How to Clean a Dishwasher

Half fill your sink (or a basin) with warm water and add 1 - 2 cups of distilled white vinegar. Remove all contents from the dishwasher including racks, utensil holders, and any other parts that can be removed by hand. Submerge these items in the solution.

Dampen a cloth with the vinegar water and use it to wipe clean the larger parts you have removed from the dishwasher. Smaller parts can be left to soak in the sink while you complete the other steps.

It is important that the holes in the spinning arms or blades are kept clear so water can flow freely through them. Depending on your dishwasher, they may or may not be easily removed. If they are not easily removed, carefully lean into the dishwasher, inspect the holes, and remove any debris using a toothpick and a cloth. If they can be removed, soak them in the vinegar water and then later remove any remaining debris with a toothpick and cloth.

Using the damp cloth and a mild spray cleaner, wipe the edges of the door, along the inside edges, and along the bottom of the machine. Pay particular attention to areas that collect debris such as under the door and around the drain.

Unscrew the filter from the base of the dishwasher, then scrub it with a brush and ensure all debris is removed from inside it.

Replace all parts into the dishwasher. This is also a good time to top up your rinse aid.

It is also a good time to refill your dishwasher salt, which is essential to help your dishwasher clean your dishes properly.

Put about two cups of vinegar in a bowl and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. Turn the dishwasher on to run a short cycle. If possible, stop the dishwasher mid-cycle for about 20 minutes to allow the vinegar to work, and then allow it to finish the cycle. Well done, now you can enjoy your clean dishwasher!