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How to Clean Your Dishwasher

6 min read

If your dishwasher isn’t getting your dishes clean, it might be time for a good cleaning! In this blog post, we will go over the steps you need on how to clean your dishwasher. Keep in mind that different dishwashers may have different instructions, so always consult your owner’s manual. Let’s get started!

For most of us, a dishwasher is an essential appliance. It not only saves us time and energy, but it also helps to keep our dishes clean and sanitary. However, over time, dishwashers can become clogged with food particles and grease, leading to poor performance and unpleasant odours.

Luckily, cleaning your dishwasher is relatively simple, and only requires a few household ingredients. Begin by running a cycle with vinegar or lemon juice, which will help to remove built-up grime. Next, use a toothbrush or other soft brush to clean the spray arm, being sure to remove any blockages.

Finally, wipe down the seals and door with a damp cloth to prevent mildew from forming. By taking these steps regularly, you can ensure that your dishwasher runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.


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Dishwashers need a good clean now and again – it helps them run more efficiently.  As soon as your dishwasher gets ‘bad breath‘ – you know it’s time for a good clean!  Filters especially should be cleaned every few runs. Here is some information on how to clean your dishwasher without the harsh chemicals or hefty price tag!!!

You will need:

  • 2 tablespoons bicarbonate of soda
  • 1 teaspoon essential oil (eg Eucalyptus Oil or Tea tree Oil)
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • Sponge and Gumption for the inside of the dishwasher
  • Cleaning Cloth

Make sure you empty the dishwasher first and give the filters a good scrub with a Sponge and Gumption and replace them.  Add the bicarbonate of soda to the soap dispenser, and add the essential oils to the bicarb.  Fill the rinse aid with white vinegar until overflowing.  Run the dishwasher on the hottest setting (or the pots and pans setting which is usually the hottest).

Every few months or so it is a good idea to remove the spray arms and give them a good scrub with the Sponge and Gumption combination too. Most are very easy to remove (check with your owner’s manual) and this gives your dishwasher greater ‘spraying’ power.

If your dishwasher continues to smell in the days afterwards, you are going to need something a bit more heavy-duty (could mean you have scum and grease in your pipes) and this is when you will need to resort to the shop-bought dishwasher cleaners.

Want to know what to do if you run out of dishwasher tablets? Click Here!

How often do you clean your dishwasher?

Most people don’t think about cleaning their dishwasher very often, but it’s actually important to do on a regular basis. Depending on how often you use your dishwasher, you should aim to clean it every one to three months or two weeks. Over time, food particles and grease can build up inside the machine, which can lead to bad smells and decreased performance.

When cleaning your dishwasher, start by removing any large pieces of debris from the filters and drain. Then, run a hot cycle with vinegar or baking soda to help remove any built-up grime. Finally, wipe down the interior of the machine with a damp cloth. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your dishwasher clean and running smoothly.

What are some tips for cleaning your dishwasher?

One of the most important appliances in your kitchen is your dishwasher. It cleans your dishes so you don’t have to, saving you time and energy. But dishwashers need to be cleaned too, or they can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Here are some tips for keeping your dishwasher clean and in good working order.

  • First, make sure to scrape off all food debris from your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. This will help to prevent clogs and keep the water flowing freely.
  • Second, regularly wipe down the inside of the machine with a damp cloth to remove any food residue or build-up.
  • Third, run a vinegar cycle through the machine once a month to help remove any lingering dirt or grime.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your dishwasher will continue to clean your dishes effectively for years to come.

How to Clean Your Dishwasher I Stay at Home Mum

What are the benefits of keeping your dishwasher clean?

Are you one of those people who think that dishwashers are just a big, expensive hassle? You’re not alone – many people feel that way! However, dishwashers actually have a lot of benefits to offer.

Fewer Repairs
One of the primary benefits of keeping your dishwasher clean is that it will require fewer repairs. Over time, dishwashers can become clogged with food particles and grease, which can lead to expensive repairs. By cleaning your dishwasher regularly, you can help to extend its lifespan and avoid costly repairs.

Better Performance
A clean dishwasher also performs better than a dirty one. When your dishwasher is all smelly and bad with food and grease, it has to work harder to clean your dishes, which can lead to longer cycle times and less effective cleaning.

Improved Efficiency
In addition to better performance, a clean dishwasher is also more efficient than a dirty one. When your dishwasher is down and bad, it uses more water and energy to clean your dishes. This not only wastes water and energy but also increases your utility bills.

Reduced Water Usage
Another benefit of keeping your dishwasher clean is that it can help to reduce your water usage. When your dishwasher is clogged and filthy, it uses more water to clean your dishes. By keeping your dishwasher clean, you can help to reduce the amount of water you use each month.

Less Waste
Finally, keeping your dishwasher clean also helps to reduce the amount of waste you produce each month. When your dishwasher is clogged with food and grease, it doesn’t rinse the dishes as effectively, which can lead to more food waste.

What are some of the best ways to clean your dishwasher regularly? Are there any tips you can give to people who have hard water and struggle to clean their dishwashers?

Jody Allen
About Author

Jody Allen

Jody Allen is the founder of Stay at Home Mum. Jody is a five-time published author with Penguin Random House and is the current Suzuki Queensland Amb...Read Moreassador. Read Less

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