DIY Cleaning Methods for Dishwasher

How to Clean Your Dishwasher with White Vinegar and Baking Soda

• Clear out the dishwasher. Remove all dishes, racks, and utensil holders. If you see any food bits or debris at the bottom, scoop them out with a paper towel. This helps the cleaning solution reach every nook and cranny.

 

• Check and clean the filter. Most dishwashers have a filter at the bottom. Twist it out (check your manual if you’re not sure how), rinse it under hot water, and use a soft brush or old toothbrush to gently scrub away any gunk. A clean filter means your dishwasher can actually do its job.

 

• Wipe the door and seals. Dip a cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe around the door edges and rubber seals. These spots love to collect grime and can get a little funky if ignored. Don’t forget the detergent dispenser and any buttons or handles.

 

• Run a hot cycle with white vinegar. Pour about one cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup. Place it upright on the top rack (don’t pour it directly into the machine). Run a hot water cycle with the dishwasher empty. The vinegar helps loosen mineral deposits and any lingering residue.

 

• Sprinkle baking soda and run a short cycle. After the vinegar cycle finishes, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot cycle (again, with the dishwasher empty). Baking soda helps with odors and gives the interior a fresh look.

 

• Let it air out. When the cycle is done, prop the door open for a bit. This helps everything dry out and keeps musty smells at bay.

 

• Repeat monthly for best results. Regular cleaning keeps your dishwasher running smoothly and looking its best. If you notice any stubborn spots or buildup, spot clean with a paste of baking soda and water, then wipe away with a damp cloth.

Pro Tips:

• Don’t mix vinegar and baking soda in the same cycle. They’ll foam up and neutralize each other, which isn’t what you want here. Keep them separate for maximum effect.

 

• Skip bleach or harsh cleaners. These can damage your dishwasher’s parts and aren’t needed for regular cleaning.

 

• If you have a stainless steel interior, vinegar and baking soda are gentle enough for regular use, but always check your manufacturer’s recommendations just in case.

How to Clean Your Dishwasher with Citric Acid Powder and Hot Water

• Gather your supplies: You’ll need citric acid powder (found in the canning or cleaning aisle), a measuring spoon, and access to hot water. If your dishwasher has a filter, check the manual for how to remove it—this is a good time to give it a quick rinse in the sink.

 

• Empty the dishwasher: Take out all dishes, racks, and utensil holders. You want the citric acid to reach every nook and cranny, not just your cereal bowls.

 

• Check for debris: Look around the drain and filter area for any food bits, paper labels, or other gunk. Wipe or scoop these out with a paper towel or soft brush. This step helps the citric acid do its job more effectively.

 

• Add citric acid powder: Sprinkle 2–4 tablespoons of citric acid powder directly into the bottom of the empty dishwasher. If you have hard water or a lot of mineral buildup, lean toward the higher end of that range.

 

• Run a hot water cycle: Select the hottest, longest cycle your dishwasher offers. Skip the drying cycle if possible—heat helps dissolve buildup, but you don’t need to bake the inside of your machine.

 

• Inspect after the cycle: Once the cycle finishes, open the door and check for any remaining residue or chalky spots. If you see any, wipe them away with a damp microfiber cloth. For stubborn areas, repeat the process or spot-treat with a paste of citric acid and water.

 

• Replace racks and utensils: Once everything looks clean, put the racks and utensil holders back in place. Your dishwasher should look brighter and smell fresher.

 

• What’s happening here? Citric acid is a mild acid that helps break down mineral deposits (like limescale) and soap scum. It’s commonly used in cleaning because it can help loosen buildup that makes dishwashers look dingy or smell off. Just remember, it’s not a disinfectant, and it won’t address every possible issue inside your machine.