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How to Clean a Dishwasher: A Simple Guide for Sparkling Results
- Clean Results Cleaning Services
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
A dishwasher might be the hardest-working appliance in your kitchen—but when was the last time you gave it a proper clean?
Even though dishwashers clean your dishes, that doesn’t mean they clean themselves. Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up, causing odors, clogs, and cloudy dishes. Thankfully, learning how to clean a dishwasher is easier than it sounds—and doing it regularly can extend the life of your appliance.
Here at Clean Results, we’ve helped hundreds of families in Bartlesville, OK, keep their homes spotless. We’re sharing our simple, step-by-step method to help you give your dishwasher the deep clean it deserves.
Why Dishwasher Cleaning Matters
Cleaning your dishwasher is more than a cosmetic chore. Grease, grime, and limescale can coat the inside of the machine, reduce efficiency, and even lead to expensive repairs. A fresh dishwasher means:
Cleaner dishes with less residue
Fewer weird smells in your kitchen
Longer lifespan for your appliance
Better water drainage and energy efficiency
Common Signs It’s Time to Clean
Not sure if your dishwasher needs a scrub? Watch for:
Cloudy glassware
A strong, musty or sour odor
Bits of food stuck to dishes
Visible gunk in the filter or drain
Water pooling at the bottom after a cycle
Even if none of these signs show up yet, regular maintenance can prevent all of the above from becoming an issue.
Supplies You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy tools or harsh chemicals—just a few pantry staples and basic cleaning supplies:
White vinegar
Baking soda
Mild dish soap
A soft toothbrush
Microfiber cloth
A small brush or toothpick
Optional: lemon essential oil or dishwasher-safe cleaner
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Clean a Dishwasher
1. Empty the Dishwasher
Start with an empty machine. If you’ve just run a load, let it cool before cleaning.
2. Remove and Clean the Filter
Most modern dishwashers have a filter at the bottom that twists out easily. Rinse it under hot water, then use a toothbrush to scrub away buildup. A dirty dishwasher filter is often the culprit behind smelly or poorly cleaned dishes.
3. Clean the Spray Arms
Use a toothpick or small brush to clean any debris from the spray arm holes. Rinse under hot water if necessary. This ensures water flows freely during each wash cycle.
4. Wipe Down Interior Seals and Door
Use warm, soapy water to clean the rubber gasket around the door, the door edges, and the detergent compartment. These areas often trap grime and food particles.
5. Vinegar Cleaning Cycle
Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run a hot cycle (without detergent) to break down grease, remove odors, and sanitize the interior.
6. Baking Soda Rinse
After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle one cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot wash to deodorize and brighten the interior. This helps lift stains and neutralizes lingering smells.
Extra Tips for Better Dishwasher Performance
Clean the Exterior
Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the control panel and handle. For stainless steel, use a cleaner designed for metal surfaces or a mix of vinegar and water.
Use Essential Oils for Freshness
Add a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil to a cloth and wipe the interior walls. The scent is fresh, natural, and long-lasting.
Don’t Forget the Utensil Basket and Racks
Take out the utensil holder and racks if possible. Soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub gently to remove food debris and soap scum.
How Often Should You Clean a Dishwasher?
Here’s a simple schedule:
Filter: Every 2–4 weeks
Vinegar/Baking Soda Cycles: Once a month
Wipe Door/Seals: Weekly
Spray Arms and Drain: Every 1–2 months
This routine can help your dishwasher work more efficiently and reduce the need for service calls.
Natural vs. Store-Bought Cleaners
While commercial products work well, baking soda and vinegar are just as effective (and budget-friendly). They’re safe, accessible, and gentle on the dishwasher’s components.
If you prefer store-bought tablets or cleaners, look for ones labeled septic-safe and approved for stainless steel interiors.
Dealing with Hard Water Buildup
Hard water can leave chalky white stains and reduce efficiency. If you notice mineral buildup:
Run a cycle with vinegar once a week
Consider adding a rinse aid or water softener
Use a commercial descaler every few months if needed
Safety Tips and What to Avoid
Never mix bleach and vinegar—it creates toxic fumes
Avoid using harsh scrubbing pads inside the dishwasher
Don’t overfill the detergent—more soap doesn’t mean cleaner dishes
Don’t skip regular filter checks—a clogged filter can reduce water flow and cleaning power
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean my dishwasher with bleach?Only if it doesn’t have a stainless steel interior. Bleach can cause corrosion, so stick to vinegar and baking soda unless your owner’s manual says otherwise.
What’s the best way to clean a stainless steel dishwasher?Use vinegar inside, and wipe the outside with a microfiber cloth and stainless steel cleaner.
Why do my dishes still smell after washing?You might have buildup in the filter or spray arms. Run a cleaning cycle and clean the filter.
Still Feel Like Your Kitchen Isn’t Clean?
If you’re tackling dishwasher deep cleans but your home still doesn’t feel fresh, it may be time to call in the pros. At Clean Results, we specialize in top-to-bottom house cleaning that leaves your whole space spotless—appliances included.
Whether it’s monthly maintenance or a one-time deep clean, we help busy families in Bartlesville, OK, get back to what matters most. Let us take cleaning off your to-do list.
Final Thoughts: A Cleaner Dishwasher, A Fresher Kitchen
Now that you know how to clean a dishwasher, you’ve got the power to keep your dishes sparkling and your appliance in great shape. Just like the rest of your home, it works best with a little regular care.
And remember—Clean Results is here to help when life gets too busy to do it all yourself.
Ready for a truly clean home? If your dishwasher needs this much attention, imagine what the rest of your house is holding onto. Let Clean Results take care of the scrubbing, wiping, and deep cleaning—so you can spend your time on what matters most.
Our trusted team serves Bartlesville and the surrounding areas with professional, reliable house cleaning services you’ll feel good about. Learn more here.
Call now or book online to get started with Clean Results today!
More peace!
That Clean Results feeling. You walk through the front door and feel the weight has lifted. Your home is clean. It smells clean. The floor feels clean. And now you can spend the rest of your day relaxing in the beauty of your home and/or doing what you love. Let Clean Results take the pressure off and help you enjoy more of your life.
Clean Results, LLC
3400 E Tuxedo Blvd Bartlesville, OK 74006
Tel: (918) 331-9082