Frequency of Dishwasher Cleaning: queries to appliance and cleaning specialists for the solution
Maintaining a clean dishwasher is essential for its efficient operation and long lifespan. Here are some tips to keep your dishwasher in top shape.
Regular cleaning is key to preventing buildup of grease, limescale, and food debris. It is recommended to clean your dishwasher every four to six weeks [1][6].
The filter, a crucial component, should be cleaned weekly if you run several loads a week or do not pre-rinse dishes. Remove and rinse the filter under hot water, using a soft toothbrush to remove debris, then lock it back in place securely [2][4].
The interior and spray arms should be wiped down weekly with warm, soapy water or a soft brush to remove buildup [2].
For a deep clean, consider using natural household items like white vinegar, baking soda, or lemon, or a commercial dishwasher cleaner such as affresh® [3][4]. Gwilym Snook, a dishwasher expert at AO.com, suggests pouring a cup of white vinegar into a bowl on the bottom rack, sprinkling bicarbonate of soda across the bottom, and running a short hot cycle [4]. Catherine, a sustainable cleaning expert, instructs running a hot cycle with no dishes inside and a full bowl of white vinegar to flush out any lingering residue and keep the machine smelling clean [1].
Routine cleaning tasks also include wiping down the door seals and edgers with vinegar and a cloth [4]. Running an empty cycle with white vinegar helps maintain a clean-smelling dishwasher between deep cleans [3].
It's important to note that neglecting to clean a dishwasher regularly can lead to reduced performance and unpleasant smells [2]. Other warning signs of a dirty dishwasher include bad smells, gurgling noises, and visible grime, mould, and mildew on the inside of the machine [2]. If not cleaned regularly, a dishwasher can develop blockages in the filter and spray arms, causing dishes to come out unclean [7].
The RRP for 3 x 320ml of dish soap is £8.95, unscented white vinegar is £8.25, and bicarbonate of soda is £4.99 [8].
In addition to cleaning the dishwasher, Catherine Green, a sustainable cleaning expert at Smol, recommends cleaning the kitchen sink drain if strange smells persist in the kitchen [1].
The dishwasher is a valuable appliance, making mealtime easier and post-party clean-ups less burdensome. By following these simple cleaning tips, you can ensure your dishwasher continues to serve you well for many years to come.
- To enhance your home-and-garden lifestyle and maintain a clean and breathable home, regularly clean and disinfect your kitchen sink drain, besides following the dishwasher cleaning tips explained above.
- Maintaining a clean dishwasher not only extends its lifespan but also promotes health and wellness for your family, as the disinfected dishwasher helps eradicate bacteria and germs that can cause foodborne illness.
- To pursue a lifestyle focusing on personal wellness, home care, and beauty, you could combine organic cleaning agents like lemon juice or baking soda with commercial dishwasher cleaners like affresh® and natural home-and-garden products to ensure an aromatic and eco-friendly dishwasher.
