Alright, let’s be real for a second—your dishwasher works hard. Day in, day out, it’s scrubbing away last night’s spaghetti sauce and this morning’s sticky oatmeal. But here’s the kicker: who’s cleaning the cleaner?
Yep, your dishwasher needs a little TLC too. Over time, grease, limescale, and food gunk build up, turning your once-pristine appliance into a bacteria playground. And guess what? That means your dishes aren’t actually getting as clean as you think.
So, what’s the best way to keep your dishwasher in tip-top shape? You’ve got options—store-bought cleaners, DIY hacks, and everything in between. But which one actually works? Let’s dive in.
1. Store-Bought Dishwasher Cleaners: The Heavy-Duty Option
If you want a set-it-and-forget-it solution, store-bought dishwasher cleaners are your best bet. These are specially formulated to break down grease, remove limescale, and kill bacteria with minimal effort. Just pop one in and let your dishwasher do the work.
Top Picks:
- Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner – A fan favorite that dissolves mineral deposits and leaves a fresh scent.
- Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner – Works on both grease and limescale (because why choose one problem when you can have both?).
- Lemi Shine Dishwasher Cleaner – A natural, citric acid-based cleaner that’s great for hard water areas.
Best for: People who want an easy, no-fuss solution.
Pro Tip: Run the cleaner on an empty cycle for best results. Also, check the ingredients—some cleaners have harsh chemicals, so if you’re sensitive to strong scents, go for a natural option.
2. DIY Dishwasher Cleaners: Cheap, Natural, and Surprisingly Effective
Not a fan of store-bought stuff? No worries. You can make your own dishwasher cleaner with a few simple ingredients you probably already have.
The Ultimate DIY Dishwasher Cleaner Recipe:
- Baking soda: Deodorizes and scrubs away grime.
- White vinegar: Dissolves mineral deposits and kills bacteria.
- Lemon juice (optional): Adds a fresh scent and boosts cleaning power.
How to Use It:
- Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom of your dishwasher.
- Let it sit overnight to absorb odors.
- In the morning, place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle.
- Boom! Your dishwasher is fresh and clean.
Best for: People who love natural cleaning solutions and don’t mind an extra step.
Pro Tip: If your dishwasher smells funky, add a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or tea tree) for an extra burst of freshness.
3. The Hybrid Approach: Combining Store-Bought and DIY
Can’t decide between store-bought and DIY? Why not do both?
Here’s the game plan:
- Monthly deep clean with a store-bought cleaner to remove limescale and deep-seated gunk.
- Weekly maintenance with baking soda and vinegar to keep things fresh.
- Bonus step: Wipe down the door seals and spray arms with a damp cloth (trust me, you don’t want to see what hides there).
Best for: People who want the best of both worlds—powerful cleaning without relying too much on chemicals.
Pro Tip: Hard water? Use a rinse aid or add a splash of vinegar to every cycle to prevent buildup.
The Verdict: What’s the Best Dishwasher Cleaner?
It really depends on your needs. Want a quick fix? Go for a store-bought cleaner. Prefer natural solutions? DIY is the way to go. Looking for the ultimate clean? A mix of both is your best bet.
Final Takeaway: Whatever you choose, just make sure you’re actually cleaning your dishwasher (because a dirty dishwasher can’t clean dishes properly). Set a reminder, make it a habit, and enjoy spotless dishes every time!