Here's How to Deep Clean the Dishwasher for Cleaner Dishes

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We've all been there - opening the dishwasher only to find dishes with remnants of last night's dinner still clinging on or, even worse, a funky smell that simply won't go away. It's time for a deep clean!

Fear not; we have your back with this step-by-step guide to deep clean your dishwasher for spotless dishes and a welcoming, odor-free kitchen. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into the details!

First, make sure your dishwasher is completely empty to give you easier access to all the nooks and crannies waiting to be cleaned.

You might not realize it, but your dishwasher's filters are crucial in catching leftover food particles. To keep your dishwasher running smoothly, thoroughly rinse these filters at least once a week.

For mild cleaning, rinse off any debris with warm water. However, if the filters seem particularly grungy and you find stuck-on food, fill your sink or a bowl with warm, soapy water and let the filters soak for 10 minutes or more. To get those filters sparkling, gently use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any stubborn gunk. Be sure to avoid rough sponges or wire brushes, which can damage the filters.

Sprinkle baking soda on your machine's floor, then scrub it in with a soft brush and warm water to target any food residue. Pro tip: Don't forget to wipe the filter holder with warm water before putting the filters back in.

If your dishwasher isn't that dirty, skip this step and proceed to the commercial or DIY cleaner step.

Some commonly overlooked spots to clean include the sides of the machine, the seal, and the door. Plus, with the door wide open, now's the perfect time to wipe down the adjacent cabinet – a spot rarely visible when the dishwasher is closed.

Return the filters and, if applicable, move your silverware holder to the bottom rack to ensure the door gets a thorough cleaning.

While we're big fans of DIY projects, sometimes commercial dishwasher cleaners can be more effective at removing deep-down grime. If you prefer this route, place a bottle of commercial dishwasher cleaner on the bottom rack. If you'd rather go the DIY route, add a dishwasher-safe cup or bowl filled with vinegar to the top rack.

Select the hottest and longest cycle on your machine to give your dishwasher the deep clean it deserves.

Once the cycle is complete, remove and recycle the cleaner bottle (if using). Your dishwasher is now fresh, clean, and ready to tackle even the dirtiest dishes!

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