Dishwashers are a great appliance around the house, but like all other household appliances, they require maintenance. Your dishwasher helps simplify after-dinner cleanup, which is why regular cleanings are recommended. If you notice a foul smell coming from your dishwasher, there are steps you can take to resolve the issue. Here are a few tips from the experts at Affordable Service.
Your dishwasher can smell for a few different reasons. The most common are a dirty or clogged filter, food residue on the interior walls, mold/mildew growth, and a clogged drain. Follow these simple steps to ensure your dishwasher is clean and odor-free!
- Empty the dishwasher- Make sure the dishwasher is completely empty and of all dishes and utensils.
- Remove and clean the filter- Remove the filter by pulling out the bottom dish rack. If you need help removing the filter, consult the washer company manual. Remove any debris from the filter. Once all gunk is removed, soak the filter in warm, soapy water and scrub if necessary. Once cleaned and rinsed, return the filter to the dishwasher.
- Clean the inside- Use white vinegar to clean the dishwasher’s interior. You can do this by placing a dishwasher-safe bowl of white vinegar in the bottom rack and selecting a cleaning cycle with an air dry or energy saver option. During the cycle, the vinegar will mix with the water to help neutralize odors and clean your dishwasher.
- Check the seals- Without regular cleaning and maintenance, it’s easy for mold or mildew to grow in the spaces of your dishwasher. Make sure to check the gasket seals, which can be found around the top and both sides of the dishwasher tub. These can be cleaned with a sponge and soapy water.
As you can see, easy steps can be taken to ensure your dishwasher is clean and odor free. If you continue to have issues with your dishwasher, there may be a deeper issue. For plumbing concerns, reach out to the Affordable Service team in Rio Rancho! We are available 24/7 for your plumbing emergencies.