How to Clean Your Dishwasher
A dishwasher that cleans dishes doesn't mean a clean dishwasher. Food debris, mineral deposits, and grease accumulate inside — and if your dishes are coming out with a film or your dishwasher smells, this is why.
Step 1: Clean the Filter (Most People Have Never Done This)
Most modern dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom of the machine. If you've never cleaned it, it's probably clogged with food debris and is the main source of dishwasher odour.
- Remove the bottom rack
- Locate the filter (usually a cylindrical piece at the bottom centre — check your manual if unsure)
- Turn and lift to remove
- Rinse under hot water, scrub with a soft brush and dish soap
- Reinstall
Do this monthly. Takes 3 minutes.
Step 2: Clean the Spray Arms
The spray arms have small holes that can clog with mineral deposits, reducing cleaning performance. Remove them (they usually unscrew or unclip), rinse, and use a toothpick to clear any blocked holes.
Step 3: Clean the Door Seal
The rubber seal around the door accumulates mould and food residue. Wipe with a cloth soaked in a diluted bleach or vinegar solution. Get into the folds of the seal.
Step 4: Run a Cleaning Cycle
Vinegar cycle: Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle. Vinegar removes mineral deposits and deodorizes.
Baking soda cycle: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom and run a short hot cycle. This further deodorizes and brightens the interior.
Commercial dishwasher cleaner (like Finish or Affresh) works well as a monthly maintenance product — follow product instructions.
How Often
Filter: monthly. Full cleaning cycle: monthly. Spray arms: every 3 months or when performance drops.
Dishwasher cleaning is part of every Maidless kitchen deep clean. Book at maidless.ca.