The dishwasher is often the appliance that gets forgotten about when we come to deep clean the house. Their job is to keep things clean, so why do we need to clean them? But as more and more dirty dishes, pans and cutlery get loaded in, the machine naturally builds up layers of grease and grime.
If left for long periods it can be extremely damaging. So how do you clean a dishwasher properly? It requires a bit more work than simply running a cloth over the door handles. Here, we will outline exactly how to clean a dishwasher in 7 easy steps and what you can do to further improve the health of your dishwasher! You will see that it is not so complicated and does not require any special cleaning products or equipment.
Our step-by-step guide to clean a dishwasher:
1 – Remove and clean the dishwasher filter
Your dishwasher’s filter is where all the bits of leftover food collect once the water has drained, meaning it can often become greasy and smelly. It’s important to clean the dishwasher filter at least once a week, otherwise, old food will end up back on your dishes! You don’t know how to clean a dishwasher filter? First, to remove it safely, take a look at your machine’s instruction manual. Scrub it in the kitchen sink with some warm, soapy water removing all debris and greasy substances. Place it to one side to dry, while we move on to the next part.
2 – Scrub removable parts
Equally as important, the other removable parts need to be cleaned often as they come into contact with your plates, cutlery, pots and pans the most. Utensil holders and racks can quickly become dirty after each wash. They can easily be cleaned using hot water and washing liquid just as in step 1.
3 – Wipe away grime
The build-up of grease and grime can cause a real challenge when cleaning a dishwasher. Especially if it’s not cleaned often. Once all the removable parts have been taken out and cleaned, you should wipe down the inside of the machine, including the spray arms on top and bottom. Ensure you get right into all the nooks and crannies, removing any food particles that may be left over!
4 – Wipe the door seals
Mouldy food and the build-up of bacteria in your door seals can lead to permanent damage and cause your machine to leak. It’s important when cleaning your dishwasher to always wipe the seals clean. If you do this often you should only need a wet cloth but if they’ve become very dirty then you’ll need to grab a toothbrush, some elbow grease and start scrubbing!
5 – Pour a cleaning solution inside the dishwasher: how to clean dishwasher with vinegar
As with cleaning a washing machine, washing a dishwasher can be done with white vinegar. Once the inside is sparkling clean you can replace the filters, racks and any other removable parts. Next, fill a small bowl with distilled white vinegar and either place it on the top rack or pour it into the bottom of the machine. Cleaning the dishwasher with vinegar will break down any remaining grime in places you’re unable to reach.
6 – Run an empty, hot cycle
Set your dishwasher to a high temperature and run a full cycle empty. The hot water mixed with the vinegar will intensively clean the dishwasher and wash away any remaining dirt and grease. Quickly check the filter once more to ensure you’re starting your washing completely fresh!
7 – Wipe the exterior of the machine
Finally, using a strong multi-purpose cleaner, wipe around the outside of the machine, paying attention to the handles and door frame. Grime can often build up in the places you least expect, deep cleaning regularly will extend your dishwasher’s lifecycle and ensure it is kept in the best possible condition for longer.
How often should you clean the dishwasher?
If you use your machine daily then it is advised to deep clean your dishwasher at least once a month. This would include removing all parts and giving the machine a good, old-fashioned scrub. However, some other jobs can be done daily, such as wiping the door seals or the exterior of the machine, after every wash. The more you do in the short term will keep your dishwasher clean in the long term!
Other tips to keep your dishwasher cleaner for longer
Keeping a clean dishwasher is not just about cleaning the inside once a month. There are several other things you can do to ensure your dishwasher stays cleaner at all times.
Scrape your dishes
Emptying your plates properly, or even rinsing them in the sink first, will ensure that no large food particles are getting clogged up in the spray arms or the filter. Removing as much grease, oil and sauces from plates and pans before they get loaded into the machine makes the washing cycle easier and also leaves your machine cleaner once finished.
Keep dishwasher salt topped up
Dishwasher salt is essential to stop bacteria from growing inside the machine. It also softens the water which doesn’t just help to clean your dishes, but also to clean the removable parts such as the racks and trays. If salt levels are low your machine is at risk of damage or harmful bacteria build-up.
Remove blockages from the spray arms
The small holes inside the spray arms can become blocked by food pips or even hair! Using a toothpick is an effective way to remove these unwanted blockages and ensure water can reach all parts of the arms. This is also another good reason to ensure plates are being scraped properly before they enter the machine!
Dishwashers need as much care and attention as all other appliances. We want to be eating our food off clean plates after all! Now you perfectly know how to clean a dishwasher. Following our steps regularly will keep your machine healthy and clean for as long as possible. Happy cleaning!
Despite these tips you still need help with your house cleaning? Call in a Wecasa professional cleaner.
