A dishwasher is a lifesaver when it comes to cleaning dishes—but only if it’s properly maintained. Neglecting regular cleaning and upkeep can lead to:

  • Mold and mildew buildup
  • Dirty dishes caused by poor drainage or clogged filters
  • Unpleasant smells
  • Long-term damage from lack of care

Fortunately, these problems are easy to avoid with a few simple maintenance tips.

When Should You Perform Dishwasher Maintenance?

Home improvement expert Bob Vila recommends monthly dishwasher maintenance to prevent breakdowns and improve efficiency. However, it’s a good idea to clean it more frequently:

  • Daily: Remove food bits from the bottom
  • Weekly: Wipe down the exterior and the door seal (gasket)

It also helps to know what should—and shouldn’t—go in your dishwasher to reduce maintenance time and prevent damage.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Dishwasher

Routine cleaning can help extend the life of your dishwasher and reduce costly repairs. Here’s how:

Cleaning the Inside

  • Remove food debris from the bottom.
  • Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
  • Inspect filters and clean or replace as needed (see below).
  • Check drainage to make sure it’s clear.
  • Perform a vinegar rinse to remove buildup (see instructions below).

Cleaning the Spray Arm

The spray arm distributes water during a cycle and can get clogged with food or detergent. To clean it:

  • Remove the spray arm (check your owner’s manual).
  • Soak it overnight in a 50/50 vinegar-water solution.
  • Rinse off any remaining residue.
  • Reattach it and run a short test cycle.

Cleaning the Exterior

  • Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth.
  • Clean the door gasket.
  • Inspect the door for damage and ensure it closes properly.
  • Check the water supply line for leaks.
  • Make sure the dishwasher is level and adjust if needed.

By following these steps, your dishwasher can stay in peak condition for years to come.

Removing Dishwasher Smells

Bad smells are usually caused by leftover food, oils, or debris. 

Let’s walk through how to fix them.

1. Clean the Filter and Drainage

The filter can trap odors and food particles. To clean it:

  • Remove the filter (check your owner’s manual).
  • Scrub it with a soft toothbrush.
  • Rinse under hot water.
  • Lock it back in place.

2. Do a Vinegar Rinse

Place 1 cup of vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run a full cycle on the hottest setting. When done, wipe down the interior with a microfiber cloth or paper towel.

3. Use Hot Water and Lemon Juice or Tang

Acidic substances like Tang powder or lemon juice help eliminate hard water stains and odors:

  • Tang method: Mix 1/3 cup of Tang with 1 gallon of hot water. Pour into the dishwasher and run a full cycle on the hottest setting.
  • Lemon juice method: Mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 1 gallon of hot water. Use the same way as above.

Important: Never add Tang or lemon juice directly into the dishwasher—always dilute with water first.

If smells persist, clean your garbage disposal too, as odors from it can drift into your dishwasher. After each cycle, use a wet cloth or paper towel to wipe away any remaining food particles inside the dishwasher.

Dishwasher Not Draining? Try a Homemade Drain Cleaner

If water is pooling at the bottom, check the sink drain first. If that’s working fine, the drain trap could be clogged.

Here’s how to clear it:

  • Remove the bottom rack and soak up any standing water.
  • Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away visible buildup.
  • Pour a 50/50 mix of baking soda and vinegar into the trap and let sit for 15 minutes.
  • Pour hot water on top of the mixture.
  • Run a rinse cycle afterward.

Still having issues? It may be time to call a professional.

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