Keeping it Sparkling: The Ultimate Guide to Dishwasher Cleaning and Maintenance
The dishwasher is a modern kitchen marvel, saving us valuable time and effort when it comes to washing dishes. To ensure that this indispensable appliance continues to work efficiently and delivers spotlessly clean dishes, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Here we will share with you the ultimate guide to dishwasher cleaning and maintenance, so you can keep it sparkling and running smoothly for years to come.
Clean the Interior: Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up inside the dishwasher, affecting its performance and leaving unpleasant odors. Follow these steps to clean the interior:
Remove debris: Check the dishwasher's drain and clean out any leftover food particles or debris that might have accumulated.
Clean the spray arms: Remove the dishwasher's spray arms and clean the nozzles to ensure a free flow of water. Ususally they should just pop off with a twist; but don’t pull to hard on it. If you’re having troubles disconnecting the spray arms, consult your user manual.
Vinegar wash: Place a dishwasher-safe container such as a glass or tupperware bin filled with white vinegar to the top on the top rack and run a empty hot water cycle. Vinegar helps to dissolve mineral deposits and sanitize the interior. Leaving your dishwasher sparkling.
Clean the Filter: Most dishwashers have a filter that traps food particles to prevent them from clogging the drain. This filter needs regular cleaning to maintain proper water circulation. Consult your dishwasher's manual for instructions on how to remove and clean the filter, and make it a monthly or bi-monthly routine. We recommend you clean all filter components with hot soapy water and give them a good scrub.
Inspect and Clean the Door Seal: The dishwasher's door seal prevents water from leaking out during the wash cycle. Regularly check the seal for any signs of mold, mildew, or wear. Clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water to remove any residue, and ensure the seal is intact and functioning correctly. If you notice overtime any tears or deterioration of the seal, it may be time for a replacement as a broken.
Use Quality Detergents: Choose quality dishwasher detergents and rinse aids that are suitable for your dishwasher model. Avoid using regular dish soap or low-quality detergents, as they may cause excessive suds or leave residues that can clog the dishwasher's system. This can happen when using too much detergent as well. If you’re running a cycle with half the dishes than usual, use half of the detergent you normally would.
Load Dishes Properly: Proper loading of dishes can enhance the dishwasher's cleaning efficiency and prevent damage to your dishes and the appliance. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for loading your specific dishwasher model. Avoid blocking the spray arms and ensure that dishes are spaced out to allow water and detergent to reach all surfaces. If you have a culterly basket, place forks, spoons, spatulas, etc… upright to ensure proper cleaning, and knives pointing down for safety.
Inspect for Leaks and Unusual Noises: Regularly inspect your dishwasher for any signs of leaks or unusual noises during operation. Leaks can lead to water damage not only to your appliance, but to your floors and cabinetry as well.
A well-maintained dishwasher not only keeps your kitchen tidy but also conserves water and energy, making it an eco-friendly choice. By following this guide to dishwasher maintenance, you can keep your appliance sparkling clean; as well as your dishes.
