How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher

When it comes to cleaning, dishwashers are one of the most ignored appliances in the kitchen.
We’re all used to wiping up spills in the fridge and even setting our ovens to self-clean, but we often overlook the dishwasher.
As a result, having a smelly dishwasher is a common issue.

What Causes Dishwasher Odours?

Dishwasher odours are usually generated by trapped food particles or grease.
Bacteria accumulates, making your dishwasher a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew.

How to Fix a Smelly Dishwasher

White vinegar is an effective odour remover that is also fully natural and safe to use.
Baking soda can also be used to neutralise odours without the use of harsh chemical cleansers.
You can use both to disinfect your stinking dishwasher, but not at the same time.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Remove all dishes from the appliance.
  • Place one cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe basin on the top rack.
  • Start the dishwasher on the hottest setting.
  • The vinegar’s acids will dissolve deposits on the appliance’s interior and leaving it feeling fresh.
  • Once the cycle is finished, remove the bowl from the dishwasher.
  • Sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the dishwasher’s floor.

To ensure that all of the baking soda dissolves, run a short cycle at the highest temperature setting.
This should get rid of any lingering dishwasher odours.

Denton Nakumura
Denton Nakumura

Denton is the supervisor at CE Cleaning Company Sydney and has many years experience in the cleaning industry.