How to Clean and Maintain Your Dishwasher
Clean the filter, spray arms and seals regularly and your dishwasher will clean better and last longer.
If your dishes come out cloudy or smelly, the dishwasher itself may need cleaning. It takes about fifteen minutes every month or two.
What you need
A soft brush or old toothbrush, a microfiber cloth, a toothpick, and a dishwasher cleaner or another product the manufacturer approves. Check your manual before using any cleaning product, since recommendations differ by model.
Step by step
- Empty the machine and remove the bottom rack if it slides out easily.
- Clean the filter. Most dishwashers have a filter near the bottom of the tub. Twist or lift it out and rinse it under warm running water. Use a soft brush to remove trapped food. Reinstall it firmly.
- Check the drain area. Remove visible debris, such as bits of glass, labels or seeds.
- Inspect the spray arms. Look for clogged holes. Clear them with a toothpick. Many arms can be removed for rinsing.
- Wipe the door gasket and edges. Use a damp cloth to clean the rubber seal and the lip of the door, where grime collects.
- Run a cleaning cycle. Use a product made for dishwashers, or follow the manual's advice, then run an empty hot cycle.
- Wipe the exterior and the control panel, then dry the door.
Everyday habits
- Scrape food off dishes instead of pre-rinsing them heavily. Modern detergents work best with some soil to act on.
- Load so water can reach everything. Avoid blocking the spray arms.
- Use the right amount of detergent, and a rinse aid if your water is hard.
- Leave the door ajar after a cycle for a while to let moisture escape.
When to call for help
If water pools in the bottom after a cycle, the machine leaks or you hear grinding, check the filter and drain first. If the problem continues, contact the manufacturer or a qualified appliance technician.