Is It Time to Clean Your Dishwasher? | Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant

Dishwashers are incredible machines to say the least. With the number of times we put our dishwashers up to the test with heavy loads and built-on grime, they are definitely one of the most useful appliances to have in the kitchen.

However, if you have noticed your dishwasher has been less than a rockstar lately, it might be a good time to consider when (and how) to clean it to keep it running in prime condition.

How Often Should I Clean My Dishwasher?

Experts recommend that you clean your dishwasher at least once a month to keep it working well—but if you are surprised by this frequency, you are not alone! Soap scum, mildew and food particles can build up in the dishwasher with time, so cleaning out the main cleaning chamber, the filter and the drain are all advised. Fortunately, there are quick cleaning solutions to make sure everything gets the scrub it needs.

How Do I Clean My Dishwasher?

You can clean your dishwasher without any special tools in a few easy steps. All you will need is access to your sink, white vinegar, baking soda, a toothbrush and dish soap.

1. Clear out your drain. The drain, located under the bottom rack typically, is where you will want to start. Pull out the drain and look for any clogs or trapped materials, which can cause damage to your machine and scratch your dishes if they get loose.

2. Wash out your filter. The filter should be soaked in soapy water for about 10 minutes, then rinsed thoroughly to remove any build-up.

3. Run your dishwasher with vinegar. Place a dishwasher-safe container filled with a cup of white vinegar in the top rack of your dishwasher. Not only is vinegar great at sanitizing, but it can also remove grime and odors. Run the dishwasher on the hottest possible water setting.

4. Run your dishwasher with baking soda. After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle the baking soda throughout the dishwasher and run through another hot water cycle to help further deodorize and remove any stains.

5. Use a toothbrush for any stuck-on stains. The vinegar and the baking soda likely took care of it, but you can use a toothbrush to tackle any stubborn stains that have been left behind.

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