To keep your dishwasher clean, regularly wipe the door gasket and clean the filter under running water. For a deep clean, place a dishwasher-safe cup with 1 cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle with no dishes or detergent. Afterwards, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the empty dishwasher and run a short cycle to further freshen and deodorize the machine.
Weekly Cleaning & Maintenance
- Scrape dishes: Before loading, scrape any large food debris from your dishes.
- Wipe the door gasket: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the rubber seal around the dishwasher door, where debris can accumulate.
- Clean the filter: The filter, typically at the bottom of the dishwasher, catches food particles. Remove it, rinse it under hot running water, and use a soft toothbrush to scrub away stubborn residue, then put it back.
Monthly Deep Cleaning
1. Vinegar Cycle:
Empty the dishwasher. Place a dishwasher-safe cup or bowl filled with one cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
2. Run Hot Cycle:
Run the dishwasher on its hottest cycle (like pots-and-pans) without any dishes or detergent.
3. Baking Soda Rinse:
Once the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the empty dishwasher.
4. Run Short Cycle:
Run a short or quick cycle to rinse and remove any lingering odors.
Preventative Measures
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Use proper detergent:Use detergent packs in the dispenser, not just tossed in the bottom, to ensure they don’t dissolve too early.
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Air dry the door:After a cycle, you can leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar to allow the interior to air out and prevent odors.
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Avoid harsh cleaners:Do not use steel wool or metal scourers, as they can damage the dishwasher’s surfaces. Be cautious with bleach, especially if your dishwasher has stainless steel components, as it can cause damage over time.
How to Clean a Dishwasher With Vinegar and Baking Soda
– Run Cycle With Vinegar When doing a vinegar or baking soda rinse, there is no need to add dishwashing detergent during…