A smelly dishwasher can be a real kitchen bummer. You run your dishes through a cycle, expecting them to come out sparkling clean, but when you open the door, an unpleasant odor hits you instead. If you’re wondering, “How do I get the smell out of my dishwasher?”, you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through simple, effective steps to banish those odors and keep your dishwasher smelling fresh.
Why Does My Dishwasher Smell?
Before diving into solutions, it helps to understand why your dishwasher might smell bad:
– Food debris buildup: Bits of food get trapped in the filter, spray arms, or drain, decomposing and causing odors.
– Grease and soap scum residue: These can accumulate on the interior surfaces.
– Standing water or clogged drains: This can lead to mold and mildew growth.
– Closed door after use: Traps moisture inside, encouraging bacterial growth.
Knowing these causes can help you tackle the problem at its root.
Step 1: Clean the Dishwasher Filter and Drain
The filter is often the main culprit behind dishwasher odors. It catches food particles that can rot and smell over time.
– Remove the filter (usually at the bottom of the dishwasher).
– Rinse it thoroughly under hot water.
– Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away any stuck-on grime.
– Soak the filter in a warm water and vinegar solution for 15 minutes if it’s especially dirty.
– Check the drain for any clogs or debris and clear them out.
Reinstall the filter once it’s clean.
Step 2: Scrub the Interior and Spray Arms
Food residue and soap scum can cling to the dishwasher walls, racks, door gaskets, and spray arms.
– Use a sponge or soft brush with hot, soapy water to scrub all interior surfaces.
– Remove the spray arms if possible and clear any blocked holes with a toothpick or flexible wire.
– Wipe down the door seals and gasket areas where moisture and mold like to hide.
This deep cleaning removes odor-causing buildup.
Step 3: Run Cleaning Cycles with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda are natural, powerful cleaners that deodorize and break down residue.
– Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with 1 cup of distilled white vinegar on the top rack.
– Run a full wash cycle (skip drying).
– After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher.
– Run a short, hot water cycle.
These two steps help neutralize odors and leave your dishwasher fresh.
Step 4: Use Commercial Dishwasher Cleaners (Optional)
If you prefer store-bought solutions, there are many dishwasher cleaning products designed to eliminate odors and buildup.
– Look for products like Dishwasher Magic or Affresh.
– Follow the instructions on the packaging for best results.
These can be a convenient alternative or supplement to natural cleaning methods.
Step 5: Prevent Future Odors
Once your dishwasher smells fresh, keep it that way with these simple habits:
– Scrape and rinse dishes before loading to reduce food debris.
– Clean the filter regularly, at least once a month.
– Leave the dishwasher door slightly open after use to allow air circulation and drying.
– Run a vinegar or baking soda cleaning cycle every few weeks.
– Avoid using other hot water appliances during dishwasher cycles to ensure proper cleaning temperature.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing odors from returning.
Bonus Tip: Use Lemon Peels for a Natural Fresh Scent
For a pleasant citrus scent, place a bowl of lemon peels on the top rack and run an empty cycle. The steam will release the lemon’s natural oils, freshening your dishwasher.
A clean dishwasher means cleaner dishes and a fresher kitchen. With these easy steps, you can say goodbye to unpleasant dishwasher smells for good!
If you want, I can also share tips on choosing the best dishwasher cleaner or how to troubleshoot persistent odors. Just ask!