Let’s Talk Dirty—Dishwashers, That Is
Okay, real talk—when’s the last time you cleaned your dishwasher? If you’re squinting at the screen right now trying to remember… yeah, you’re not alone. Most of us assume our dishwasher is self-cleaning because, well, it literally sprays hot soapy water all day. But like your shower, just because it looks clean doesn’t mean it is.
Grease, food gunk, hard water minerals—they all build up over time, silently sabotaging your dishwasher’s performance. So let’s break down the best (and easiest) ways to deep clean that machine, without turning it into a weekend project.
Vinegar + Baking Soda = Dream Team
Imagine this: Your dishwasher smells funky, your dishes come out looking foggy, and you’re thinking, “Maybe it’s dying?” Nope—your dishwasher just wants a spa day.
Here’s a simple, no-fuss method using what you already have at home:
Step-by-Step: The Natural Deep Clean
- Clear out the gunk. Check the filter at the bottom. You might find some… surprises. (It’s gross but weirdly satisfying.)
- Vinegar rinse. Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle. This loosens grease and removes odors.
- Baking soda boost. After the vinegar rinse, sprinkle about a cup of baking soda across the bottom. Run a short hot cycle. Sparkly clean, baby.
Why does this work? Vinegar cuts grease and dissolves minerals. Baking soda deodorizes and gently scrubs. Together, they’re unstoppable.
What About Dishwasher Cleaner Tabs?
Now you might be thinking, “That sounds great, but… lazy mode, please?”
Totally fair. Dishwasher cleaning tablets like Finish or Affresh are designed for exactly this. Pop one in (with no dishes inside!), hit the clean cycle, and boom—done.
Pro Tip:
Use one of these cleaners once a month if you run your dishwasher daily or every other day. It helps prevent buildup before it starts.
Avoid These Cleaning Mistakes (Seriously)
Before you grab bleach or Drano (please don’t), let’s clear up a few myths:
- ❌ No bleach, especially if your dishwasher has stainless steel parts—it can corrode them.
- ❌ No harsh drain cleaners. They’re too aggressive and could damage seals or hoses.
- ❌ Don’t forget the filter! Seriously, so many people ignore this.
Quick Maintenance Tips That Make a Difference
Just like brushing your teeth daily saves you from the dentist’s drill, a little dishwasher TLC prevents breakdowns. Try these:
- Run hot water in your sink before starting a cycle (so the dishwasher starts hot right away).
- Wipe down the door seals weekly.
- Leave the door cracked after a cycle to air out moisture.
Wrapping It Up (But Not With Foil)
So, what’s the best thing to clean your dishwasher? Honestly, it depends on your style. Want a natural method? Vinegar and baking soda have your back. Prefer a hands-off approach? Grab a cleaner tab.
But no matter what—just clean it. Your dishes, nose, and machine will thank you.