How to Clean a Dishwasher
There are several different ways to clean your dishwasher. Some methods include using chemical tablets or liquids, such as bleach or Jet Dry Dishwasher Cleaner. Others involve using environmentally friendly materials such as vinegar.
Required Materials
- Jet Dry Dishwasher Cleaner or marketed dishwasher cleaner
- Vinegar
- Dish soap
- Bleach
Required Tools
- Sponge
- Towel
- Cup
Instructions
- Examine the dishwasher and determine what type of dirt or residue you are cleaning. Are you completing routine maintenance on the dishwasher, or do you have mold and mildew to clean?
- Look at the bottom of your dishwasher and clean out any food, paper or waste that has accumulated near the drain.
- Determine whether you wish to use a chemical or a natural substance. If using a marketed cleanser like Jet Dry Dishwasher Cleaner, follow the instructions on the bottle. After that is complete, skip to step 9.
- If there is mold or mildew present in your dishwasher, pour one tablespoon of bleach into the soap receptacle and run a light wash cycle. There should be no dishes in the dishwasher for this cycle. Proceed to step 9.
- If there is no mold or mildew, but you want to clean for routine maintenance, Fill a cup with vinegar and place it on the top rack of your dishwasher. There should be no other dishes in the washer.
- Turn the dishwasher on as though you are doing a light wash cycle.
- Allow the dishwasher to finish completely and work through the drying cycle.
- Once finished, open the dishwasher and remove the cup that held the vinegar. Make sure there is no liquid left in the cup. If there is, clean it out.
- Look in the dishwasher. Make sure it is clean. Any stubborn buildup or marks can be wiped down with the sponge and dish soap.
- Open the door of the dishwasher and wipe the inside underneath of the door with a sponge and dish soap.
- Wash the outside of the dishwasher. Pay special attention to the dials and buttons on the face of your dishwasher.