How to clean a dishwasher

April 28, 2015, 2:39 PM UTC / Updated April 14, 2021, 7:15 PM UTC / Source: TODAY

By Karen B. Gibbs

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.

How often should you clean your dishwasher?

According to house-maintenance expert Bob Vila, you should clean your dishwasher filter and drain once a month. Cleaning dishwashers isn't difficult. Vila's three-step process is easy to do and doesn’t require any special tools. Here's how to clean the dishwasher.

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 cleaner.

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 to the dishwasher.
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, too.
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.