Cleaning a dishwasher can be a boring procedure, however important because over time, dishwashers can collect food debris, soap residue, and inexplicable grease that needs to be removed to ensure your dishes are getting a proper shine.
That can take place about once a month, so you can be certain that your washing machine will last longer.
You may think that running a hot cycle is enough, but the truth is you’re going to have to dig in and get your hands dirty. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll find lodged inside and notice a real difference once you’re done.
Let’s see the process and what you will need for it.
What You Need
- Distilled white vinegar
- Baking soda
- Sponge
- Screwdriver, or other tool (check internal dishwasher screws before you start)
- Toothpick (or other small pointy object)
- Dish soap
- Microfiber cloths
- Toothbrush
- Stainless steel or multipurpose cleaner
Instructions
- Empty the dishwasher: After you’ve run a cycle, empty the dishwasher and pull out the racks.
- Remove any piece that can be removed: You’ll be able to tell what can come out. At the very least, you should be able to unscrew the bottom disc, and pull out the grate and filter.
- Check the holes in the spinning arm/disc: Use a toothpick, or some other small pointy tool to remove any debris that has developed in time.
- Wash all the pieces: Bring everything you removed from the dishwasher and give it a good cleaning with a sponge, soap and warm water.
- Clean the filter: Using a soft toothbrush, wash the filter screen with a baking soda paste or warm, soapy water.
- Wipe the bottom of the door: this is a hard to reach area, so make sure you wipe it down carefully
- Wipe the door seal: Use some vinegar and microfiber cloth to wipe around the door seal
- Clean the inside of the dishwasher: Use a damp sponge to wipe down the bottom, sides, and the door of the dishwasher.
- Clean the utensil rack: Check the racks for stuck-on food pieces, and give it a wash with a soapy toothbrush, dish brush, or sponge.
- Run an empty cycle with vinegar: Return all the pieces. Then, to remove hard water deposits and catch anything you may have missed in your earlier cleaning, add two cups of vinegar to the bottom of the dishwasher and run the dishwasher on a Low or Energy-Saving cycle. Stop the dishwasher halfway through the cycle, and let the vinegar stand on the bottom for about 20 minutes. Then, complete the cycle.
- Clean and polish the exterior: If you have a stainless steel dishwasher, apply a stainless steel spray to the exterior of the dishwasher, and wipe with a soft or microfiber cloth. Rinse if necessary. For a streak-free finish, spray cleaner directly onto one towel. Dry with a second clean towel in the direction of the grain.
(www.thekitchn.com)
