The Importance of a Clean Dishwasher
Having a clean dishwasher is not just about aesthetics – regular maintenance is essential for your appliance’s efficiency and lifespan. It also helps to avoid common Dishwasher repair issues such as drainage problems, unpleasant odours, and inefficient cleaning.
Step by Step: How to Clean Dishwasher Naturally
Empty and Inspect
Before anything else, make sure your dishwasher is empty. Inspect the spinning arms for clogged holes and check the drain for debris. Clearing these components is crucial, as it is the first step towards a thorough clean.
Wash the Filter
Many people wonder how to clean dishwasher at home without realising the importance of the filter. The filter is usually located at the bottom of your dishwasher. Remove it and wash it under warm soapy water, gently scrubbing away any grease or food particles.
Natural Cleaning Solutions
Here’s where we address how to clean dishwasher without vinegar. Although vinegar is a popular natural cleaner, some people dislike its smell or have concerns about it affecting their dishwasher’s seals.
Instead, consider using:
Baking Soda: Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda along the bottom of your dishwasher and run a hot water cycle. Baking soda is a fantastic deodoriser and will help to remove any lingering stains.
Citric Acid: Add a cup of citric acid crystals to the bottom of the dishwasher and run a normal cycle. Citric acid helps in breaking down the mineral build-up and brightening the stainless-steel interior.
Wipe Down the Edges and Seals
With a damp cloth or sponge and a mixture of warm water and mild soap, gently wipe down the edges of the machine and the rubber seals on the door. This step helps to prevent mildew and keeps the seals intact.
Run a Final Rinse Cycle
After cleaning with your chosen natural solution, run one last rinse cycle with hot water to ensure that all the cleaning agents have been completely rinsed away.
How To Prevent Smells In The Dishwasher
To keep your dishwasher smelling clean for longer, make sure to clean any trapped food from the silverware baskets, bottom of the dishwasher, and filter each day. Keep the door open after each cycle to let it air-dry. A few times a year, clean mildew and mold build-up around the door gaskets using a toothbrush dipped into a mixture of half a cup of vinegar and three cups of hot water. Wipe away any remaining grime.