A dishwasher is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen, quietly handling the mess so you don’t have to. But just like any other appliance, it needs a little care and maintenance to keep it running smoothly. If you’ve ever dealt with a dishwasher that doesn’t clean properly, has a funky smell, or simply stops working, you know how frustrating it can be. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your dishwasher properly and keep it running for years.
Take Care of Your Dishwasher by Keeping the Filter Clean
One of the most important things you can do for your dishwasher is to keep the filter clean. Many modern dishwashers have a removable filter located at the bottom of the tub. This filter catches food particles and debris, preventing them from clogging the drain. Over time, however, it can get clogged itself, leading to poor performance and unpleasant odors. Cleaning the filter is easy—just pull it out, rinse it under warm water, and scrub away any stuck-on gunk with a soft brush. Doing this once a month can make a huge difference in how well your dishwasher cleans.
Scrape Off Food Before Loading
While dishwashers are designed to handle dirty dishes, large chunks of food can cause problems. Scraping off excess food before loading your dishes helps prevent clogs and keeps the filter from getting overwhelmed. You don’t need to pre-rinse, but removing solid food pieces ensures your dishwasher can do its job more effectively.
Use the Right Detergent to Take Care of Your Dishwasher
Not all dishwashing detergents are created equal. If you’ve ever noticed a film on your glasses or dishes coming out less than sparkling, your detergent might be to blame. Make sure you’re using a high-quality detergent designed for your specific type of dishwasher. If you have hard water, use a detergent with a built-in rinse aid to prevent mineral buildup. Speaking of rinse aid—it’s not just an upsell. It helps water sheet off your dishes, reducing spots and helping them dry faster.
Run Hot Water Before Starting a Cycle
Dishwashers clean best with hot water, so it’s a good idea to run your kitchen sink until the water gets hot before starting a cycle. This ensures your dishwasher gets hot water right from the start, leading to better cleaning performance. If your dishes are coming out greasy or not fully clean, lukewarm water could be part of the problem.
Deep Clean Your Dishwasher Regularly
Even though your dishwasher cleans dishes, it still needs a good cleaning itself. Over time, grease, soap scum, and food particles can build up inside. Running a cleaning cycle once a month helps keep things fresh. You can use a store-bought dishwasher cleaner or simply place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle. This helps remove buildup, eliminate odors, and keep your dishwasher working efficiently.
Check the Spray Arms
The spray arms in your dishwasher distribute water to clean your dishes, but if the tiny holes in them get clogged, your dishwasher won’t be as effective. Every now and then, inspect the spray arms for blockages. If you see food particles or mineral buildup, use a toothpick or a small brush to clear the holes. Keeping them clean ensures water can flow freely and reach all your dishes.
Take Care of Your Dishwasher by Loading It Correctly
It’s tempting to cram in as many dishes as possible, but overloading your dishwasher can lead to poor cleaning results. When dishes are too tightly packed, water and detergent can’t reach everything properly. Make sure there’s enough space between items, and always place larger dishes and pots on the bottom rack, with smaller cups and bowls on the top.
Check the Door Seal
The rubber seal around your dishwasher door helps keep water inside where it belongs. If it gets dirty or damaged, leaks can occur. Wipe down the seal regularly with a damp cloth to remove grime and food particles. If you notice cracks or wear, consider replacing the seal to prevent potential leaks and water damage.
Run Full Loads, But Not Too Infrequently
Running your dishwasher only when it’s full helps conserve water and energy, but don’t let it sit for too long between cycles. If you don’t use your dishwasher often, food particles and moisture inside can lead to mildew or odors. Running a cycle at least every couple of days keeps things fresh and prevents buildup.
FAQs
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
At least once a month. Regular cleaning helps keep your dishwasher running efficiently and prevents odors and buildup.
Why do my dishes still have food on them after a cycle?
Check your filter, spray arms, and loading method. A clogged filter or blocked spray arms can prevent proper cleaning, and overcrowding can stop water from reaching everything.
Can I use regular dish soap in my dishwasher?
No! Regular dish soap creates too many suds and can cause leaks. Always use detergent specifically designed for dishwashers.
Why does my dishwasher smell bad?
Odors can be caused by a dirty filter, food buildup, or trapped moisture. Regular cleaning and occasional vinegar rinses can help eliminate smells.
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