Do you notice an unpleasant odor when unloading your dishwasher, or maybe you have to re-wash a dish after it’s run through a cycle? If so, we’ve got some tips to make sure your dishwasher is ready for the holidays.
Clean the Dishwasher Trap
If your dishwasher is not self-cleaning, remove the manual filter located under the bottom rack of your dishwasher. Hand wash in warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. You may need to gently scrub (using an old toothbrush) to remove the tougher particles. Clean the area where the filter goes in the dishwasher before putting the filter back in place.
Clean the dishwasher seal
Every few months, clean the rubber gasket around the door of your dishwasher. Just use a soft, damp towel to wipe away the gunk around the edges. Wipe down the interior walls of the dishwasher, and clean around the soap door.
How to Clean a Dishwasher – The Home Depot
Deodorize with vinegar
Just pour a cup of white vinegar into the bottom of your empty dishwasher and run it on a “normal” cycle. This will help loosen and clean out old food particles and keep your dishwasher smelling fresh.
Don’t crowd
An overstuffed dishwasher won’t be able to do its job if it’s crammed full of dishes. Give the water in your dishwasher a chance to circulate freely and work more effectively.