An easy 7 step guide to cleaning your dishwasher
If you’re like us, you love a spotless kitchen. But have you ever thought about the cleanliness of your dishwasher? Yep, that’s right! The machine that cleans your dishes needs a good scrubbing too. Fear not! We’re here to walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to clean your dishwasher. Let’s get started!
Why Clean Your Dishwasher?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s chat about why it’s essential to clean your dishwasher. Over time, bits of food, grease, and soap scum can build up, leading to unpleasant odors and even a less efficient dishwasher. Regular cleaning helps ensure your machine runs smoothly and your dishes come out sparkling clean.
What You’ll Need
White vinegar
Baking soda
A soft cloth or sponge
A toothbrush (an old one works great!)
Toothpicks or a small brush for cleaning small crevices
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
1. Empty the Dishwasher First things first, make sure your dishwasher is empty. Remove any leftover dishes, racks, and utensil holders to give yourself clear access to the interior.
2. Clean the Filter Locate your dishwasher’s filter (usually at the bottom). Remove it and rinse it under hot water to get rid of any food particles or debris. For stubborn grime, use a soft toothbrush to scrub it gently.
3. Wipe Down the Interior Using a soft cloth or sponge, wipe down the interior walls, door, and rubber seal. Pay special attention to the door edges where gunk tends to accumulate. An old toothbrush can help reach into those tiny crevices.
4. Clean the Spray Arms The spray arms can get clogged with food particles, affecting the dishwasher’s performance. Remove them if possible and rinse under hot water. Use toothpicks or a small brush to clean out any clogged holes.
5. Run a Vinegar Cycle Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl or measuring cup on the top rack of the empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle. The vinegar will help break down any remaining grease, grime, and odors.
6. Baking Soda Rinse After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda along the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot water cycle. The baking soda will help deodorize and remove any stains, leaving your dishwasher fresh and clean.
7. Wipe Down the Exterior Don’t forget the outside! Use a damp cloth to wipe down the control panel and door. For stainless steel exteriors, use a stainless steel cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to keep it shiny and fingerprint-free.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dishwasher
Rinse Dishes: Scrape off large food particles before loading dishes into the dishwasher to prevent clogs.
Run Hot Water: Before starting the dishwasher, run hot water in your sink until it’s hot. This ensures the dishwasher starts with hot water, improving cleaning efficiency.
Monthly Cleaning: Aim to clean your dishwasher at least once a month to keep it in top shape.
Leave the Door Ajar: After a cycle, leave the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape and prevent mold and mildew.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it – your guide to cleaning your dishwasher. By following these simple steps, you’ll keep your dishwasher running smoothly and your dishes sparkling clean. Happy cleaning!