4 tips to keep your dishwasher in good working order

2/3/18

There is so much information out there about how to take care of and clean our dishwashers that it can be overwhelming.  If you keep up with the cleaning and maintenance you can extend the life of your dishwasher.  We studied the owner’s manuals for Kitchen Aid, GE and Bosch dishwashers and came up with the 4 most helpful cleaning tips.  Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions and frequency.

Clean the filters

Inside your dishwasher there is at least one filter that collects solid particles that may have been on your dishes.  If you don’t clean it regularly then your dishes may show visible signs of dirt and the dishes can feel gritty to the touch.  It is easy to remove and clean them.   You can just do a quick look at the filter about once a month if you tend to put dirty dishes in the dishwasher.  If you are in the habit of clearing the dishes of food before putting them in the dishwasher you may only need to check them every few months up to once per year.  It might not need to be cleaned but if it does follow the owner’s manual instructions for how to remove and clean.  If large pieces of food are trapped, turn the filter upside down and gently tap it. Then run under warm water.  Don’t use a hard brush or scouring pad because they may damage the filter.  If you still see food on the filter after a quick rinse then you can use a soft brush to gently scrub away the grit. 

Clean upper spray arm

Follow your owner’s manual for easy cleaning instructions and suggested frequency.   If necessary to clean, follow the instructions for removal.  Then flush them under running water and reinstall.

Clean the interior

A film can build up on the inside surfaces and around the door area.  Wait until the unit is cool, put on a pair of rubber gloves and mix a paste of powdered dishwasher detergent and water  (or just use a liquid dishwasher detergent)  on a damp sponge.  The manufacturers say not to use any other type of cleaner because sudsing problems may occur.  Some say you can also use vinegar.  After you wipe down the interior, paying special attention around the door, run the dishwasher on the normal cycle with your dishwasher detergent.   You can also try Affresh dishwashing detergent once a month.   

Clean the exterior

If you have a white, black or other color dishwasher usually a soft cloth and mild detergent will do the job.  For stainless steel you can use a stainless steel cleaner or just a damp cloth without a detergent.  When using a stainless steel cleaner it is best to spray the cleaner onto the cloth instead of directly on the dishwasher.  If you clean the front regularly then it will always look nice.  It only takes a minute or two.