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Dishwashers can get really gross, really quick — here's how to clean it, according to pros

These easy steps should help you figure out how to clean your dishwasher, drain and filter.
Over time grease, soap scum and food debris build up in dishwashers, which can create a breeding ground for germs and reduce the efficiency of the appliance.
Over time grease, soap scum and food debris build up in dishwashers, which can create a breeding ground for germs and reduce the efficiency of the appliance.Vivian Le / TODAY
/ Source: TODAY

That glorious machine in your kitchen that cleans dishes does in fact need to be cleaned itself.

Over time grease, soap scum and food debris build up in dishwashers. Not only does this provide a breeding ground for germs, it also reduces the efficiency of the appliance, so it's important to maintain a clean dishwasher. we spoke to Bree Lemmen, Whirpool Kitchen brand manager, as well as took some tips from house maintenance expert Bob Vila, to get the lowdown on cleaning your washer.

How to prevent a smelly dishwasher | How to clean your dishwasher | How to clean a dishwasher filter | How to deep clean a dishwasher | How to clean with a dishwasher cleaner tablet | The best products for cleaning your dishwasher

How do you prevent a smelly dishwasher?

An easy way to prevent a smelly dishwasher is by regularly cleaning the inside of the machine. "We recommend cleaning your dishwasher every 30 days to help prevent the buildup of detergent and to ensure your dishwasher’s running at its optimal performance," explains Lemmen.

What can you run through a dishwasher to clean it?

No surprise here — you can use vinegar and baking soda! "It's an easy way to put everyday household items to the test and achieve a deep clean," says Lemmen. "You can also use dishwasher cleaner, which is specially formulated to leave your dishwasher sparkling."

How to clean your dishwasher

Even if you have a relatively new dishwasher, Vila suggests that it's a good idea to clean the dishwasher monthly to help maximize its efficiency. It just takes a few steps to get your dishwasher squeaky clean.

Clear the drain: Remove the bottom dish rack. Inspect the dishwasher drain, removing any gunk or food caught there. This will improve drainage, increase cleaning efficiency and prevent damage in the long run.

Clean the dishwasher with vinegar: Start with an empty dishwasher. Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the upper rack of the machine. Run the dishwasher through a hot water cycle. This will wash away grease and grime and remove musty odors.

Baking soda rinse: Sprinkle one cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot water cycle. The dishwasher will be fresh-smelling and have a brightened, stain-free interior.

How do you clean a dishwasher filter?

When was the last time you cleaned your dishwasher filter? If you've forgotten to clean this feature over time, no worries — it's an easy and important step to keeping your dishwasher working at its prime performance, says Lemmen.

"We recommend cleaning it about every three to six months, depending on how often you run the dishwasher and if you scrape your plates before starting the wash."

Here's how to clean a dishwasher filter in three simple steps, according to Lemmen and the Whirlpool team:

Locate your dishwasher filter and remove it from the machine. To find your filter, you can start by taking out the lower dish rack to reveal the bottom of your dishwasher. Once the dish rack has been removed, you’ll see the filter below the spray arm.

Clean the filter. Cleaning the filter is a simple process that can be accomplished by running water over the filter to remove most soils. If you notice any calcium deposits or hard-to-remove food debris, you can use a soft brush and dish soap to get the filter clean. We recommend avoiding a wire brush or scouring pad to clean the filter as any rough materials can potentially cause damage.

Return the dishwasher filter to the tub and make sure it’s securely locked back in place.

How do I deep clean my dishwasher?

Deep cleaning your dishwasher is easy to do by using vinegar and baking soda or a cleaner especially made for dishwashers once it's been emptied, advises Lemmen. Here are her suggestions:

To clean using vinegar and baking soda, first clear the filter found at the bottom of your dishwasher to make sure you remove any food or debris. Next, pour two cups of white vinegar into a glass measuring cup or other dishwasher-safe container and place upright in the lower rack.

Once the vinegar is in place, run a normal cycle with the heat dry option turned off, making sure not to add detergent.

Finally, after the cycle with vinegar is complete, sprinkle in one cup of baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and run a hot water cycle. Then you’re done!

How to clean a dishwasher with a dishwasher cleaner tablet

Another easy way to achieve a fresh-smelling, clean dishwasher is to use a cleaning tablet. Here are Lemmen's easy steps:

Begin by clearing the dishwasher’s filter to remove any food bits or debris. If you’re cleaning your dishwasher without any dishes, place one or two tablets of dishwasher cleaner in the detergent tray.

You can also clean your dishwasher with dishes still in it by placing normal detergent in the main detergent tray and one tablet of dishwasher cleaner in the bottom of the dishwasher.

Once the cleaner has been added, you can run the dishwasher on a normal wash cycle.

The best products for cleaning your dishwasher

Your dishwasher will be as good as new with some handy and inexpensive products.

Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner

Lemmen recommends using these tablets, which are specially designed to remove buildup in dishwashers. Plus, you can use it while running a normal load, helping to descale glassware and dishes, so you can clean your dishes and dishwasher at the same time.

Therapy Clean Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish

Don't forget to clean the outside of your washing machine, too. Stainless steel can get especially grimy with fingerprints, oil and bits of food, so if you have a stainless steel dishwasher, use this to clean and polish it. Bonus: it smells like lavender!

Arm & Hammer Baking Soda

Yes, the hero cleaning pantry staple can clean your dishwasher.

Distilled White Vinegar

The same goes for white vinegar! This handy, inexpensive cleaning product can do it all (or at least a lot) around the house.