The dishwasher is the last place you want to find strange or disgusting smells. However, many of these appliances accumulate dirt and develop bad odors from mold. This article will tell you how to clean and freshen your dishwasher.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Clean the Dishwasher
Step 1. Clean the drain filter
It is the part of the dishwasher that is most prone to causing bad smells. In fact, food residues are collected in this compartment; over time, they can take on a disgusting smell due to the hot and humid environment.
- Typically, the dishwasher has a cylindrical and removable filter through which all the water is filtered.
- To access the filter, remove the lower basket. Then, turn the filter to remove it.
- Wash the filter with soap and warm water in the sink. It can be difficult to reach all the internal sections with a sponge, so you may want to use a bottle brush.
Step 2. Wash the inside of the door and the walls
Bad smells could also come from dirt that has accumulated inside the dishwasher. You need to clean the entire appliance.
- Remove all baskets from the dishwasher. While you are cleaning the inside of the appliance, they will just get in your way.
- Use a rag or brush and warm soapy water to clean the inside of the dishwasher. If dirt has built up that is difficult to remove, you may also want to use suitable detergents for better cleaning.
Step 3. Clean the door thoroughly
The door seal can also accumulate moisture and dirt, so it should be washed.
Step 4. Clean the dishwasher baskets in the sink
While it's unlikely that the bad smell will come from around here, you should make sure you discard even the simplest possibilities before investing too much time and energy into fixing the problem.
Method 2 of 3: Remove Bad Odors with Vinegar and Sodium Bicarbonate
Step 1. Place a glass containing 250ml of distilled white vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher
Despite its smell, the acid in this product is one of the most effective substances there is for removing bad odors. Also, as it dries, its smell dissipates quickly.
Make sure the dishwasher is empty when you try to clean it this way
Step 2. Start a complete wash cycle
The vinegar will sprinkle all over the inside of the dishwasher, and that is precisely the intention. The acid in the vinegar will help break down any residue left inside the appliance.
Step 3. Sprinkle 250g of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher
This product is also known to neutralize bad odors. Washing using vinegar (as described in the previous step) and baking soda has become a popular (and environmentally approved) solution for cleaning and eliminating bad odors.
Step 4. Start another wash cycle
In this case, you should select one of the shorter programs available and, in order to dissolve all the baking soda, the water should be as hot as possible. After this step, the dishwasher should be clean and smelling fresh.
Method 3 of 3: Fix the Problem
Step 1. Read the troubleshooting section of the dishwasher manual
Most of these appliances have a guide that includes washing instructions specific to each case.
Many dishwasher manuals are also available for free on the internet. Do a Google search and you will find various web pages from which to download guides for different appliances
Step 2. Check the drain hose to see if it is clogged
In particular, check it if there is any water left in the bottom of the dishwasher at the end of a cycle. If the drain hose is kinked or constricted, the flow of water may be restricted, and liquid build-up can become moldy inside.
- If the dishwasher can be pulled away from the wall, check the hose.
- Most dishwashers that are installed next to the kitchen sink have a drain hose that connects to that of the sink. You can detach it on any end that is easy to access for inspection.
Step 3. Make sure the dishwasher drain hose is installed in the correct place
If the dishwasher drain hose has not been fastened high enough above the sink drain hose, the sink drain water can pass through the drain hose and end up in the dishwasher. The waste water from the sink, if in large quantities, can block and go up the pipe, ending up in the appliance drain. If this is the problem, lift the dishwasher drain hose and attach it to the wall.
Step 4. Check the electrical connection
Examine the junction box behind the dishwasher's bottom panel, under the door. Incorrect connection can cause bad smells and a fire risk. Other problems can be due to shorts in a power line or a faulty heating unit. If your dishwasher has electrical problems, unplug it and call an electrician to fix it.
