As a plumbing company, we understand the importance of a well-maintained dishwasher in your kitchen. A clean dishwasher not only ensures the cleanliness of your dishes but also prevents clogs and promotes efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through four easy steps to clean your dishwasher effectively. Follow these simple tips to keep your dishwasher in top condition.
Step 1: Clearing the Drain
To kickstart the cleaning process, you’ll want to clear the dishwasher’s drain. Here’s how:
- Remove the bottom rack of the dishwasher.
- Locate the filter at the bottom, typically in the drain passage.
- Twist it counterclockwise, just like opening a jar, to remove it.
- Look for any food particles or debris and rinse it away under the faucet
- Clearing the drain prevents clogs, ensures efficient drainage, and safeguards your dishwasher from damage.
Step 2: Clean the Spray Arm Jets
Your dishwasher relies on spray arm jets to clean your dishes effectively. Over time, these jets can get clogged with food debris and mineral buildup. Follow these steps to clean them:
- Straighten a paper clip or coat hanger.
- Use the blunt end to carefully poke through debris in each of the holes on the upper and lower spray arms.
This simple step ensures that the jets function optimally, providing a thorough wash.
Step 3: Clean the Interior and Door Gasket with Vinegar
White vinegar, with its natural cleaning properties, is your best friend for this step:
- Empty your dishwasher.
- Pour two cups of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe container and place it on the top rack.
- Run a regular washing cycle. The vinegar will deep clean your dishwasher, removing stains and odors.
- You can also wipe down the door gasket with vinegar to eliminate buildup and soap scum.
Vinegar is a powerful, eco-friendly cleaner that leaves your dishwasher sparkling clean.
Step 4: Eliminate Odors with Baking Soda
You don’t need to purchase special products for this task – baking soda from your cupboard works wonders:
- Spread a cup of baking soda along the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Run a short hot water cycle.
This step not only improves the dishwasher’s smell but also brightens its interior.
Additional Dishwasher Tips:
When it comes to dishwasher maintenance, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Addressing Mold or Mildew: If you happen to notice mold or mildew, exercise caution. You can effectively tackle this issue by pouring a cup of bleach into a dishwasher-safe container on the bottom rack. However, please note that this method is not suitable for dishwashers with stainless steel interiors.
- Preventing Drain Issues: Before you start your dishwasher, make sure to run the garbage disposal. This simple step ensures a clear drain, preventing potential clogs and drainage problems.
- Conserving Resources: To be environmentally conscious and save both water and energy, consider running your dishwasher only when it’s fully loaded. This practice not only reduces your ecological footprint but also conserves resources and lowers your utility bills.
- Dish Prep Myth: Contrary to common belief, it’s perfectly fine to leave a bit of grease and food residue on your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. In fact, this can be beneficial as it helps the dish soap work more effectively, ensuring a thorough cleaning cycle.
By following these tips and incorporating them into your dishwasher routine, you’ll not only maintain a clean and efficient dishwasher but also contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective kitchen routine. If you need professional dishwasher installation or plumbing assistance, remember that My Georgia Plumber is here to help. Call us at 770-592-0081 for all your plumbing needs. Don’t wait – ensure your dishwasher is clean and functioning flawlessly today!
