Your dishwasher is terrible. Click here for cleaning instructions

It may seem counterintuitive, but even your dishwasher needs a good cleaning from time to time. Over time, dirt can build up and affect the cleaning power of your dishes and cause an unpleasant “wet dog” odor. Regular maintenance not only keeps your dishwasher running smoothly, but also ensures that your dishes are properly cleaned and hygienic.

The best part? Cleaning a dishwasher is easy and doesn’t require much effort. Here’s a guide to keeping it fresh, effective, and odor-free, as well as tips on how often you should do it.

Click here to learn more about dishwashers The correct way to load the dishwasher. For more kitchen cleaning tips, check out How to Clean a Stand Mixer, How to Clean a Blender, and How to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet.

How to clean a dishwasher

Step 1: Clean the dishwasher filter

The filter is where food particles accumulate. It is important to clean the filter every week, as clogged filters can cause overflow. It’s on the floor inside the dishwasher. Simply loosen the knob and lift the filter to remove it (location and removal varies by brand, so check your instruction manual).

Wash the filter by rinsing it with warm water and dish soap, then scrub it thoroughly with an old toothbrush. Rinse with clean water and let the filter air dry before replacing it in its original position.

Step 2: Clean the dishwasher seal

The seal keeps water inside the dishwasher and off the floor. To keep it clean, rub the seal with warm water once a month and wipe it with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 3: Unclog the water sprinkler

Your dishwasher’s spray arm needs a little love every six months. Use a toothpick to remove food particles from the spray hole. This increases the amount of water that comes out and increases cleaning power.

Step 4: Remove dirt from silverware basket

Silverware baskets can quickly become unsanitary. Once a week, remove and wash with warm water, a bottle brush, and dish soap. To prevent mold, be sure to remove any food particles stuck inside the cup.

What to do if your dishwasher smells bad

If your dishwasher starts to smell a bit, there is an easy way to get rid of it. Some people put a cup of white vinegar in the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run it through a thorough cleaning cycle. Vinegar can damage plastic in the dishwasherSo you may want to try this method instead. Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the washer and let it sit overnight, then run a regular wash with the dishwasher empty. That should get rid of the awful smell of wet dog.

How often should I clean my dishwasher?

Experts recommend deep cleaning your dishwasher once a month to keep it running efficiently and smelling fresh. If that feels like too much, aim for at least once every three months. First remove and rinse the filter to remove any food debris, then run an empty cycle using a dishwasher-safe cleaner or baking soda. This simple routine will prevent dirt buildup, improve performance, and keep strange odors at bay.

Another tip: Remove rust from latches.

After a few years of intense use, your dishwasher door latch may start to get a little rusty. To fix this, scrub with stainless steel cleanser and steel wool. Rinse the latch, buff it with a cotton cloth and let it dry. To finish, apply a clear nail polish to waterproof the metal and prevent rust from developing.

For more information, please check How to properly wash sheets and bedding in the washing machineand How to wash your pillow without making it clumps.