Food debris often collects on dishwasher spray arms and filters. If not cleaned, these parts can cause odors and allow bacteria to grow and wash back onto your clean dishes. Keep your dishwasher clean and running efficiently by cleaning spray arms and filters that can trap harmful microorganisms.
Safety first
Unplug the dishwasher before working in it. If the plug is not accessible, flip the circuit breaker.
Clean inside of dishwasher
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Clear out any debris from the bottom of the dishwasher.
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Remove the cylindrical fine-mesh filter by turning counter-clockwise and lifting straight up.
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Feel around inside the sump in the bottom for solid debris.
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Wash both filters with soap and hot water.
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Mix white vinegar and baking soda (pancake batter thickness) to clean the residue underneath the coarse mesh filter.
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Spread the paste on the gunk and let it sit for 15 minutes.
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Another method is to use a plastic putty knife and fine steel wool on a stainless tub.
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Remove and clean the silverware basket with soap and hot water.
Clean the seals
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Use the toothbrush to scrub the rubber seals and perimeter where the door meets the tub.
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Wipe down with a damp sponge.
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Use the same toothbrush and sponge procedure for the sides of the dishwasher door and the soap cup.
Get rid of any smells
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Fill a glass cup or bowl with white vinegar.
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To offset the vinegar scent, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the vinegar.
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Place the bowl snugly in the top rack between the prongs for glasses.
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If you unplugged the dishwasher or flipped the circuit breaker, plug it back in or turn the circuit breaker back on now.
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Run a single cycle on the hottest setting.
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After the dishwasher completes, leave the door open for about an hour to air out and prevent mildew growth.
