Dishwashers are a hassle-free and time-efficient appliance used by most of us daily. Still, as the years pass by, there’s one thing most users commonly struggle with: pungent smells coming from their dishwashers. Whatever the reason – food particle residues getting trapped inside, or even moldy infestation or soap scum-grease clogging up their interiors – an odorous dishwasher can leave your kitchen feeling unclean. The good news is that you can easily fix a smelly, moldy dishwasher! This blog will take you through quick and easy remedies to make your dishwasher smell good and run effectively again.
Why Does The Dishwasher Smell Bad?
Before moving on to cleaning remedies, let’s see why there’s a nasty smell. Several things can be behind a stinky or moldy dishwasher:
Food Residue: Small particles of food not washed away through the dishwasher cycle end up in the bottom of the dishwasher, making a haven for bacteria.
Standing Water: A clogged or slow-draining pipe also causes water to stand, developing unpleasant odors and supporting the growth of mold and mildew.
Mildew and Mold: A dishwasher’s dark, humid interior is ideal for mold and mildew growth. If the dishwasher is not run frequently, this may cause lingering musty odors.
Soap Scum and Hard Water Spots: As the soap scum and mineral spots from hard water build up in the dishwasher over time, they can contribute to odors and diminished cleaning power.
Clogged Drain: A clogged drain might trap grease and food, which causes mold and bacteria growth.
Steps To Fix Your Smelly And Moldy Dishwasher
Food buildup, mold growth, or standing water can result in a smelly dishwasher. However, with just a few basic steps, you can have your dishwasher smelling as fresh and clean as the day you bought it. Follow these quick steps to remove the odors and maintain your appliance’s efficiency.
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher
Empty your dishwasher before you start the cleaning process. Take out any dishes, glassware, or utensils that are in it. This will provide clear access to the inside and prevent food particles from getting stuck during cleaning.
Step 2: Remove and Clean the Filter
As a first step towards cleaning, you must clean the dishwasher’s filter. The filter is where debris and food bits settle; moldy odors will form unless you clean it often.
- To access the filter, start by sliding out the bottom dish rack of your dishwasher.
- Remember that the filter’s location can vary depending on your model, so if you’re unsure where it is, check your user manual.
- Please take out the filter gently and drain it of food debris.
- Soak the filter in warm, soapy water. Use a gentle-bristled brush to remove any clogged-on particles.
- After cleaning the filter, replace it in its position in the dishwasher.
Step 3: Clean the Interior of the Dishwasher
Next, clean the interior of your dishwasher, the walls, the spray arms, and other hard-to-reach components. White vinegar is one of the best natural cleaners for this purpose.
- Add two cups of white vinegar to a dishwasher-safe bowl.
- Position the bowl in the bottom of your empty dishwasher.
- Choose a cycle with an air-dry or energy-saving dry setting and run the cycle. The vinegar will neutralize odors, break down any soap scum, and strip grease and grime off the inside.
- Once the cycle has been completed, your dishwasher will be clean and fresh, and you can use it as normal.
Step 4: Clean the Gasket Seals
The gasket seals on the dishwasher door are prone to mold, mildew, and food deposits. Moisture can become trapped in the crevices here, causing bad smells.
- Clean around the gasket and door seals using a sponge and warm, soapy water.
- Scrub gently to remove any mold or residue.
- After cleaning, wipe the seals with a clean, dry towel. This will help prevent mold from growing in the future.
Step 5: Deodorize with Baking Soda (Optional)
For an extra deodorizing boost, consider using baking soda. Baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer and can help remove lingering smells.
- Pour a cup of baking soda into the bottom of your empty dishwasher.
- Run a brief hot cycle to assist in removing any lingering odors and refreshing your dishwasher.
Step 6: Leave the Door Open
Leave the dishwasher door open for several hours after every use to allow moisture to vent. This prevents mold and mildew from flourishing and keeps musty odors from arising. If you’re in a humid climate, you may need a dishwasher fan to enhance airflow.
Preventive Tips To Keep Your Dishwasher Smelling Fresh
Run your dishwasher regularly: Regular use prevents food debris from accumulating.
Clean the filter monthly: Make it a habit to clean your dishwasher filter once a month.
Use the right detergent: Make sure you use a quality dishwasher detergent and the correct amount.
Don’t overload the dishwasher: Overloading can prevent proper water circulation, leading to poor cleaning performance and lingering odors.
Conclusion
A stinky, mildewy dishwasher is no fun, but with some time and elbow grease, you can return it to its clean, fresh state. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filter, running a vinegar and baking soda cycle, and cleaning the drain and seals, will keep odors under control and your dishwasher running efficiently for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dishwasher smell like rotten eggs?
A stinky, rotten egg smell is often caused by bacteria or sulfur buildup. But it might also be from stagnant water in the drain, leftover food particles, or mold. To eliminate the odor, clean your dishwasher’s filter and drain, then do a cleaning cycle with vinegar.
How frequently should I clean my dishwasher to prevent odors?
It’s a good practice to clean your dishwasher monthly to avoid odors and buildup. Clean the filter, run a vinegar cycle, and wipe the seals regularly.
Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
Bleach does kill bacteria and mold, but it’s not recommended for regular cleaning since it can ruin some parts in the long run. Use natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda to clean your dishwasher.