Your dishwasher is too big. Here’s How To Clean Up

It may seem like a contradiction, but even yours dishwasher they need to be cleaned from time to time. Over time, grime can build up, affecting how well your dishes are washed and sometimes causing an unpleasant “wet dog” smell. Regular maintenance not only keeps your dishwasher running smoothly but also ensures that your dishes are washed properly and clean.

The best part? Cleaning your dishwasher is easy and takes no effort. Here’s a guide to keeping it fresh, functional and odor-free, along with how-to tips.

For more information on dishwasher detergents, see the correct way to load the dishwasher. And for more kitchen cleaning tips, read on how to clean the mixer, how to clean the blender and how to clean a cast iron skillet.

How to clean a dishwasher

Step 1: Clean the dishwasher filter

The filter is the place where the food particles are caught. A clogged filter can cause flooding, so it’s important to clean it every week or so. It can be found on the bottom inside of the dishwasher. Just release the button and lift the filter (location and removal varies by model, check the owner’s manual).

Clean the filter by washing it with warm water and dish soap, then scrub it thoroughly with an old brush. Rinse with clean water and allow the filter to air dry before returning it to its original location.

Step 2: Remove the dishwasher seal

The seal is what keeps the water inside your dishwasher and not under you. To keep it clean, once a month wash the seal with warm water and wipe it with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 3: Remove the spray nozzles

The spray arms in your dishwasher need a little love every six months. Use a toothpick to remove food particles from the spray holes. This will increase the amount of water that comes out, increasing the cleaning power.

Step 4: Remove the gun from the silver basket

A basket of silverware can get dirty quickly. Once a week, remove and wash with warm water, a bottle brush and soap. Be sure to remove any small particles that may be inside the cups to prevent mold.

What to do if your dishwasher smells

If your dishwasher is getting a little smelly, there’s an easy way to get rid of the smell. Some people say to put a cup of white vinegar in the bottom of your empty dishwasher and run it for a deep clean – however, Vinegar can damage the plastic in your dishwasherso you might want to try this method instead. Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the washer, let it sit overnight, and then run a normal load while the washer is empty. This should remove the wet dog smell.

How often should you wash your dishwasher?

Professionals recommend giving your dishwasher a deep clean once a month to keep it running smoothly and smelling good. If that seems like a lot of work, try to do it once every three months. Start by removing and washing the filter to remove food debris, then run it empty with dishwashing detergent or baking soda. This simple routine can prevent overgrowth, improve performance and eliminate that unpleasant odor.

Another tip: Remove the rust from the latch

After several years of hard use, your dishwasher door latch may begin to rust. To do this, clean the floor with a stainless steel cleaner and steel wool. Rinse the latch and wipe it dry with a cotton cloth. To finish, coat it with clear nail polish to waterproof the metal and prevent rust.

For more information, see how to wash your sheets and blankets the right wayand how to wash your pillow without making it fluffy.