How to Clean a Dishwasher in 3 Easy Ways

We've already shown you how to clean your nespresso machine, and your quartz countertops. So it's time to turn our attention to your dishwasher, and newsflash it may need a little TLC. Fret not, below we have outlined how to clean a dishwasher in three super easy, super cost-effective and super time-efficient ways.

Our first easy method for making sure your favorite appliance stays in tip-top shape is a natural method with baking soda (which has many uses) and vinegar, so everything you need is most likely in your pantry.

If you don’t have baking soda or white vinegar handy, you can also use bleach to clean your appliance. Note: Do not use the bleach method if you have a stainless steel interior and never use bleach and vinegar together. If you are all out of options, a packet of unsweetened lemonade Kool-Aid also goes a long way. (we're not kidding.)

Read on below for how to clean a dishwasher in 3 easy ways.

Dishwashers have to be multifaceted in order to handle the types of dirty work they do, so when you’re cleaning, make sure you pay attention to the following:

• Drain
• Filter
• Door
• Buttons
• Racks

What you need:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Damp cloth
• Spray bottle
• Water

Step 1: Clean the racks and drain

Slide the bottom rack out so that you can inspect the dishwasher drain and remove any gunk or food bits that you find. This will help improve drainage, plus prevent damage to your dishes and machine. Microwave a cup of white vinegar for 15 to 20 seconds and then stir in two tablespoons of baking soda. Pour the mixture into the drain and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Boil some hot water and pour it down the drain to get rid of any debris or clogs. 

Step 2: Clean the filter

Start by gently removing the dishwasher filter, then check the base for any remnants of food that may be stuck down there. If all is clear, wipe the area with a damp cloth. Next, wash your filter in warm, soapy water. Use an old, soft toothbrush to get rid of any food bits hanging on. Rinse in warm water before placing them back. (Sidenote: Some dishwashers have self-cleaning filters, so make sure you’ve read your manual.)

Step 3: Clean the inside and outside of the dishwasher door

Mix three cups of hot water with half a cup of vinegar in a spray bottle. (If your manual instructs you to use warm water, then use only warm water.) Spray the inside of your door (careful around the gasket), the cracks and edges of the doors and the exterior front of the door and wipe down with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Run a vinegar wash cycle

Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack of the otherwise empty machine, and run the dishwasher through a hot-water cycle. The vinegar works to wash away grease, grime and those icky odors.

Step 5: Run a baking soda rinse cycle

Now sprinkle one cup of baking soda across the bottom of the appliance and run it through a short hot-water cycle. Once it’s done, your dishwasher should be squeaky-clean, fresh-smelling and stain-free. Ah, domestic bliss.