foul smells, ensuring that your kitchen remains fresh and inviting.

Better water drainage: A clogged filter can impede water flow, resulting in poor drainage and potentially leaving dirty water at the bottom of the dishwasher. Keeping the filter clean promotes proper drainage, allowing your dishwasher to function efficiently and effectively.

Longer-lasting appliance performance: Regular maintenance, including filter cleaning, contributes to the overall longevity of your appliance. A well-maintained dishwasher will typically have fewer mechanical issues and operate at peak performance for a longer duration.

Experts strongly recommend cleaning your dishwasher filter every 2–4 weeks. The frequency of cleaning should be adjusted based on how often you use your dishwasher. For those who run their dishwasher daily or frequently load it with heavily soiled dishes, a 2-week cleaning schedule may be more appropriate. Conversely, if you use your dishwasher less often, you may find that cleaning every month or so is sufficient.

Step-by-Step Process To Keep Your Dishwasher Filters Clean

Turn Off & Empty Your Dishwasher

Before you begin the cleaning process, it is crucial to ensure that your dishwasher is turned off. This ensures your safety while handling the filters and prevents any accidental activation of the appliance.

Moreover, always start with an empty dishwasher. This means removing any dishes or utensils that may still be inside. If you’ve recently run a cycle, it’s essential to let the dishwasher cool down for a while to avoid burns when touching the interior.

Locate the Filter. The filter is typically situated at the bottom of the dishwasher, usually under the lower spray arm. This location is designed to capture food particles and debris during the washing process. You will generally find two distinct parts of the filter system:

A cylindrical mesh filter (fine filter): This is designed to catch smaller food particles and prevent them from clogging the dishwasher’s pump.

A flat filter screen underneath: This acts as a first line of defense against larger debris before it reaches the cylindrical filter.

👉 Tip: If you are unsure about the filter’s location, consult your user manual. Different dishwasher brands can have slight variations in design, which may affect filter placement.

Remove the Filter Gently

To remove the filter, grasp the cylindrical mesh filter and turn it counterclockwise. This action will unlock it from its position, allowing you to lift it out gently. Next, carefully remove the flat filter located beneath it. It is vital to exercise caution while removing both parts.

Avoid using excessive force or bending the components — they are delicately constructed and designed to fit precisely into their respective spots.

Wash the Filters

Once the filters are removed, fill a sink or a large bowl with warm, soapy water. Ensure that the soap is a dishwashing liquid that is effective at breaking down grease and food residues.

Soak the filters in this soapy water for about 10 to 15 minutes. This soaking process helps to soften any stuck-on food particles. After soaking, take a soft brush or an old toothbrush and gently scrub the filters to remove any remaining bits of food or grease. Be sure to rinse the filters thoroughly under running water until all soap residue is gone.

🚫 Avoid: Using harsh chemicals, metal brushes, or scouring pads as these can scratch or damage the mesh filter or its coating, reducing its effectiveness.

Clean the Filter Housing

While the filters are soaking, take this opportunity to clean the filter housing area inside your dishwasher. Use a damp cloth to wipe around the filter area, removing any hidden grime, food debris, or residue build-up that may have accumulated over time. This step is essential for maintaining the overall hygiene of your dishwasher and ensuring that it runs efficiently.

Reinstall the Filters

After you have washed and dried the filters, it’s time to reinstall them. Start by placing the flat filter back into its designated spot first. Ensure it is positioned correctly and nestled securely.

Once the flat filter is in place, align the cylindrical filter on top of it. Turn the cylindrical filter clockwise until you hear a click, indicating that it has locked securely in place. The filter should fit snugly without any looseness or crooked alignment, which could compromise the dishwasher’s performance.

Run a Short Rinse Cycle

After reinstalling the filters, it’s a good practice to run a quick rinse cycle without any dishes inside the dishwasher. This short cycle will help ensure that everything is seated properly and that water can flow freely through the filters.

Running the rinse cycle allows you to confirm that the cleaning process was successful and helps dislodge any remaining debris that may have been left in the system. After the cycle, your dishwasher should be clean and ready for its next use.

Keeping your dishwasher filter clean is an easy and effective way to help your machine last longer and work even better! Over time, little bits of food, grease, and soap can build up in the filter, which can affect how well your dishwasher cleans your dishes. A clean filter allows water to flow freely, ensuring your dishes come out sparkling and that everything smells fresh!

Similar to your washing machine, cleaning your dishwasher should be part of your daily routine. Spending just 10 minutes every few weeks to care for your filter can make a big difference. Simply remove the filter, rinse it under warm water to loosen any debris, and use a soft brush to gently scrub it if needed.

Just remember to check your manufacturer’s instructions, as some filters might have specific cleaning tips. By taking these quick and easy steps, you’ll enjoy shiny dishes, a pleasant-smelling dishwasher, and peace of mind knowing your machine is running smoothly. Keeping an eye on your dishwasher filter is a small effort that can lead to great results and help your dishwasher last longer!