Cleaning Your Dishwasher
A dirty dishwasher is one of the most common sources of persistent kitchen odour in Ontario homes, and one of the most overlooked. Dishwashers clean dishes but don't clean themselves — food debris, grease, and hard water mineral deposits accumulate in the filter, spray arms, and door seal over time. A dishwasher that smells or leaves dishes with a film or residue almost always just needs a thorough clean.
The Filter (Most Important)
Most modern dishwashers have a removable cylindrical filter at the bottom of the tub. This is where food debris accumulates and is the primary source of odour. Check your dishwasher manual for the exact removal method — most twist counterclockwise and lift out.
- Remove the filter
- Rinse under hot water
- Scrub with a soft brush and dish soap to remove grease and debris
- Rinse thoroughly and replace
This should be done monthly. Most people never do it and wonder why the dishwasher smells.
Spray Arms
The rotating spray arms have small holes that clog with mineral deposits and food particles, reducing spray coverage and cleaning performance. Remove the arms (usually unscrew or unclip from the centre), soak in warm vinegar water for 30 minutes, use a toothpick or small brush to clear the holes, rinse, and replace.
Door Seal
The rubber gasket around the door accumulates mould and food residue. Wipe with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish soap, getting into the folds of the gasket.
Full Interior Clean
Once a month: place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a hot cycle (empty). This removes mineral deposits and odour. Follow with a sprinkle of baking soda on the bottom and a short hot cycle for freshness.